Experience two of the North Island’s most magical natural wonders in one seamless full-day journey. This private tour combines the serenity of an ancient native forest with the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand’s world-famous glowworm caves — all while travelling through the country’s rolling green farmland, picturesque valleys, and scenic rural landscapes.
Larger groups pay less per person.
In demand: 6 of the next 30 departures are already sold out.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 14.
The Glow worm known as Arachnocampa Luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light as your expert guide will provide information on the Cave’s historical and geological significance. The caves were formed over 30 million years ago and comprises 2 levels. The upper level is dry and includes the entrance to the caves and formations known as the Catacombs. On the lower level are stream passages and the Cathedral, walk from the upper level to a 45 minutes boat journey through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Walk through the majestic Cathedral Cove famous for its acoustics. Your return journey would be through The Waikato farming region with the different animals that you would see along the way, partly following New Zealand’s longest river. Drop off: Your trip will conclude at your hotel or cruise ship between 6:00pm to 6:30pm depending on weather and traffic conditions.
Ancient Forest Guided Walk The original tour offers visitors the opportunity to step through the pest-proof fence, breathe in the forest air, and be blown away by striking pest-free ancient forest dominated by towering trees and plants including the iconic silver fern. Visitors will learn about conservation in NZ and our amazing flora and fauna and have the chance to climb the 16m tower up into the canopy. Local, expert guides will also help visitors spot wildlife such as kākā, tūī, hihi, korimako kererū, and pōpokotea to name a few.
We pick up from all Auckland CBD Hotels. Airport pick ups available on private and group bookings only, please contact us for further information.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Excurgo comparison of 893 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Waitomo GlowWorm cave & Sanctuary Mountain Ancient Walk Tour lasts about 8 hours. The itinerary has 2 stops.
Prices start at $585 per person for this Auckland experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 6:00 AM.
It can: 6 of the next 30 departures are already sold out, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Yes, pickup is offered. We pick up from all Auckland CBD Hotels. Airport pick ups available on private and group bookings only, please contact us for further information. Pickup points include Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences, M Social Hotel Auckland.
The experience is available in EN.
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 9 travellers can book together.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Specialized infant seats are available
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 2 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Black Car Transfers & Tours.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Kris was a Great tour guide we enjoyed our tour and the Hobbiton movie set was a really a special place to visit. Kris also made some extra stops and we enjoyed those
Hi Richard & Gaylin It was an absolute pleasure having you both on this tour and I am glad that you enjoyed both the attractions. Hope to see you both when you visit New Zealand again
Black car transfers went way beyond for an awesome day of visiting Hobbiton Movie set & Waitomo Cave
Hello Rachael Taylor, We are glad we were able to sort out your entry tickets at short notice, as you are aware we provide exclusive family & small group of friends tour as well as shared group tours. Thank you for your review
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waitomo GlowWorm cave & Sanctuary Mountain Ancient Walk Tour | 8 hours | 5.0 (2) | $585 | |
| Sanctuary Mountain Ancient Forest Walk & Hamilton Gardens Tour | 8h 30min | — | $567 | View |
 Sanctuary Mountain (Mt Maungatautari) & Waitomo Luxury Day tour from Auckland | 8–12 hours | 5.0 (1) | $559 | View |
 Private tour from Auckland - Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Zealong Tea & Kiwi Bird | 10 hours | 5.0 (21) | $573 | View |
 Waitomo Glowworm Caves and North Island Nature Tour from Auckland | 12 hours | — | $200 | View |
 Sanctuary Mountain (Mt Maungatautari) & Hamilton Gardens Day trip from Auckland | 8–12 hours | 5.0 (2) | $413 | View |
 WAITOMO - Twin Caves Discovery - Private Day Tour from Auckland | 10 hours | 5.0 (3) | $445 | View |