Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

Sail through an underground wonder on a tranquil boat ride beneath thousands of glowworms on a 45-minute tour of Waitomo Glowworm Cave, guided by an expert guide and surrounded by the cave’s beauty.

Getting started

Your ticket includes a 45-minute guided tour of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Arrive 30-minutes earlier to check in and meet your group before following your guide into the cave.

What to expect

• Towering Kahikatea canopy: Kick off your adventure zipping between 100-year-old native trees, surrounded by sweeping views of Waitomo’s limestone hills.

• Building the thrill: Ease in with shorter, gentler lines before graduating to longer, faster rides, hitting speeds of up to 80 km/h.

• Stories of the land: Learn Māori legends and local history from guides whose knowledge and passion bring the landscape to life.

• Show-stopping finale: Conquer the 280m signature zipline, soaring over the Waitomo Caves with panoramic views you’ll never forget.

• Guided every step: Relax knowing expert guides handle your safety gear, offer tips, and capture the highlights along the way.

• After the ride: Return to base buzzing with adrenaline, ready to share epic photos and stories from your high-flying Waitomo adventure.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Wear non-slip shoes as the cave floors are wet and slippery.

• Bring a warm jacket as the temperature of the cave can be cool.

• When you visit, make sure you've got a credit card or your phone set up for contactless payments (like Apple Pay or Google Pay).

What's not allowed

• Photography and videography are strictly prohibited in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

• Smoking, food, drink or litter are not allowed inside the cave.

• Pets are not allowed inside the cave.

Accessibility

• This experience is suitable for guests with reasonable mobility, with well-maintained paths and sturdy handrails throughout. However, it is not accessible for wheelchairs or prams/strollers.