Self-Guided Geothermal Tour in Orakei Korako
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Join this completely self-guided tour for an extraordinary geothermal experience!
A unique natural geothermal attraction, situated between Rotorua and Taupo. View up close, geysers, mud pools, hot springs, silica terraces, New Zealand's natural bush and a very rare thermal cave. Said to be "Arguably the Best Thermal in New Zealand".
The attraction is a self guided walk of 2.5kms and takes between 1 and 1.5 hours to complete. Open 365 days of the year (including Christmas Day) from 8m through to 4:30pm. A short return ferry trip to the attraction is included and runs on demand.
Additional Info
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park
Orakei Korako boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Up to 23 active natural geysers play freely through the area, which is constantly changing. Marvel at the number of boiling hot springs and the vibrant colours all around you, or take a native bushwalk through this untouched geothermal paradise. The Lonely Planet Guide describes Orakei Korako as "...arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand".
What‘s Included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Return ferry rides on demand
Self guided tour
Food and drinks
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Guide - this tour is completely self-guided
Options
Self-Guided Geothermal Tour in Orakei Korako
Reviews
186 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A great geothermal experience!
O609NHbeckyt,,Feb 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really enjoyed this self guided tour! The signs about the geothermal activity as well as the flora were informative and interesting. The walk was pleasant even in a light mist. We especially enjoyed the peace and quiet, without the crowds at so many places.
Amazing
962raelenej,,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience amazing sites even my 84 year old mother enjoyed it (she was exhausted afterwards-she is fit). Staff were friendly and helpful
Early morning, private tour!!
Voyager48981410324,,Feb 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely loved this, we arrived very early (8:30) because we had a long onward journey. We had the whole place to ourselves! People started arriving as we returned on the ferry! The ferry was cute, a unique way of getting over the lake. The actual attraction was excellent, lots of steps, no good for the infirm or elderly.
Was very nice! The ferry...
Kayla M,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Was very nice! The ferry ride over was quick and easy (and readily available with minimal wait time). Went earlier in the day, was minimal crowds, got up really explore the park in a much more secluded and peaceful environment where we weren’t rushed or bombarded by large crowds of people. Took our time exploring the diff views- there are lots of steps/stairs to navigate, which wasn’t a problem for us (but an older couple on the ferry next to us complained that they didn’t know and that the stairs should be better advertised)
An excellent experience
182suea,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An incredible experience. Such a beauty place and so humbling to see the earth at work! Everything was so well set up and the well laid out paths that had been built blended beautifully and didn’t detract from the main event
Interesting and educational
Jenny D,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Pretty walk - enjoyed info about local plants. Some cool geothermal sites along the way. Loved the mud pots
A magical visit to one of NZ’s premier geothermal parks.
Graham K,,Feb 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Stunning location, even other worldly. Plenty of different viewing platforms to keep you interested. The walk around the site is up steps and down steps so I suggest you need good mobility. Visit not to be missed if you are in the Taupo location especially because the Park was not busy. The staff in the site cafe and crossing the river in the boat very helpful and friendly.
Geothermal activity special, a must do
jvt2017,,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This is a must do. You will see bubbling mud pools and hot water and spectacular sulphur deposits of all colours. Staff are super friendly and helpful. 5 min ferry ride over the prestine lake to the walk. Cafe for a drink and something to eat after under outdoor tables on lake edge.
Thermal walk experience
807darrenp,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Such an amazing walk around this beautiful park , starting with a little boat ride across the lake then 90 min walk up and down around 600 steps
Beautiful
Michelle P,,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Very natural experience. Amazing and well organized venue. Nice to be able to view a natural wonder without cultural views and politics. You can make your own decisions about what you see. Will come back and bring overseas friends
From NZ$57.00
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Operated by Orakei Korako Cave Thermal Park