Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
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From $36.36
Free cancellation
Up to 24 hours in advance. Learn more
Safety measures
45 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Overview
Come visit a New Zealand attraction that’s sure to have you ‘glowing’ during this 45-minute small-group guided boat ride through the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Glide by boat through this underground complex, enjoying a light show put on by the millions of tiny bioluminescent insects hanging above. As an added bonus, many of the trip guides are of Maori descent, adding unique historical context to your visit.
- Discover New Zealand's famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a guided boat trip
- Learn the science behind these mysterious glowing creatures, known as 'Arachnocampa luminosa'
- Marvel at a virtual 'constellation' of glowworms above your head in the Glowworm Grotto
- Explore this massive cave complex on foot, including a chance to visit Cathedral Cave
- Hear about the geology and history of the caves from your guide
- Once-in-a-lifetime experience
- Great way to explore the unique natural beauty of New Zealand
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Begin your visit at the Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre, picking one of the range of tour departure times that work best for your schedule. Then prepare to experience the magic of this unexpected subterranean adventure.
Start your glowworm experience by exploring the giant cave complex on foot, stopping to visit its ‘Cathedral Cave,’ a site renowned for its unique acoustics and striking cave features. Then step aboard your boat to continue your adventure.
You’ll silently cruise through the Glowworm Grotto, marveling at the star-like constellation of bioluminescent insects that seem to twinkle like an eerie blue version of the nighttime sky. Your guide will provide details about the insects themselves, known by their scientific name of Arachnocampa luminosa, and share insights into the geologic and historical background of the cave complex.
Leave the caves after your 45-minute underground journey, still marveling at the mysterious beauty of these surprising insects.
Start your glowworm experience by exploring the giant cave complex on foot, stopping to visit its ‘Cathedral Cave,’ a site renowned for its unique acoustics and striking cave features. Then step aboard your boat to continue your adventure.
You’ll silently cruise through the Glowworm Grotto, marveling at the star-like constellation of bioluminescent insects that seem to twinkle like an eerie blue version of the nighttime sky. Your guide will provide details about the insects themselves, known by their scientific name of Arachnocampa luminosa, and share insights into the geologic and historical background of the cave complex.
Leave the caves after your 45-minute underground journey, still marveling at the mysterious beauty of these surprising insects.
Itinerary
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.
Duration: 45 minutes
Admission Ticket Included
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Traveler Tips
- "I understand that one person can ruin it for the whole group by taking flash photography, but GoPros should be allowed since they are not flash photos or you can take video quietly." See review
- "It would be nice if the boat trip was a bit longer and if, when asked by the tour guide to have silence, the women could stop whispering in the boat." See review
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
45 minutes
Free Cancellation
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$36.36
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