Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Scenic Flight
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Milford Sound is arguably the most scenic destination in New Zealand and a must-see for any traveller. Whether seen in sunshine or rain, the incredible views are guaranteed to leave you awestruck. This is a small group tour for travellers seeking a uniquely-kiwi trip to Milford Sound.
We keep things personal using our fleet of modern Mercedes vans. Enjoy your journey with no more than 16 people in a vehicle with premium features such as leather seats, panoramic scenic windows, Wi-Fi & Spotify playlists.
Let your Altitude Tours guide entertain you with their in-depth knowledge of the area. Enjoy many scenic photo stops at both famous locations, as well as our guide's favourite off-the-beaten-track spots.
Enjoy a 2-hour small uncrowded cruise while taking in the incredible beauty that Milford Sound has to offer! You can also add on a picnic lunch to enjoy onboard.
After your cruise, take in the views from above, on an incredible flight back to Queenstown over the Southern Alps.
Available options
6:30: Glass Roof Van + LUNCH
Nature Cruise & Scenic Flight : This tour includes a 2 hour nature cruise on Milford Sound and a return scenic flight from Milford Sound to Queenstown.<br/>Packed Picnic Lunch: This option includes a packed picnic lunch. The default selection is chicken, however a vegetarian option is available.<br/>Glass Roof Mercedes Sprinter: This option travels in a premium glass-roof Mercedes Sprinter van<br/>Departure Time: 6:30am: From Queenstown<br/>Pickup included
7:30am + LUNCH
Nature Cruise & Scenic Flight : This tour includes a 2 hour nature cruise on Milford Sound and a return scenic flight from Mil<br/>Packed Picnic Lunch: This has a Chicken sandwich. If you would like Vegetarian, please note in special requirements, or let our team know.<br/>Premium Mercedes Van: Departs 7.30am. Travel by Mercedes van. Select 6.30am for Glass Roof upgrade.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Plenty of stops and photo opportunities
Small group tour helping you escape the crowds
WiFi on board
Convenient pick up and drop off locations around Queenstown
A breathtaking fixed-wing scenic flight from Milford Sound to Queenstown
2-Hour nature cruise on Milford Sound
Knowledgable and friendly local driver/guides
A packed picnic lunch is included as part of your tour.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Start your day by meeting our friendly local guide at or near your Queenstown accommodation. You'll travel in style in a premium Mercedes van designed for touring with only 16 seats onboard. The first leg of our journey to Milford Sound transports you from Queenstown through the picturesque Southland farming country and the charming town of Te Anau, where we'll make a brief stop by the lakeside for refreshments.
2
Stop 2
Lake Te Anau is in the southwestern corner of the South Island of New Zealand. The lake covers an area of 344 km², making it the second-largest lake by surface area in New Zealand and the largest in the South Island. It is the largest lake in Australasia by fresh water volume.
3
Stop 3
From here, we welcome you to the Fiordland National Park and the renowned Milford Road. This corridor to the fjord unveils a different side of New Zealand, with its majestic mountains, winding rivers, and the cheeky Kea bird. Throughout the journey, your guide will make multiple stops for photo opportunities, and short walks, and will entertain you with fascinating local facts and stories.
4
Stop 4
Within the Eglinton Valley you’ll also find the famous Mirror Lakes and Knobs Flat.
5
Stop 5
Enjoy a beautiful short nature walk and view the famous Mirror Lakes
6
Stop 6
The Homer Tunnel is a 1.2 km long road tunnel in the Fiordland region of the South Island of New Zealand, opened in 1953. New Zealand State Highway 94 passes through the tunnel, linking Milford Sound to Te Anau and Queenstown, by piercing the Darran Mountain range at the Homer Saddle
7
Upon reaching Milford Sound, embark on a 2 hour nature cruise that takes you beneath the towering peaks of the fjord. This small boat cruise, accompanied by a knowledgeable onboard nature guide, allows you to explore the edges of the fjord, revealing its impressive waterfalls and unique wildlife, which may include dolphins, penguins, fur seals, and native birdlife.
8
After your cruise, you will be introduced to your pilot, who will take you to the skies on a truly incredible scenic flight back to Queenstown. Travelling on a fixed-wing plane, this flight is approximately 45 minutes and offers aerial views of Milford Sound and Queenstown, alongwith the impressive snow-capped mountains, glaciers and braided rivers in between.
9
Arrive back in Queenstown and be transferred back to your meeting point by the flight company
What's not included
To reduce single-use plastic, we do not provide water bottles. We recommend anyone travelling NZ to have their own reusable water bottle. There are several locations to refill during the day.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
68 reviews
5★
62
4★
5
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
242 reviews
5★
229
4★
10
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
Please bring walking shoes, warm clothes and a rain jacket.
The flight back is weather dependant and in the case where flights are cancelled due to weather, you will return to Queenstown by van and be refunded your flight portion of your ticket.
A packed picnic lunch is included. The default choice is chicken, however you can request a vegetarian lunch until 5pm the day prior.
Please bring a reusable waterbottle on tour with us. There are multiple locations to refill during the day.
Important notes
YOUR PICK UP
• After booking, you will receive a message from one of our team confirming your exact departure location and time, and asking you any questions relevant to your booking. Please keep an eye out for this and please do not hesitate to ask us any questions prior to the day.
• Please be at your departure point 10 minutes prior to your departure time. Our guide will wait up to 5 minutes. Any late arrivals that miss the tour will be fully charged.
WHAT TO BRING
• Please bring walking shoes, warm clothes, and a rain jacket.
• We would recommend you bring extra snacks or come prepared to buy food/drink during our stops in Te Anau.
• For those who added on lunch at the time of booking: If you added on a packed picnic lunch, this will include a chicken sandwich. You can request a vegetarian sandwich or stipulate dietary requirements up until 5pm the day before departure.
• To reduce single-use plastic, we no longer provide water bottles and recommend all travelers bring a reusable bottle with them. There is an option to purchase a reusable bottle onboard if you come unprepared.
FLIGHT
• In the event you are unable to fly, you will be transported back to Queenstown on our premium van and refunded the flight portion of your fare.
About Queenstown
Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both excitement and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Queenstown Garden
Queenstown Garden is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Skyline Queenstown
Skyline Queenstown offers a range of activities, including the Skyline Gondola, Luge rides, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city and lake.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate to Expensive
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic site that showcases the lives of Chinese miners during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamb
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its tender texture and rich flavor. It's often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.
Main Course
Contains meat
Green-Lipped Mussels
Green-lipped mussels are a delicacy in New Zealand, known for their unique flavor and texture. They're often served steamed with garlic, wine, and herbs.
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Pavlova
Pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand, made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Contains eggs and dairy
Popular Activities
Bungee jumping
Skydiving
Jet boating
Hiking
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Scenic cruises
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, water sports, and exploring the great outdoors.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Queenstown is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution when engaging in adventure activities and be aware of the weather conditions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Queenstown Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Queenstown Bus Interchange
Getting around
Public transport
Orion buses provide reliable and affordable transportation throughout Queenstown and to nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Queenstown
Frankton
Arrowtown
Day trips
Milford Sound
120 km from Queenstown • Full day
Milford Sound is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. A day trip to Milford Sound includes a scenic drive and a boat cruise through the fjord.
Glenorchy
45 km from Queenstown • Half day to Full day
Glenorchy is a charming village nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It's a great base for hiking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.
Wanaka
65 km from Queenstown • Full day
Wanaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Festivals
Queenstown Winter Festival • June
Gibbston Valley Winter Festival • July
Arrowtown Autumn Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Try local specialties like lamb, green-lipped mussels, and pavlova.
- Explore beyond the city center and visit nearby attractions like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
