Tickets for the Waitomo Caves

Tickets for the Waitomo Caves

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4 reviews
Availability & rates
Cancellation Cancellation with conditions

You would like

The visit of an ensemble of magnificent caves where a unique atmosphere reigns
The experience of a boat tour in a cave lit by hundreds of fireflies
The explanations given by your guide on the cave formations and on the history of the region
The singularity, the variety and the rich nature of the natural surroundings

Essential information *

Duration
45 minutes , 2 hours 45 minutes

Opening hours
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

* All details will be sent to you upon reservation.

Description

Be tempted by an underground visit to the heart of the most famous caves in New Zealand!

Hidden deep in the heart of the Waikato region, the Waitomo caves have existed for hundreds of years. Your guided tour will bring you to an ancient cavernous labyrinth consisting of over 250 metres of corridors lined with superb underground landscapes. You will see and observe a number of caves and limestone formations. Admire the deep limestone well called a "Tomo", a cavern called the Cathedral (whose acoustics are famous worldwide) and even a cave nicknamed “the banquet hall”.

The most famous cavern, “the Cave of Glowworms” will treat you to a unique experience as you trail the water: you will float silently under the shining light and glow of hundreds of fireflies suspended to the ceiling and walls of this cave, creating a magical night-time sky deep underground. Throughout your visit, your guide will tell you how these caverns were formed and will explain their discovery by the Maori people.

If you wish, you may opt for an even more complete tour with a visit of the Ruakuri cave (see options). 

Departure place

Options

When you book, you will be asked to choose the duration of your activity: 

  • 45 minutes: a visit of the Waitomo caves only (including the glow worm cave)
  • 2h45: Visit of the Waitomo caves (45 minutes) and the Ruakuri cave (2 hours)
     
  • The Ruakiri Cave offers an even more diverse display including a spiral entry, underwater falls, winding trails, laced limestone and stone, deep crevasses and more! You will also wander along narrow and dimly-lit alleys in the black waters of the Hurunui River

Good to know

  • Availability: every day (excluding exceptional dates)
  • Departure point: Waitomo visitor centre
  • Times: departures every 30 minutes - first bus departure at 9am to 5pm (last departure at 3pm for visits to Waitomo + Ruakuri)
  • You are asked to present yourself to the Visitor Welcome Centre 15 minutes before the tour departure time
     
  • Photographs are forbidden during the Waitomo cave tour 
  • Only the Ruakuri cave is accessible to wheelchair users
  • Please remember to bring good shoes and a warm jacket or vest

Price includes

  • Tour of Waitomo Caves
  • The tour of Ruakuri cave (only for the 2 hour and 45 minute visit or the 3 hours and 30 minute tour)
  • The services and commentary of an expert specialist throughout the tour

Price doesn’t include

  • Transport to the sight
  • Tips (optional)
  • All other extras

Reviews

4

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