Fiordland National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, must-try dishes, where to stay, and more in our complete guide to Fiordland National Park.


Introduction to Fiordland National Park

Located in the South Island of New Zealand, Fiordland National Park is a paradise for nature lovers with its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife. The park, which spans over 1.2 million hectares, is home to 14 fiords, including the famous Milford Sound, as well as glaciers, rainforests, and alpine regions. In this guide, we’ll explore all the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Fiordland National Park.

List of Places to Visit in Fiordland National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

When visiting Fiordland National Park, it’s important to take a moment to learn about the area’s rich Maori history. There are several cultural attractions in the park, including Maori rock carvings in Milford Sound and a museum in Te Anau. Here are some must-visit places:

  • Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
  • Fiordland Cinema
  • Fiordland Heritage and Arts Society Museum
  • Milford Sound Underwater Observatory
  • Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory
  • Maori rock carvings in Milford Sound

Natural Attractions of Fiordland National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Fiordland National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are some of the top natural attractions and activities:

  • Milford Sound
  • Doubtful Sound
  • Kepler Track (hiking)
  • Routeburn Track (hiking)
  • Hollyford Track (hiking)
  • Te Anau Glowworm Caves
  • Lake Manapouri
  • Milford Track (hiking)
  • Key Summit Track (hiking)
  • Mirror Lakes

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fiordland National Park

Hiking and biking are two of the most popular ways to explore Fiordland National Park. There are a multitude of trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  • Kepler Track (three to four days)
  • Milford Track (four days)
  • Routeburn Track (two to three days)
  • Hollyford Track (three to four days)
  • Key Summit Track (three hours)
  • Gertrude Saddle (eight hours)
  • Lake Marian (three hours)
  • Lake Gunn (one hour)

Best Things to Do in Fiordland National Park: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Fiordland National Park. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Kayaking or boat tour in Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound
  • Te Anau Glowworm Caves tour
  • Stargazing tour in Te Anau
  • Scenic flight over the park
  • Fishing or hunting
  • Horseback riding
  • Jet boating

Week-Long Itinerary for Fiordland National Park

Here’s a sample itinerary for a seven-day stay in Fiordland National Park:

  • Day 1-2: Explore Te Anau and visit the Glowworm Caves
  • Day 3-4: Hike the Milford Track, overnighting in huts along the way
  • Day 5: Take a boat tour of Milford Sound
  • Day 6: Kayak or take a boat tour of Doubtful Sound
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenery around Lake Manapouri

Food and Drink Scene of Fiordland National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Fiordland National Park is known for its fresh seafood and locally sourced meats and produce. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Crayfish (lobster)
  • Venison
  • Kiwi-style fish and chips
  • Bluff oysters
  • Whitebait fritters
  • Paua (abalone) patties
  • Blue cod

Local Beverages

New Zealand is famous for its wine, and Fiordland National Park is no exception. Here are some local beverages to try:

  • Pinot Noir from Central Otago
  • Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough
  • Speight’s beer

Where to Stay in Fiordland National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Fiordland National Park has something for everyone. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Fiordland Lodge (luxury)
  • Milford Sound Lodge (mid-range)
  • Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers (budget)
  • Blue Duck Lodge (remote and secluded)
  • Milford Sound Overnight Cruise (unique experience)

What to Buy in Fiordland National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Fiordland National Park without picking up some souvenirs or local products to bring home. Here are some ideas:

  • Greenstone (jade) jewelry
  • Woolen clothing and accessories
  • Honey from local farms
  • Chocolates from The Seriously Good Chocolate Company
  • New Zealand wines

Local Culture and Customs of Fiordland National Park

The Maori people have a deep connection to the land and water in Fiordland National Park. As a visitor, it’s important to respect their culture and the environment. Here are some tips:

  • Observe speed limits and traffic signs to protect wildlife
  • Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging plants and wildlife habitats
  • Do not disturb or remove artifacts or rock formations
  • Do not place any litter or waste, take everything back

Best Time to Visit Fiordland National Park

The best time to visit Fiordland National Park is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, and accommodations and activities can be booked in advance. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning fall foliage. Winter in Fiordland brings the opportunity to see snow-fed waterfalls.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fiordland National Park

Do:

  • Respect the environment and take nothing but memories back with you.
  • Take care of wildlife habitats and do not disturb the fragile environments of the park.
  • Admire wildlife from a safe distance. Do not feed or touch any of the animals.
  • Park your vehicle only in designated areas. Don’t block access roads or trails.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter - it is illegal and can harm animals or vegetation.
  • Do not remove any stones, plants, or artifacts from the park.
  • Do not light fires outside of designated areas
  • Do not exceed the speed limit.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for its challenging hikes and treks, and safety is paramount when exploring the park. Here are some tips to stay safe:

  • Always check the weather forecast before starting a hike
  • Stay on designated trails
  • Carry a first aid kit, map, and a communication device
  • Tell somebody your hiking and/or camping plans
  • Check with the Department of Conservation for Alert Levels, alerts and updates.

Health in Fiordland National Park

There are no major health risks in Fiordland National Park, but insect repellent is recommended during the warmer months due to sandflies and mosquitoes.

Getting to Fiordland National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fiordland National Park

The closest airports to Fiordland National Park are Queenstown Airport (about two hours) and Dunedin Airport (about three hours)

Bus Stations Near Fiordland National Park

Intercity and Great Sights buses connect Te Anau and Manapouri with other parts of the South Island.

Other Options

Many visitors choose to drive to Fiordland National Park and hire a car or campervan to explore the area at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Fiordland National Park

One way to explore Fiordland National Park is by car or campervan, and there are several car rental companies in the area. For those without access to a car, there are several local tour companies that offer guided tours of the park.

Where to Go Next from Fiordland National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fiordland National Park is surrounded by beautiful towns and scenic destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some other places you might want to visit:

  • Queenstown
  • Wanaka
  • Dunedin
  • Milford Sound Road
  • Glenorchy

Conclusion

Fiordland National Park is a natural wonderland that offers endless opportunities for adventure, exploration, and relaxation. Whether you’re interested in hiking, kayaking, or simply admiring the stunning scenery, Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

Mitre Peak, towering over Milford Sound Mitre Peak, towering over Milford Sound


    Milford Sound