If you’re searching for an awe-inspiring adventure through New Zealand’s untouched wilderness, look no further than Fiordland National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to stunning fjords, towering waterfalls, and lush rainforests that will take your breath away. The best way to experience the magic of this region? Hitting the road in a campervan! Whether you’re keen on hiking, scenic cruises, or simply taking in the spectacular views, here’s your guide to making the most of Fiordland National Park from the comfort of your campervan.
What to Do in Fiordland National Park
1. Cruise Through Milford Sound
No trip to Fiordland is complete without a visit to the world-famous Milford Sound. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the “eighth wonder of the world,” this breathtaking fjord is best explored by boat. Cruise past towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and playful pods of dolphins as you soak in the dramatic scenery. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a guided kayaking tour for a more up-close experience of the fjord’s magic.
2. Explore Doubtful Sound
For those looking for a quieter, more secluded alternative to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound is a must-visit. It’s three times longer and even more remote, offering a truly immersive nature experience. You can take a boat tour, spot rare Fiordland crested penguins, and enjoy the peaceful stillness of the deep waters.
3. Hike the Kepler Track
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Kepler Track, is a 60-kilometre loop that showcases Fiordland’s incredible landscapes. If you don’t have time for the full multi-day trek, opt for a shorter day hike, such as the climb to Luxmore Hut, which rewards you with panoramic views over Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains.
4. Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves
A hidden gem of the Fiordland region, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves offer a magical underground experience. A short boat ride from Te Anau takes you to a limestone cave system filled with thousands of twinkling glowworms, making for a truly unforgettable sight.
5. Discover Lake Manapouri
Known as New Zealand’s most beautiful lake, Lake Manapouri is a fantastic stop for nature lovers. Take a peaceful walk along its shores, hop on a scenic cruise, or simply relax and take in the serene beauty of this stunning body of water.
6. Wildlife Spotting in Fiordland
Fiordland is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare birds like the takahe, kea, and morepork owl. As you explore the park, keep your eyes peeled for native species, and don’t forget to bring a pair of binoculars for a better view!
Best Routes to Take Through Fiordland National Park
1. Te Anau to Milford Sound
The Te Anau to Milford Sound route takes you through lush valleys, mirror-like lakes, and dramatic alpine passes. Along the way, be sure to stop at:
• Mirror Lakes – A stunning reflection of the Earl Mountains on a calm day.
• The Chasm – A short but rewarding walk to see powerful waterfalls carving through rock formations.
• Homer Tunnel – A 1.2 km-long tunnel through the mountains, opening up to breathtaking views.
2. Te Anau to Doubtful Sound via Lake Manapouri
Unlike Milford Sound, you can’t drive directly to Doubtful Sound. Instead, take a boat across Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus ride over Wilmot Pass, which offers spectacular views of the fjords. This is a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, perfect for those wanting a quieter escape.
3. Southern Scenic Route (Invercargill to Te Anau)
For those who want to extend their campervan journey, the Southern Scenic Route is a fantastic way to see even more of New Zealand’s wild beauty. This drive takes you along the rugged coastline of the Catlins, past waterfalls, hidden beaches, and unique rock formations before arriving in Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland.
Why Explore Fiordland by Campervan?
Exploring Fiordland by campervan gives you the ultimate flexibility to fully immerse yourself in the landscape. With a campervan hire, you can wake up to incredible lake views, stay close to hiking trails, and avoid the crowds by arriving at key attractions early in the morning. Plenty of campgrounds and freedom camping spots are in the region, making it easy to find a place to park up for the night.
Best Campervan-Friendly Stays in Fiordland
Finding the perfect place to park up and unwind is an essential part of any campervan adventure. Thankfully, Fiordland has a variety of excellent campgrounds and campervan-friendly stays, offering everything from powered sites to remote nature retreats.
Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park is a fantastic base for exploring Fiordland, providing stunning views of Lake Te Anau. It features powered and non-powered sites, modern facilities, hot showers, a communal kitchen, and even a spa pool to soak in after a long day of exploring. Its proximity to town means you can easily stock up on supplies while still being close to nature.
For those who prefer a more remote camping experience, Cascade Creek DOC Campsite is a peaceful and scenic location near Milford Sound. This non-powered DOC campsite is surrounded by lush native bush, making it an ideal stop for nature lovers. There are basic toilet facilities, but you’ll need to bring your own water and supplies. The site is perfect for an overnight stay before heading into Milford Sound early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Another great lakeside spot is Henry Creek Campsite, which offers a tranquil setting right on the shores of Lake Te Anau. This scenic DOC campsite is ideal for campervanners wanting to wake up to beautiful lake views. With basic facilities, it’s a simple yet breathtaking place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
No matter what kind of campervan experience you’re after, Fiordland has the perfect spot for you to rest, recharge, and take in the stunning landscapes around you.
Fiordland: An Unforgettable Adventure Awaits
Fiordland National Park is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and there’s no better way to experience it than by campervan. Whether you’re cruising through Milford Sound, hiking the Kepler Track, or soaking in the beauty of Lake Manapouri, every moment in Fiordland is pure magic.
If you’re planning your next South Island adventure, hire a campervan in Queenstown with Kia Ora Campers today and see all the best things Fiordland has to offer!