Off-Beat Waitomo Glowworm Caves Small Group Guided Tour
Waitomo
5.0(52)
Waitomo
Tucked away in Waitomo lies a cave glowing with millions of glowworms. Go on a raw caving tour with an expert guide, all the caving essentials, and only 8 guests.
Tickets for this activity are non-refundable. If you are not satisfied with your experience, please contact us to cancel your booking.
52 reviews
This 3-hour Waitomo Caves tour is all about experiencing nature as it truly is, and a must for anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. These caves were formed millions of years ago by underground rivers carving through limestone rock. Found in the late 1800s by a Maori chief, these intricate caves hide a magical secret: millions of glowworms that light up the darkness.
The Hamilton Waikato region, where the caves are located, is also the same place where Peter Jackson filmed the Shire scenes for the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movies. So, there's a bit of movie magic in the air too!
With no paths, lights, or handrails, you’ll see the caves just as they’ve always been, hidden from most tourists. With a local guide leading the way and no more than 8 people in a group, it’s like exploring with friends.
It starts with a relaxing walk through the New Zealand bush to the cave entrance. This is where the real fun begins. You'll climb over boulders and splash through streams. It’s a bit of a workout, but totally worth it for the incredible views and the glow worm show inside the caves.
Inside the caves, it’s all-natural and raw – just you, the sound of dripping water, and the soft glow of worms lighting up the cave walls.
After the tour, head back to base where you can change and warm up with some tea, coffee, and cookies.