Waitomo Boutique Lodge
A beautiful, five star hotel surrounded by picturesque, countryside scenery!
learn more
Bear witness to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring performances by one of it's most miniscule and seemingly unspectacular species!
A surreal sight to behold, ‘glow worms’ are a unique form of larvae who emit a stunning, bluish green glow to attract their prey, and are predominantly found across New Zealand and Australia in humid caves, and in areas of unspoilt woodland near rivers and streams.
Our Pick
Waitomo Caves, New Zealand
Widely regarded as the best destination in the world to see glow worms the Waitomo Caves are located on New Zealand’s North Island, some two hours drive from the capital Auckland.
Situated 150 feet below ground, the limestone caverns feature a complex of rivers, streams and waterfalls, and are home to millions of Arachnocampa luminosa, a unique species of larva found only in New Zealand, who produce a brilliant, blue/green bioluminescence, that is a truly breathtaking display to witness!
From £107.65
book now
Where To Stay To Visit Waitomo Caves
where
JunoHall Backpackers
A highly-rated, affordable hostel situated within walking distance of the Waitomo caves!
learn more
More Stunning Glow Worm Caves
activities
Te Anau Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
Located on New Zealand’s beautiful South Island just over two hours drive from Queenstown.
Read More
Dismals Canyon, Alabama, USA
Situated in Northwest Alabama, this privately-owned, 85-acre park is home to picturesque forests,...
Read More
Great Otway National Park, Australia
Situated in the Australian state of Victoria, some 3 hours drive from Melbourne.
Read More
Nothing Glows Brighter Than A Custom Adventure
We believe in not only ticking off the coolest Bookitlist experiences, but making sure your travels are made unique for YOU. Our travel experts will help you design your next trip according to your exact taste! From bespoke itineraries to unique accommodation choices, let our travel worms spin you up a custom trip today.
Make My TripFaq?
Although glow worms can be seen year round, they prefer warmer temperatures and are therefore usually found in higher numbers during the December through to March in Australia and New Zealand, and May through till the end of June in the USA.
Yes, most caves permit children as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
Yes, though rare, glow worms can be found across the UK, though not in large concentrations such as those found in the caves of NZ and Australia.
With the exception of Great Otway National Park, Australia most glow worm caves can only be explored with a guide or on a group tour.
related entries
Go Ice Caving
Do you dream of visiting a natural ice cave within a glacier?
Go Camping
There can be nothing better than sitting around a campfire, roasting some marshmallows and spending quality time with friends and family.
Go To The Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon rainforest accounts for 20% of the world’s oxygen. If that alone doesn’t blow your mind, the wonders hidden inside this jungle will.
