Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The fascinating Te Anau caves system on the western shore of Lake Te Anau offers an underground adventure that charms visitors of all ages. This tour takes you to a mysterious underground world of rushing water before drifting in silent darkness beneath the luminous shimmer of thousands of glowworms.
Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in.
Available options
Glowworms - Te Anau Departure
What's included
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
Lake cruise on Lake Te Anau
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
View glittering glowworms in an underground cave system.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Take a scenic cruise across beautiful Lake Te Anau on the luxury catamaran Luminosa to Cavern House on the lake's western shores.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
482 reviews
5★
330
4★
96
3★
32
2★
11
1★
13
Tripadvisor
4.4
433 reviews
5★
291
4★
85
3★
29
2★
10
1★
18
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children aged 0-15 must be booked with at least one adult.
Meeting point
Please arrive at the RealNZ Visitor Centre, 85 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Important notes
Departure Point: 85 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau. Please check in 30 minutes prior to departure.
About Te Anau
Te Anau is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the second-largest freshwater lake in New Zealand. It serves as the gateway to Fiordland National Park and its stunning fiords, including the famous Milford Sound. The town is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and the enchanting glowworm caves.
Top Attractions
Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand's most iconic natural areas, home to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and numerous hiking trails. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Nature
Half day to multi-day
Free to enter, but tours and activities have fees
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
These caves are famous for their glowworms, which create a magical, star-like effect on the cave ceilings. The caves are accessible only by guided boat tour and walking tour.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate
Lake Te Anau
The second-largest freshwater lake in New Zealand, Lake Te Anau offers stunning views, kayaking, and boat tours. The lake is part of the Fiordland National Park and is surrounded by lush forests and mountains.
Nature
Varies
Free to explore, tours have fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Seafood
Te Anau is known for its fresh seafood, including salmon, trout, and whitebait. Dishes often feature locally sourced ingredients.
Dinner
May contain allergens like shellfish
Lamb
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its quality and flavor, often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Boating
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Photography
Local crafts
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season, offering the warmest weather and the most daylight hours. It's ideal for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the fiords. However, it's also the busiest time of year.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Te Anau is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, visitors should always take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when hiking alone
- • Check weather conditions before outdoor activities
Getting there
By air
- Invercargill Airport • 100 km (62 miles)
- Queenstown Airport • 170 km (105 miles)
By bus
Te Anau Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public transport options are limited in Te Anau. Local shuttle services are available for specific routes and tours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Limited app availability
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Te Anau Town Center
Lakefront Area
Day trips
Milford Sound
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most famous attractions, known for its stunning fiord, waterfalls, and wildlife. It's a must-visit for nature lovers.
Doubtful Sound
150 km (93 miles) • Full day or overnight
Doubtful Sound is a lesser-known but equally stunning fiord, offering a more remote and tranquil experience compared to Milford Sound.
Festivals
Fiordland Jazz Festival • March
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Be prepared for rain and cool temperatures, even in summer
- Rent a car for flexibility and to explore the surrounding area
- Visit the glowworm caves for a magical experience
- Take a boat tour of Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound for stunning views and wildlife spotting
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
