The Fiordland National Park

When visiting the Fiordland National Park in New Zealand, travelers are often faced with a choice: should they visit Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound? This vast region is home to 14 stunning fiords that stretch from Milford Sound in the north to Preservation Inlet in the south. Te Anau and Manapouri are the main access points to the Fiordland Region, with Queenstown also offering transfer options. It’s important to note that there are no permanent settlements in this wilderness area, and the only public access road is the Milford Sound road.

Milford Sound: A Busy and Impressive Destination

Milford Sound is the more popular choice among travelers due to its accessibility via a public road. It is a 2 and a half hour drive from Te Anau and a full day trip from Queenstown. The drive to Milford Sound is a breathtaking experience, with steep mountains, wild rivers, and the famous Homer Tunnel. Travelers have the advantage of being able to stop along the way for scenic walks, fresh air, and photo opportunities. Sea kayaking is also available in Milford Sound, adding another dimension to the day trip.

Doubtful Sound: A Remote and Serene Escape

On the other hand, Doubtful Sound offers a more remote and tranquil experience. There is no public road access to this fiord, making it less crowded and more peaceful. To reach Doubtful Sound, travelers must join a guided tour from Lake Manapouri Wharf and cross the lake by boat to the western side. From there, a passenger coach takes them on a 22 km journey over Wilmot Pass, the single most expensive road ever built in New Zealand. Doubtful Sound is three times longer than Milford Sound and has a much larger sea surface area.

What Both Fiords Offer

Both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound offer a range of day tours and overnight cruises during the summer season. Winter is actually the best time weather-wise to visit the Fiordland Region, as multi-day cruises are offered along the Fiordland Coast and Stewart Island. These overnight cruises include guided wildlife and kayaking tours, with all meals, bedding, and transfers provided. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot penguins, seals, and dolphins in both fiords. Despite the region’s high rainfall, the waterfalls in Milford Sound are a spectacular sight to behold.

Local Operators and Activities

There are several local operators that provide cruises and tours in both Milford and Doubtful Sound. Real NZ is the largest operator for both fiords, while Southern Discovery mainly operates in Milford Sound. Smaller operators like Trips and Tramps offer day tours into Milford Sound with guided walks along the way or on the famous Milford Track. Along the Milford Road, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring. Popular walks include the Routeburn Track, Hollyford Valley, Lake Marian, and Key Summit. Helicopter rides and sea kayaking are also available for those seeking unique experiences in the pristine wilderness of Fiordland National Park.

Insider Tips and Recommendations

For those seeking a more remote experience, it is possible to fly into other fiords along the coast, such as Dusky Sound or George Sound, by helicopter or floatplane. This allows for a truly immersive experience in New Zealand’s wilderness areas. If time is limited, a Fiordland historic cruise on Lake Te Anau, based in the charming village of Te Anau, is a great option. When deciding between Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, it ultimately comes down to personal interests. If hiking and walks are a priority, Milford Sound is the better choice. However, if you prefer a tranquil and less crowded experience, Doubtful Sound is the way to go. For those who have the time, visiting both fiords over two full days is the recommended approach.

In conclusion, Fiordland National Park offers a range of unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you choose to visit Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, or even explore other fiords in the region, you are sure to be captivated by the stunning beauty of this wilderness area. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Fiordland National Park!

(Note: The information provided in this blog is based on a video transcript and does not include any personal opinions or endorsements. Please refer to the description box for further information about operators and tours mentioned in the video.)