Auckland : Waitomo Spellbound Glow Worm Twin Caves Private Tour
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Experience the magic of New Zealand’s landscapes with our Spellbound Glowworm Cave and Explorer Tour, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Your day begins with a private transfer from Auckland, offering a relaxed, scenic journey to the caves. On arrival, join a small group of up to 11 guests for a guided experience.
Take a short van ride across a limestone-studded farm, then wander into the Mangawhitikau Gorge. Enter the Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms light up the cave like a starry sky. Enjoy a peaceful 20-minute boat ride as your guide shares their fascinating story.
Next, walk along an ancient dry riverbed to Te Ana o Te Atua, the Cave of the Spirit, known for its dramatic limestone formations, fossils, and natural sinkholes.
Pause for a tea or coffee break between caves, surrounded by serene scenery.
With no photography restrictions, it’s perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.
Additional Info
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What To Expect
Auckland Central
Embark on your private expedition from the largest city in New Zealand. As we set out, your guide will kick off the day's adventures, laying the groundwork for an enthralling exploration. Proceed with a picturesque drive to the Waitomo region, winding through the scenic New Zealand countryside on the way to the Spellbound Glowworm Caves. Travel journey time from Auckland to Spellbound Caves is approximately- 2 hours, and 30 minutes
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Embark on the unforgettable Spellbound Glowworm Cave and Explorer Tour in Waitomo. This unique adventure offers an up-close encounter with enchanting glowworms and a journey through breathtaking caves, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Begin your journey with an expert guide through spellbinding caves. Learn about geological formations and the history of these natural wonders. Marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites as you navigate fascinating passages. Enter the captivating Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms illuminate the cave with bioluminescent light. Glide silently on a small boat, gazing up at sparkling lights resembling a starry night sky. Gain insights into glowworms' life cycle and behavior from your knowledgeable guide. Soak in the peaceful ambiance and capture stunning photographs of the natural landscape.
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Auckland : Waitomo Spellbound Glow Worm Twin Caves Private Tour
Pickup included
What‘s Included
An english speaking tour guide
Private transfer in a Luxury Vehicle
Bottled water
Snacks
All Fees and Taxes
Fully Guided Experience
Coffee and/or Tea
Admission to a fully guided 180 minutes experience of the Spellbound Glowworm Twin Caves
Breakfast
Dinner
Lunch
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
20 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
An amazing day in nature!
sallyaY4000XV,May 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a delightful day with Wayne! He was patient and friendly with all on board. The tour was an amazing experience that we thoroughly enjoyed.
Mesmerising! Fantastic guides
M1251CIemilyh,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was absolutely fantastic! Aaron and Shane were our 2 guides for the day and they were both brilliant! They were so friendly and knowledgeable and shared so much interesting information with the group. The journey to Waitomo and back from Auckland was long, but certainly not boring. There were comfort breaks along the way and Aaron pointed out lots of landmarks. The other guests on the tour were also great to chat to. The caves themselves were spectacular! The glowworms absolutely covered the ceiling and walls of the cave. It was like being in Avatar world. The short boat ride was mesmerising and Shane was more than happy to take and share photos. I loved that there was a section where photography was not allowed, as this really made the group fully immerse themselves and appreciate the nature and the amazing surroundings. The second cave was also super interesting with some incredible formations. Overall a fantastic day out. I recommend the tour to anyone who doesn't have a car and is based in Auckland, who wants to experience something truly beautiful and unique
Magical experience at glowworm with expedigo
Culture27219275676,Apr 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a magical time at the glowworm caves. Its a unique natural phenomenon and should be on every visitors itinerary. The drive from Auckland was scenic. Our tour guide Doug was both fun and informative at the same time. The limestone caves and stalactite formations were beautiful. We visited 2 caves with a break for tea and biscuits. . I would highly recommend this tour with Expedigo Tours for a wonderful experience.
Glow worms
kimrK1199QJ,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour but a 2 hr drive coming and going
A glowing review for an excellent tour and experience.
357alasdaird,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fantastic experience all round. My tour operator david was a fantastic character, you could tell he was incredibly passionate about new zealand and it was heartening to hear someone speak with such honesty, really enjoyed spending the time with him. And the actual tour of the glowworm caves was an excellent experience with a very knowledgable guide called ross, who was well invested in the local area and proud of it too which really speaks to the passion surrounding the experience. Well worth the visit, a great days trip offering the very best of what new zealand has to offer.
Glowworm experience
Flyer782442,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was fantastic; loved every minute ago. The driver and tour guides were extremely knowledgeable.
Great tour
62noellam,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Dean was an excellent driver and guide, watched out for everyone and very entertaining. The Spellbound tour was amazing, we were truly "spellbound".
It was fun!
violettav941,Feb 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thanks for a wonderful tour! Deane is very cheerful, he really kept the group’s spirits up. Definitely recommended!
Glow Worms Tour
tonyfU5880CJ,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We went with another couple and had a great time, the glow worms was an amazing experience and well worth the drive (it's a long 3 hour drive). The drive through the countryside also gave us a wonderful look of New Zealand. The glow worm tour guide & driver were informative & interesting. Glad we took the tour!
Magical and spiritual, absolutely amazing.
397margep,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was our last excursion of a 5 week trip and we were really surprised at how wonderful it was. We had done another excursion with glowworms, but also kayaked on that excursion and it was fun, but this with the small group and wonderful guides was absolutely magical. It was a long drive to get to it, but well worth it and our driver Dean was terrific, the size of the group made it very comfortable and we stopped along the way at a little cafe that was great as well. Overall this was one of our favorite experiences of our trip. Thank you, this deserves 10 stars.
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Operated by Expedigo Tours and Travels Auckland