Ruakuri Cave & Aranui Cave
Discover two of our top caves for a unique and in-depth exploration of Waitomo's subterranean landscape - Ruakuri Cave and Aranui Cave.
In the Ruakuri Cave you will journey down the spectacular spiral entrance and make your way through unqiue limestone formations and crystal tapestries, while listening to the distant thudner of underground waterfalls. You'll get to see glowworms right up close and personal and learn about their fascinating life while on this 90 minute walking tour. Find out more about Ruakuri Cave here.
Then move on to Aranui Cave, a mystical place that is steeped in Maori myth and legend. Almost every corner of the roof and walls are adorned with fragile, sparkling formations in pale brown, pink and white making it our most delicate and intimate cave system. Find out more about Aranui Cave here.
Photography is permitted on both tours so you can capture the magic of these facinating caves.
Glowworms
Stairs
Wheelchair Access
Photography
Essential Information
Essential Information
- Ruakuri Visitor Centre, Tumutumu Road, Waitomo
- 0800 456 922
- Open daily - Pre-Booking is essential
- caveinfo@waitomo.com
Departure Information
Current Departure times::
Open daily
Pre-bookings are essential - please book in advance
Allow 1 hour for Aranui Cave and 1.5 hours for Ruakuri Cave. Check in 30 minutes prior to tour departure.
Ruakuri Cave - Tours depart from the Ruakuri Visitor Centre on 204 Tumutumu Road, Waitomo Caves
Aranui Cave - Tours departs from the Ruakuri Reserve on Tumutumu Road
Preparation
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Wear a warm jacket
- Bring your camera
Ruakuri Cave is wheelchair friendly, however please note that Aranui Cave does not have wheelchair access. Photography and video are permitted in Ruakuri and Aranui cave so bring your camera.
FAQs
What do I need to bring on the tour? All you will need are comfortable walking shoes, a warm jacket, and a camera.
How long is each tour? Allow 1 hour for the Aranui Cave and 1.5 hours for Ruakuri Cave.
What does a family pass consist of? Two adults and two children.
What is the temperature inside the caves? 16-17 ºC year round