Te Anau & Fiordland Experiences

Calling Te Anau by its nickname (The Gateway to the Fiords) does a disservice to this little town which is a stunning spot. Nestled beside Lake Te Anau, on the cusp on the Murchison Mountains, this wonderful town has everything you need for a peaceful, relaxing retreat.

Still, it is easy to see why Fiordland dominates people minds when they think of the area, after all the towering peaks of the mountains that make up the Fiordland National Park dominates the skyline across the town.

Best Things to do in Te Anau

Though the town is often used as a launch pad, a starting point for the myriad of magnificent walks available across Fiordland, there is still plenty of things to do in Te Anau itself.

Even at its high season peak, the town usually won’t top a population of 5000 residents and visitors, making it a great getaway spot if your seeking somewhere remote to hole up and indulge in peace, relaxation and natural beauty. Locally sourced, delicious food is available at restaurants throughout the town along with accommodation to suit all budgets.

But with so much to see and do in the National Park next door, it would be something of a shame not venture further out.

Experiences in Te Anau and Fiordland

If you’re looking for tours of Te Anau and Fiordland, we always recommend starting with the area’s most famous attraction: the majestic Milford Sound. Known for its soaring, skyline-defining Mitre peak, and the waterfalls that plummet down it, Milford Sound is an exceptional encapsulation of Fordland’s alpine allure.

To enjoy it fully, embark on a Milford Sound cruise, and witness it’s full impact without distraction. The nature cruise option will afford you a guide who will help you identify the area’s best features, from sheer rock faces to cascading waterfalls, as well as highlighting the abundance of water bound wildlife. The area is flush with sleek dolphins and sweet seals, and if you turn up in season might even spot a rare Crested Penguin, all from the comfort and security of the ship.

The more adventurous explorer may wish to set sail for Doubtful Sound instead. Ten times bigger, three times longer than Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound is the second largest Fiord in the park. Far harder to get to, Doubtful is far less popular but absolutely worth the effort for those willing to invest it.

For those who wish to do their exploration the hardest way, then there are an abundance of wonderful walks across the Fiordland Park for you to tackle. The Milford and Routeburn Tracks  are consistently the most popular multi-day walks, perhaps because they pair the spectacular scenery with personable, knowledgeable guides. Or perhaps it’s because, after traversing across sprawling mountains, observing vibrant forests, expansive lakes and roaring waterfalls, walkers can enjoy a three-course meal, luxuriate in a warm shower and snuggle down in a comfortable bed, while they reflect fully on all the breathtaking beauty they’ve seen.

Ready to Experience Te Anau and Fiordland?

We specialise in planning tailor-made itineraries focused on your personal interests. Want to have a chat? Our team are always on standby ready to answer any questions you may have. Talk to someone now by calling +44 (0) 1636 813 544.

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