Small Group Eco Cave Tours in Waitomo
Highlights & inclusions
1. Select date
September 2026
2. Select participants
What you can expect
Down to Earth (formerly Glowing Adventures) take you into the heart of New Zealand forest and deep into the untouched limestone caves for this very memorable experience. There are over 300 caves in Waitomo, but New Zealand's department of conservation has classified these caves as one of the few of 'international significance', making this a highlight of many visitors trips!
On the Off the Beaten Track tour, your local guide will allow you to slowly make your way through the cave so you are able to immerse yourself fully in this magical environment. The caves have no modifications which makes this tour a real adventure. With no handrails, extra lighting, or paths you will experience the purest form of nature as you clamber over boulders and wade through streams. Once in the caves, you will be in awe of the sparkling constellations of thousands of shining glow worms above.
Location
What you need to know
- A friendly and knowledgeable local guide
- Small intimate group sizes
- Exploration of native New Zealand Forest
- Impressive rock formations and untouched limestone caves
- Spectacular glow worm displays
- Free photos of your adventure
- All equipment needed to explore the caves
- Transport to and from the tour location
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Allow 3 hours (approximately 2 hours in the caves)
- 10:00am & 2:00pm (more times available upon request)
- Departs from 1199 Oparure Road, Te Kūiti, in the Waitomo District.
- Operates daily all year
- Off the Beaten Track tour and Private tour: Maximum group size is 8 and a minimum of 2 people
- Minimum age is 12 years, Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult
- Maximum weight is 120kgs (265lbs)
- Tours require a good level of fitness as you will be required to climb over boulders, walking uphill and be capable of wading through streams with rocks underfoot
- Socks, footwear, thermals and a helmet will all be provided
- Tours require a minimum of two and a maximum of eight participants.
- The minimum age is 12 years.
- Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
- The maximum weight limit is 120 kg.
- Participants need a good level of fitness, as the tour involves walking uphill, climbing over rocks and boulders, and wading through streams.
- This experience is not suitable for guests with mobility difficulties or balance issues
- Changes can be made up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
- Changes are not permitted within 24 hours of the scheduled start time.
- Late arrivals and no-shows are not eligible for a refund.
