Duration
Open today
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Guided tour
4.5/5
(1,336)
Raphael
Lauren
Jaiden
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Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a 45-minute guided tour featuring a serene boat ride beneath thousands of glowing worms.
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Walk through stunning limestone formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and the towering Cathedral chamber.
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Hear captivating stories and legends from expert guides descended from the Māori chief who first explored the caves.
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Upgrade to the 1.5-hour Ruakuri accessible cave tour or the full-day Waitomo tour from Auckland with transfers for a longer, richer experience.
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
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45-minute guided tour of Waitomo Gloworm Cave
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English-speaking guide of Maori descent
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Waitomo River boat ride
Ruakuri Cave Guided Tour (as per option selected)
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1.5-hour guided tour of Ruakuri Cave
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English-speaking guide of Maori descent
Offbeat Waitomo Glowworm Cave Small-Group Guided Tour (as per option selected)
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3.5-hour guided tour of Waitomo Glowworm Cave
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Exclusive access to a private cave system on a family farm
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Expert local guide
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Small group of up to 8 people
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Safety equipment & warm clothing
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Snack & hot drinks
From Auckland: Waitomo Glowworm Cave Guided Tour (as per option selected)
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45-minute guided tour of Waitomo Gloworm Cave
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Round-trip hotel transfers from Auckland CBD
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English-speaking guide/driver
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Waitomo River boat ride
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Snacks & water
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You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
How do we collect reviews?
Guests from Australia, United States, Germany and over 42 countries have loved this experience
Nicola
Jul, 2025Verified booking
Our guide was so knowledgeable no matter what I asked. And friendly. Super funny. Such a shame all the rain has flooded the cave. I really hope not many Glowworms died. Thanks. 🐛
Bipin
Jul, 2025Verified booking
The Ruakuri Cave tour was an stunning experience! From the ticket booking to the tour -- well planned and customer centric. The guide was well explained and friendly. Recommended...
Michelle
Jun, 2025Verified booking
This was a great start to my vacation! Having to change my clothes to participate was a bit of a surprise but I'm so happy I did! Ash, the tour guude, was so funny and his cousin Michelle were so friendly and welcoming. It was definitely a trek through rocks nd water that came up to my thighs, which I didn't expect, but it was well worth it to see the glow worms up close. Ash took some fantastic photos and I was shocked that I got access to them in just a few days. I HIGHLY recommend this tour to anyone who is up for an adventure. Also, having them provide tea and cookies (biscuits as the New Zealanders say) afterwards was a great finish to the tour!
Christie
Jul, 2025Verified booking
Amazing to see the tunnels and the guide was amazing and efficient
Linda
Jun, 2025Verified booking
The boat trip, serene and beautiful.
Sail through an underground wonder on a tranquil boat ride beneath thousands of glowworms on a 45-minute tour of Waitomo Glowworm Cave, guided by an expert guide and surrounded by the cave’s beauty.
Getting started
Your ticket includes a 45-minute guided tour of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Arrive 30-minutes earlier to check in and meet your group before following your guide into the cave.
What to expect
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Towering Kahikatea canopy: Kick off your adventure zipping between 100-year-old native trees, surrounded by sweeping views of Waitomo’s limestone hills.
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Building the thrill: Ease in with shorter, gentler lines before graduating to longer, faster rides, hitting speeds of up to 80 km/h.
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Stories of the land: Learn Māori legends and local history from guides whose knowledge and passion bring the landscape to life.
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Show-stopping finale: Conquer the 280m signature zipline, soaring over the Waitomo Caves with panoramic views you’ll never forget.
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Guided every step: Relax knowing expert guides handle your safety gear, offer tips, and capture the highlights along the way.
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After the ride: Return to base buzzing with adrenaline, ready to share epic photos and stories from your high-flying Waitomo adventure.
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What to bring
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Wear non-slip shoes as the cave floors are wet and slippery.
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Bring a warm jacket as the temperature of the cave can be cool.
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When you visit, make sure you've got a credit card or your phone set up for contactless payments (like Apple Pay or Google Pay).
What's not allowed
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Photography and videography are strictly prohibited in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
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Smoking, food, drink or litter are not allowed inside the cave.
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Pets are not allowed inside the cave.
Accessibility
- This experience is suitable for guests with reasonable mobility, with well-maintained paths and sturdy handrails throughout. However, it is not accessible for wheelchairs or prams/strollers.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
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Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
Meeting point
- Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions.
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