Overview
Available languages
45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Be amazed by the thousands of magical glowworms above on this 45-minute 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.
Additional Info
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
What To Expect
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.
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Waitomo Glowworm Cave
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.
WGC 01 October 2026-30 Sept27
What‘s Included
Local guide
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
1,181 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Absolutely amazing experience
Y9373UTrichardh,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing experience. A must-see for anyone visiting NZ
Waitomo cave encounter
561jannew,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00We were a group of nine fit adults in our 70s. The tour was amazing and we appreciated the safety features such as good handrails on the steps. Our guide was very kind and thoughtful but we all found him very difficult to hear. Whilst we understand the need for quiet and respect for the surroundings, we felt we missed a lot of the interesting facts we were being told. Otherwise, it was awesome.
Exceeded our expectations and was great.
LandC46,Jun 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thoroughly enjoyable,splendidly presented, and enhanced by the good humor and skill of our guide. We arrived well before our pre-booked tour and the lovely ticket clerk offered to arrange an earlier tour rather than us having to wait. We didn’t share the views of those who have criticized the tour for spending too long on the background - it was interesting and well pitched at all age groups. The time in the boat was simply spellbinding. On a practical side: yes, it is a little chilly, you do need to be able to do a few stairs though can take your time, and you should leave bulky bags behind. Of course if you can’t exist without filming or taking photos and therefore make that a basis for a negative review then words fail me!
Magical Experience for the Whole Family!
Sarah M,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We just got back from the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and wow, it was absolutely magical! This was a highlight of our NZ trip with kids. The staff were so friendly and patient, especially with our little ones. They explained everything clearly and made us feel safe the whole time. The boat ride through the glowworm grotto was like stepping into another world. Thousands of tiny “stars” glowing above us,.my kids couldn’t stop whispering “wow”. Boat ride + cave tour was perfect for families. Not too scary, not too long, just the right amount of adventure. Definitely worth booking in advance because it gets busy! If you’re visiting New Zealand with kids, don’t miss this. We left with huge smiles and core memories.
Great experience
Tara B,May 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00They were so accommodating when I was running late, the tour was stunning - only negative was other tourists speaking when asked to be quiet but the guides did repeatedly ask them to stop.
God’s Grace even in the darkest place
Sightseer46321475227,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00The glowworm cave is amazing. I can only praise God for all the great things He had done.
The waitomo caves are...
Meenakshi M,May 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00The waitomo caves are nice, although I would maybe try somewhere closer to Rotorua next time. The drive was a bit far.
Well worth the trip from Sydney!
kwY622SJ,May 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fabulous!! It was superb! Ethereal - looking at the glow worms in the dark. Delta Dawn was terrific in the Banquet Room -Cathedral 😍
Goated tour 🔥
Sightsee62455904352,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ocean is a great tour guide. He has nice sense of humor
Cool Glow Worms.
MTC1462,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour of the Waitomo glow worm caves. Our guide was very knowledgeable. The boat ride through the cave was beautiful. It was fun, educational and awe-inspiring. A Must Do!
Related Experiences
Operated by THL - Waitomo Caves Group