Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Experience a mysterious underground world of rushing water before drifting in silent darkness beneath the luminous shimmer of hundreds of glowworms.

Your trip to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves begins with a cruise to the western shores of Lake Te Anau on one of our purpose-built scenic cruise vessels.

At the entry to the caves at Cavern House, view the informative displays and learn about this geological wonder before you join your guide underground. On the tour of the caves, our friendly guides will point out the highlights and share their knowledge of the caves and its history.

This underground world is astonishingly beautiful. By geological standards the caves are very young (12,000 years) and are still being carved out by the force of the river that flows through them. The result is a twisting network of limestone passages filled with sculpted rock, whirlpools and a roaring underground waterfall.

Deep inside the caves, beyond the roar of the water, you will be taken by small boat into a silent hidden grotto inhabited by thousands of glowworms, unique to New Zealand. In the subterranean darkness, they produce a glittering display that is nothing short of extraordinary.

*Note: Some bending is required at the caves entrance and steps are involved.

Special Notes

• Cruise across Lake Te Anau
• Guided tour of the caves by path and by small boat
• Unlimited hot drinks
• Optional short guided forest experience to learn about the unique flora of the region
• Trip can be done during the day or night
• Wonderful family trip, suitable for all ages with the exception of infants

Infants

We do advise against infants travelling on this tour as there is a 20 minute segment when we require silence in the caves so that we do not disturb the glow worms and other passengers experience. During this time you will be in total darkness, so we leave it to the parents discretion if they think their child will be comfortable to be quiet in these conditions.

Trip Plan

Tour Length: 2.25 hours

Minimum Number: From 1 person. If you would like to book a group charter, please contact us for a quote.

Itinerary:

Departure times:

• 10:15
• 14:00
• 19:00

What to Bring: For the most enjoyable experience, we recommend that you bring:

• Non-slip shoes/boots
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm sweater/fleece jacket (It’s always cold in the cave 8 - 12ºC)
• Sunscreen/ sunglasses
• Insect repellent and camera.

*Note: Photography and video filming are NOT permitted inside the cave

Tour Cost

$119.00 NZD / person
$59.00 NZD / Child up to 14 years old (free for ages 5 and under)