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.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

Not that cave — the other one!

A hidden gem off the tourist trail and the #1 rated glowworm cave tour in the Waitomo District.

If you're after crowds, handrails and concrete paths… this probably isn’t for you. We’re the other glowworm tour — small groups, big adventure, and none of the tourist trap stuff.

 What makes us glow?
• Glowworms galore!
• Snap away! Phones welcome and we’re proudly selfie-approved 
• Just the right amount of adventure 
• No railings, no footpaths – just pure underground magic
• Hosted by our awesome local guides
• Family-owned, eco-proud – we’ve planted over 8,000 trees
• Complimentary photos, tea, coffee & bikkies
• TripAdvisor’s #1 Rated Tour in Waitomo

This is caving the way it used to be — real, rugged, and unforgettable.
Come and see why so many travellers say: “This was the highlight of our whole New Zealand trip.”

Waitomo - Eco Adventure Glowworm Cave Tour - Off the Beaten Track

We offer two different Blackwater Rafting experiences through the Ruakuri Cave.

The Black Labyrinth is the original, 3-hour Blackwater Rafting tour. You will jump off two small waterfalls (highest is 1.5 meters), float on a tube underneath an impressive display of glowworms and navigate through the cave’s natural streamway. All participants must be at least 12 years old and weigh at least 45kgs. 

The Black Abyss is the ultimate 5-hour Blackwater Rafting tour. Abseil 35 metres into the cave and zipline across a river under a grotto of glowworms. You'll then float on a tube through the caves' natural streamway. All participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh 45kgs.

An average level of fitness and mobility is required for both of our tours. It is important to understand that these tours take you into a completely natural cave environment. Please understand that your guides have final discretion of whether you will be able to participate on our tours.

Black Water Rafting Experience Waitomo Caves Tour

Ruakuri Cave offers a captivating blend of Waitomo's most compelling subterranean experiences. Journey down through the spectacular spiral entrance, and marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries. Hear the distant thunder of the subterranean waterfalls and get up close to the glowworms. Spectacular and unique, Ruakuri Cave offers a captivating blend of Waitomo's most compelling subterranean experiences. In this 2 hours sightseeing tour, your guide will bring you up close to glowworms, elaborate cave formations, underground rivers, myths, legends and sacred Maori sites.

90-Minute Guided Ruakuri Cave Tour Waitomo

Discover New Zealand’s wonders with our Spellbound Glowworm Cave and Explorer Tour. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers a blend of bioluminescence and natural beauty that will captivate you.

Begin your adventure with our expert guide leading you through mesmerizing caves. Learn about fascinating geological formations and history as you marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Step into the enchanting Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms illuminate the cave with their magical light. Enjoy a serene 20-minute boat ride, gazing up at lights resembling a starry night sky. Gain insights into the glowworms' life cycle and ecological significance from your knowledgeable guide.

This unique tour is ideal for those wanting an up-close experience with the glowworms and photography enthusiasts, as there are no restrictions on photos in the caves.

Experience all this as part of a small, intimate group of only 11 guests.

From Auckland: Waitomo Glowworm & Cave Explorer Small Group Tour 

Our knowledgeable guide will escort you through beautiful untouched caves here in the Waitomo district. 

This option is our 

Private Tour which consists of just your party of 2-8 people, plus a guide. We will tailor the tour for your group giving you the ability to move slowly through the caves to enjoy, explore and take in the surroundings, including our mesmerising glow worm displays. 

Come and check out why we are the 

#1 cave tour in Waitomo! 

Our eco-tours are through completely untouched and beautiful New Zealand scenery on our family farm. We are off the beaten track away from the crowds, we 

LOVE it that way and so do our customers! 

Don't forget small pocket-sized cameras are welcome. 

Within a short drive of Waitomo Caves Village and the small towns of Te Kuiti and Otorohanga.

Private Waitomo Glowworm Cave Tours

Discover serenity in the most delicate and intimate of the main caves in Waitomo. Begin your tour with a guided walk through an enchanted forest before discovering the most beautiful collection of decorative formations. Cave has a natural cave entrance and is the smallest and most delicate of Waitomo's three main caves. As a dry cave without a running river through it, it houses very little life past its entrance. Walk through the cave with your guide on this 1-hour tour, with an additional 15-minute guided bush walk. Visit soon to see the richly varied cave formations within close-up view and enjoy an experience you will never forget. Choose from one of seven departure times when you book.

1-Hour Guided Tour of Aranui Cave Waitomo

On our photography tours we provide beautiful natural New Zealand scenery both inside and outside of the glow worm caves, with an experienced guide.

These tours are “private”. That is, your group and your guide will be the only participants on the tour. On photography tours we take a minimum of two and a maximum of four people.

There are excellent photo opportunities, including beautiful glow worms. The cave system is one of only two in the Waitomo district that is classified by New Zealand's Department of Conservation as being of “International Significance”. And it is completely untouched!

On photography tours we allow larger cameras and other equipment like small tripods. And you have the freedom to take a lot more time over your photography than you do on our other tours. Photographing glow worms is challenging, and can take some time. The results though can be spectacular!

3-Hour Private Photography Tour in Waitomo Caves

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our Ruakuri Cave and Otorohanga Kiwi House Tour. Delve into the mesmerizing depths of the Ruakuri Caves, adorned with stunning limestone formations and a dramatic spiral entrance. 
Immerse yourself in a personalized encounter at the Otorohanga Kiwi House, where you'll get up close with native kiwis and explore New Zealand's largest free-flight dome aviary. Enjoy premium transportation, expert guidance, and the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off. This small-group, fully guided tour promises an unforgettable day, seamlessly blending natural wonders with unique experiences. Book now for an enriching journey through the heart of New Zealand's captivating landscapes.

From Auckland: Waitomo Caves and Kiwi House Small Group Tour

Our base in Waitomo Village, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Waitomo Caves, serves as a gateway to extraordinary adventures. Begin your journey by indulging in a moment of relaxation, savoring a cup of coffee and refreshing cold drinks while we guide you through the bike hiring experience.

Indulge your senses as you traverse lush farmlands, tracing the meandering path of babbling creeks and ambling rivers. Lose yourself in pristine forests, alive with the symphony of chirping birds and the whispers of nature. Marvel at glimpses of the Central North Island Mountains and behold valley vistas that will leave you full of wonder.

With every pedal stroke, immerse yourself in the magic that we offer. Let the raw beauty of the land envelop you, igniting your spirit of exploration and leaving an indelible mark on your soul. It’s time to embrace the extraordinary, discover the unheard-of, and become a part of the exceptional experience that we offer.

Waitomo E-bike ride including enchanting bush walk

Discover New Zealand’s wonders with our Spellbound Glowworm Cave and Explorer Tour. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers a blend of bioluminescence and natural beauty that will captivate you.

Begin your adventure with our expert guide leading you through mesmerizing caves. Learn about fascinating geological formations and history as you marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Step into the enchanting Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms illuminate the cave with their magical light. Enjoy a serene 20-minute boat ride, gazing up at lights resembling a starry night sky. Gain insights into the glowworms' life cycle and ecological significance from your knowledgeable guide.

This unique tour is ideal for those wanting an up-close experience with the glowworms and photography enthusiasts, as there are no restrictions on photos in the caves.

Experience all this as part of a small, intimate group of only 11 guests

From Hamilton: Waitomo Glowworm & Cave Explorer Small Group Tour

A journey through the enchanting Ōkahua Glowworm Cave offers a unique blend of exploration and relaxation. Begin at Tumu Tumu Station, where expert guides prepare you for a memorable experience. Traverse the limestone farmland to discover hidden entrances, then float along an underground river illuminated by thousands of glowworms. Marvel at stunning formations as you navigate through tranquil pools and even enjoy a natural rock slide. After your underground adventure, unwind in a cedar hot tub, surrounded by nature’s beauty. With a small group limit of six, this eco-friendly tour ensures a personal touch and an unforgettable experience beneath the surface.

Okohua Glowworm Cave Adventure

Embark on a captivating e-bike journey that takes you from near the world-renowned Waitomo Caves to either past the Hobitt Film Location – Hairy Feet, a magical location that served as a backdrop for scenes in the “Hobbit” film trilogy, or take a slightly longer route continuing along quiet back-country roads.

Both routes culminate at the charming Fat Pigeon Cafe in the quaint village of Piopio. This ride offers an extraordinary blend of scenery alive with sounds and sights, cinematic wonders, and culinary delights.

The well-maintained back-country gravel roads ensure a smooth ride, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil environment. Along the way, you might spot native birdlife and vibrant wildflowers, adding bursts of colour to the lush greenery. 

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, film buff, or foodie, this adventure will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper connection to the heart of Aotearoa-New Zealand.

Bike Rental in Waitomo Caves

Discover the magical landscapes of New Zealand on an eBike ride from the Waitomo Caves to the Otorohanga Kiwi House. Pedal alongside of lush farmland and pass by the serene Waipa River.

Pedal through the lush green valleys of the Waitomo Valley Road
See the iconic Kiwi bird up close at the Otorohanga Kiwi House
Learn about conservation efforts to protect the unique Kiwi bird
Immerse yourself in the heart of Kiwi culture and country life
Enjoy the scenic beauty of Te Rohe Potae, the King Country.

This scenic ride not only offers picturesque views along the Waitomo Valley Road but also immerses you in the heart of Kiwi culture and country life. Pedal through lush green valleys, see sheep and cattle grazing, birdlife and the occasional flock of wild Turkeys as you experience the natural wonders that define this region. 

Discover Otorohanga known as the “Kiwiana Town,” and enjoy its quirky murals and vibrant local culture.

Experiences in Waitomo Caves, New Zealand