Te Anau & Fiordland Itinerary

Four Days in Fiordland

Nestled on the edge of Lake Te Anau, this welcoming town is the perfect basecamp for exploring Fiordland's wild beauty. Over four days, you'll cruise lakes, discover glowworm caves, jetboat rivers, and take in the epic landscapes of Milford or Doubtful Sound. With cosy stays, great local kai, and plenty of ways to soak up the scenery, this itinerary is all about slowing down and tuning in to the rhythm of the Murihiku Southland.

Day 1

Settle In & Cruise the Lake

Rolling into Te Anau, the lake's right there - calm, wide, and backed by the rugged Fiordland ranges. It's the kind of place that makes you slow down without even trying.

Spend the afternoon out on the water with one of the local legends. Cruise Te Anau gives you a laid-back look at the lake and its stories. Fiordland Historic Cruises takes you aboard Faith, a beautifully restored heritage yacht with a yarn or two to tell. Or head across the lake with RealNZ and duck into the glowworm caves, it's a surreal little world tucked beneath the bush.

As the sun dips, Te Anau's eateries come alive. DITTO dishes up fresh, seasonal plates with flair. Redcliff Café is all rustic charm and local flavour. And The Fat Duck? That's your go-to for a proper southern feed.

When it's time to crash, you've got plenty of options. Stay central at Distinction Luxmore Hotel or Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, both offering comfort and convenience. For something smaller, Edgewater Motel is a cosy lakeside pick. Or if you're after a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park has you sorted.

Day 2

Into the Fiords – Milford or Doubtful Sound

Today is all about getting deep into Fiordland. You’ve got two epic options, and either way, you’re in for a day of jaw-dropping scenery.

If Milford Sound’s calling, leave the car behind and let a local guide take the wheel. Operators like Fiordland Tours, Trips & Tramps, or Milford Sound Luxe Tours know the road like the back of their hand and make the journey part of the experience. Once you arrive, hop on a cruise with one of the major operators and soak up the sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife that make Milford world-famous.

Prefer something a bit more off the beaten track? Head for Doubtful Sound. Start with a transfer to Manapōuri, cruise across the lake with RealNZ, then take a coach over Wilmot Pass into the heart of the fiord. Doubtful is remote, peaceful, and wild — a proper wilderness experience.

Back in Te Anau, wind down with a screening of Ata Whenua – Shadowland at Fiordland Cinema, a short film that captures the essence of the region. Then grab dinner at Black Dog Bar & Eatery, a local favourite with hearty meals and a relaxed vibe.

Day 3

Scenic Thrills and Lakeside Wanders

After a couple of days soaking up the sights, today’s your chance to dial up the adventure. Start the morning with a jetboat ride on the Waiau River with Fiordland Jet. It’s fast, fun, and gives you a fresh perspective on the landscape. If you’re keen to stretch your legs too, their Jet & Walk combo includes a short stroll on the Kepler Track — one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

For a bird’s-eye view, take to the skies with Wings & Water on a scenic floatplane flight, or lift off with Te Anau Helicopter Services for a heli adventure to alpine lakes, Milford Sound, or Doubtful Sound.

In the afternoon, slow things down with an easy lakeside walk along the Kepler Track. It’s a peaceful way to take in the scenery and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Dinner tonight could be at Bailiez Café & Bar for something casual, back to The Fat Duck for another round of southern comfort, or Redcliff Café if you’re after a cosy, character-filled spot to end the day.

Day 4

Coffee, Keepsakes and Onward Journeys

It’s your final morning in Te Anau, and there’s just enough time to enjoy a slow start before hitting the road. Grab a coffee at The Milford Road Merchant, a local favourite with good brews and relaxed vibes. If you’re after a few last-minute souvenirs, Kiwi Country has plenty of Southland-themed gifts to take home.

Whether you’re heading north, east, or deeper into Murihiku Southland, you’ll leave with a full camera roll and a few stories to tell. Te Anau has a way of sticking with you — quiet, scenic, and full of southern charm.