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Waitomo District
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Waitomo Caves
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Home to a species of glowworms found exclusively in New Zealand, Waitomo Glowworm Caves serve as one of the country's most popular natural landmarks. A magnet for both local and foreign visitors, this attraction offers guided tours through three underground levels linked by long vertical shafts made of limestone. Start at the visitor center, where you can learn about the history of this cave system. Guided tours depart from behind the center and take participants past huge stalactites and stalagmites. As you enter a giant cavern known as "the cathedral" and your eyes gradually adjust to the dim light, prepare to see thousands of tiny glowworms sparkling all around you. Plan my trip to Waitomo Caves with suggested itineraries provided by Inspirock.
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Tours to Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Reviews
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The Waitomo caves comprise a number of very different experiences so study up and pick your tour(s). The Glowworm Cave is very commercial; bus loads of visitors on fairly large groups (around 25-30) a... more »
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Very educational and we got to see the caves before the glow worms. Before going, they do indicate the rules which is no photos. Also during the time in the boat, no loud talking as it would make the ... more »
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One of our favorite experiences in new Zealand by far. Describing experience from the start. We decided to get there about 2 hours early. If you park at the bottom of the hill of the parking lot, there is a lot of shade for your car and a nice walking trail that heads to a lookout point. It takes about 10-15 mins and has quite a few steps to get there but it has a great view once you do. We didn't take the advice of booking ahead of time however I would recommend doing so if you are coming from a decent drive. From what I understand it can get quite busy there. You will travel with approx. 20-30 others in a group with a guide through the caves. Heads up, you are not allowed to take pictures inside the cave. Only once you reach the end of the tour can you snap a few photos and the guide will let you know when it is okay to do so. I recommend bringing a light jacket as the caves aren't too cold but some people did find it so. You will also enter a 15-20 person boat at the bottom of the cave in absolute darkness where you will see thousands of glow worms. You shouldn't really get wet unless you happen to trip and fall in the water... This tour takes about a total of 45 minutes from start to finish. Good for all ages!
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Glow warm caves are one of the major attraction in NZ. There are three caves and need to provide at least 3 hrs. Each one 45 min. One cave with small boat ride gives you feeling of glow warms and that should be enough. Enjoyed neatly maintained as per NZ standards. Visual treat
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