Waimangu Volcanic Valley Entry & Walk

Explore and discover the geothermal wonderland that is Waimangu Valley Thermal Park near Rotorua. This unique valley was created by the massive volcanic eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886 making it the world’s newest geothermal area. Take an eco-focused nature walk around the valley or choose a more advanced hiking option to enjoy fantastic views over this prehistoric landscape. After your walk you can hop onboard a relaxing boat cruise of Lake Rotomahana to sightsee the unique geothermal activity with full commentary from your skipper.

Learn about the area’s fascinating history, see the colourful volcanic landscape and hear indigenous stories and legends of the area. This iconic New Zealand geothermal attraction features steaming crater lakes, spectacular silica terraces, abundant native flora and fauna and fascinating mineral formations that make it seem like you are exploring another planet.

More info

Inclusions

Waimangu Volcanic Valley Self-Guided Walk

• Self guided walk
• Courtesy return shuttle back to the entrance & between points through the valley
• Visitor Guide Sheets English, Dutch, German, Chinese, Mandarin, Italian, Korean, French, Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, Hebrew, Russian, Slav and Hindi
• In addition basic Fact Sheets in Czech, Hungarian and Swedish
• Waimangu App with visitor guide and augmented reality features

Full Waimangu Experience

• Self guided walk
• Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise – please advise your arrival time when booking so we can check boat availability
• Courtesy return shuttle back to the entrance & between points through the valley
• Visitor Guide Sheets English, Dutch, German, Chinese, Mandarin, Italian, Korean, French, Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, Hebrew, Russian, Slav and Hindi
• In addition basic Fact Sheets in Czech, Hungarian and Swedish
• Waimangu App with visitor guide and augmented reality features

Extras

• Food can be purchased from the Waimangu cafe

Highlights

• Discover the world's youngest geothermal system
• Explore a selection of walking & hiking trails at your own space
• Learn about the Mount Tarawera & Pink and White Terraces
• See unique geothermal activity including the crystal blue Inferno Crater, and Frying Pan Lake, the world’s largest hot spring
• Regenerating native New Zealand wildlife and unique thermally adapted plants
• Multiple New Zealand Eco-Tourism Award winner

Time

Waimangu Volcanic Valley Self-Guided Walk

• Easy walks of varying lengths and duration along crater walkways, mainly downhill and flat, with an optional hike on the Mt Haszard Trail (an uphill bush trail).
• Open from 8.30am daily, last entry 3.30pm

Full Waimangu Experience

• Easy walks of varying lengths along crater walkways, mainly downhill and flat, with an optional easy
• Self-Guided Walk and Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise arrival time - 8.30am (for the 10.25am Boat), 9.30am (for the 11.25am Boat), 11.00am (for the 1.10pm Boat), 12.00pm (for the 2.00pm Boat), 12.45pm (for the 2.50pm Boat) and 1.45pm (for the 3.40pm Boat)

Location

• 587 Waimangu Road, Rotorua, off State Highway 5 (main Rotorua - Taupo highway)
• How to find Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Turn left 14kms south of Rotorua off State Highway 5 (Rotorua Taupo highway) and drive 6kms along Waimangu Road to the entrance and carpark

What To Bring

• Camera
• Rain or sun protection as necessary
• Baby pushchair if needed
• Comfortable clothing
• Good walking shoes with treaded soles recommended
• Hat and Sunglasses
• Drink bottle

Additional Information

• Please note that it will not be possible to use the café facility for eating food brought to Waimangu. If you want to bring your own food to Waimangu then we will organise the use of one of our picnic areas down in the valley.
• The tour provides all visitor material for self guided walks and the boat cruise in French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean and Hebrew.
• The standard walk is easy, mostly downhill, suitable for all ages and fitness levels whereas the advanced hiking is an uphill bush trail
• Some, but not all areas are wheelchair accessible. Shuttle bus and boat require wheelchair users to transfer. Please contact us to discuss requirements.

Booking Information

• Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
• Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
• Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
• For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
• Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control