Available languages
45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Be amazed by the thousands of magical glowworms above on this 45-minute, small group guided tour, as you glide silently by boat in the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Many of the current guides are descendants of the Maori chief who originally explored the cave and can share with you the remarkable history of the area. Guided since the late 1880s, this is the original, iconic New Zealand attraction.
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Bring comfortable waking shoes and a warm jacket
You must check in 30 minutes before the tour departs .
Due to high demand and limited capacity, if you are late or 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
No photography allowed
Not suitable for those who have difficulty navigating stairs
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Local guide
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Discover your moment of magic in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour. Known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions, take a boat ride through the glow worm grotto, marvel at thousands of magical glowworms and become part of over 130 years of cultural and natural history.World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. The glow worm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light as the expert guides provide informative commentary on their historical and geological significance to the region. Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must see for any traveler. Enjoy the world famous boat ride under thousands of magical glowworms and become a part of over 125 years of cultural and natural history. Walk through the majestic Cathedral Cave famous for its spectacular formations and acoustics. Marvel at Mother Nature's light display as you glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Meander underground along the Waitomo River and gaze in silence at the myriad of glow worm lights that make up the Glowworm Grotto. As you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights, you'll immediately experience a serene ambience and be fascinated and intrigued by tiny glowworms that light your way.
Waitomo Glowworm Cave Tour: Be amazed by thousands of magical glowworms above, as you glide silently by boat in the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
906 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Tatje D,
Jul 23, 2025
- Viator
I had heard that this was something we should do but wasn’t really sold on it- I was wrong. It was very well done. Our guide was Tummy. And he was very informative about information and history about the caves. He took his time in showing us the caves and the glow worms. We throughly enjoyed this tour.
Lynette R,
Apr 23, 2025
- Viator
Busy place. Read up on your tour options well before booking. There are three different tours that incorporate each other but time varies. We had the 45 minute tour of just the glow worm cave.
Maria M,
Apr 8, 2025
- Viator
This is an exceptional experience. We had a fantastic guide named George. I would recommend this tour to everyone.
Robert D,
Apr 7, 2025
- Viator
The facility is very well laid out and informative. The tour guides were very knowledgeable, and the caves were paved and easy to negotiate. The staff will allow you to join an earlier tour if you are there early and there is space available. Parking is sufficient.
julie t,
Apr 5, 2025
- Viator
Very informative guide. Really enjoyed the boat ride and all the glowworms. Would recommend this activity.
Operated by THL - Waitomo Caves Group