Formerly Glowing Adventures. We're now Down to Earth! Learn more...

November through May is our busiest time. As a small, family-run company, we offer just two tours per day—morning and afternoon—and will be booked out every day through this period. To avoid disappointment, please book early. If we’re fully booked online, unfortunately no other options are available.

“Off the Beaten Track” Glow Worm Tour

The Best Eco Caving Adventure in Waitomo, New Zealand

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The Ultimate Highlights

  • Hang out with an awesome local guide.
  • Keep it cozy with small group sizes, maxing out at just 8 fellow adventurers.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through breathtaking native New Zealand forest.
  • Wade through freshwater streams, climb over boulders.
  • Explore unspoiled limestone caves adorned with amazing rock formations.
  • Be captivated by the mesmerizing glow worm displays, a true natural wonder.
  • Don't forget to pack your trusty camera to capture those epic moments.
  • Brace yourself to be utterly amazed and enchanted!

Ready for an adventure like no other? Let's make it happen!

About Our “Off the Beaten Track” Glow Worm Tour

Wondering what to expect? Well, the best way to find out is to peep the two-minute video down at the bottom of this page.

Photograph of bush and cave entrance at Down to Earth

On our “Off the Beaten Track” glow worm tour, our knowledgeable guide will be your tour buddy as you explore the untouched caves right here in Waitomo. We keep things intimate with small groups, maxing out at 8 people, so you can soak in every moment. We're all about taking it slow, savouring the experience, and immersing ourselves in the breath-taking surroundings, including those captivating glow worm displays.

Nature is our guide here. No handrails, no electric lights, no concrete paths—just the raw, unfiltered beauty of the caves. Be ready for some climbing over boulders, tackling hills, and wading through streams with rocks underfoot. So, a moderate level of fitness is required.

  • Plan for a 3-hour adventure, with roughly 2 hours inside the cave system.
  • Groups are super cozy at a max of eight, but we need a minimum of two to get the party started.
  • Minimum age: 12 years. Kiddos under 16 need a parent or guardian by their side.
  • Max weight: 120kgs (265lbs).
  • Make sure to check out our cancellation policy.
  • Heads up, sorry but this tour isn't suited for elderly or mobility-challenged folks. It's all about climbing, hill-hiking, and stream-wading, so a decent fitness level is key.

What We Provide

We've got all your gear covered for this adventure—safety equipment, warm clothing, thermals, a fleece jumper, shorts, boots, socks, and a caving helmet. Plus, we offer shower facilities, hot drinks, and a snack once the tour wraps up.

Bring Your Camera — We’re Selfie Approved!

Cameras are absolutely welcome on our adventures, as long as they fit in your pocket because you'll need those hands free for the adventure. A small digital camera or your trusty phone does the trick. Plus, our guides snap awesome pics of you during the tour, and we'll email them to you afterward for free! If you're a serious shutterbug with some bigger equipment, consider one of our Photography Tours.

Photograph of a Down to Earth guide taking a photo of a tour group

Getting Here

No wheels? No problem! Several companies offer transport to Down to Earth — Eco Tours from nearby spots in the Waitomo district. Check out our FIND US page for all the juicy details. Let's make this eco-caving adventure happen!