Waitomo Caves Private Tour by Auckland Tour House
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for visitors with average fitness; includes walking on uneven terrain and short nature hikes.
Overview
Discover New Zealand’s glowing underground with Auckland Tour House’s private Waitomo Caves tour. Spend 8-10 hours uncovering glowworm-lit caves and scenic waterfalls in a personalized small-group adventure.
Private Waitomo Caves Tour
$310 PP(Group of 6) • $85 pp Admission Fee • $1349 Tour Price (excludes admission fee)
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About This Adventure
Embark on a personalized 8-10 hour adventure through the enchanting Waitomo region. Explore the breathtaking glowworm-lit caves and marvel at the stunning Marakopa Falls. Ideal for small groups, this private tour offers a unique blend of underground wonders and natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable experience with friends.
Duration
8-10hrs
Personalize Your Tour:
We offer flexible times and plans tailored to you.
Tip to Students:
We offer only private tours for small groups (max 6 students). Travel with your friends and have too much fun! 😀
About
Discover the wonders of the Waitomo region on an extraordinary journey. Experience the mesmerizing glowworms of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, lighting up 30 million years of cave walls. Then, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Marakopa Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by pristine wilderness. With enchanting sights at every stop, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Itinerary
Stop At: Waitomo Glowworm Caves, 39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo Caves 3943 New Zealand
Head underground and be truly amazed by 30 million years worth of cave walls getting lit up by thousands of glow worms! Plus, pick your ideal way to explore the caves in a range of different activities.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Stop At: Marakopa Falls, Te Anga Road, Waitomo Caves New Zealand
Not only explore beauty below ground but above ground too! Head to Marakopa Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by nature! An easy 15-minutes' return Marokopa Falls walk leads to the waterfall’s lower lookout and suitable for people of all abilities
Duration: 1 hour
What's included
Entry/Admission - The Waitomo Glowworm Caves tours
Must know
- Infants must sit on laps
- Infant seats available - No extra cost
- Not wheelchair accessible
Adventure Tips
Book a Small Group
Tours are limited to a maximum of six people, ensuring a quiet, personal experience inside the caves.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Prepare for uneven cave floors and a short nature walk to Marakopa Falls with sturdy, non-slip footwear.
Keep Noise to a Minimum
The glowworm caves are sensitive; keep voices low to preserve the magical ambiance for everyone.
Bring a Light Jacket
Cave temperatures remain cool year-round; a light jacket helps maintain comfort underground.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand glowworms (Arachnocampa luminosa)
- Native forest birds like the tui and fantail
History
The Waitomo Caves have been a significant site for the local Māori people, whose name means 'water passing through a hole.' The caves were first opened for tourism in the early 1900s.
Conservation
Strict measures are in place to minimize human impact on the cave ecosystem, including limiting visitor numbers and prohibiting flash photography to protect glowworms.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Provides grip and support for uneven cave floors and trails.
Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Protects against rain and cool cave temperatures.
spring|fall|winter specific
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment to temperature changes between underground and outdoors.
Camera with Low-Light Capability
Captures the delicate glowworm light and natural beauty without disturbing wildlife.