Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

4.4 (1,245 reviews) 45 min Free cancellation

out of 5

1,245 reviews

4.4

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

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.

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At a glance

Duration: 45 min
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 23 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: THL - Waitomo Caves Group

Ages: Children (4–14 years) · Adults (15–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Local guide
Included: GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Not included

Not included: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Itinerary

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

45 min Admission 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.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

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 point

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

Using your ticket

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

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

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