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Fiordland National Park is probably the freshest natural park in New Zealand and each of its tourists will be fascinated with its majestic fjords, peaks, and forests. From the incredible viewpoint of the celebrated Milford Sound to lakes, bays, and coves, the national park is an essential inclusion while exploring the best of New Zealand. Hike through the beautiful site registered by UNESCO for a real-life experience in natural beauty. This place promises a unique experience when in New Zealand.
About
Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest and most ancient parks of New Zealand is the national park which occupies the space of 12,600 sq km. The national park is home to famous fjords, including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, great views, rainforests, snow-clad mountains, and clear-water lakes. There are many beautiful plants and rare animals, which can scarcely be seen elsewhere, such as the Fiordland crested penguin and kea parrot. Fiordland remains largely unspoiled and visitors come to hike and explore this natural landscape. Other activities performed at this national park are hiking, boating, and scenic tours.
Location
Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ / Wikimedia Commons
The national park is in the southwestern region of New Zealand’s South Island. With more than a million hectares of land, it lies to the east of Fiordland’s Lake Te Anau and to the southwest of the Tasman Sea. This is a distant park that is best accessed from Queenstown, Invercargill, or Te Anau. Te Anau is the most convenient point of entry. Fiordland’s location is well suited, especially for those who are in search of a raw natural experience.
How To Reach
Photo: Matheus Bertelli / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
By Road: Heads towards the east along State Highway 6 & 94 and it will take about 2.5 hours to get to Te Anau from Queenstown. There are roads from Te Anau that head deep into the realm of Fiordland which includes Milford Sound.
By Air: The closest airport with operating domestic and international flights is the Queenstown Airport. From there one can hire rental cars or take shuttles to Te Anau and Fiordland.
By Bus: Many bus services move around Queenstown, Invercargill, and Te Anau which can accommodate young tourists and other travelers.
Places To Visit In And Around Fiordland National Park
1. Milford Sound
Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons
Milford Sound is one of the finest and famous places of the world, including high cliffs, waterfalls, and other eye-catching landscapes. It has an all-season facility that provides essential and attractive services such as boat tours, water cycling, and aerial trips that help to see its outstanding geographical features. Boat tours get you close to Stirling and Bowen Falls. Of course, you should not miss Mitre Peak which goes straight up from the sea. This place is home to penguins, seals and dolphins.
Entry Fees: N/A
Major Attractions: Boat cruises, kayaking, and scenic flights
2. Doubtful Sound
Photo: Remi Jouan / Wikimedia Commons
The Doubtful Sound is also known as the Sound of Silence and is even more laid back than the Milford Sound. It has deep fjords and is comparatively smaller in size than Milford Sound. Tourists can arrange for guided tours that offer an opportunity to view dolphins, seals, and penguins. A boat tour helps to make a leisurely trip to the glaciated drowned valleys, which are great for admiring untouched nature. Being a fiord, Doubtful Sound is accessible throughout the year. There are many large waterfalls at this place. Two of the famous ones are Helena Falls and Browne Falls.
Entry Fees: Depends on guided tours
Major Attractions: Wildlife watching, tranquil boat tours, and deep fjords
3. Lake Te Anau
Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons
This lake is the national park’s entryway. It is New Zealand’s second-largest lake. This lake is famous for its beautiful prospects and some glowworm caves. Water and boat-based activities are common at this lake. Tourists get to have a relaxing time while looking at the lake. There are restaurants and hotels nearby. There are two New Zealand Great Walks near this lake including the Milford Sound which lies in the North and Kepler Track which ends at the southern tip.
Entry Fees: N/A
Major Attractions: Glowworm caves, lake cruises, and local dining
4. Key Summit Track
Photo: Phil Whitehouse / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most popular walking tracks for hikers is the Key Summit Track with a lovely top view of Fiordland alpine plants. This 3-hour round trip during the day gives a deserving view of the Mountain including snow zones, native forests, and glacial valleys. This particular stretch is part of the Routeburn track, which passes through Fiordland’s diverse ecosystems. On the way, there is illustrated information on local plants and animals for a better experience. There is no gate fee for hiking.
Entry Fees: N/A
Major Attractions: Panoramic views, native forest trails, and alpine scenery
5. Sutherland Falls
Photo: Ksenia Druzhkina / Wikimedia Commons
Sutherland Falls, which is one of the most stunning waterfalls in New Zealand, is a free-falling, 580-meter plunge waterfall. This waterfall is found at the end of the Milford Track which is one of the most spectacular treks in the world. The waterfalls stretch over the width of the attractive Lake Quill. The general public can visit this natural curiosity for free while guided treks are provided for those who want a more direct tour of the area. Sutherland Falls perfectly represents the region of Fiordland.
Entry Fees: N/A
Major Attractions: Towering waterfalls, natural beauty, and rugged trails
Where To Stay
Photo: Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For accommodations, there are many choices for motels, hotels, and lodges near Te Anau. One of the places where you will find good camping grounds would be Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park while Fiordland Lodge would be more on the luxurious side along Lake Te Anau with a marvellous view of the mountains. Other accommodation types include the following; hostels, B&Bs, and eco-lodges depending on the category of the budget. The access to items and services, dining, and transportation to most of the national park’s key attractions are easily accessible to and from Te Anau.
Where To Eat
Photo: Robert Bye / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Te Anau has a variety of places to eat, from restaurants that offer fast food to those that offer luxurious meals while enjoying the views of the lake. There are numerous restaurants for instance; the Sandfly Cafe with delicious breakfast meals and the Redcliff Cafe with local meals in a traditional background. Most places to stay also have dining options available, so that you can taste the local food. Those into Milford Sound have to suffice with snack bars and takeaways but it would be better if they bring packed foods since choice in the park is very limited.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Athithan Vignakaran / Unsplash
New Zealand’s summer season is from November to March, and that is the ideal time to visit the Fiordland National Park. The climate is relatively moderate and except for steep mountainous paths, most of the trails are open. This period also provides the best climatic conditions for water activities like kayaking and boat rides. Even though Fiordland is one of the rainiest regions, the summer months make it easier to combine the fjord, mountain, and rainforest adventures in the best conditions.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The cost ranges between $100 to $300 paying for entry fees, meals, and any form of tour.
Tips For Travellers
- Take waterproof, favourable attire, good hiking shoes, and insect repellent with you because the weather is unpredictable.
- Sandflies are frequently found at the campsite.
- Also, opt for guided tours for a better understanding of the national park.
Fiordland National Park could be termed a paradise for lovers of nature. Regardless of what type of traveller you are – an experienced trekker or somebody who just wants to take it easy in New Zealand’s wilderness, there is plenty to do in Fiordland. Plan a trip with TripXL and get prepared for an eye-opener experience in this special destination which is renowned worldwide.
Cover Photo: Athithan Vignakaran / Unsplash
