Looking for an epic adventure in New Zealand? You’ve gotta check out Stirling Falls in Milford Sound. This guide will give you all the deets on how to get there, what to expect, and some insider tips. Grab a raincoat and let’s get going—this one’s gonna be wet and wild!
| Location: | Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park |
| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
| Duration: | 1 hour (viewing from a boat) |
| Walking Distance: | N/A (viewed from a cruise or kayak) |
| Walk Type: | Boat Cruise or Kayak |
| Elevation Gain: | N/A |
| Suitable for: | All ages, adventure seekers, nature lovers |
| Terrain and Track Surface: | No hiking here—you’ll be enjoying the falls from a boat or kayak. Just sit back and enjoy the view! |
| Toilets: | At Milford Sound Visitor Terminal |
| Dogs: | No dogs allowed on the cruises or kayaks. Sorry, pups! |
Stirling Falls drops a massive 151 metres straight into the waters of Milford Sound. When the sun’s out, you might catch rainbows in the mist. Plus, the cliffs and greenery around the falls make for some seriously stunning pics.
Named after Captain Stirling, an early European settler, these falls have a rich history and play a role in local Maori legends.
Plenty of parking at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal. It’s a quick walk from there to your boat or kayak departure.
By Car:
By Public Transport: Daily buses run from Te Anau and Queenstown to Milford Sound. Check local schedules for the latest.
No hiking here—you’ll be enjoying the falls from a boat or kayak. Just sit back and enjoy the view!
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds. Summer’s great for weather, but honestly, the falls are awesome any time of year.
No dogs allowed on the cruises or kayaks. Sorry, pups!
Boat cruises are accessible for folks with limited mobility. Double-check with your tour operator.
Absolutely! Kids will get a kick out of the boat ride and seeing the falls up close.
No camping in Milford Sound itself, but there are campsites and huts along the Milford Road.
No walking required! You’ll cruise or kayak right up to the falls. Feel the mist, snap some pics, and enjoy the ride.
Weather can change fast, so bring a rain jacket. Cell phone reception is spotty, so let someone know your plans before you head out.
Nope, drones aren’t allowed in Fiordland National Park.
Check out the Blue Duck Cafe & Bar at Milford Sound Lodge for a bite before or after your adventure.
For more info, head to the Te Anau i-SITE Visitor Information Centre. Check out their website here.
Layer up! Bring a raincoat and waterproof gear to stay dry from the falls’ spray.
Clear signs at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal will guide you to your boat or kayak departure.
No permits needed, but you’ll need to book a cruise or kayak tour, which comes with a fee.
Bikes aren’t allowed on the boats or kayaks.
The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Summer offers the best weather, but the falls are spectacular year-round.
Swimming is not allowed at Stirling Falls due to the strong currents and cold water. The falls are best enjoyed from a boat or kayak.
Yes, several guided tour operators offer boat cruises and kayak tours to Stirling Falls. Some popular ones include Real Journeys, Southern Discoveries, and Rosco’s Milford Kayaks.
It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability and secure your preferred time.
Most boat cruises are suitable for all ages, while some kayak tours may have age restrictions. Check with the specific tour operator for details.
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