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Leaving Tauranga you head south through rolling farmland and forestry, past Lake Rotorua and on to the magical Waimangu Valley where your guide will take you through the world’s youngest geothermal valley. Starting at the head of the valley you will wind your way down the 4 klm walk, passing a range of geothermal activity, hot springs, volcanic craters, and wildlife. Some highlights to look out for include the world's largest hot spring, and the brilliant blue Inferno Crater.
The trails ultimately lead you down to the lake, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing 45 minute cruise around the tranquil waters of Lake Rotomahana. On the cruise, you'll encounter stunning geothermal activity only accessible by boat, as well as rare native birdlife, and stunning views across the lake at the imposing Mount Tarawera. You can also listen to the onboard commentary of the historic stories of the lake, and hear about the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption that covered and destroyed the pink and white terraces.
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
4 Kilometer walk down the valley
Air-conditioned vehicle
45 min boat ride on Lake Rotomahana
Port pickup and drop-off
Local Driver / Guide
Live commentary on board
Entry into Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Lunch
Gratuities
No swimming on this tour
Pickup included
Operated by Wicked Wanders Tours
25 reviews
Carol W,
Mar 4, 2025
Although this adventure was a 90 minute drive from the port, it was well worth it. I love the small group tours and our tour guide, Robert, was so informative. Robert met us right in the pier and was an excellent tour guide. The hike and boat ride on Lake Rotomahana was beautiful!
Claudia K,
Mar 4, 2025
Incredible experience! Tour guide was fabulous and did a fantastic job in explaining and giving us the history of this area. I would highly recommend this tour.
Margaret T,
Mar 2, 2025
We were on a cruise ship and met up with our tour guide within a very short walk from our ship. Very well organized! We rode in a small comfortable 10/11 passenger van. Our driver and guide, Robert, was very knowledgeable and informative. We thoroughly enjoyed our ride through the suburb of Mt. Maynganui and surrounding area. Once we reached the Waimangu Volcanic Valley we enjoyed the 2.5 mile walk to Lake Rotoma. The trail is mostly gravel, so wear good tennis shoes, not flip-flops. Bring water. We saw geothermal activity, hot springs, and beautiful scenery all around. The boat ride was great! We learned the history of the lake and viewed geothermal activity that surrounded us. After the tour we were shuttled back to where we started our walk, and then Robert got us all back to our ship in plenty of time. No worries!
Della H,
Mar 1, 2025
This was a great tour! On the ride to volcanic springs and lake, we stopped at a kiwi farm and learned about that. Then we arrived at the volcanic area and had a terrific walk through the craters, seeing and learning about the hot springs and waters. We took a short boat ride on the lake and saw where the great white and pink terraces had once stood. A totally fun and wonderful filled day.
Janeth F,
Feb 19, 2025
We booked this excursion expecting a hike to a beautiful lake and then a boat ride around the lake. Our guide was very nice but obviously was told the boat ride part of the trip would not happen so he filled the void with a longer hike and odd side trip. It was a long day with only half of what we paid for. We should have been given the option to book another tour or get a refund I do not recommend this tour
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