Southland on New Zealand’s South Island offers some of the most spectacular scenery and unique experiences in the country. Its rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and pristine sounds make it a natural playground for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility. Among the many ways to explore this stunning region, some stand out for their quality, uniqueness, and value. We’re particularly fond of the Milford Sound Premium Day Tour and Cruise from Te Anau for its comfort and immersive nature experience, and the Grand Tour with Helicopter Flight for those wanting a bird’s-eye view of Fiordland’s grandeur. For travelers interested in combining adventure with a more comprehensive trip, the 8 Day Southern Crossing Small Group Tour offers a deep dive into the region’s highlights. And for a truly unforgettable experience, the Doubtful Sound Helicopter Tour with Landing lets you soar above and land in untouched wilderness.
Quick Overview
Our list features a blend of day tours, helicopter adventures, and multi-day excursions that showcase Southland’s diverse landscapes. From luxury coach cruises to helicopter flights with mountain landings, each tour offers a distinctive way to experience the region. Whether you prefer a relaxed day on the water or an adrenaline-pumping helicopter ride, you’ll find options that fit different budgets and interests. For more detailed information, explore each experience: Milford Sound Premium Day Tour and Cruise from Te Anau, Grand Tour | Helicopter Flight | Milford Helicopters, 8 Day Southern Crossing Small Group Tour, and Doubtful Sound Helicopter Tour with Landing.
1. Milford Sound Premium Day Tour and Cruise from Te Anau
This tour offers a 7.5-hour journey from Te Anau to one of New Zealand’s most iconic sights. You’ll ride in a luxury coach with a glass rooftop, which is perfect for soaking in the scenery without straining your neck. Along the way, you’ll make multiple stops for photos—think towering mountains, rushing rivers, and lush rainforests. Once at Milford Sound, you’ll hop aboard a nature cruise designed to get you close to waterfalls, marine wildlife, and the stunning cliffs that have made this sound famous.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of comfort and immersive nature. The coach’s extra legroom and panoramic roof elevate the experience, making the long drive more enjoyable. The cruise itself is a highlight—many travelers comment on the abundance of wildlife, including dolphins and fur seals, and the dramatic waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. You can purchase snacks and drinks onboard, so there’s no need to worry about being hungry during this full day of exploration.
The value here lies in the seamless experience—transport, commentary, and a high-quality cruise all in one package. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxing, well-organized day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. A typical review mentions that “the scenery was breathtaking, and the coach was more comfortable than expected,” which sums up what this tour delivers: comfort, convenience, and incredible scenery.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a comfortable, guided day with prime views and wildlife spotting, this tour is a great choice.
2. Grand Tour | Helicopter Flight | Milford Helicopters
For around $598 per person, the Grand Tour with Helicopter Flight offers a 45-minute flight with two mountain landings. This is the most comprehensive aerial experience available in Milford Sound, making it perfect for travelers craving a detailed, bird’s-eye exploration of the region. Your knowledgeable pilot will provide in-flight commentary via two-way communication, explaining the history and geology as you soar over the peaks, waterfalls, and lush forests.
What sets this tour apart is the two mountain landings, which give you an intimate perspective on Fiordland’s remote wilderness. You’ll see the Sutherland Falls, New Zealand’s highest waterfall, from above—a truly awe-inspiring sight. The flight’s route is carefully designed to maximize sightseeing, and the landings allow for photo opportunities and exploring the rugged terrain, unlike a typical helicopter tour.
This adventure tends to appeal to travelers with an interest in aerial views and photography. The small group size and expert pilot ensure a personalized experience with plenty of time to take in the scenery from different angles. Reviewers often mention that “seeing the waterfalls from above was surreal,” and many say it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth the price.
Bottom Line: This helicopter tour offers a spectacular, in-depth view of Milford Sound’s grandeur, ideal for those who want to combine scenic flying with a sense of adventure.
3. 8 Day Southern Crossing Small Group Tour
Spanning eight days, this small-group tour is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive experience of Southland’s most stunning sights. Starting and ending in Christchurch, it blends scenic drives, wildlife encounters, cultural activities, and adventure. Highlights include a Christchurch street art tour, visits to the Franz Josef Wildlife Centre (home to kiwi hatching facilities), and a greenstone carving experience where you craft your own pounamu jewelry.
The tour strikes a balance between guided activities and free time, making it flexible enough for different interests. The itinerary is carefully curated to avoid rushed sightseeing, giving you time to enjoy each stop. The inclusion of a wildlife center and a local art tour provides a more rounded experience beyond just landscapes.
While reviews are limited, the tour’s detailed planning and variety make it a good fit for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, culture, and nature in one trip. It’s especially well-suited for those comfortable with multi-day travel and looking for a deeper connection to the region.
Bottom Line: If you want an immersive, multi-day journey that covers key highlights of Southland with some cultural experiences, this tour offers excellent value.
4. Doubtful Sound Helicopter Tour with Landing
This one-hour helicopter tour from Te Anau offers a spectacular aerial view of Doubtful Sound, often called the “Sound of Silence” for its remote beauty. You’ll take off from Te Anau, soar over towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dense native forests. The highlight is the landing in a remote wilderness location, giving you a chance to step out and fully appreciate the untouched environment.
What makes this tour special is the personalized experience—with a small group and an expert pilot, you get plenty of attention and tailored commentary. The combination of flying and landing allows for a more immersive nature encounter than a standard boat or land-based tour. Many travelers find that seeing Doubtful Sound from above and exploring its wilderness up close is a truly unforgettable experience.
While the tour’s duration is just an hour, it packs a punch in terms of scenery and adventure. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager for a unique perspective. Reviewers often say that “landing in the remote forest was surreal,” and note the convenience of transfers from Te Anau.
Bottom Line: For a quick but intense dose of wilderness and scenery, this helicopter tour provides a memorable way to see Doubtful Sound from above and land in the heart of nature.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re after a relaxing day cruise, the Milford Sound Premium Day Tour offers comfort and wildlife viewing without the need for flying. For those wanting a more exclusive experience with aerial views, the Grand Tour with helicopter landings is hard to beat.
Travelers who wish to explore more of Southland beyond Milford should consider the 8 Day Southern Crossing, especially if interested in cultural activities and wildlife centers. Meanwhile, the Doubtful Sound helicopter is perfect for a shorter, high-impact wilderness experience.
Think about your fitness level and comfort with long drives, boat rides, or flying. The tours vary from full-day excursions to adrenaline-packed helicopter rides. Booking early is wise, especially for high-demand experiences like helicopter tours—these tend to fill quickly during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Southland offers a range of unforgettable ways to experience its rugged beauty. For a relaxed, scenic day, the Milford Sound Premium Day Tour and Cruise is a reliable choice. If you want to see the area from above, the Grand Tour helicopter flight is a breathtaking adventure. For those who prefer a multi-day immersive trip, the 8 Day Southern Crossing provides a comprehensive taste of Southland’s diverse landscapes. And for a quick, impactful experience, the Doubtful Sound helicopter delivers awe-inspiring views and wilderness access.
No matter what you choose, booking in advance is essential to ensure availability and secure the best times. These tours highlight Southland’s natural beauty and adventure potential, making them worthwhile additions to any New Zealand itinerary.