Thrilling Whitewater Rafting and Glow Worm Cave Exploration in Wonga Park, Victoria
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good overall fitness, capable of paddling and crawling through caves for several hours comfortably.
Overview
Experience the thrill of rafting the Yarra River’s rapids combined with an unforgettable glow worm cave adventure beneath Wonga Park, Victoria. This six-hour journey blends adrenaline with natural wonders for families and explorers alike.
Whitewater Rafting and Adventure Caving
Ages 10 + • 6 Hours • Paddle through stunning gorges and valleys & explore the depths of the earth
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 6-hour adventure that begins with kayaking through the stunning Yarra River, navigating thrilling rapids and lush landscapes. Then, dive into the depths of unique caves, crawling and climbing through an alien world filled with glow worms and fascinating rock formations. This is adventure caving at its finest!
First up it's kayaking! Next up it's adventure caving!
Duration
6 hours
About
First up it's kayaking!
Your adventure will begin when you meet your guides and the rest of your tour group. You will kit up in your safety equipment and be briefed on how to paddle and steer your kayak before setting out on the beautiful Yarra River.
Paddle through stunning gorges and valleys filled with native bushland and wildlife. As you snake your way down the river you will negotiate the twists and turns of thrilling rapids and fast flowing grade 1-2 white-water.
This kayaking adventure is guaranteed to get the heart pumping and the adrenaline flowing. Great fun for Summer and winter!
For bigger white-water and rapids, we recommend coming along on this kayaking adventure in winter months! The water level is generally much higher and faster flowing with large waves and surging holes! Awesome fun and highly recommended!
Next up it's adventure caving
Get ready to explore the depths of the earth You will wade through subterranean rivers, crawl through some tight squeezes, climb over chasms, slide down boulders and view the beautiful glow worms.
As you venture into the darkness with only your helmet and headtorch, you really do feel like an adventurer. It really is like another world down there. You will spend your time underground exploring the fascinating sights of this alien underground world.
These caves have everything required for a fantastic caving experience. In fact, there are only 5 known caves like this one in Victoria, which makes it quite special. Formed over thousands of years of water erosion, these huge granite boulders jumbled on top of each other make this caving adventure a thrilling experience and houses a unique eco-system of glow worms, cave crickets and fungi amongst other things.
There are multiple exits and entries to the cave system, which enables even the most claustrophobic of people to have an enjoyable time.
Remember this is not your average guided walk-around caving experience- this is adventure caving! You will be crawling on your hands and knees, scrambling over rocks, sliding, navigating some tight spaces, exploring hidden caverns and getting wet and muddy. This adventure can be quite physical but guaranteed it is worth the effort.
Adventure Tips
Wear quick-drying clothing
River rafting can get wet, so dress in layers of moisture-wicking, quick-dry apparel for comfort during both kayaking and caving.
Bring sturdy footwear
Waterproof, grippy shoes are crucial for navigating slippery river rocks and cave floors safely.
Stay hydrated and energized
Pack a water bottle and light snacks to keep energy levels high across the six-hour adventure.
Protect your hands
Consider wearing gloves for the cave section to protect against sharp rocks and assist grip during climbs.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Australian water dragons often sunning on riverside rocks
- Glow worms illuminating dark cave ceilings
History
The Yarra River has long been central to Indigenous Australian life and culture, serving as a vital food source and spiritual site before European settlement.
Conservation
The Adventure Merchants emphasize Leave No Trace principles and work with local conservation groups to protect sensitive river and cave habitats from overuse.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking shoes
Ensures traction and foot protection on wet riverbanks and rocky cave floors.
Lightweight rain jacket
Helps stay dry and warm against unexpected rain during springtime rafting.
spring specific
Headlamp or flashlight with fresh batteries
Essential for visibility during cave exploration.
Quick-dry clothing layers
Keeps you comfortable and dry while transitioning between water and cave environments.
summer specific