Fiordland Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Fiordland, located in the Southland region of New Zealand, is a nature lover's paradise. This region is renowned for its stunning fiords, rugged mountains, and pristine forests, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true wilderness experience.
One of the most popular attractions in Fiordland is Milford Sound, a breathtaking fjord known for its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the sound on a scenic boat cruise, where they may spot seals, dolphins, and penguins against the backdrop of dramatic scenery. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, kayaking and diving are also popular activities in Milford Sound.
In addition to Milford Sound, Fiordland is home to several other stunning fiords, including Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound. These remote and untouched landscapes offer a sense of tranquility and isolation that is unparalleled, making them ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
For those who prefer to stay on dry land, Fiordland offers a network of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. The famous Milford Track is a multi-day hiking route that takes visitors through some of the most spectacular scenery in the region, while the Routeburn Track and Kepler Track offer equally impressive landscapes in a more manageable timeframe.
Fiordland is also home to Te Anau, a charming town that serves as the gateway to the region. Visitors can enjoy the town's laid-back atmosphere, explore its shops and restaurants, and learn about the area's natural and cultural history at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
Southland
Fiordland Attractions - What to See and Explore
Fiordland offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Wilmot Pass. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Fiordland
Learn when is the best time to travel to Fiordland weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
South Island takahē
The takahē, also known as the South Island takahē or notornis, is a unique, flightless bird native to New Zealand. It is the largest living member of the rail family. For many years, the takahē was believed to be extinct after the last known specimen was captured in...
Birds
New Zealand kaka
The New Zealand kaka is a captivating large parrot native to the verdant forests of New Zealand. There are two subspecies: the North Island kaka and the South Island kaka. Regrettably, these striking birds are endangered and have disappeared from numerous areas where...
Birds
Rainbow trout
The rainbow trout is a type of salmonid fish that originates from the cold-water streams and rivers connected to the Pacific Ocean in Asia and North America. There is a specific variant of this fish, known as the steelhead, which lives in the ocean but returns...
Fish
Red Deer, Elk, Hangul, Maral, Wapiti
The red deer is a large and majestic animal found in various parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Over time, they have been introduced to regions such as Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. As ruminants, red deer possess a unique four-chambered...
Mammals
Yellowhead
The yellowhead, also known as the mohua or bush canary, is a small, insectivorous bird native to New Zealand's South Island. It belongs to the Mohouidae family, alongside its close relative, the Whitehead, which inhabits the North Island and adjacent smaller islands.
Birds
Southland