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A cave illuminated by bioluminescent organisms, a person standing in a water stream, and rocky formations. 1
People in helmets and headlamps inside a cave. 2
A cave with a water stream, rocky walls, and a person standing at the entrance. 3
A person in a cave holding a rock. 4
Four people in a grassy field with sheep in the background. 5
By Down to Earth - Waitomo Eco Cave Tours

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
Free cancellation available
Price is NZ$219 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 3h 15m
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation

Overview

  • Escape the crowds and discover a side of Waitomo most visitors never see. Our Off the Beaten Track Glowworm Cave Tour takes place on our private, family-owned farm and is limited to small groups, giving you a relaxed and personal experience from start to finish.

    This is a real cave adventure — you’ll walk, wade through shallow streams, scramble over rocks and explore an incredible natural cave filled with thousands of glowworms. There are no concrete pathways, handrails or big tour groups here.

    We provide all the gear you need, your guide takes complimentary photos along the way, and phones are welcome so you can capture your own memories too.

    Best of all, every visit helps support conservation on our land, including the planting of thousands of native trees.

    Small groups. No crowds. A genuine Waitomo adventure.

    Loved by travellers worldwide, with thousands of glowing 5-star reviews.

Activity location

  • Down to Earth Waitomo - Glowworm Cave Tours
    • 1199 Oparure Road
    • 3985, Waitomo, Waikato Region, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • 1199 Oparure Road
    • 1199 Oparure Road
    • 3985, Te Kūiti, Waikato Region, New Zealand

Check availability

Off the Beaten Track Tour

  • Activity duration is 3 hours and 15 minutes3h 15m
    3h 15m
  • English
Language options: English
Price details
NZ$219.00 x 1 AdultNZ$219.00
Total
Price is NZ$219.00
Until Mon, 31 Aug

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Genuine Kiwi hospitality at its best
  • Inclusions
    See the caves just as nature intended
  • Inclusions
    All caving equipment & warm clothing provided
  • Inclusions
    Adventure photos emailed after your tour
  • Inclusions
    Coffee and/or Tea
  • Inclusions
    Guided by a local with deep knowledge & connection
  • Exclusions
    Pick-up and drop-off services
  • Exclusions
    Public transport (not available in this area)

Know before you book

    • Not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travellers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Not suitable for elderly or those with mobility issues — involves climbing, hills, and wading through streams.
    • Maximum of 8 people per tour.
    • Minimum age is 12 years.
    • Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
    • A reasonable/good level of fitness is required.
    • NO large cameras or tripods. Phones or pocket sized cameras are welcome.
    • Safety First — if flooding means we need to cancel, you’ll receive a full refund.
    • Not recommended for travellers with a low level of fitness

Activity itinerary

Down to Earth Waitomo - Glowworm Cave Tours

  • 3h
  • Admission ticket included
You’ll be underground for about 2 hours, with the entire experience lasting around 3 hours. Here’s how it’s broken down: -We’ll start with about 20 minutes of preparation and safety briefing. -Then, a 10-minute walk to the cave entrance. -Enjoy a 10-15 minute stroll through the stunning New Zealand bush and Mangapu gorge—this is your warm-up. -Explore the caves for just over 2 hours, with glowworm displays along the way. -After the cave, we’ll take a 10-minute walk back through the bush to our office/house. -Feel free to take a little extra time to change and enjoy a well-deserved tea or coffee with some delicious cookies.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Down to Earth Waitomo - Glowworm Cave Tours
    • 1199 Oparure Road
    • 3985, Waitomo, Waikato Region, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    1199 Oparure Road
    • 1199 Oparure Road
    • 3985, Te Kūiti, Waikato Region, New Zealand

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Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. We offer one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Waitomo your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.