Summary
Visiting the Glowworm Caves in New Zealand is a magical experience.
“I wish I was a Glow Worm
A glow worm’s never glum.
‘Cus how can you be grumpy when the sun shines out your bum!”
Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
That was the cute sign that we saw during our glowworm tour with Real Journeys in Te Anau, New Zealand. We wanted to experience the captivating glowworm phenomenon while we were traveling through New Zealand, and Te Anau seemed like the perfect destination to do so.
We joined a tour with Real Journeys, a reputable organization that conducts various excursions in the area. They operate a well-coordinated service with competitive pricing.
Our adventure began with a scenic cruise across the stunning Lake Te Anau, departing from the downtown waterfront office in Te Anau town. The cruise provided delightful views of the surrounding Fiord Land National Park.
After about 20 minutes, we arrived on the far side of New Zealand’s second-largest lake, where our knowledgeable guide greeted us and shared fascinating information about the glowworms.
Glowworms Spend Their Lives in Caves
Glowworms remain in their cave habitats throughout their lives, feeding on insects that accidentally wander into the dark depths. These bioluminescent lights attract bugs, which become ensnared in their sticky silk threads, awaiting their demise.
Each glowworm produces hundreds of strands to trap their prey, then descends through the threads to feast on its catch. Our group was small, with only seven participants on our tour of the caves.
We began our exploration with a walk through one of the most remarkable underground cave systems we have ever encountered. The rushing water has sculpted a breathtaking labyrinth of passageways, forming whirlpools, waterfalls, and grand rock formations alongside a robust underground river.
I would hate to fall into that water; it would be a perilous situation from which you might never return!
Upon entering the glowworm caves, we were instructed to refrain from taking photographs to avoid disturbing the delicate creatures. Silence was imperative.
No Photographs and Complete Silence
Any sound or light could potentially cause the glowworms to “turn off,” resulting in us sitting in total darkness instead of enjoying an enchanting starlit display. I didn’t know what to expect but was captivated by the twinkling spectacle unfolding above us.
It truly resembled a clear, starry night sky, with millions of glowworms glimmering on the ceiling, creating a magical ambiance.
Photo Credit – My new life in New Zealand – we borrowed this photo because we didn’t take any. We’re strict about the rules to ensure the glowworms remain undisturbed.
We could see nothing but the glow emitted by the worms, and we had to keep our limbs within the boat at all times. Unexpectedly bumping into a rock or the jagged cave walls could lead to an unfortunate accident.
Our guide pulled the boat along a rope as we gazed up at the amazing view of the glowworms illuminating the dark cave.
We spent around 20 minutes inside the cave, completely satisfied with our glowworm adventure.
The Glowworm Tour
The tour commenced with a 15-minute walk through the cave system to our last stop, where we boarded our boats right above a small waterfall. We carefully climbed in and received repeated instructions regarding our silence and the prohibition on taking photographs.
The glowworms would extinguish their lights if they sensed any threat; therefore, we were gently guided into the darkness by our guide.
Inside the Cave was Dead Quiet
Our boat lacked a motor or paddle. Instead, our guide stood at the front of our vessel, silently pulling us through the cave. Here, the water was still, and the only sound was our breathing. It wasn’t long before we reached a cavern filled with glowworms.
Due to recent heavy rains in Southern New Zealand, many insects had come in, providing an excellent feast for the glowworms. Consequently, they shone brilliantly for us. Little did they know they were captivating an audience; they were merely trying to attract their evening meal.
Photo Credit –Jolanta Sketch – Explore this site for stunning images of glowworms and their enchanting slime.
Glowworms have a brief lifespan of about six months. Once they fulfill their purpose, the larvae metamorphose into flies. The adult fly only lives for a few days, during which it focuses on reproduction.
Interestingly, the fully grown fly does not possess a mouth, as its only goal is to lay eggs. After the eggs are laid, the cycle begins anew, ensuring future generations will continue to enchant visitors to New Zealand for years to come.
About the Glowworm Cave Tour
- Excursions can be arranged in Te Anau at Real Journeys, conveniently located on the waterfront.
- The Glowworm Tour and Scenic Cruise are priced at $67.
- 1 NZD = 0.7 CAD and 0.7 USD.
- 1 NZD = 0.5 Euro and 0.5 British Pound.
Te Anau Caves tour is courtesy of New Zealand Tourism and Real Journeys.
Our journey through New Zealand is proudly sponsored by Flying Kiwi.
