90-Minute Guided Ruakuri Cave Tour Waitomo
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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.
Available options
Ruakuri Cave Tour (25/26)
Ruakuri Cave Tour (2025/2026: For tours from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026
Ruakuri Cave Tour (24/25)
Ruakuri Cave Tour (2024/2025): For tours from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025
What's included
Local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover the spectacular Ruakuri Cave on this 75-minute guided walking tour.
Ruakuri Cave has displays of glowworms and is filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. Points of interest include softly folding shawl-like formations (formed by flowing rivers) and fossilized seashells, which indicate how the caves were once part of the seabed. Major features include Holdens Cavern, named after James Holden who first opened the cave to the public, The Drum Passage, The Pretties, and The Ghost Passage.
Tours depart every day (except Christmas Day) at 9.00am, 10.00am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave. Ruakuri Cave is wheelchair accessible. .
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
60 reviews
5★
53
4★
6
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
70 reviews
5★
55
4★
11
3★
0
2★
1
1★
3
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
All you will need are comfortable 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
Your own transport is required
Stroller/wheelchair width must not exceed 65cm
Meeting point
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Center
Check in here 30 minutes prior to tour departure if you require directions.
Important notes
• 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.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
About Waitomo
Waitomo is renowned for its breathtaking limestone caves and underground waterways. The area is famous for its glowworm grottos, where thousands of bioluminescent glowworms create a mesmerizing starry effect in the cave ceilings. This unique natural phenomenon makes Waitomo a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Top Attractions
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are the most famous attraction in the area. Visitors can take a guided tour through the caves, marveling at the stunning limestone formations and the magical glowworm grottos. The highlight is a boat ride through the underground river, where thousands of glowworms light up the ceiling like a starry night sky.
Nature
1.5 to 2 hours
Moderate
Ruakuri Cave
Ruakuri Cave is another stunning cave system in Waitomo, featuring impressive limestone formations and a unique glowworm experience. The cave is home to the famous 'Spiral Entrance' and offers a variety of tours, including the 'Lost World' adventure tour.
Nature
1.5 to 2.5 hours
Moderate
Pirita Glowworm Cave
Pirita Glowworm Cave is a smaller, more intimate cave system that offers a unique and less crowded glowworm experience. Visitors can enjoy a personal and informative tour with a smaller group, making it a great alternative to the more popular caves.
Nature
1 to 1.5 hours
Moderate
Waitomo Village
The charming Waitomo Village is the heart of the area, offering a mix of local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the quaint streets, learn about the local Maori culture, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the community.
Cultural
1 to 2 hours
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hangi
A traditional Maori feast cooked in an underground earth oven, featuring meats and vegetables with a unique smoky flavor.
Dinner
Contains meat, vegetarian options available
Kiwi Pavlova
A popular New Zealand dessert made with a meringue base, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits like kiwifruit, strawberries, and passionfruit.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains dairy
Whitebait Fritters
A traditional New Zealand snack made with tiny whitebait fish mixed with eggs and flour, then fried into a patty.
Snack
Contains fish and eggs, not suitable for vegetarians
Popular Activities
Caving
Black water rafting
Hiking
Hot pool relaxation
Scenic walks
Cultural experiences
Maori cultural performances
Hangi feasts
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Waitomo, offering warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to explore the caves and enjoy outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded during this period.
20-25°C
68-77°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
Waitomo is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, visitors should still take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night
- • Stay on marked trails when hiking or exploring caves
Getting there
By air
- Hamilton International Airport • 60 km (37 miles)
By bus
Hamilton, Auckland
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available for travel between Waitomo and nearby cities, but within Waitomo itself, public transport is limited. Taxis and rental cars are more convenient for getting around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxi services
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Waitomo Caves
Waitomo Village
Day trips
Hobbiton Movie Set
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
The Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit for fans of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. The set features the iconic hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn, offering a unique and immersive experience.
Rotorua
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland, known for its hot springs, geysers, and Maori cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the geothermal parks, relax in the hot pools, and learn about the local Maori culture.
Festivals
Waitomo Glowworm Festival • January (annual)
Pro tips
- Book cave tours in advance, especially during peak season
- Rent a car for flexibility and convenience in exploring the area
- Try the local cuisine, including hangi and kiwi pavlova
- Visit the Waitomo Village for local shops, cafes, and cultural experiences
- Be prepared for cooler temperatures in the caves, even during summer
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
