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Doubtful Sound, Te Anau

4.7
#1 of 7 in Wildlife in Te Anau
Water Body Wildlife Area
Explore the many twists and turns of Doubtful Sound, a large fjord where calm, dark blue water is flanked by green mountain peaks. The sound was named by Captain Cook in the 16th century because he was unsure if it was accessible by sailboat; today, access to this isolated area is restricted to boat cruises and bus trips. To get more out of your visit, consider an overnight cruise or kayaking in the sound. The unspoiled wilderness area supports rare marine life like bottlenose dolphins, penguins, fur seals, and sometimes whales. Put Doubtful Sound and other Te Anau attractions into our Te Anau itinerary maker, and watch your holiday take shape.
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Related Tours to Book
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Reviews
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1,660 reviews
TripAdvisor
  • August 12, 2017
    Doubtful Sound was absolutely beautiful! We were really lucky and the weather was great so we cruised all the way out to the opening where it meets the Tasman Sea and got to observe Sea Lions sunbathi...  more »
  • August 9, 2017
    In Manapouri you become first with a boat towards the Wilmot Pass. Then with the bus and then again with a long boat trip in the Doubtful Sound. All in all a whole day to enjoy the beautiful nature. Don't forget to bring against sandflies spray or lotion!
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  • August 7, 2017
    13h of day trip! But even if it may sound tiresome, it was easy. We booked it with Real Journeys and our driver, Chris made it very enjoyable. First 2h in a glass ceiling bus with working wifi, then 5...  more »
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Best things to do in Te Anau

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Helicopter Tours
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Nature
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Featured attractions
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Skyline Queenstown
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Where to stay in Te Anau

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Despite its modest size, Te Anau offers a decent range of accommodations from which to explore the surrounding national park. Boutique hotels, economy motels with kitchenettes, and rental apartments cluster mostly in the town center, but also along the main roads that lead into it. Campsites offer a good option for those wanting a full-on outdoor holiday. Reserve in advance for busier periods.
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Plans in Te Anau by other users

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