Milford Sound
South Island, New Zealand
Daily Budget
~NZ$220
~US$60 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Tropical / Summer
Vibe
Adventure base
Overview
Milford Sound (Piopiotahi in Maori) is a fiord carved by glaciers over millions of years, flanked by sheer cliffs rising up to 1,200 metres from dark water. Rudyard Kipling called it the "eighth wonder of the world," and it remains New Zealand's most famous natural attraction. Waterfalls cascade hundreds of metres down the cliff faces (especially dramatic after rain), dolphins and seals frequent the fiord, and the scenery is genuinely humbling in scale. Most backpackers visit on a day trip from Queenstown or Te Anau.
Editor's Pick
Milford Sound stands out for: One of New Zealand's must-see natural wonders, consistently rated among the world's top scenic destinations; Dramatic fiord scenery: 1,200m cliffs, waterfalls, rainforest, and marine wildlife; Accessible via one of the world's most scenic drives (Milford Road from Te Anau).
Things to Do
View all 7 activitiesKayak in the fiord for an intimate, water-level experience of the cliffs and waterfalls
Kayak in the fiord for an intimate, water-level experience of the cliffs and waterfalls
Overnight cruise to experience the fiord at dawn when day-trippers have gone
Overnight cruise to experience the fiord at dawn when day-trippers have gone
Top Hostels
View all 5 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (NZD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | NZ$83 | $23 |
| Food | NZ$44 | $12 |
| Transport | NZ$121 | $33 |
| Total | ~NZ$220 | ~$60 |
Hostels
5 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
7 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Milford Sound?
- Budget around NZ$220 NZD (~US$60) per day in Milford Sound, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Milford Sound?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Milford Sound are Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Milford Sound?
- Top-rated hostels in Milford Sound include YHA Te Anau, Milford Sound Lodge, Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from NZ$66 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Milford Sound?
- Must-do activities in Milford Sound include Kayak in the fiord for an intimate, water-level experience of the cliffs and waterfalls, Overnight cruise to experience the fiord at dawn when day-trippers have gone, Stop at the Chasm, Mirror Lakes, and Homer Tunnel on the drive in. There are 7 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
