Sandfly Point
The end of the iconic Milford Track, offering stunning waterfalls and a gateway to Milford Sound. Famous for its natural beauty and sandflies!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Good balance of weather & crowds
Sandfly Point
Best Time
Good balance of weather & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The end of the iconic Milford Track, offering stunning waterfalls and a gateway to Milford Sound. Famous for its natural beauty and sandflies!
"Feels like you're walking through a movie set half the time. Rained a lot but worth it."
Waterproof Everything! :umbrella:
Rain is common. Pack good waterproofs for jacket and pants to stay dry and comfortable.
Book Huts in Advance :sleeping_accommodation:
The Milford Track is a Great Walk; huts must be booked well ahead, especially during peak season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Gates Falls
Milford Track
Witness the impressive cascade of water, a rewarding sight after your trek. A must-see on the final stretch.
Fiordland's Lush Forests
Milford Track
Immerse yourself in ancient rainforests with diverse flora and fauna. Feels like stepping into another world.
Spectacular Mountain Views
Milford Track
On clear days, the mountain passes offer breathtaking panoramas of valleys and peaks. Truly epic scenery.
Sandfly Point
End of Milford Track
The final destination, where you'll likely encounter sandflies while waiting for your boat. A memorable, if slightly itchy, end.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Bookings & Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Waterproof Everything! :umbrella:
Rain is common. Pack good waterproofs for jacket and pants to stay dry and comfortable.
Book Huts in Advance :sleeping_accommodation:
The Milford Track is a Great Walk; huts must be booked well ahead, especially during peak season.
Sandfly Savvy :bug:
Sandflies are notorious here! Bring repellent and be prepared for them, especially at Sandfly Point.
Embrace the 'Nature with Rules' :clipboard:
It's well-organized, not wild. Enjoy the stunning scenery within the structured Great Walk system.
Tips
from all over the internet
Waterproof Everything! :umbrella:
Rain is common. Pack good waterproofs for jacket and pants to stay dry and comfortable.
Book Huts in Advance :sleeping_accommodation:
The Milford Track is a Great Walk; huts must be booked well ahead, especially during peak season.
Sandfly Savvy :bug:
Sandflies are notorious here! Bring repellent and be prepared for them, especially at Sandfly Point.
Embrace the 'Nature with Rules' :clipboard:
It's well-organized, not wild. Enjoy the stunning scenery within the structured Great Walk system.
Footwear Focus :athletic_shoe:
Good hiking boots are essential for the varied terrain and potential wet conditions on the track.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviewers consistently praise the Milford Track's breathtaking scenery, describing it as walking through a movie set with epic waterfalls, rivers, and mountain views. While the organized nature of the huts is noted, they are appreciated for providing shelter. The primary drawback mentioned is the persistent rain and the notorious sandflies, particularly at Sandfly Point.
"pretty epic hike. waterfalls, rivers, big mountain views, all that. feels like you're walking through a movie set half the time. rained a lot but i guess that’s normal here. bring a good jacket unless you wanna be soaked for 4 days.
track’s super organized. almost too organized. huts are fine but kinda feel like school camp. still, better than freezing in a tent.
not super hard if you’re not outta shape. saw people acting like they survived ww2 tho, chill out.
worth it, just don’t expect total wilderness. more like "nature with rules.""
Richard Hanania
"After 4 days walking the trek we were pretty happy to see this place. Would be a great 1 day walk into from here to make to waterfalls"
Anna Hamid
"Light day hike. Visited during pre spring(mid Oct), so there were several tree obstacles throughout the track. The pathway are all easy access. My hike end at the waterfall the walk back to the boat spot. Majority sandfly population."
Chutikhan Na Songkhla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sandfly Point is the end of the famous Milford Track. Most visitors access it after completing the 4-day hike. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Milford Sound to the start of the track or arrange transport to trailheads like Glade Wharf.
No, Sandfly Point is only accessible by foot via the Milford Track or by boat from Milford Sound. Driving is not an option for reaching the end of the track.
The most scenic route is via the Milford Road, which winds through Fiordland National Park. Coaches and self-drive options are available.
Yes, there are coach services that take hikers to the start of the Milford Track at Glade Wharf, and return services from Sandfly Point.
From Sandfly Point, you'll typically take a pre-booked speedboat or water taxi back to Milford Sound village.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, hiking the Milford Track requires booking hut accommodation in advance through the Department of Conservation (DOC). Permits are essential.
Costs include hut fees, which vary by season, and transport to/from the track. Expect to pay for the multi-day experience.
Sandfly Point is the end of the Milford Track. While you can hike to nearby waterfalls as a day trip, accessing the full track requires booking.
The Milford Track is generally open for hiking during the Great Walks season (typically late October to late April). Off-season hiking is possible but requires more self-sufficiency.
During the off-season, hiking the Milford Track in reverse (from Sandfly Point to Glade Wharf) is sometimes permitted, but always check DOC regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Sandfly Point is the final destination of the Milford Track. It's known for its scenic beauty and, as the name suggests, a significant population of sandflies, especially when waiting for your boat.
The track offers diverse terrain, from lush rainforests and tranquil lakes to mountain passes with stunning views. It's well-maintained but can be muddy and wet.
Yes, the final section of the Milford Track leads past numerous waterfalls, including the impressive Giant Gates Falls, before reaching Sandfly Point.
The Milford Track is considered moderate. It's well-graded and organized, making it manageable for most people with reasonable fitness.
You might spot native birds like kea and weka. Some lucky hikers have even seen kiwis in the early morning or late evening.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for dramatic waterfalls, lush forest interiors, expansive mountain vistas from Mackinnon Pass, and the iconic views of Mitre Peak from Milford Sound after your boat ride.
Use a tripod for long exposures to capture silky water effects. Protect your lens from spray, especially near the larger falls.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful. Consider a wide-angle for landscapes and a telephoto for wildlife. A rain cover for your camera is essential.
Absolutely! Rain adds a dramatic atmosphere. Focus on reflections, mist, and the vibrant greens of the rainforest.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light. However, the dramatic, moody light during overcast or rainy conditions can be equally stunning.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key considerations include packing plenty of snacks, ensuring everyone has comfortable, waterproof footwear, and managing expectations regarding sandflies. The organized huts provide a safe and relatively comfortable base, but they are communal, so children should be briefed on hut etiquette. The sheer beauty of the landscapes will captivate young imaginations, making it a memorable family experience.
🎒 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons or off-season when hut fees might be lower and transport options more flexible. Packing your own food for the duration of the hike will significantly cut down on expenses. While the huts are basic, they offer cooking facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals.
🚶 Day-Trippers
This allows you to witness some of the stunning scenery, including lush forests and impressive waterfalls, without committing to the full trek. Remember to check boat schedules and book in advance. Be prepared for the sandflies, even on a shorter visit!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Milford Track
+1Booking is essential and must be done through the Department of Conservation (DOC) well in advance, especially for the peak season (late October to late April). Huts along the track provide basic but comfortable accommodation, including bunks, mattresses, and cooking facilities. While the track is organized, it's crucial to be prepared for Fiordland's unpredictable weather, which can change rapidly.
For those looking for a shorter experience, sections of the track can be hiked as day trips, particularly from Sandfly Point towards the waterfalls. However, the full experience of hiking from Glade Wharf to Sandfly Point is what earns its 'Great Walk' status.
The Infamous Sandflies
Preparation is key to minimizing their impact. Bringing a good quality insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin is highly recommended. Wearing long sleeves and trousers, especially in the evenings, can also help protect your skin. Some hikers find that a head net provides significant relief.
Despite their reputation, the sandflies are a natural part of the ecosystem. Most visitors find that the incredible beauty of the Milford Track and the surrounding landscape far outweighs the minor inconvenience of these persistent insects. Just be ready for them, especially as you wait for your boat transfer at Sandfly Point!
Weather and What to Pack
Essential packing includes high-quality waterproof and windproof outer layers for both your top and bottom. Good waterproof hiking boots are a must, as the track can be muddy and wet. Layering is crucial; bring moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (like fleece), and your waterproof shell. Don't forget a waterproof pack cover to protect your belongings.
While the rain can be persistent, it also contributes to the lush, vibrant environment and the spectacular waterfalls. Embrace the elements, and you'll have a more authentic and rewarding experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit