• Nature Walks
  • Best Conversion
  • Nature and Wildlife Tours
  • Likely To Sell Out

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

4.4(1,252 reviews)Waitomo, New ZealandOperated by THL - Waitomo Caves Group
  • Duration45 minutes
  • GroupShared · max 23
  • TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
  • LanguagesEnglish

About this activity

Be amazed by the thousands of magical glowworms above on this 45-minute group guided tour, as you glide silently by boat in the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Many of the current guides are descendants of the Maori chief who originally explored the cave and can share with you the remarkable history of the area. Guided since the late 1880s, this is the original, iconic New Zealand attraction.

What to expect

45 minutes1 stopsShared tourMax 23 travellers
  1. Waitomo Glowworm Caves

    39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo Caves, 3977, New Zealand

    45 minutesAdmission included

    Discover your moment of magic in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour. Known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions, take a boat ride through the glow worm grotto, marvel at thousands of magical glowworms and become part of over 130 years of cultural and natural history.World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. The glow worm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light as the expert guides provide informative commentary on their historical and geological significance to the region. Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must see for any traveler. Enjoy the world famous boat ride under thousands of magical glowworms and become a part of over 125 years of cultural and natural history. Walk through the majestic Cathedral Cave famous for its spectacular formations and acoustics. Marvel at Mother Nature's light display as you glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Meander underground along the Waitomo River and gaze in silence at the myriad of glow worm lights that make up the Glowworm Grotto. As you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights, you'll immediately experience a serene ambience and be fascinated and intrigued by tiny glowworms that light your way.

Pickup & meeting point

There is no pickup — all travellers meet at the start point.

Start

Drive through the Waitomo Village parking located on the righthand side. Please use walkway under road to access building. Departure Point: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre Address: 39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo Dates: Daily

End / drop-off

Drive through the Waitomo Village parking located on the righthand side. Please use walkway under road to access building. Departure Point: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre Address: 39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo Dates: Daily

Redemption

Attraction start point

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended • You must check in 30 minutes before the tour departs • If you are late or miss your scheduled tour time your ticket(s) are forfeited and non refundable. New bookings will incur the full tour cost and are subject to availability. • Not wheelchair accessible

What's included

Included

  • Local guide
  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Not included

  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Good to know

Accessibility & suitability

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveller requirements

  • Minimum 1 traveller per booking
  • Maximum 15 travellers per booking
  • Age bands: Child (4–14), Adult (15–99)

Additional information

  • Bring comfortable waking shoes and a warm jacket
  • You must check in 30 minutes before the tour departs .
  • Due to high demand and limited capacity, if you are late or miss your scheduled tour time your ticket(s) are forfeited and non refundable. New bookings will incur the full tour cost and are subject to availability
  • No photography allowed
  • Not suitable for those who have difficulty navigating stairs

Languages

Guide
English

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 1+ days before100% refund
  • 0–1 days before0% refund
  • This experience requires good weather. If it's cancelled due to poor weather, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Important booking information

Booking cut-off
Bookings close 1 day before the activity starts.
Confirmation
Manual
Tickets
One per booking
Local time zone
Pacific/Auckland
Product code
3930P3

What you'll be asked when booking

  • Any special requirements

Traveller reviews

4.4/ 51,252 reviews
  • 5798
  • 4240
  • 3119
  • 255
  • 140

Ratings aggregated from Viator (481) and Tripadvisor (771).

Ready to book Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour?

From NZD 85 per person · Free cancellation available

Check dates & book

Activity information provided by Viator, an authorized travel partner. Gateera does not operate this activity.

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