Deep within the North Island of New Zealand, lies the Waitomo Glowworm Cave. If the word “glowworm” gives you the creeps, you might think differently when you look at a picture of the place. Those glowworms that give the cave its name essentially turn the place into an indoor starry night sky. Here is why and how you should make your way to the NZ Waikato region and visit this place as soon as you possibly can.
The Bioluminescent Magic of the Glowworm Grotto
The glowworms that we mentioned earlier are teeny tiny little bioluminescent worms that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Think fireflies, only wingless and squirmy. And in New Zealand. They live their happy little lives on the walls of this cave while emitting a soft glow that looks like millions of little LEDs. The Glowworm Grotto is a section of the cave system and where you can witness these little creatures firsthand. So, how do you visit this place? We’re happy you asked. Here are the essentials you need to know:
Choose the Right Tour
Such a unique place won’t just be waiting for every Tom, Dick, and Harry to just waltz in there and do as they please. There are guided boat tours that will take you into the caves and give you all the information about this one-of-a-kind phenomenon. There is even a tour that offers the experience of silently gazing at this indoor starry night.
Prepare Yourself for the Adventure
Caves can be very cold and very damp, especially when there is water running through them, which is exactly the case with the Waitomo Cave. Dress for the occasion with something warm and insulating as well as comfortable shoes. The tour operating the boat ride will have life vests and other professional gear for you.
Once You’re on the Boat
The guide leading you through this magical wonderland will have answers to all of your questions about the place and will happily tell you all there is to know about the local geology and ecosystem. Once you arrive at the Glowworm Grotto, though, it is advised to be silent and take in the breathtaking sight without disrupting the nature around you.
Document for Prosperity
It’s not every day that you get to visit a place such as the Waitomo Cave, so if you are even a little bit human, you are going to want to take lots and lots of pictures. Bear in mind, though, that flash photography is not allowed inside, for obvious reasons. What you can do to have a tangible memento of the experience is use the professional photos that some tour operators offer for purchase.