Day 1 Mountains to Sea - Kayaking

Experience the majesty of Milford Sound by sea kayak then relax at Milford Sound for the evening.

A vehicle and guide will meet you at your Te Anau accommodation at 6.30am and make the 2 hour journey to Milford Sound along New Zealand's most spectacular alpine road. On arrival at the Milford Sound launch area we issue a complete set of paddling gear including thermals, wetsuit vest, fleece, paddle jacket as well as a water proof gear and camera bag. After a comprehensive safety briefing and paddling instruction we begin our kayak journey from Deep Water Basin to paddle the inner part of Milford Sound. Spend 4-5 hours in the sea kayaks exploring the sheer beauty of the Fiord in a non-intrusive manner. Discover the pristine glacial water flowing from Bowen Falls, paddle beneath towering cliffs clothes in primeval rainforest, view classic Mitre Peak and enjoy the presence of the Pembroke Glacier Wilderness Zone. Take time out for a hot drink and if weather conditions favorable a lunch stop is made at a beach before returning to our start point at Deep Water Basin.

On completion of the sea kayaking you will be transported back to Milford Sound Lodge. Depending on your budget you can choose from Luxury Riverside Chalets, twin/ double, or dorm rooms with shared bathroom.

Dinner and breakfast available at Milford Sound Lodge or bring your own, full cooking facilities available.

Day 2 Milford Sound Cruise and Hike

Enjoy a leisurely start to the day. We will collect you from the Milford Sound lodge at 10.15am with our comfortable coach, with a maximum of 12 passengers and transport you to the Milford Sound wharf to join a Nature Cruise. This extended cruise of Milford Sound travels to the Tasman Sea. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to view waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. This boat ride is a good contrast to the kayaking, allowing you to see the full fiord from a different perspective.

On completion of the cruise you are transported to the start of the Routeburn Track. For those choosing the hiking option this is the departure point for Key Summit. This (unguided) walk ascends up through lush beech rainforest and into the alpine environment with panoramic views of the surrounding Fiordland Mountains, alpine lakes and deep bush clad valleys. The walk involves a 400 metre ascent on a well formed track requiring a medium level of fitness. Alternatively, a second option offers with the nature guide exploration of the secluded lower Hollyford Valley. This valley is entrenched with history and natural beauty with short nature walks and a visit to Hollyford Camp and Museum. After the Key Summit walk or Hollyford Valley tour the groups reunite for a wilderness tea break with complementary tea, coffee and biscuits before continuing along the Milford Road back to Te Anau. The journeys allows for plenty of scenic and photo stops to ensure you see as much of the area as possible during your Fiordland stay.