Things to Do in Te Anau

Discover Scenic Tours in Te Anau

Located right by the stunning Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is the ultimate base for your adventure through Aotearoa New Zealand. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, a charming wilderness escape, or a serene getaway, you’ll find a range of things to do in Te Anau to suit your needs.

 

Browse our selection of Te Anau tours and activities below and book your dream adventure online with Backpacker Deals today.

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Top Tours & Activities in Te Anau

All Activities in Te Anau

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More Activities in Te Anau

From relaxing cruises and breathtaking wildlife tours to action-packed day trips and more, Te Anau is filled with exciting experiences to match every vibe. Check out our most popular Te Anau activities below and find the perfect tour for your getaway!


Our Team’s Top Picks for Te Anau

Want to experience the best of Te Anau? Our travel experts have got you covered! We’ve put together a list of our favourite tours and experiences to help make your visit to Te Anau extra special. Take a look through our top picks below and plan your Te Anau trip with Backpacker Deals today.

Day Trips and Excursions:

Surrounded by lush natural beauty, Te Anau is the perfect base from which to explore the South Island’s many incredible landscapes. Enjoy a day tour to the world-renowned Milford Sound, spend the afternoon exploring the wonders of Fiordland National Park, or take a short trip to Lake Tekapo for some of the world’s best stargazing. With so many fascinating native species, picturesque views, and peaceful environments to discover, you’ll find no shortage of things to do and see in and around Te Anau.

Cruising and Sailing Trips:

If you love being on the water, Te Anau offers a variety of cruising and sailing trips that showcase the area's natural splendour. Explore the famous Milford Sound fiord, enjoy a leisurely trip along Lake Te Anau, or take a boat tour across Doubtful Sound. These trips perfectly showcase the dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife of Fiordland National Park, providing a unique perspective of the area’s pristine beauty.

Wildlife and Nature Tours:

Te Anau is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, with various tours offering a closer look at some of Aotearoa New Zealand's most unique species in their natural habitats. See rare native birds like the Takahe and Kea, explore mesmerising glowworm caves, or cruise along the serene waters of Fiordland National Park to encounter a diverse range of marine life.

Walking and Hiking Tours:

With its stunning landscapes and well-maintained trails, Te Anau is a paradise for walking and hiking enthusiasts. Located right by Fiordland National Park, this wonderful destination acts as the starting point for numerous scenic treks, including the Kepler Track, one of Aotearoa New Zealand's iconic Great Walks. Whether you're looking for a challenging expedition or a leisurely stroll, Te Anau's walking and hiking tours cater to all.

Top Bucket List Activities to Do in Te Anau in 2024

1. Te Anau Glowworm Cave Tour

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through Te Anau’s enchanting caves and explore the magical world of glowworms on this unforgettable underground adventure.

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2. Doubtful Sound Cruise

Discover the serene beauty of Doubtful Sound with a cruise that takes you through some of the most stunning and remote parts of Fiordland National Park.

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3. Milford Sound Coach and Cruise from Te Anau

Experience the best of Milford Sound with a scenic coach tour from Te Anau followed by a breathtaking cruise along the iconic fiord.

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4. Jet Boat and Kepler Track Hike

Take a jet boat ride across the Waiau River, journey along the renowned Kepler Track, and take in Fiordland’s diverse natural beauty on this exciting adventure.

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5. Roteburn Track Guided Walk

Take a guided walk on the world-renowned Routeburn Track and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Te Anau?

Te Anau is stunning all year round, but the best time to visit is between November and April. This time of year is perfect for exploring, offering warmer weather and longer days.

We recommend spending at least 3 days in Te Anau to fully enjoy the top attractions and activities in and around town. However, even a short visit is sure to give you a taste of Te Anau’s beauty.

Yes, you can swim in Lake Te Anau, but the water can get pretty cold, so it might be a little more refreshing than you were hoping for! If you are keen on a swim, we’d recommend checking out the popular swimming spots at the Yacht Club and the Boat Harbour. The waters here are more shallow than other areas, offering much nicer temperatures, especially on a hot summer day.

Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a good rain jacket. Of course, you’ll also want to bring your camera to capture all the stunning scenery!