Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

1,078 Reviews 4.44 out of 5 stars Based on 1,078 adventurer reviews collected by Top10Adventures® and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This adventure is highly rated and has met our top quality standards.
Waitomo, New Zealand

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On average, this is booked 125 (105) days in advance.

45 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

Be amazed by the thousands of magical glowworms above on this 45-minute group guided tour, as you glide silently by boat in the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Many of the current guides are descendants of the Maori chief who originally explored the cave and can share with you the remarkable history of the area. Guided since the late 1880s, this is the original, iconic New Zealand attraction.

What's Included

  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)
  • Local guide
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

39 Waitomo Village Road
Waitomo Caves 3977, New Zealand

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your adventure begins.
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves

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.
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45 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Due to high demand and limited capacity, if you are late or miss your scheduled tour time your ticket(s) are forfeited and non refundable. New bookings will incur the full tour cost and are subject to availability
  • No photography allowed
  • Not suitable for those who have difficulty navigating stairs

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the adventure for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the adventure start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the adventure start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the adventure start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the adventure local time (NZST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the adventure for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-3930P3

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.44
1,078 reviews

Average 4.44 out of 5 stars based on 1,078 adventurer reviews collected by Top10Adventures® and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
714
4 stars
213
3 stars
88
2 stars
38
1 star
25

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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 125 (105) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)
  • Local guide
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Bring comfortable waking shoes and a warm jacket
  • You must check in 30 minutes before the tour departs .
  • Due to high demand and limited capacity, if you are late or miss your scheduled tour time your ticket(s) are forfeited and non refundable. New bookings will incur the full tour cost and are subject to availability
  • No photography allowed
  • Not suitable for those who have difficulty navigating stairs
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 23 travelers

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Free Cancellation

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the adventure for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the adventure start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the adventure start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the adventure start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the adventure local time (NZST).
  • This adventure requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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