Orakei Korako

Orakei Korako
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Orakei Korako: Our most recommended tours and activities

Taupo: Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave Entry Ticket

Taupo: Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave Entry Ticket

Discover the natural wonders at Orakei Korako, also known as Hidden Valley, which boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Wander through the unspoiled thermal valley at your leisure surrounded by an array of vibrant colors, bubbling hot springs, mud pools, and gushing geysers.  Somewhat 'off the beaten track', the Hidden Valley lies nestled in the Taupo Volcanic Zone between Taupo and Rotorua. Begin your visit at the visitor center, from which you will also need to take a short ferry ride to access the geothermal area.  You then set your own pace to explore the geothermal activity in the park, but don't miss the extremely rare geothermal cave Ruatapu Cave (Sacred Hole) that plunges some 35 meters down to a beautiful clear hot pool at the bottom.  This a great day out for the whole family, and your dogs are welcome at the park too.

From Rotorua: Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu

From Rotorua: Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu

Get a fantastic geothermal experience without the thronging crowds with this day trip to Orakei Korako or Waiotapu from Rotorua. Depart Rotorua after pickup from your hotel from 9am and travel to Orakei Korako OR Waiotapu. Somewhat off the beaten track, Orakei Korako, also known as the Hidden Valley, is nestled in the Taupo Volcanic Zone between Taupo and Rotorua. Waiotapu you will get to see the Lady Knox Geyser. Waiotapu is considered one of New Zealands diverse and colourful geothermal park. After a 45-minute drive to get there, take a short boat ride across the lake then enjoy 2 hours to explore the thermal area featuring up to 23 natural geysers in a constantly changing landscape. Marvel at the number of boiling hot springs and the vibrant colors all around you, or take a native bushwalk through this untouched geothermal paradise. Next, move on to Huka Falls and the Taupo area. Lunch is at your own expense but there are multiple places for you to choose to eat. In Taupo, be guided by your driver and visit the lake front and other interesting sights. Your driver will find out what interests you and, if possible, tailor the day to maximize the stops to suit your interests. Return to Rotorua after Taupo for drop-off at your accommodation between 3:30 PM-4:30 PM.

Rotorua: Floatplane Flight with Orakei Korako Landing

Rotorua: Floatplane Flight with Orakei Korako Landing

Embark on a scenic floatplane adventure over Rotorua’s stunning and active geothermal landscapes, including a dormant volcano, the Rotorua lakes district, lush native forests, and rolling farmlands. The journey's highlight is an exclusive landing in the hidden valley of Orakei Korako, where you'll enjoy a one-hour self-guided walk through one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking geothermal parks. Depart from Lake Rotorua and ascend to capture sweeping views of the city, Mokoia Island, and Sulfur Bay. Try spotting all 14 lakes before soaring up the slopes of Mount Tarawera, a dormant volcano that once unleashed the largest eruption in living memory, reshaping the Rotorua landscape. As you fly over the 17-kilometer volcanic rift, you'll marvel at the deep, colorful craters, lakes that now cover the famous Pink and White Terraces (once hailed as the eighth wonder of the world), and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley – the youngest geothermal park on Earth. Take in the sights of Frying Pan Lake and the striking blue waters of Inferno Crater before continuing south over the geothermal marvels of Wai-O-Tapu, with its vibrant Artist’s Palette and Champagne Pool. As the flight ventures further south, your pilot will descend along the Waikato River to reach the hidden valley of Orakei Korako. Landing on the river offers a unique experience, as you glide past native bush and navigate its bends before docking. Once on land, you'll have an hour to explore the park at your own pace, witnessing hot springs, spouting geysers, bubbling mud pools, a thermal cave, and some of the largest silica terraces in the world. Stop for a coffee or snack at the café before reboarding the floatplane. On your return flight, you'll pass over farmlands and the Paeroa mountain range before flying back to Rotorua City, landing at our Lakefront pier.

From Auckland: Waitomo Cave and Orakei Korako Group Day Tour

From Auckland: Waitomo Cave and Orakei Korako Group Day Tour

Embark on a memorable small group tour starting from Auckland, where stunning scenery and endless photo opportunities await. As you journey through the picturesque Waikato region, be mesmerized by beautiful mountains and meet an array of farm animals along the way. Your experienced local driver guide will share captivating stories and point out historical sites of interest as you make your way to the renowned Waitomo region. Upon arrival in Waitomo, enjoy a 45-minute guided tour of the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Marvel at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years, and explore the towering caverns that make this destination one of New Zealand’s top attractions. The adventure culminates with a magical boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto, where the underground cavern sparkles with the enchanting glow of thousands of tiny glowworms. Continuing on to the geothermal wonderland of Taupō, experience the breathtaking landscapes that define this region. At Orakei Korako, known as Hidden Valley, you’ll find the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Here, embark on a self-guided tour to discover a volcanic realm filled with gushing geysers, bubbling mud pools, and impressive silica terraces. Accessible only by boat, this hidden treasure invites you to explore at a leisurely pace, wandering along the boardwalks and through the captivating Hidden Valley, where the unique Ruatapu Cave reveals the stunning ‘Waiwhakaata’ or ‘Pool of Mirrors’ hot pool. After an unforgettable day of exploration, sit back and relax as you board the coach for the return journey to Auckland, reflecting on the extraordinary natural wonders you’ve encountered.

Rotorua: Volcano Landing and Geothermal Park Helicopter Tour

Rotorua: Volcano Landing and Geothermal Park Helicopter Tour

Discover some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that includes a landing on the dormant volcano, Mount Tarawera, stunning views of Rotorua’s Lakes district, and a chance to explore the geothermal wonders of the region. Departing from the Rotorua Lakefront, your journey begins with a flight over Mokoia Island and the picturesque Crater Lakes District. As you soar above the Tarawera outlet, keep an eye out for trout spawning before the river cascades into the impressive Tarawera Falls. Your adventure continues with a landing on Mount Tarawera, the site of New Zealand's largest volcanic eruption in 1886, where you’ll have time to walk the summit and take in panoramic views of distant national parks. As you depart Mount Tarawera, the flight path follows the dramatic volcanic rift line to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, home to the Steaming Cliffs and Inferno Crater. Along the way, your pilot will provide commentary and photography assistance as you marvel at the unique volcanic landscapes. Next, you’ll witness the vibrant hues of the Artist’s Palette and the Champagne Pool at Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park. Continuing south, the helicopter descends into the hidden valley of Orakei Korako, where a land-based tour awaits. After a short ferry ride across the Waikato River, you’ll have an hour to explore hot springs, erupting geysers, silica terraces, and even a thermal cave. Before reboarding, you can relax with a coffee or snack from the local café. The return flight offers scenic views of rural farmland and the Paeroa mountain range before flying over Rotorua City and back to the lakefront pier, concluding your unforgettable journey.

Orakei Korako: Our most recommended tours and activities

Taupo: Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave Entry Ticket

Taupo: Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave Entry Ticket

Discover the natural wonders at Orakei Korako, also known as Hidden Valley, which boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Wander through the unspoiled thermal valley at your leisure surrounded by an array of vibrant colors, bubbling hot springs, mud pools, and gushing geysers.  Somewhat 'off the beaten track', the Hidden Valley lies nestled in the Taupo Volcanic Zone between Taupo and Rotorua. Begin your visit at the visitor center, from which you will also need to take a short ferry ride to access the geothermal area.  You then set your own pace to explore the geothermal activity in the park, but don't miss the extremely rare geothermal cave Ruatapu Cave (Sacred Hole) that plunges some 35 meters down to a beautiful clear hot pool at the bottom.  This a great day out for the whole family, and your dogs are welcome at the park too.

From Rotorua: Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu

From Rotorua: Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu

Get a fantastic geothermal experience without the thronging crowds with this day trip to Orakei Korako or Waiotapu from Rotorua. Depart Rotorua after pickup from your hotel from 9am and travel to Orakei Korako OR Waiotapu. Somewhat off the beaten track, Orakei Korako, also known as the Hidden Valley, is nestled in the Taupo Volcanic Zone between Taupo and Rotorua. Waiotapu you will get to see the Lady Knox Geyser. Waiotapu is considered one of New Zealands diverse and colourful geothermal park. After a 45-minute drive to get there, take a short boat ride across the lake then enjoy 2 hours to explore the thermal area featuring up to 23 natural geysers in a constantly changing landscape. Marvel at the number of boiling hot springs and the vibrant colors all around you, or take a native bushwalk through this untouched geothermal paradise. Next, move on to Huka Falls and the Taupo area. Lunch is at your own expense but there are multiple places for you to choose to eat. In Taupo, be guided by your driver and visit the lake front and other interesting sights. Your driver will find out what interests you and, if possible, tailor the day to maximize the stops to suit your interests. Return to Rotorua after Taupo for drop-off at your accommodation between 3:30 PM-4:30 PM.

Rotorua: Floatplane Flight with Orakei Korako Landing

Rotorua: Floatplane Flight with Orakei Korako Landing

Embark on a scenic floatplane adventure over Rotorua’s stunning and active geothermal landscapes, including a dormant volcano, the Rotorua lakes district, lush native forests, and rolling farmlands. The journey's highlight is an exclusive landing in the hidden valley of Orakei Korako, where you'll enjoy a one-hour self-guided walk through one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking geothermal parks. Depart from Lake Rotorua and ascend to capture sweeping views of the city, Mokoia Island, and Sulfur Bay. Try spotting all 14 lakes before soaring up the slopes of Mount Tarawera, a dormant volcano that once unleashed the largest eruption in living memory, reshaping the Rotorua landscape. As you fly over the 17-kilometer volcanic rift, you'll marvel at the deep, colorful craters, lakes that now cover the famous Pink and White Terraces (once hailed as the eighth wonder of the world), and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley – the youngest geothermal park on Earth. Take in the sights of Frying Pan Lake and the striking blue waters of Inferno Crater before continuing south over the geothermal marvels of Wai-O-Tapu, with its vibrant Artist’s Palette and Champagne Pool. As the flight ventures further south, your pilot will descend along the Waikato River to reach the hidden valley of Orakei Korako. Landing on the river offers a unique experience, as you glide past native bush and navigate its bends before docking. Once on land, you'll have an hour to explore the park at your own pace, witnessing hot springs, spouting geysers, bubbling mud pools, a thermal cave, and some of the largest silica terraces in the world. Stop for a coffee or snack at the café before reboarding the floatplane. On your return flight, you'll pass over farmlands and the Paeroa mountain range before flying back to Rotorua City, landing at our Lakefront pier.

From Auckland: Waitomo Cave and Orakei Korako Group Day Tour

From Auckland: Waitomo Cave and Orakei Korako Group Day Tour

Embark on a memorable small group tour starting from Auckland, where stunning scenery and endless photo opportunities await. As you journey through the picturesque Waikato region, be mesmerized by beautiful mountains and meet an array of farm animals along the way. Your experienced local driver guide will share captivating stories and point out historical sites of interest as you make your way to the renowned Waitomo region. Upon arrival in Waitomo, enjoy a 45-minute guided tour of the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Marvel at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years, and explore the towering caverns that make this destination one of New Zealand’s top attractions. The adventure culminates with a magical boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto, where the underground cavern sparkles with the enchanting glow of thousands of tiny glowworms. Continuing on to the geothermal wonderland of Taupō, experience the breathtaking landscapes that define this region. At Orakei Korako, known as Hidden Valley, you’ll find the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Here, embark on a self-guided tour to discover a volcanic realm filled with gushing geysers, bubbling mud pools, and impressive silica terraces. Accessible only by boat, this hidden treasure invites you to explore at a leisurely pace, wandering along the boardwalks and through the captivating Hidden Valley, where the unique Ruatapu Cave reveals the stunning ‘Waiwhakaata’ or ‘Pool of Mirrors’ hot pool. After an unforgettable day of exploration, sit back and relax as you board the coach for the return journey to Auckland, reflecting on the extraordinary natural wonders you’ve encountered.

Rotorua: Volcano Landing and Geothermal Park Helicopter Tour

Rotorua: Volcano Landing and Geothermal Park Helicopter Tour

Discover some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that includes a landing on the dormant volcano, Mount Tarawera, stunning views of Rotorua’s Lakes district, and a chance to explore the geothermal wonders of the region. Departing from the Rotorua Lakefront, your journey begins with a flight over Mokoia Island and the picturesque Crater Lakes District. As you soar above the Tarawera outlet, keep an eye out for trout spawning before the river cascades into the impressive Tarawera Falls. Your adventure continues with a landing on Mount Tarawera, the site of New Zealand's largest volcanic eruption in 1886, where you’ll have time to walk the summit and take in panoramic views of distant national parks. As you depart Mount Tarawera, the flight path follows the dramatic volcanic rift line to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, home to the Steaming Cliffs and Inferno Crater. Along the way, your pilot will provide commentary and photography assistance as you marvel at the unique volcanic landscapes. Next, you’ll witness the vibrant hues of the Artist’s Palette and the Champagne Pool at Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park. Continuing south, the helicopter descends into the hidden valley of Orakei Korako, where a land-based tour awaits. After a short ferry ride across the Waikato River, you’ll have an hour to explore hot springs, erupting geysers, silica terraces, and even a thermal cave. Before reboarding, you can relax with a coffee or snack from the local café. The return flight offers scenic views of rural farmland and the Paeroa mountain range before flying over Rotorua City and back to the lakefront pier, concluding your unforgettable journey.

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What people are saying about Orakei Korako

Overall rating

5
(6 reviews)

Really lovely experience, friendly staff explained everything well. After a little boat ride across to the island, unlike other experiences you were able to explore on your own (keeping to paths) we really enjoyed this rather than being in large groups herded along like some experiences can be. Would definitely recommend

Very informative, customer-oriented... good service. We had a great flight in the best weather... the pilot explained a lot... we would book again anytime

The best value for money thermal park in the area. Gorgeous colours on display and plenty of geothermal activity to see

the self guided tour was great, the scenery, smells, colours were a new& different experience, worth the walk

Nice with a short ferry ride. And otherwise just a fantastic experience.