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Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Cave Tour by ExperienceKart - Auckland

Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Cave Tour by ExperienceKart

Aucklandmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

11 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have a moderate fitness level capable of walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs comfortably.

Overview

Journey deep into New Zealand’s Waitomo caves with ExperienceKart’s small group tour. Glide beneath shimmering glowworms and walk through awe-inspiring limestone formations on an unforgettable 11-hour adventure.

Auckland, Auckland

Small Group Tour: Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience

All Ages • 11 Hours

Guided Tour
Photography Tour
Walking Tour

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 11-hour adventure exploring the breathtaking Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the stunning Ruakuri Cave. Glide silently on a boat beneath a canopy of magical glow-worms, marvel at unique rock formations, and experience the incredible acoustics of the Cathedral Cave. This immersive tour promises awe and wonder at nature's beauty.

Discover an ancient world 30 million years in the making and marvel at Mother Nature's light display

Tour Duration

11 hours

Tour Summary

Get the most out of your visit with a package to explore more than just one unforgettable cave at Waitomo in this small group day tour from Auckland. Visiting the Waitomo Glowworm Caves is a must-do experience, with the Arachnocampa Luminosa species of glowworm only found in New Zealand. This most popular combo combines the famous Waitomo glowworm cave with a walking tour of the stunning Ruakuri Cave providing an ultimate Waitomo caving experience.

Tour Highlights

  • Marvel at awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites during the tour of the iconic Glow-worm Caves.
  • Be captivated by thousands of magical glow-worms as you glide silently by boat.
  • Stare up at thousands of glowing glow-worms above you.
  • Walk through the Cathedral Cave and experience the amazing acoustics.
  • Witness the history created over thousands of years.
  • See more glow-worms than you could ever imagine all lit up above your head!
  • Discover Waitomo’s longest underground guided walking tour as you explore the Ruakuri cave.
  • Leave you open-mouthed, awe-struck and humbled by the sheer majesty of nature.
  • Marvel at unique rock formations, subterranean rivers, and thousands of glow-worms.
  • Go deeper into the story as you descend the dramatic spiral entrance.

Journey Inclusions

  • Fully guided return transfers from Auckland.
  • Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD.
  • Complimentary refreshments and water onboard.
  • Complimentary high-speed internet onboard the minibus.
  • A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.
  • Luxurious temperature-controlled transportation in a minibus.
  • Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities.
  • Built-in leisure time, to explore destinations as you wish.

Tour Inclusions

  • Admission to 45 minutes guided experience at Waitomo Glow Worm Cave.
  • Boat ride on an underground stream through the Waitomo Glowworm Cave.
  • Admission to 90 minutes guided experience at Waitomo Ruakuri Cave.

Tour Requirements

  • This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
  • Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.
  • Easy and good fitness level required.
  • You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
  • This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
  • No photography is permitted inside the Waitomo caves, and cameras and Go Pros cannot be taken on the tour.
  • Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave, so bring your camera to click the best shots.
  • No backpacks or large bags allowed in cave due to delicate formations.
  • Please do not touch the formation in the cave as it discoloured easily, please help us protect our cave.

Adventure Tips

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes

Uneven, damp cave floors require good traction and support for walking tours like Ruakuri.

Photography restrictions apply

No cameras are allowed inside the Glowworm Cave to protect delicate formations; bring a camera for Ruakuri Cave photos.

Prepare for cool, humid conditions

Caves maintain a steady temperature around 13°C (55°F); wear layers and bring a light waterproof jacket.

Book Transfers Early

ExperienceKart offers pickups from Auckland CBD; confirm transport in advance to ensure a smooth start.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Glowworms (Arachnocampa luminosa), exclusive to New Zealand caves
  • Native New Zealand long-tailed bats that sometimes inhabit cave entrances

History

Waitomo Caves have been significant to the local Māori community for centuries, who named the area “wai” (water) and “tomo” (hole).

Conservation

Strict visitor limits and no-touch rules protect delicate rock formations and glowworm habitats to preserve these caves for future generations.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Auckland

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Essential for navigating the caves’ uneven and often slippery surfaces.

Layered clothing

Essential

To adapt to stable but cool cave temperatures and variable weather outside.

Small daypack

Useful for carrying water, snacks, and personal items; note large bags are not allowed inside caves.

Water bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated throughout the 11-hour tour is important, especially when walking between sites.