Te Anau Glow Worm Caves: A Journey Into Light and Darkness

From $145.00 NZD Per Adult

Explore the enchanting Glow Worm Caves Te Anau, a half-day adventure combining a serene Lake Te Anau cruise with a guided underground cave tour. Drift through twisting limestone passages and a glowworm-lit grotto while learning about the region’s geology, wildlife, and history.

The experience

From Lake to Luminance — Glow Worm Caves Te Anau

Step into one of New Zealand’s most enchanting natural wonders with the Glow Worm Caves Te Anau — a half-day guided adventure that takes you from the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau to a magical underground world. Travel across the pristine lake to the remote western shores, explore twisting limestone passages, and drift silently through a grotto illuminated by thousands of glowing worms. With expert guides sharing the region’s geology, history, and secrets, this unique experience offers a perfect blend of serene scenery and unforgettable underground adventure.

Highlights

  • Scenic cruise across the pristine waters of Lake Te Anau
  • Guided cave tour featuring twisting limestone passages and an underground waterfall
  • Drift through a magical glowworm grotto in complete darkness
  • Learn about the caves’ 12,000-year history and remarkable rock formations
  • Informative commentary from experienced guides at Cavern House visitor centre
  • Suitable for families, couples, and all nature enthusiasts
  • Moderate mobility required for cave walkways and low-light conditions
  • Self-drive access: 2.5 hours from Queenstown, 5 hours from Dunedin

Tour Details

  • Duration: 2 hours (including cruise and cave tour)
  • Departure Point: Te Anau lakefront

Supplier: Real NZ

The highlights

The details

Duration
DURATION: 2.25 HRS
TIME OF TOUR: 9 AM / 11:30 AM/ 2 PM / 3.15 PM / 4:30 PM / 5.45 PM/ 7 PM / 8.15 PM
Check In
Check In closes 30 minutes prior to departure time.
Location: RealNZ Visitor Centre, 85 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau.
Transport
No - Self drive only - Te Anau is about a 2.5 hour drive from Queenstown.

Additional Inclusions
N/A

The restrictions

Physical
Walking on, off and around the Glow Worm cave and boat.
Accessibility
Individuals using wheelchairs may face challenges participating in this activity and is not recommended.
Pregnancy & Babies
Not suitable for pregnant women.
Children
Children must accompany a paying adult on this tour.

The common questions

No – you can not use cameras in the cave.
Dress for the weather, enclosed footwear is a must.
Keep your belongings with you on board the ship.
All trips operate dependent on weather, river level.
Our standard cancellation policy of written notice 48 hours prior for full refund applies for this activity. For more information please refer to our terms and conditions.

Book Experience

  • February 2026
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