Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tours
If you’re looking for amazing things to do in the Waikato region, a visit to the astonishing Waitomo Caves with the experienced and knowledgeable guides of Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tours is a must. This Waikato attraction is also perfect for kids and families, and is sure to delight and astound as you explore this unique underground wonderland.
On a journey through the caves, visitors get to experience the incredible light display of thousands of glowworms, awe-inspiring chambers with fossilised remains of the extinct Moa, and cathedrals under the earth filled with gentle natural light. Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tours with gentle natural light. Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tours depart from the Waitomo Caves village, New Zealands most popular caving destination.
The name Waitomo comes from the Māori language, Wai meaning water and tomo meaning hole or shaft. Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tours are well established and are highly respected as an eco-tour. The guides are continuously setting high standards of service and care for their customers and have been consistently voted as the number one fun activities to do in the Waikato according to TripAdvisor.
Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tours knows that taking time is the essence to be able to make the most of this breathtaking experience. There is no rush on your journey to and inside the caves. You are given ample time to adjust to the darkness so you can fully appreciate the magic of the glow of the spectacle on the cave ceilings. Some photography is allowed, conditions apply.
Experiencing the Waitomo Cave’s extraordinary light show (photo credit: Spellbound)
So what exactly are glowworms? New Zealand glowworms are actually the larvae of the fungal gnat fly. Their scientific name is Arachnocampa Luminosa, a rather magical name for an almost mystical insect. The New Zealand glowworm is closely related to the Australian species though they are larger and have a brighter light. They thrive in habitats all over New Zealand, preferring forests, and damp overhanging stream banks and especially in caves that give them the best habitat of all. The glowworm’s light is created by a chemical reaction called bioluminescence. Glowworms use this light to attract their insect prey as the light in the dark proves to be an irresistible lure. The adult female also can turn on a light to attract a male. What male glowworm could resist the temptation of such a beautiful light?
Glowworms can turn their lights off if there is too much bright light or they are disturbed. Your knowledgeable guides ensure you know exactly how to make this an unforgettable experience and give full instruction during the tour to ensure maximum enjoyment of the most magnificent Waikato tourist attractions. Your tour guide will introduce you to the fascinating life cycle of these amazing creatures along with an insight into the history of the caves’ formation over thousands of years.
New Zealand’s native Arachnocampa Luminosa up-close (photo credit: Spellbound)
So what can you expect from your Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tour? The tours are three and quarter hours long. Each tour group has a maximum of 12 people so you are assured of personalised service. You reach the caves after a short drive through stunning Waikato farmland. Your tour group will explore two caves, one by foot and the other by a river raft. Viewing of the glowworms takes place while on the river raft so you can gaze up to the light filled cave ceilings in the most relaxed way. There are no rapids on the river so the raft journey will be gentle and serene. Refreshments are served during the tour, and you have the option of taking a short scenic walk through farmland if you wish.
Spellbound Glowworm Cave and Tour is an absolute must do on your visit to the Waikato Region. For visitors wanting to travel to Waitomo from Auckland, it couldn’t be simpler. Pick up your Auckland hire car from one of Omega’s two local branches and head south for two and a half hours on state highways 1 then 39.