Day Trips
6+ hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 99% of travellers
99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$309
per adult
Milford Sound Experience by Altitude Tours
Milford Sound Experience by Altitude Tours
Milford Sound Experience by Altitude Tours
4.9
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
Experience Milford Sound with Altitude Tours on a top-rated small group day tour. Departing from Queenstown, escape from the crowds and get up close and personal with Fiordland’s iconic scenery. Travel along the famed Milford Road in a premium Mercedes van hosted by a friendly local guide, and cruise below the towering fjord peaks on a nature cruise. Travel back by road, or choose to take your day tour to new heights on a scenic fixed-wing flight back to Queenstown. Let us take you on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Milford Sound and discover more with Altitude Tours.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Milford Sound Experience by Altitude Tours
Day Trips
6+ hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 98% of travellers
98% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$799
per adult
Food & Drink
6+ hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$699
per adult
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
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4.9
2,218 reviews
Excellent
2,086
Very good
116
Average
12
Poor
4
Terrible
3
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vonErlachKevin
Frankfurt, Germany91 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
We booked this small group adventure to Milford Sounds and it was nothing less than spectacular. Our guide Jono (from UK) was amazing and shared so many interesting facts on the 4h drive from Queenstwown to Milford Sounds. It was raining durning the first 3h but we still go to stop at some great viewing places , such a mystic vibe. Jono said it’s good that it is raining now that will make the waterfalls even bigger and he was so right. We had great weather for the cruise in Mildford and saw some stunning waterfalls and some baby furseals. Unfortunately the weather wasn’t good enough for our scenic flight to go ahead so we joined Jono back in the van for the drive back. He made the hours go by fast as he kept entertaining as with facts about the region and lord of the rings film locations. Thank you for a great day.
Written 16 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your fantastic review! We're so glad you had a spectacular experience with Jono—rain really does make the waterfalls even more magical, and it’s great to hear he kept the journey so engaging!
Written 6 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marie S
11 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
We were picked up from Te Anau by Rhu, an excellent tour guide / driver. So knowledgeable in addition to making sure everyone felt welcome and comfortable. With various stops en route, we arrived at Milford Sound for the fiord cruise. Despite the heavy rain all day, our spirits were not dampened, and we thoroughly enjoyed the cruise and the various stops on the minibus tour.
Written 11 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your lovely review! We're thrilled you had a wonderful experience despite the rain—Milford Sound is truly magical in any weather.
Written 6 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Matt M.
Gilbert, AZ19 contributions
Mar 2025 • Couples
Wow! Our visit to Milford Sound was the highlight of our three-week trip! The scenery was nothing short of spectacular—towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters that made every moment feel surreal. Even after traveling extensively and taking countless tours, this one stood out above the rest.
A huge part of what made this experience so special was our tour guide, Chelsea. Hands down, the best guide I’ve ever had—and I’ve been on many tours! Her knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling kept us engaged from start to finish. She had a perfect mix of humor, insight, and passion for the area, making the long journey feel like part of the adventure.
If you’re visiting New Zealand, do not skip Milford Sound. And if you’re lucky enough to get Chelsea as your guide, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
A huge part of what made this experience so special was our tour guide, Chelsea. Hands down, the best guide I’ve ever had—and I’ve been on many tours! Her knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling kept us engaged from start to finish. She had a perfect mix of humor, insight, and passion for the area, making the long journey feel like part of the adventure.
If you’re visiting New Zealand, do not skip Milford Sound. And if you’re lucky enough to get Chelsea as your guide, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
Written 20 March 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ginoeggel
Switzerland20 contributions
Feb 2025 • Couples
A great tour into Milford Sound with a small group. Amy was super knew everything before very well and chatted very interesting things about country and people almost the whole distance! If we ever did this tour again, it would only be with Amy!
Automatically translated
Written 2 March 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are very happy to hear that you had a great day to Milford Sound with our small group! We are especially pleased that Amy was able to inspire you with her extensive knowledge about the country and its people and made the trip so interesting.
Written 2 March 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tomas C
Diepenbeek, Belgium21 contributions
Dec 2023 • Solo
Went to Milford Sound today. We had a lovely driver/guide Chelsea, who provided us with lots of great information and stories on the way to Milford Sound. It’s a long drive but we made multiple great photo stops and bathroom breaks, and stopped at a little cafe to get a quick breakfast/coffee for those who wished.
The cruise itself was incredible! Some of the most beautiful sights you’ll ever experience. The photos don’t even really do this place justice, you have to experience it for yourselves, and I’d for sure recommend booking with Altitude Tours. You will not regret it.
The cruise itself was incredible! Some of the most beautiful sights you’ll ever experience. The photos don’t even really do this place justice, you have to experience it for yourselves, and I’d for sure recommend booking with Altitude Tours. You will not regret it.
Written 4 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the glowing recommendation! We're so glad you enjoyed the journey to Milford Sound with Chelsea and experienced the incredible sights on the cruise. Your kind words mean a lot, and we appreciate you choosing Altitude Tours. We hope to welcome you back soon for more unforgettable experiences in the future!
Written 18 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amanda W
1 contribution
Jan 2024 • Couples
We had a great day out at Milford Sound with Altitude Tours. Our guide Chelsea was a big part of that - she was chatty, funny, engaging, and informative, and her detailed and entertaining commentary hit just the right note. The small group tour suited us - there were plenty of stops for photos, and we chose the lunch option that Altitude offered (for the boat cruise) which was convenient and tasty. A very well run operation, and particular thanks to Chelsea for looking after our tour group so well.
Written 27 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us! It sound like an incredible tour was had with Chelsea as our guide. We're glad that you enjoyed the benefits of the small group setting. We take pride in delivering well-run tours, and we're so pleased that this was reflected in your experience. Thanks again!
Written 1 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rhonda A
South Portland, ME1,216 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
It’s a very long day but Milford Sound is truly a wonder to behold. We left Queenstown at 6:30 am and arrived back at 7:00 pm. Andy our driver/guide had wonderful commentary on the way there and we had breaks for views and facilities. The 1:45 minute boat ride flies by as you see scenery that is breathtaking. We had a rainy day early which only made the waterfalls number increase. It was chilly our day but we dressed warmly and spent the entire time taking in the falls , a bit of wildlife and when the sun peaked through unexpectedly some gorgeous blue waters. It is great this company does the early run as you avoid the large tour bus companies and are sure to get back for dinner. We were to fly back but weather conditions prohibited it ( snowed later in the day and overnight!) and they have already contacted me about a refund. My only criticism would be the occasional random music when Andy wasn’t commentating. Really unnecessary. Also a movie is played on the way back. The sound is loud and if you’re not interested- it’s 2 annoying hours. There should be a headphone system for those that wish to listen. Milford Sound is an absolute must do! Altitude did a great job presenting this natural wonder unlike anything I had seen in my world travels.
Written 28 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your insightful review! We're thrilled that you recognise Milford Sound as a must-do, and we appreciate your praise for Andy's guidance throughout the journey. Our carefully planned breaks for views and stops aim to make the journey truly spectacular and comfortable. Your feedback regarding the movie and music has been noted, and we thank you for your understanding of the weather-related challenges for your fly back. Altitude Tours was delighted to host your memorable Milford Sound experience!
Written 16 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
N S
Los Angeles, CA6 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
This was an excellent tour with professional and personalized service. The tour bus was comfortable and the driver/guide SinChan was just excellent. He was very knowledgeable and took care to offer personalized service to all 16 passengers on board. The cruise boat was small and not crowded and we went close to several waterfalls. Overall the scenery is just breathtaking.
Written 13 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It sounds like a great day hosted by Sinchan with a personal touch, this is one of the big benefits of small group travel. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Written 1 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JJ
Leamington Spa, UK4 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
Our trip to Milford Sound was amazing! The tour driver, Graham, was professional, helpful and extremely knowledgeable.
Milford Sound is absolutely stunning.
We chose to minibus in (with lots of great stops on the way) and fly back, luckily the weather was good which meant the flight went ahead. The views were just incredible. Would highly recommend flying back and booking with Altitude Tours.
Milford Sound is absolutely stunning.
We chose to minibus in (with lots of great stops on the way) and fly back, luckily the weather was good which meant the flight went ahead. The views were just incredible. Would highly recommend flying back and booking with Altitude Tours.
Written 12 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the glowing review! We're thrilled you had an incredible experience with Graeme. We really appreciate your high recommendation!
Written 16 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
steve15w
Christchurch, New Zealand10 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
Milford Sound is simply stunning .
Roland our driver and guide for the trip out on the coach hit just the right notes with the number of stops and information along the way and made the 300km trip pass quickly. We were lucky enough to get a sunny blue sky day which made for a jaw dropping 2 hour boat trip
The day was perfectly capped off by the 45 minute flight back to Queenstown piloted by the engaging Liam. Just when you thought you couldn’t say wow any more…
Great trip run by very good people
Roland our driver and guide for the trip out on the coach hit just the right notes with the number of stops and information along the way and made the 300km trip pass quickly. We were lucky enough to get a sunny blue sky day which made for a jaw dropping 2 hour boat trip
The day was perfectly capped off by the 45 minute flight back to Queenstown piloted by the engaging Liam. Just when you thought you couldn’t say wow any more…
Great trip run by very good people
Written 6 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your kind words about Roland. It is wonderful to hear he looked after you so well and made your day a memorable experience. It sounds like you had a fantastic day and we are happy that we could be a part of your Milford experience.
Written 16 November 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi
We will be staying at the QS Jade Apartments - can we be picked up/dropped off from there? What is the cancellation history for the 5:30 AM vs the 7:30 AM tour? Benefits for earlier tour? Trying to convince my SO it would be worth getting up so early. Thanks in advance!!
Written 8 January 2020
Hello! Yes pick up would be from the bus stop on the roadside outside the QS Jade Apartments :) The 5:30AM tour only cancels if minimum numbers are not reached (which is not that common), the 7:30AM tour runs every day of the year, only cancelling if the road is closed which is very rear at this time of year. The earlybird benefits are you get back to Queenstown much earlier in the evening and Milford is generally not quite so busy at the earlier time but both are fantastic experiences :) Any other questions reach of to Altitude tours!
Written 9 January 2020
Hi! Is the day trip tour option with the flight home still 12 hours? Thanks!
Written 27 December 2019
Thanks for your question. The flight option home is quicker. In total about 10 hours. It’s peak season right now and we don’t have many spaces left, so we would recommend booking as soon as you can. You can live chat with us as well to help find a trip with spare seats
Written 27 December 2019
What Hotels Does you shuttle pick up people?
Written 14 July 2019
We pick up from all Hotels. It’s not possible to list them all as there are so many. If by chance we didn’t pick up from your accommodation, there will be a location very close where we can pick up from. When you book just let us know and we will make sure you are picked up and looked after :) have a great day.
Written 14 July 2019
Hi, I am going to Queenstown next week. So, I booked the tour yesterday. However, I wonder, is it possible to show 'Lake Te Anau' during the tour?
I really want to see that.
And I have one more question. I am Korean and not good at speaking and listenig English. Can I participate in your tour well? I am so worried about this..
Written 9 December 2018
Thank you so much for booking to travel with us!
During the tour, we stop in the township of Te Anau twice. During the first stop there (on the way to Milford Sound) you will have around 30mins to stretch you legs, get a bite to eat or something to drink. This would be a good opportunity to go and see Lake Te Anau which is only a 5 minute walk from where our bus stops.
Despite having limited English, I am sure you will have an enjoyable day. Our driver guides are all wonderful and will do their best to make sure you don't miss out on anything.
The most important thing is that you make sure you take in the incredible scenery during the journey and enjoy every moment.
Warm regards,
Andrew
The BBQ Bus
Written 10 December 2018
Hi - we are visiting in January and are hoping to book a trip on the BBQ bus. We will have a motorhome and are planning to stay at Frankton Motor Camp which we believe is near the airport - do you pick up from anywhere near there please??
Written 6 November 2018
Our apologies for the delayed response!
The nearest pick up will be from the Frankton Bus Shelter on the corner of Gray Street and Kawarau Road. I believe it is within walking distance of the Motor Camp.
Kidnr egards,
Andrew
The BBQ Bus Team
Written 12 November 2018
avelyne_goh
Munich, Germany
How many toilet breaks will we have on each journey to Milford Sound, and on the way back? Thanks.
Written 15 August 2018
We stopped at a cafe about 2 hours into the journey so we could grab a coffee / muffin and visit the toilets. We stopped again maybe another hour later at public toilets for one of our fellow passengers. Graham was very accommodating and if you need to go, he'll stop at the nearest convenience. There are also toilets at Milford Sound boat terminal so you should be fine.
Written 18 August 2018
Hi we're visiting NZ in November and would definitely love to visit Milford Sound on the BBQ Bus...but just wondering whether to book the early morning tour or the one after...wondering what others thoughts are!
Written 6 April 2018
Thank you for your question.
We have a few things to point out that may help you make a decision:
- The Early Bird tour includes all of the same highlights of our later tour, but the BBQ lunch is served on board the boat to save time (so you do miss out on some opportunities to see more of the native rainforest)
- A main highlight of the Early Bird is that you are back in Queenstown by approx 6pm as opposed to 8:30/9pm on the later tour.
I hope that these notes help. Feel free to send us an email with any further detailed questions you may have.
Kind regards,
Andy
BBQ Bus Office Manager
Written 8 April 2018
Hi....were visiting NZ in November and would definitely love to visit Milford Sound on the BBC Bus...just wondered whether to book the early morning tour or the one after...any thoughts to which is the best??
Written 6 April 2018
Go early, it’s a long day but worth it...enjoy :)
Written 12 May 2018
Hi, I just changed my hotel to Hurley's of Queenstown. Can you please let me know what time will the pickup be. My booking reference is BKW2TN. And please have the driver reserve 2 seats (I get car sick) at the front for us so that we can be seated together.
Thank you. Looking forward to it.
Written 19 January 2018
Hello!
I believe you have already contacted us directly via email and we have amended your booking.
Please meet the bus at the Millennium Hotel bus stop at 7:35am.
Kind regards,
Andrew Bell
BBQ Bus Office Manager
Written 21 January 2018
Hi, I just booked for February 20 from Queenstown and see that the pickup at Ramada is 7:45 am which might the last hotel stop. How can I ensure that my husband and I can be seated together? Thanks!
Written 22 December 2017
Thank you for your question.
Our small groups allow for minimal hassle seating couples together.
If you provide us with your booking reference I can add a note of your concern so that the driver keeps two seats together.
Kind regards,
Andrew
BBQ Bus Office Manager
Written 24 December 2017
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.