Waitomo , New Zealand

Okohua Glowworm Cave Adventure

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(4 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Waitomo’s hidden glowworm cave on a private, premium tour. As the exclusive operator of the stunning Okohua Glowworm Cave, we offer a small group adventure like no other. Float in tubes along an underground river beneath thousands of glowworms, explore caverns with breathtaking formations found only in the Okohua Glowworm Cave, wade through crystal clear pools and discover small underground waterfalls. Expert guides provide top of the line caving equipment and share their knowledge along the way. After emerging, enjoy a peaceful bush walk back to base and unwind in a cedar hot tub overlooking native forest and farmland. With maximum 6 guests per tour, this eco friendly experience delivers an intimate, adventurous, and unforgettable journey beneath Waitomo’s magical surface.

Available options

Okohua Glowworm Cave Adventure

What's included

Black water rafting ( Tubing )

Use of equipment (tubes, high quality wetsuits, boots, and helmets)

Three-hour adventure

Rock Jump (non compulsory)

Cedar hot tub relaxation post tour

Snacks

Hot Showers

Highly trained guides

Amazing Glowworm displays

Wi-Fi at the base building

Photos & Videos

What's not included

Towels

Swimwear

Socks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

We cannot take any travelers under 45kg

Minimum age is 12 years old

We recommend that you feel comfortable in water

We cannot take anyone over 120kg

Meeting point

The Waitomo Experience is located a short 10 minute drive from Waitomo Village.
Boddies Road is a narrow, gravel road, so drive carefully.
You will see a big Waitomo Experience sign with an arrow when you arrive.

Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in for your tour.

Important notes

Arrival Instructions:

Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in for your activity.

The Waitomo Experience HQ is located a short 10 minute drive from Waitomo Village.

Boddies Road is a narrow, gravel road, so drive carefully, especially in wet conditions. Ensure you drive to the left hand side of the road and do not cut corners.

• If using Google Maps, enter “754 Boddies Rd, RD1, Te Kuiti 3981” for navigation.
• Mobile reception may be limited in some areas, so it’s a good idea to download the map offline.

You will see a big Waitomo Experience sign with an arrow when you arrive. Follow the signs to the cave building where you will check in before your trip.

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.