Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
What‘s Included
Local guide
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Options
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.
Reviews
1,151 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Not worth the drive
Nicolette M,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00The caves are beautiful but you can’t take any photos and it was really over sold on how great it was considering
Exceeded expectations
Joanne L,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00One of the best experiences! I had no expectations just that my son has always wanted to see a cave since he was 2. Our tour guide was very friendly and funny, the history was very interesting. I would go back again. I left feeling cleansed and calm ☺️
Unique trip
Dean B,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Well organised trip worth seeing a unique feature of your visiting the area. Make sure you book in advance people were turning up and there was no availability
Seek other glow-worm experiences
Corrina C,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
2.00First of all, our guide was informative and beautiful [Cup of Tea]. Besides that, we drove for 2 hrs early in the morning to get there, my son was so excited. Arrived at tour desk, staff seemed bored and disinterested. The tour itself lasted no more than 40 minutes and was 90% made up of walking through a limestone cave. We eventually arrived at the glow-worms, hopped in a boat and saw the glow for 5 minutes, and the tour was concluded and had to make our way out. We left with no photos (not allowed) and feeling flat. We then had the rest of the day free as were expecting at least a couple of hours of tour for $200.
one of the highlights of my trip and well worth visiting
helenyE7176NB,Apr 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The glowworm cave was absolutely breathtaking. The moment I got on the boat and looked up, I was amazed to see countless glowworms lighting up the ceiling like a starry sky. It felt almost surreal and incredibly peaceful at the same time. The experience was truly unique and unforgettable.
Amazing experience
Brian J I,Apr 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour guides were amazing, the experience was awesome, and glow worms are awesome!
Great experience
Steve C,Apr 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. Really friendly guide and would definitely recommend the boat trip. Would have loved to have taken photos, but I understand the rule
Glowing Glowing little worms.
Adam B,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a rainy day but we weren't bothered. The venue is well presented and naturally forms into its surroundings. The guides are fun and provide some great light heartedness to the experience. Our kids loved the guided tour and particularly the boat ride. As someone not fond of tight spaces (i am 6'1) i found once you get passed the first few metres there was no issue with space, i just needed to duck for a bit. Well worth the time! Interesting fact was to learn the worms use the same kind of venom as spiders to trap their prey.
Magic!
Shell P,Apr 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is a once in a lifetime experience of pure magic and wonder! It was as though we were in a micro universe with stars shining above us in the caves!
Surprise
Sandy T,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00A different cave experience to any other I have have seen. Thoroughly enjoyed it and the guides were really knowledgeable, friendly and funny. Restaurant could make improvements. Do prep prior to open time and not make customers wait or feel they are rushing you. Could be more choices on menu. Breaky had no plain egg choices, no avocado etc. Gift shop was too expensive. Glow worm pics a little deceiving. Not blueish and not that bright or as many. Are they sick?
From NZ$81.00
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Operated by THL - Waitomo Caves Group