Southland, at the southern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, offers a treasure trove of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Its rugged mountains, pristine fiords, and lush rainforests make it a perfect playground for travelers seeking memorable experiences. Among the many options, we’re especially drawn to those that combine spectacular vistas with authentic Kiwi hospitality. For example, the Queenstown: Milford Sound Flight and Cruise offers a blend of luxury and natural beauty, with guaranteed windows seats on scenic flights and a tranquil cruise through one of the world’s most famous fjords. Such tours exemplify Southland’s ability to showcase untouched wilderness in style.
If you prefer a more independent experience, the Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk lets you explore New Zealand’s most renowned trail at your own pace, with highlights like Giant Gate Falls. For those who want it all—a scenic drive, a boat cruise, and a flight—the multi-option day trips from Queenstown and Te Anau provide flexible ways to see Milford Sound with minimal fuss. Whether you’re after a high-end helicopter tour or a budget-friendly self-guided walk, Southland’s tours cater to all tastes and budgets.
1. Queenstown: Milford Sound Flight and Cruise
At number 1, this luxury experience combines two scenic flights from Queenstown to Milford Sound with a 2-hour nature cruise. The tour guarantees window seats for everyone, ensuring spectacular views of towering peaks and waterfalls. The flight itself is a highlight, with entertaining pilots sharing stories about the terrain below as you soar over glaciers, fjords, and mountains. Once at Milford Sound, you’ll enjoy a relaxing cruise, with opportunities to see wildlife, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs up close.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of comfort and adventure, all packed into just four hours. The included shuttle service from Queenstown makes logistics straightforward, so you can focus on the scenery. Reviewers praise the professionalism of the pilots and the quality of the boat cruise, calling it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” Priced at $390 per person, it offers a premium way to see Milford Sound in style, suitable for those who want maximum comfort and memorable views in a short time.
Bottom line: This is an ideal choice for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one tour with guaranteed window seats and expert commentary.
2. Milford Sound: Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk
For around $44, the Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk offers a fantastic chance to experience NZ’s most famous hiking trail at your pace. This tour includes a short boat trip from Milford Sound to Sandfly Point, followed by an easy, flat walk to Giant Gate Falls, a highlight of the trail. It’s perfect for walkers who want a taste of New Zealand’s outdoor beauty without a multi-day commitment or strenuous hiking.
What makes this tour appealing is its straightforward approach and affordability. Travelers rave about the ease of the walk and the stunning scenery, noting that the trail is “flat and non-strenuous,” making it accessible for most fitness levels. While it doesn’t include the full Milford Track experience, it captures the essence of the area’s natural beauty, with scenic waterfalls and lush forests. This is best suited for those who want a manageable, independent adventure with minimal planning.
Bottom line: An excellent option for budget-conscious travelers wanting to enjoy some of the best scenery NZ has to offer, without the complexity of a guided trek.
3. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise & Flight
At number 3, this comprehensive full-day trip offers a scenic alpine drive, a 2-hour cruise, and a breathtaking scenic flight back to Queenstown. Starting early, the small-group tour takes you along the famous Milford Road, with frequent stops at viewpoints and waterfalls. The cruise showcases Milford Sound’s vertical cliffs and cascading waterfalls, with informative commentary explaining the region’s geology and wildlife.
What elevates this experience is the combination of land, water, and air, providing a complete picture of Milford Sound’s grandeur. The in-depth commentary and frequent stops make it engaging, and the flight over untouched wilderness offers an unforgettable perspective. Priced at $527 per person, it’s a higher-end option that offers excellent value considering the multiple modes of sightseeing packed into a single day. Reviewers highlight the smooth logistics and the “amazing scenery” from all angles.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a detailed, all-encompassing day trip with diverse perspectives of Milford Sound.
4. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Scenic Drive
Number 4 on our list features an intimate small-group tour combining a scenic drive along Milford Road with sightseeing stops, followed by a 2-hour cruise of Milford Sound. The tour lasts about 12.5 hours, making it a full-day adventure that balances travel time and sightseeing comfortably.
What sets this apart is the personalized experience—smaller groups mean more stop-off opportunities to photograph waterfalls, wildlife, and panoramic vistas. The guide’s commentary adds depth, and the frequent stops ensure you don’t miss key sights. The cruise itself offers an up-close view of iconic waterfalls and cliffs, with plenty of wildlife sightings. At $228 per person, this tour is a more budget-friendly way to experience Milford Sound without sacrificing quality.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, small-group tour with personalized attention and plenty of photo opportunities.
5. Milford Sound Premium Day Tour and Cruise from Te Anau
This premium day trip from Te Anau costs about $134 per person and includes a luxury coach with a glass roof to view the scenery en route. The tour focuses on a more immersive experience, with multiple stops for photos and snacks available onboard. The highlight is the nature cruise with opportunities to see wildlife and waterfalls.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on comfort and scenery. Passengers often comment on the extra legroom and the quality of the coach, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. The tour is best suited for those who prefer a more relaxed pace and engaging commentary. It’s an excellent value considering the immersive experience and scenic vistas.
Bottom line: A good choice for travelers who want a quality, comfortable experience with wildlife sightings and scenic stops.
6. Grand Tour | Helicopter Flight | Milford Helicopters
Number 6 is the most comprehensive of the helicopter tours, offering a 45-minute Grand Tour that includes two mountain top landings and stunning photo opportunities. The in-flight commentary provides insights into the region’s geography, and the highlight is the flight over Sutherland Falls, NZ’s highest waterfall.
This tour is ideal for those seeking a luxury helicopter experience, with the chance to see Fiordland National Park from above. It’s suited for travelers who want a truly special, once-in-a-lifetime adventure and don’t mind the higher price of $598 per person. The reviews are glowing, with one describing it as “absolutely breathtaking,” making it perfect for seasoned travelers or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom line: For a high-end, awe-inspiring view of Milford Sound and Fiordland, this helicopter tour offers unmatched scenery and exclusivity.
$598 per person
7. Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk from Lake Te Anau
This self-guided walk costs just $79 and allows you to experience the Milford Track independently. The journey includes a boat trip on Lake Te Anau to Te Anau Downs, then a walk to Clinton Hut, crossing the Clinton River swing bridge, and returning by boat. The walk is flat and non-strenuous, making it accessible for most.
What makes this option attractive is the freedom to go at your own pace without a guide or group. Reviewers love the flexibility and the spectacular scenery, with one noting it’s “a superb way to see Milford without a guided tour.” The walk offers a genuine connection with nature, with plenty of opportunities for photos of waterfalls and forests.
Bottom line: This is a great choice for independent travelers who want a flexible, budget-friendly way to enjoy Milford Track’s natural beauty.
$79 per person
8. Mitre Peak | Helicopter Flight | Milford Helicopters
Finally, the 15-minute helicopter flight over Mitre Peak offers a quick but unforgettable aerial view of Milford Sound. You’ll soar over Piopiothahi Milford Sound, Bowen Falls, and the famous Mitre Peak, with plenty of chances for spectacular photos. The in-flight commentary adds context to the stunning scenery.
This tour is perfect for those who want a short, scenic helicopter experience that captures the essence of Milford Sound from above. It’s a good addition to other trips or a quick highlight for travelers with limited time and a love for aerial views. The flight also offers views of Stirling Falls, adding to its appeal.
Bottom line: An excellent option for a brief but impactful scenic flight that highlights Milford Sound’s most iconic features.
$319 per person
How to Choose Your Southland Tour
When selecting the best tour in Southland, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If luxury and a quick overview are your priorities, the Queenstown: Milford Sound Flight and Cruise is hard to beat. For independent travelers or those on a tighter budget, the Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk or Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk from Lake Te Anau offer affordable, flexible options.
Those wanting a full day of diverse experiences should consider the Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise & Flight, which combines land, water, and air. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Milford Sound Cruise and Scenic Drive, offering a smaller group experience at a lower price.
Finally, for a truly memorable, high-end experience, the helicopter tours—Grand Tour and Mitre Peak Flight—provide stunning aerial views that are worth splurging on for special occasions.
Final Thoughts
Southland offers an impressive variety of tours that showcase its stunning landscapes and natural wonders. Whether you prefer a luxurious scenic flight, an independent hike, or a comprehensive guided trip, there’s an option for you. We recommend booking early, especially for high-demand experiences like helicopter tours or multi-modal trips, to secure the best times and availability.
For travelers seeking a luxury escape, the Queenstown flight and helicopter adventures stand out. Those who love independent exploration will appreciate the self-guided walks, while budget travelers will find plenty of value in scenic drives and cruises. Whatever your style, Southland’s tours promise unforgettable views and authentic Kiwi experiences—so pick your adventure and get ready for some of the most spectacular scenery the world has to offer.