The Budget & Backpacking Guide to Milford Sound 🏔️ [2024]

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Free Activities in Milford Sound

Spoiler alert: pretty much all of the free things to do in Milford Sound are walks.

The Milford Sound Walks

Some of the free walks that are well worth doing include the Milford Sound Foreshore Walk, a 30-minute walk giving you those postcard views of Mitre Peak (the highest peak in Milford Sound) without having to take a cruise. The Milford Sound Lookout Track is another good one to enjoy views of the famous fiord, which only takes around 20 minutes to complete.

Hikes Along the Milford Road

For those looking for a walk with more substance, don’t miss the Key Summit Track. Part of the Routeburn Track Great Walk, the Key Summit Track is a three-hour return walk zigzagging up to a mountain summit with alpine lakes and panoramic views of mountains. The Lake Marian Track is also a popular half-day walk, taking you to a series of cascading waterfalls before climbing to the stunning Lake Marian in a hanging valley surrounded by mountains. The walk takes approximately three hours-return.

Free Sights on the Milford Road

Some of the other free activities along the Milford Road include sights, such as the iconic Eglinton Valley, which is a flat-bottomed valley with golden tussock grass and a worthy photo stop. The Mirror Lakes might be classed as a walk but it’s more like a roadside attraction with viewing platforms overlooking a lake with vivid reflections of the Earl Mountains. You might also want to stop by Monkey Creek to fill up your water bottle with pure mountain water. Find out where these sights are in the 20 Best Stops on the Road to Milford Sound.

For more free walks, check out the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Milford Sound.

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Cheap Activities in Milford Sound

If it’s not free, then you’re going to have to dig deep into your pockets for the other activities and tours in Milford Sound. However, we can help you with the cheapest cruises in Milford Sound, as well as one walk that’s available via an affordable ferry transfer.

Bowen Falls Ferry and Walk

The Giant Gate Falls Walk on the Milford Track is a walk in Milford Sound that you might have to pay for but considering it involves a boat ride to access (which is cheaper than any Milford Sound cruise), it is relatively affordable and one of Milford Sound’s rare hidden gems. Fiordland Outdoors Co. offers water taxi transport from Sandfly Point in Milford Sound to the end of the famous NZ Great Walk, the Milford Track, where day-trippers can enjoy an easy-going and family-friendly walk (1 hr 30 mins one way) to a swing bridge revelling in the views of the majestic Giant Gate Falls.

The Cheapest Milford Sound Cruises

One of the most affordable ways to actually explore the famous fiord of Milford Sound is by cruise. There are plenty of options, which we list in the 10 Best Cruises in Milford Sound.

The cheapest cruise at Milford Sound is usually with Mitre Peak Cruises. Their two-hour cruise takes you to all the highlights that other cruises see, majestic mountain views, seal rock and under Stirling Falls, for around NZ$145 per adult (of course, price is subject to change). You will find a similar price with Southern Discoveries if you pick their most basic package (i.e. without kayaking or the underwater observatory).

Again, check out the 10 Best Cruises in Milford Sound to compare all of your options, as well as the 15 Best Milford Sound Tours from Queenstown & Te Anau with cruises included in these bus tours.

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Cheap Eats in Milford Sound

This section of our budget travel guide is usually more relevant for destinations not quite as remote as Milford Sound.

We recommend that you bring your own food supplies to Milford Sound, as dining is limited. That said, if you must eat out, then you can still get a coffee, pizza, a burger or a toastie from the Discover Milford Sound Information Centre & Cafe. They offer some of the cheapest eats in the Milford Sound area, but still, pizzas are over NZ$20 and burgers are around NZ$15…

Alternatively, try the Pio Pio Restaurant at the Milford Sound Lodge, which serves hearty sandwiches and burgers for around NZ$18 for lunch and mains for around NZ$40 for dinner.

If you need tips for self-catering, while camping for instance, check out The Best Camping Meals, Inc. Camping Food List.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling on a Budget to Milford Sound

Milford Sound, a crown jewel of New Zealand’s natural beauty, can be an affordable destination even for budget travellers. Here are some FAQs to help you plan a cost-effective trip to this magnificent fiord.

What is the cheapest time of year to visit Milford Sound?

The most budget-friendly time to visit Milford Sound is during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these periods, accommodation and tour prices tend to be lower, and the area is less crowded than in the peak summer months. Winter (June to August) can also be cheaper, but you’ll need to prepare for cooler weather and limited daylight hours.

Are there budget accommodations in or near Milford Sound?

While Milford Sound itself has limited accommodation options, the nearby towns of Te Anau and Manapouri offer a range of budget-friendly choices, including hostels, campsites, and holiday parks – see the 15 Best Budget Accommodations in Te Anau for more information. Alternatively, stay at the cheap campsites along the Milford Road listed in the 10 Best Accommodations in Milford Sound.

Can I find affordable tours to Milford Sound?

Yes, various companies offer day tours to Milford Sound from Te Anau and Queenstown at competitive prices. These tours often include bus transportation and a cruise on the fiord, providing a comprehensive Milford Sound experience. Booking in advance and comparing different tour operators can help you find the best deal – use the 15 Best Milford Sound Tours from Queenstown & Te Anau. Additionally, look for combo deals that include other attractions in the area.

Is it cheaper to drive to Milford Sound?

Driving to Milford Sound can be more economical, especially for groups or families, as it allows you to share the cost of fuel and gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, keep in mind the distance and driving conditions, especially during winter when roads can be challenging. Car rental prices vary, so shop around and book in advance to secure the best rates. Start with The Best Car Rental Companies in Queenstown and The Cost of Renting a Car or Campervan in New Zealand.

Can I camp near Milford Sound?

Yes, there are designated campsites in the Fiordland National Park near Milford Sound, managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC). These sites provide basic facilities and are an affordable accommodation option for budget travellers. Bookings are required for some sites, especially during the peak season, so plan ahead. See the 10 Best Accommodations in Milford Sound for more information.

Are there any tips for saving money on food during my trip?

To save money on food during your trip to Milford Sound, consider:

• Packing your own meals and snacks for day trips, as options in Milford Sound are limited and can be expensive.
• Staying in accommodations with cooking facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals.
• Shopping for groceries in larger towns like Te Anau, where prices are more reasonable compared to remote areas.

How can I save on transportation costs in Fiordland National Park?

Saving on transportation costs in Fiordland can be achieved by:

• Sharing a ride or carpooling with fellow travellers to spread the cost of fuel.
• Utilising budget-friendly bus services from Te Anau or Queenstown to Milford Sound.
• Considering relocation rental deals, where you may drive a car or campervan at a reduced rate or even for free in exchange for moving the vehicle between locations for the rental company.

Travelling to Milford Sound on a budget is entirely feasible with careful planning and a flexible approach. By taking advantage of off-peak travel times, seeking out budget accommodations, and embracing the natural attractions that cost little to nothing, you can experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Milford Sound without breaking the bank.