Milford Sound – the Eighth Wonder of the World
Tucked away in the southwestern corner of New Zealand’s South Island lies a natural gem – Milford Sound.
This stunning fjord is often called the Eighth Wonder of the World, and once you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why.
Set against the backdrop of towering cliff faces and cascading waterfalls, the sound is a breathtaking spectacle that’s bound to leave you spellbound.
Getting to Milford Sound is an experience in itself. The closest town is Te Anau, and the drive from there takes around two hours, winding through incredible mountain scenery and past glacial lakes.
But while the journey is long, it’s worth it for the stunning views along the way.
Upon arriving at Milford Sound, you’ll find yourself in a world of towering peaks and pristine wilderness. The sound itself is a deep fiord – over 500 meters deep in some places – that stretches for around sixteen kilometers from the Tasman Sea.
The water is calm and still, reflecting the towering cliffs that surround it and creating a peaceful atmosphere that’s impossible to resist.
But don’t let the calm waters fool you – there’s plenty of activity happening here.
Milford Sound is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins, all of which can be seen from boats that tour the sound.
The boat tour is a must-do activity as it allows you to get up close and personal with the sound. The boats take you right to the center of the fiord, and you can appreciate the grandeur of the towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.
One of the sound’s most famous waterfalls is Mitre Peak, which towers over the bay at a height of 1,692 meters. Its distinctive shape has made it one of the most photographed peaks in the world.
Another famous attraction is Stirling Falls, which is three times the height of Niagara Falls.
For those who want to explore the sound at their leisure, there are plenty of hiking trails in the area that lead to picturesque viewpoints.
The Milford Track is one of the most famous walks in the world and is a four-day, three-night trek through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful wilderness.
Milford Sound is a true spectacle, a natural wonder that will leave you in awe. There’s no other place in New Zealand that can match its breathtaking beauty, so if you’re planning a trip to the land of the long white cloud, make sure to include Milford Sound in your itinerary. You’ll never forget the experience of standing in front of this eighth wonder of the world.