Top Te Anau Nature Walks

See the glowworm caves of Te Anau on an underground adventure sure to charm visitors of all ages. An informative guide joins you on the tour, which starts with a cruise across Lake Te Anau. Then marvel at the shimmering illumination of thousands of glowworms as you glide through the quiet darkness of this magical underground world.

Hiking the Milford Track is an adventure of a lifetime. Simplify the logistics so you can focus on putting one foot in front of another–and enjoying the views, of course. This handy Milford Track water taxi transport service will take you from Te Anau Downs to the trailhead of the multi-day hike, so you can get your adventure off to an easy start.

Experience life on a real working farm at Woodstone with this 90-minute hosted tour. Get up close with friendly animals and enjoy a relaxed, hands-on visit guided by a local farmer. Feed and interact with the animals, then watch live demonstrations including sheep shearing and working dog mustering, while learning how the farm runs day to day. Take a break with while soaking in the surroundings of vineyards, lavender fields, and seasonal blooms. At select times of year, your visit can also include access to the maize or sunflower maze, adding something extra to your day. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting an authentic Kiwi farm experience!

A Milford Sound cruise is a must-do activity in southern New Zealand, but it’s a very remote spot. This full-day tour makes it easy to visit from Te Anau, and includes hotel pickup and lunch for your convenience. Look at the views rather than the road by going with a guide and driver. See many spectacular sights along the way, including the Mirror Lakes and Homer Tunnel.

The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, running from the shores of Lake Te Anau to Lake Manapouri and back via majestic alpine vistas. Start your trek off with this private water taxi across Lake Te Anau to Brod Bay. From there, stroll back to Te Anau along the lake’s limestone bluffs or, for more of a challenge, hike up Mount Luxmore, a summit with impressive views of Te Anau basin.

Explore Fiordland National Park's Doubtful Sound on this full-day cruise from Manapouri. Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri, then a short coach journey over Wilmot Pass, with stunning views. Cruise the 25-mile (40-kilometer) stretch of Doubtful Sound, looking out for fur seals, bottlenose dolphins, and Fiordland crested penguins while listening to your naturalist guide’s commentary. A highlight is when the engines are cut so you can appreciate the silence.

For those looking to explore one of New Zealand's most scenic drives, the Premium Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour from Te Anau is the perfect option. Join knowledgeable and experienced guides on a journey through lush rainforests, glacier carved valleys, and alpine lookouts, with plenty of opportunities for short walks and photo stops along the way before embarking on your cruise. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and lunch as you take in the stunning scenery and learn about the fiord's fascinating history and wildlife from the welcoming crew. Finish with a refreshing dance under the Stirling Falls before heading back to Te Anau.