Waitomo: Glowworm Caves Guided Tour by Boat

4.5051904 out of 5 stars
4.5
4.5051904 out of 5 stars
4046 reviews
Waitomo: Glowworm Caves Guided Tour by Boat
4.5051904 out of 5 stars
4.5
4.5051904 out of 5 stars
4046 reviews
Likely to sell out

Explore the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a guided tour. Glide by boat and marvel at the sight of magical glowworms above you.

About this activity

Free cancellation
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Duration 1 hour
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

A
Anshul – New Zealand

The guide was really good. He sang a song for all of us. Nice description. Glow worms are cool to see. Overall very nice trip

K
Kenneth – Australia

We enjoyed the visit very much. The experience on the boat in the cave was almost spiritual. The guides and general staff were very friendly and interesting.

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Highlights

  • Marvel at the thousands of glowworms as you glide through the caves by boat
  • Learn the history and geology of the caves from a knowledgeable guide
  • Walk through the Cathedral Cave and experience the amazing acoustics

Full description

Discover New Zealand's natural wonder of Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a guided boat trip. Glide by boat through this underground complex, watching millions of tiny bioluminescent insects lighting up the rocky limestone. Explore this cave complex, including a chance to visit the Cathedral Cave on foot.
The caves were formed over 30 million years ago and comprise 2 levels. The upper level is dry and includes the entrance to the cave and formations known as the Catacombs, the Pipe Organ, and the Banquet Chamber. On the lower level are stream passages and the Cathedral.

Begin on foot as your local guide brings the caves to life with stories about their history. Then, board a boat and marvel at the light display as you glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto.

Includes

  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves entry ticket
  • 45-minute guided tour
  • Local guide
  • Souvenir photos

Not suitable for

  • Wheelchair users

Meeting point

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Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Warm clothing
  • Jacket

Not allowed

  • Cameras
  • Flash photography
  • Video recording
  • Photography inside

Know before you go

  • The caves are accessible to those with reasonable mobility, as there are good handrails and paths. There is no wheelchair access
  • No photography is permitted inside the caves, and cameras and GoPros cannot be taken on the tour
  • Souvenir photos are available for purchase after your tour
  • The tour is subject to weather conditions

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 4046 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.7/5
  • Transportation
    4.6/5
  • Value for money
    4.1/5

Customer photos

+82
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A
Anshul – New ZealandJune 15, 2025 – Verified booking
The guide was really good. He sang a song for all of us. Nice description. Glow worms are cool to see. Overall very nice trip
K
Kenneth – AustraliaJune 11, 2025 – Verified booking
We enjoyed the visit very much. The experience on the boat in the cave was almost spiritual. The guides and general staff were very friendly and interesting.
T
Tara – United StatesJune 6, 2025 – Verified booking
Our guide was calming and relaxing to interact with, which reflected the environment of the caves. She even sang a Maori song, which was honestly my favorite part. The glowworms are also mesmerising.

Product ID: 122921

Activity provider:THL - Waitomo Caves Group

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