Black Water Rafting Experience Waitomo Caves Tour

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From NZD 188

4.8
277 reviews

Overview

Available languages

English

We offer two different Blackwater Rafting experiences through the Ruakuri Cave.

The Black Labyrinth is the original, 3-hour Blackwater Rafting tour. You will jump off two small waterfalls (highest is 1.5 meters), float on a tube underneath an impressive display of glowworms and navigate through the cave’s natural streamway. All participants must be at least 12 years old and weigh at least 45kgs.

The Black Abyss is the ultimate 5-hour Blackwater Rafting tour. Abseil 35 metres into the cave and zipline across a river under a grotto of glowworms. You'll then float on a tube through the caves' natural streamway. All participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh 45kgs.

An average level of fitness and mobility is required for both of our tours. It is important to understand that these tours take you into a completely natural cave environment. Please understand that your guides have final discretion of whether you will be able to participate on our tours.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Your safety is our team's top priority.

You must check in 30 minutes before the tour departs at 585 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Caves

All Participants for the Black Abyss must be at least 16-years-old and weigh at least 45kgs.

All Participants for the Black Labyrinth must be at least 12-years-old and weigh at least 45kgs.

Due to high demand and limited capacity if you 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.

Water temperature sits at around 10-15 degrees Celsius.

We require a minimum of two participants for a tour to operate - if you are the only participant confirmed, you may be asked to amend your tour time

The Black Labyrinth (3-hour tour) does NOT include the abseil and zipline.

Customers do not need to be able to swim, but these tours are best suited for those who are comfortable with at least standing in fast-moving water.

Cameras and personal devices are not allowed on these tours

Bring swimwear & a towel - we'll supply the rest!

We ask those who have serious medical problems to contact us before booking onto our tours.

Please understand that your guides have final discretion of whether you will be able to participate on our tours.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Complimentary hot shower

The use of equipment such as tubes, wetsuits, boots, helmets, abseiling devices (if option chosen) and safety equipment

Snacks

Abseiling techniques training (Black Abyss only)

Entry to Waitomo Cave Museum

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop off

Towels and Toiletries for Showers

Options

The Black Labyrinth (24/25)

Black Labyrinth (2024/2025): Three-hour adventure caving tour. Prices are valid for tours between 01/10/24 and 30/09/25.

The Black Abyss (24/25)

Black Abyss (2024/2025): Five-hour adventure caving tour. Includes abseiling and a zip-line. Prices are valid for tours between 01/10/24 and 30/09/25.

The Black Abyss 25/26

Black Abyss (2025/2026): Five hour adventure caving tour. Includes abseiling and a zip-line. Prices are valid for tours between 01/10/25 and 30/09/26

The Black Labyrinth 25/26

Black Labyrinth (2025/2026): Three-hour adventure caving tour. Prices are valid for tours between 01/10/25 and 30/09/26

Operated by THL - Waitomo Caves Group

Reviews

4.8

277 reviews

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  • Thinking of the Abyss blackwater rafting? Do it!

    Jozias M,

    Feb 21, 2025

    5.0

    We did the blackwater rafting abyss experience. Ollie and Lydia were great guides, they had the perfect balance between professional and laid back. I felt like I learned something, got to do some cool adventure stuff and got to experience a fun day.

  • Was an even better...

    Shawn Q,

    Feb 19, 2025

    5.0

    Was an even better experience than I was expecting it to be. Walking/rafting through the cave was something we will never forget

  • We are 76 age wise and...

    David B,

    Feb 17, 2025

    5.0

    We are 76 age wise and this was doable. Check this one off the bucket list. Great adventure. Guides we’re knowledgeable and engaging

  • gloworms are glorious

    Jeff B,

    Feb 14, 2025

    5.0

    fun way to see gloworms. we went during their summer, and the water is still ice cold. Even wearing the wetsuit, it is a lot of fun. you have to go, plus, we got to eat the chocolate fish in the dark, watching the glow worms

  • An Experience Like no Other!

    anthouard,

    Feb 10, 2025

    5.0

    The guides were extremely personable and learned everyone’s names. They were extremely knowledgeable and shared geological, biological and historical information and were able to answer complex questions. They gave each participant confidence and catered to everyone’s individual abilities. The the underground river in the cave was amazing and, of course, the GLOWWORMS did not disappoint. Awesome experience - thank you!