Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Te Anau Glowworm Caves offer one of the most unique and magical experiences in New Zealand. Situated just a short boat ride from Te Anau, these caves are home to thousands of glowworms, whose bioluminescent glow illuminates the dark cavern walls, creating an enchanting spectacle. As visitors glide silently through the caves by boat, the glowworms’ ethereal blue light sparkles above, making the experience feel like something from a dream. The caves are formed by a network of limestone passages, and as you explore, you'll also learn about the fascinating history and ecosystem of this underground world. It's a must-see natural wonder for anyone visiting Te Anau.

The Basics

The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are located on the shores of Lake Te Anau, only a 15-minute boat ride from the town. The cave system is part of a larger network of limestone caves that have been shaped by millions of years of natural processes. The glowworms inside these caves are a species native to New Zealand, creating the mesmerizing display of blue-green light. Guided tours are available, where visitors can learn about the cave’s geology, the life cycle of glowworms, and the conservation efforts in place to protect the area. Tours usually last around 1 to 1.5 hours.

Things to Know Before You Go

Before heading to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, there are a few important things to keep in mind. The caves can be damp and cool, so be sure to wear warm, comfortable clothing. Because the tours are boat-based, it’s important to note that the tours are weather-dependent. Rain can sometimes affect access to the caves, so it's advisable to check the forecast before booking. Flash photography is prohibited inside the caves to protect the glowworms, so make sure to enjoy the experience through your eyes rather than a camera lens. Children under five are not permitted on the cave tours for safety reasons.

How to Get There

The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are located just 10 minutes from the center of Te Anau by boat. Tour operators provide transportation across Lake Te Anau, where you’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride before reaching the caves. The tour departs from the Te Anau town wharf, and the boat ride to the caves offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. Once you arrive at the caves, a guided tour will take you through the illuminated underground world. As the caves are only accessible by boat, the tours are organized through local operators, so booking ahead is recommended.

When to Get There

The best time to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves is year-round, as the glowworms are present no matter the season. However, the summer months (December to February) offer warmer temperatures and longer days, making for a more comfortable experience overall. For those seeking a quieter time to visit, the off-season (March to November) is a good option, with fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere in the caves. Keep in mind that the tours run all year, and they are weather-dependent, so it's always a good idea to book in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons

Day Trips from Te Anau

Visiting the Te Anau Glowworm Caves is a perfect half-day activity for anyone staying in Te Anau. Most tours depart from the town wharf and include the boat ride to the caves, a guided tour through the caves, and return to Te Anau. If you are on a tight schedule, this is an ideal way to experience the magical glowworm phenomenon in just a few hours. There are also combination tours available that include other nearby attractions such as the Fiordland National Park or Lake Te Anau. For a more immersive experience, consider pairing your cave visit with a scenic cruise or a nature walk around Te Anau’s stunning lakefront.