90-Minute Guided Ruakuri Cave Tour Waitomo
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Ruakuri Cave offers a captivating blend of Waitomo's most compelling subterranean experiences. Journey down through the spectacular spiral entrance, and marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries. Hear the distant thunder of the subterranean waterfalls and get up close to the glowworms. Spectacular and unique, Ruakuri Cave offers a captivating blend of Waitomo's most compelling subterranean experiences. In this 2 hours sightseeing tour, your guide will bring you up close to glowworms, elaborate cave formations, underground rivers, myths, legends and sacred Maori sites.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
All you will need are comfortable 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
Your own transport is required
Stroller/wheelchair width must not exceed 65cm
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Local guide
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
What To Expect
Ruakuri Cave
Discover the spectacular Ruakuri Cave on this 75-minute guided walking tour. Ruakuri Cave has displays of glowworms and is filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. Points of interest include softly folding shawl-like formations (formed by flowing rivers) and fossilized seashells, which indicate how the caves were once part of the seabed. Major features include Holdens Cavern, named after James Holden who first opened the cave to the public, The Drum Passage, The Pretties, and The Ghost Passage. Tours depart every day (except Christmas Day) at 9.00am, 10.00am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave. Ruakuri Cave is wheelchair accessible. .
Options
Ruakuri Cave Tour (25/26)
Ruakuri Cave Tour (2025/2026: For tours from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026
Ruakuri Cave Tour (24/25)
Ruakuri Cave Tour (2024/2025): For tours from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025
Reviews
112 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Stunning caves
Jessica W,
Oct 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00I visited the caves with my 16yr old nephew and we absolutely loved the tour. From the moment we entered we were impressed, some stunning views and lots of glowworms.
My children and I had a...
Lisa H,
Oct 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00My children and I had a good time and our guide was very informative. 90 minutes went quickly but we didn't feel rushed. The only issue was the entry point which is a very deep spiral staircase. My son and I are not good with heights and I had to mentally support him and myself upon descent and ascent. If you are terrified of heights like us, we just kept to the side and looked at the wall.
At first, it was so deep...
Youna K,
Oct 1, 2025
- Viator
4.00At first, it was so deep and dark that I thought it was stuffy and scary, but it was okay because the space got wider and brighter. Everything in the cave was amazing and amazing
Stalagmites, Stalactites and Helictites
glennperry,
Sep 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00Had fun visiting Waitomo Caves. Interesting and educational experience that I can recommend. Everything well organised. Guide was knowledgeable and friendly.
Educational, fun, and relaxing trip!
Elizabeth E,
Jun 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00Came here for our honeymoon and had a great time learning about the history and geography of the caves and the cultural significance to the Maori people. Our guide was funny and was kind enough to answer all of our questions. Be sure to get their early to use the restrooms and grab some coffee!
Related Experiences
Operated by THL - Waitomo Caves Group