Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Glow-worms are the highlight of any night-time stroll in New Zealand, and when found in abundance they can be as breathtaking as our clearest night sky. Join our experienced guides on a trip into the native bush to witness this phenomenon for yourself. Learn about the life-cycle of this fascinating insect, experience New Zealand’s wildlife by night and top off this stellar evening by relaxing under the stars.
An unique experience for all your senses.
Highlights
• Glow-worm, waterfalls, wildlife and star gazing.
• New Zealand Native Forest - all by the cover of darkness.
• Small group, relaxed atmosphere.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A maximum of 8 people per booking
Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Minimum age is 6 years old
Supportive footwear such as trainers or hiking boots is recommended
This tour includes a 2 kilometer walk, a good level of fitness is require for all participants
Risk Disclosure: We operate a strict safety management system that is audited to New Zealand standards. It is important for you to be aware of the risk and hazards of this tour which are: Uneven grounds, tree roots, rocks and slippery surfaces that could result in slips, trips and falls causing injury / strains /sprains / or broken bones. Low light conditions, use torches / flashlights accordingly
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Lake Rotorua
Our Nocturnal Glow-worm tour takes 2.5 to 3 hours and includes a 2 kilometer walk. We will depart from Rotorua in a minivan, small group (8 people). Depart times vary depending on season. Once there after a walk through the darkness of native bush you will be guided by the sound of running water. Soon towering banks will rise up around you. Then in this moment turn off your flashlight and you will not be disappointed. Literally thousands of glow worms lite up like night sky, forming their own constellations all around you. At any time of the year it is unlikely that the glow worms will be the only wildlife that you encounter. Wallabies and Possums patrol the area and their rustling, along with the eerie call of the morepork, will provide the sound effects for you night walk. Out of the forest the 'star' gazing is at is best on a clear dark night sky. Come along, soak up the atmosphere and learn about New Zealand's incredible night life.
What‘s Included
Light refreshments
Driver/guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Options
Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour
Reviews
673 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Magical evening
Julie K,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stephen is an excellent guide. His enthusiasm for the environment and these amazing little critters just shines out of him. He is knowledgeable, humourous and kind to this wobbly old woman. His photos were beautifully staged and created wonderful memories. I hope this spot stays wonderfully unspoiled. I can't recommend it enough
Excellent night experience
Jim B,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience! Good communication and pickup. Small group in the van to a great walk through the night. All equipment provided. Saw thousands of glow worms. Tour guide emailed personalized pictures the day after in email. Excellent tour😎
Amazingly off the beaten track!
KennethS2015BTB,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nature at its best. Jungle hike in a quiet private plot with nothing but torch lights and an expert guide in Stephen. Glow worms and fern trees in their most organic form.
Best way to see glow worms.
Tara M,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fascinating tour. Stephen is a very knowledgeable and interesting guide. Do check the comms direct from Real Rotorua for your pick up info as due to sunset times it might not be what Viator says. The tour will leave you spell bound. It’s jaw dropping!
Great guide, big experience, loved it
Q4390ATstephanieb,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We loved stephen, very enthusiastic & informativ about what He is doing, not only the Glowworms but also the flora & Fauna. We were rewarded with great pictures that He took, absolute recommendation
Glow worms, wallabies and possums
Kate J,,Jan 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Was a nice experience and Stephen really knew a lot about glow worms, but also about volcanoes and all animals in the woods. Wasn’t borrowed 1 second
Outstanding, very...
robbie H,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Outstanding, very knowledgeable guide, marred by 45mins late at pickup, and no communication. Otherwise great
A Magical and Unique Family Experience with Glowworms in Rotorua
B113YVannac,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did a glowworm tour in Rotorua as a family and it was absolutely fantastic. Stephen, our guide, was amazing! He provided gumboots and rain jackets for us, was incredibly knowledgeable, and shared lots of interesting information throughout the tour. He also gave us great tips on how to take beautiful photos. The tour felt very intimate and personal, not rushed or crowded at all, and it was truly something different from the usual tourist activities. A unique and memorable experience for our whole family. Highly recommended!
Great Experience.
Lee and Claire T,,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely brilliant. Highly recommended. Lots of fun. Good shoes are a great idea as you are walking through the forest. Excellent photo opportunities as well.
Magical experience
lowy3,,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thanks for a really great experience. Steven's knowledge of the local area is extensive and he cheerfully answered all our questions on what was an informative, and at some points, storybook magical, tour of the forest. Haven't seen another tour where you can get as up-close and personal with the amazing little glow worms. Also commend real rotorua tours for taking only small groups and being super sensitive to their impact on the forest and the communities that live nearby. Others should follow their example. Highly recommend - you will not be disappointed.
From NZ$125.00
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Operated by Real Rotorua