Waitomo: Guided Eco-Cave Tour

Top rated
4.9753084 out of 5 stars
5
4.9753084 out of 5 stars
243 reviews
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Waitomo: Guided Eco-Cave Tour
Top rated
4.9753084 out of 5 stars
5
4.9753084 out of 5 stars
243 reviews

Go off the beaten track as you explore Waitomo's glowworms and natural wonders away from the crowds. Wander through a native New Zealand forest in a small group with an expert guide.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 3.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English
Small group
Limited to 8 participants

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

J
Janina – United Kingdom

I was lucky to be the only person on the tour so had the guide’s full attention. I cannot speak highly enough about how magical this tour was. To sit in complete darkness with just the glow from the glow worms was so wonderful, and I was also lucky to see an eel swimming in the water. I was wet to the knees, dripped on, and had to lug myself back up out of the cave system with boots overflowing, after scrambling over large rocks and boulders, and I was, I think, the happiest I could possibly be!!! Thankyou! 🤗

J
Janette – United States

Informative, well guided, beautiful! I was especially grateful at my age ( nearing 82) that I had a strong, helpful hand to guide me through the rocky ups and downs. Thank you for the adventure! Janette

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Highlights

  • Explore the cave system in a small group on our private family farm
  • Phones welcome - Enjoy beautiful glowworm displays throughout the eco-tour
  • Have a real caving experience away from the crowds "Off the Beaten Track"
  • 5 star experience - Rated number one in the Waitomo district on Trip Advisor
  • Enjoy a cuppa and cookie after the tour, accompanied by true kiwi hospitality!

Full description

Get ready for an unforgettable 3-hour adventure! Here’s what you can expect:

*We’ll start with about 15 minutes of preparation, where we'll go over some important safety info to make sure everyone’s good to go.

*Then, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the cave entrance, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Don't forget a phone or small camera to capture the magic!

*Next, we’ll enjoy a relaxed 10-15 minute stroll through the beautiful New Zealand bush and the stunning Mangapu gorge. This serves as a warm-up, helping you get comfortable with the terrain before we dive into the caves.

*The main highlight of the tour is a solid 2 hours spent exploring the caves, where you'll experience awe-inspiring glowworm displays along the way. It’s a truly magical part of the journey!

*After the caves, we’ll take a 10-minute walk back through the bush to our office/house, giving you a moment to reflect on the adventure.

*Finally, feel free to take a little extra time to change and unwind with a well-deserved tea or coffee, plus some delicious cookies, all served with a touch of classic Kiwi hospitality!

We can’t wait to share this experience with you!

Includes

  • 3-hour cave tour
  • Small group (maximum of 8 participants)
  • Experienced local guide
  • All equipment including clothing and boots
  • Shower facilities
  • Hot drinks and a snack

Not suitable for

  • Children under 12 years
  • People with back problems
  • People with mobility impairments
  • People with heart problems
  • People over 264 lbs (120 kg)
  • People with low level of fitness

Meeting point

1199 Oparure Road, Te Kuiti, Waitomo. Please arrive 15 minutes ahead of your tour time and take a moment to carefully read the driving directions to avoid any inconvenience. Getting Here (Don't Follow the Signs to "The Other Cave") Here’s where it gets a little tricky — there are 5 different cave tour companies in the Waitomo District, and over 300 caves in the area. So it's easy to accidentally turn up at the wrong one! We’re not located at the main, sign-posted Waitomo Caves turnoff. Instead, you’ll find our hidden gem off the beaten track at: 1199 Oparure Road, Te Kuiti, Waitomo

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Important information

Not allowed

  • Professional cameras
  • Tripods

Know before you go

  • Maximum group size is eight and the minimum group size is two
  • Children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
  • Maximum weight for tour participants is 120 kilograms (265 pounds)
  • Allow 3 hours for the tour, of which approximately 2 hours is spent in the cave system
  • Not suitable for anyone with mobility issues. A moderate level of fitness is required.
  • There is no public transport access, you will need to provide your own transportation to the meeting point.
  • Small cameras or phones are welcome. NO large cameras or tripods.
  • Your guide will also take photographs during the tour and digital copies are provided to you at no charge.
  • No pick up or drop off transport services available
  • No boat, rock climbing or abseiling - this is a walking tour.

Customer reviews

Overall rating

5 /5

based on 243 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    5/5
  • Value for money
    4.9/5

Customer photos

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Recommended
J
Janina – United KingdomApril 29, 2025 – Verified booking
I was lucky to be the only person on the tour so had the guide’s full attention. I cannot speak highly enough about how magical this tour was. To sit in complete darkness with just the glow from the glow worms was so wonderful, and I was also lucky to see an eel swimming in the water. I was wet to the knees, dripped on, and had to lug myself back up out of the cave system with boots overflowing, after scrambling over large rocks and boulders, and I was, I think, the happiest I could possibly be!!! Thankyou! 🤗
J
Janette – United StatesApril 25, 2025 – Verified booking
Informative, well guided, beautiful! I was especially grateful at my age ( nearing 82) that I had a strong, helpful hand to guide me through the rocky ups and downs. Thank you for the adventure! Janette
E
Ella – United KingdomMarch 29, 2025 – Verified booking
Really excellent, good fun relaxed and excellent. Lovely for it to be a small group and on a family run farm.

Product ID: 141396

Activity provider:Down to Earth - Waitomo Eco Cave Tours

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