Waitomo Caves
Waitomo Caves lit by thousands of native glowworms, New Zealand
Waitomo Caves lit by thousands of native glowworms, New Zealand

Waitomo Caves Tours and Tickets

4,988 reviews

With dramatic limestone formations, gigantic stalactites and stalagmites, and a subterranean river, New Zealand's Waitomo Caves hold adventure at every turn. This underground cave system is one of the best places in New Zealand to spot tiny glowworms, and the glittering creatures provide a magical backdrop to the caves' natural wonders.

  • Open daily
  • 39 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Caves, Waikato, 3977

Tours and Tickets to Experience Waitomo Caves

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North Island Categories
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What are people saying about Waitomo Caves

Rachel_B, Nov 2023
Could not recommend more!! 10/10!
We had a fantastic time on our tour! Having them pick us up from our hotel was an amazing touch. The van was very clean and an easy ride through the countryside. Our guide, Brenda, was extremely well knowledgable about New Zealand culture as well as Lord of the Rings trivia and the Waitomo caves! Could not recommend this excursion any more, you won't regret it, even if you're not a hardcore LOTR fan!
Michael_S, Nov 2023
A surreal moment in time
Hobbiton was everything I had hoped it would be. They have done a phenomenal job at recreating what we saw in the movies. The Waitomo caves were also unique and something I don't know if I could have seen anywhere else. This is an activity to remember.
Wendy_H, Oct 2023
Excellent and informative trip
Seeing the Hobbit holes and the commentary from Kelly our driver who looked after us really well we're highlights the day. The lunch was amazing and the Waitomo caves tour was interesting, good tour guide who had an amazing voice when he sang in the caves to demonstrate the sound quality in there. Plenty of glow worms to see that looked like little stars above us.
Donna_T, Oct 2023
Visiting Hobbiton and Glow Worm Cave
This tour was awesome! The guides were knowledgeable, the driver was friendly and helpful, and the bus was clean and comfortable. My favorite part was walking around Hobbiton. The flowers were beautiful and the village was well maintained. Great day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What are Waitomo Caves hours of operation?
A:
Waitomo Caves hours of operation: Open daily. Buy tickets in advance on Viator. If you book with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
People Also Ask
Q:What is the best time of year to visit Waitomo Caves?
A:It doesn’t matter when you visit the Waitomo Caves because the temperature within the caves stays consistent at 53-57°F (12-14°C). However, most people prefer to visit New Zealand’s North Island, where the Waitomo Caves are located, between late spring and early autumn (October–April), when the weather is most pleasant.
Q:How long does it take to go through Waitomo Caves?
A:Tours through the Waitomo Caves are of varying lengths, from less than one hour to several hours. You can take a quick Glowworm Cave tour that lasts just 45 minutes, a half-day black water rafting tour through the caves, or tours that fall somewhere in between.
Q:Can you swim in Waitomo Caves?
A:Yes, you can swim in Waitomo Caves, but it's not generally done as a standalone activity. Some tours of the caves include black water rafting, or tubing along the underground rivers, which may involve some swimming although you will be holding on to a tube so independent swimming isn’t required.
Q:Should you book a Waitomo Caves tour in advance?
A:Yes, it’s a good idea to book a tour of Waitomo Caves in advance if you’re traveling in peak season (December–March) or if you’re in a large group. Advance booking may not always be necessary outside peak season, but it’s advisable to avoid disappointment.
Q:What do you wear to the Waitomo Caves?
A:The Waitomo Caves are a consistent 53-57°F (12-14°C) year-round, so bring a light jacket for most tours, as well as comfortable shoes with some grip that are suitable for uneven or slippery surfaces. Wetsuits are supplied on black water rafting tours, but you’ll need to wear your own swimwear underneath.
Q:Are Waitomo Caves worth it?
A:Yes, most travelers consider a trip to the Waitomo Caves worth the time and cost. It's one of the most popular tourist attractions in the North Island. Visitors to the Waitomo Caves learn about the area's nature, geology, and Māori culture and experience outdoor adventures.