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Discover New Zealand’s wonders with our Spellbound Glowworm Cave and Explorer Tour. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers a blend of bioluminescence and natural beauty that will captivate you.
Begin your adventure with our expert guide leading you through mesmerizing caves. Learn about fascinating geological formations and history as you marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Step into the enchanting Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms illuminate the cave with their magical light. Enjoy a serene 20-minute boat ride, gazing up at lights resembling a starry night sky. Gain insights into the glowworms' life cycle and ecological significance from your knowledgeable guide.
This unique tour is ideal for those wanting an up-close experience with the glowworms and photography enthusiasts, as there are no restrictions on photos in the caves.
Experience all this as part of a small, intimate group of only 11 guests.
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
You do need to be able to walk for at least 40 minutes at a time over gentle terrain and pathways. We do not climb or crawl anywhere in our caves. There are no stairs in our caves. For those with mobility concerns, you will need to step up 40cm into and out of a transit van and down 40cm into and out of our raft. We do not take wheelchairs or walking frames. If you are concerned or unsure if your fitness is adequate, please contact us.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Auckland Central
Embark on your 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 & 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. Benefit from a personalized experience with our small group tours, ensuring a more intimate and immersive adventure.
An english speaking tour guide
Bottled water
Snacks
All Fees and Taxes
Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD
Fully Guided Small Group Tour
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea
Admission to a fully guided 180 minutes experience of the Spellbound Glowworm Twin Caves
Breakfast
Dinner
Lunch
Select a pickup point
Pickup included
166 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Jessica W,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
This is a FANTASTIC tour of the Waitomo caves. You see two caves, and you have a coffee break between. The first cave is FULL of glow worms and is so magical. The second cave is beautiful with formations. I would do this daily if I could. Finn was our guide in the caves and did an amazing job. David was our driver and gave us such a good overview of the area, taught us all about NZ, and took us to a fantastic bakery for pies. Absolute five star experience from both.
Samantha N,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
Such an Amazing experience! It was truly remarkable to get to see the glow worms. It's hard to describe what an awe-inspiring adventure it is. The guides were so great and our Driver Seen was great too. he made the long drive enjoyable and it was easy to find the pick up spot. We would all definitely recommend going to see the glowworms! We've never seen anything like it!


keithfX5109SE,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
The glow worm caves were amazing and our kids (12 & 8) loved the tour! Our guide, David, was friendly, knowledgeable and it was clear he really enjoyed taking people to go experience the caves.
Anne M,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
Rich and varied experience. W ell-planned and organized. Wayne told us a wealth of information about Auckland and New Zealand. He was extremely accommodating. He planned for our comfort. The guide at the Caves was also excellent. We sa amazing natural formations and flora and fauna. The tour takes all day, but there were plenty of opportunities to get drinks and food, as well as visit toilets. Mobility is required.
672sheilah,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
The tour was very interesting and Finn the tour guide at the caves was great. We had never experienced Glow Worms before and it was fascinating.
Gregg S,,Jan 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
Really knowledgeable guide who also is a geologist. He brought a great deal of value to both the glowworms cave tour and the limestone cave tour. Seeing the otherworldly glowworms was tremendous!
Jeffrey L,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
Outstanding trip! Easy drive and both our driver Matt and cave guide Hop (sorry can’t remember his full Māori name) were awesome. One of those things that you really can’t see too many places.
dogear12,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Matt, was wonderful and thoughtful on planning the stops for snacks & rest stops for the 2 hrs trip. More over, he has the local knowledge on culture and history. His driving skill was good. The friendly tips on food and restaurants were on point. The cave visit itself is a must. Chance walked some what along the hills if one wish. Totally worthwhile




Sharlene M,,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
Amazing experience to see gloworms for the first time. Deane was a fun tour guide and gave insight on several parts of the city. Had a great time, thank you!
Marybeth F,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Absolutely amazing and magical! I never imagined we would see that many glow worms. Our guide inside the caves was so knowledgeable, pointing things out such as why some were lit and others weren’t. Our driver to the caves was very friendly and knowledgeable. Gave a running commentary about where we were and things we were passing on the way. Made the long ride very enjoyable. Absolutely would recommend!!
Operated by Expedigo Tours and Travels Auckland