Off the Beaten Track - Glowworm Caving Adventure Tour in Waitomo
Highlights
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Enjoy an authentic glowworm caving adventure—hiking, wading, and more
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All equipment—including boots, caving helmet, and headlamp—is included
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Morning or afternoon tours are available to suit your itinerary
Summary
Meet your guide at the Waitomo caving base and begin your adventure in one of only two caves in the Waitomo district recognized by the New Zealand Department of Conservation as having international significance.
Put on warm layers, boots, helmet, and headlamp, and venture into the underground caverns with your guide. This part of the cave system is completely untouched, without concrete paving, electricity, or handrails—you are completely immersed in the natural world.
Clamber over boulders, hike up rocky inclines, and wade through shallow streams. As you navigate the terrain, marvel at the spectacular sight of billions of bright green glowworms twinkling on the cavern roof. As you explore, listen as your guide sheds light on the glowworms’ behavior and lifecycle.
After exploring the caves, return to base for a warming shower. Your tour ends after you collect the photographs that your guide took during your adventure.
Please note: This tour is not suitable for anyone with mobility difficulties. A reasonable level of fitness is required.
Tour info
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location
Why take this tour?
Waitomo is home to many glowworm caves, some more commercially developed than others. On this authentic caving adventure, explore subterranean caverns recognized by the New Zealand Department of Conservation—with no concrete paving or electric lighting—and see glowworms in their natural setting. Your adventurous guided tour includes all equipment, plus a hot shower and photos from your adventure.
What’s included?
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See the caves just as nature intended. All caving equipment and warm clothing including: thermal top, thermal pants, fleece top, shorts, gumboots, socks, helmet and headlamp. A local guide with a deep connection to the caves and a wealth of information to share. Tea, coffee, and a snack. An email with awesome photos of your adventure. Proper Kiwi hospitality! -
Entry/Admission - Glowing Adventures -
We can not pick up or drop off. There is no public transport so you will need to have your own transport to 1199 Oparure Road.
Things to know
Before you book
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Duration: 3h
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Mobile tickets accepted
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Instant confirmation
Covid Policy
- Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
- Guides required to regularly wash hands
- Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Cancellation Policy
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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
About operator:
Our awesome Waitomo adventure is tucked away “off the beaten track” on our family farm and we LOVE it that way and so do our guests. Away from the tourist crowds - You can explore magical glow worm displays in their purest form and at your own pace on our 3-hour guided tours of small groups. With no foot paths or any lighting, this is a genuine natural eco experience. Private Tour - Just like standard Glowing Adventure eco-tour, but for your private group - just you, your friends, and your guide. Glowing Adventures Photography Tour - Private photography tours for 2-4 people. Take your time and photograph some of New Zealand's finest scenery. Photography equipment welcome. NOTE: All tours not suitable for anyone with mobility issues as the tour involves walking through streams and over rocks. A reasonable level of fitness is required
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