Lake Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Underground caves with a glowworm grotto accessible by boat across Lake Te Anau, offering a unique natural experience with bioluminescent displays. It's a must-do evening activity and showcases an otherworldly Fiordland phenomenon.

Things to do

• Glowworm Grotto Boat Tour — Take a guided boat across Lake Te Anau to the caves, then walk into the grotto to see thousands of glowworms creating a starlit effect on the ceiling.
• Lake Te Anau Scenic Cruise — Experience a full lake crossing with views of Fiordland's mountains, forests, and wildlife before entering the cave system.
• Underground Cave Exploration — Navigate the limestone passages and chambers, learning about cave geology and the unique ecosystem that supports glowworms.
• Glowworm Photography Viewing — Observe and photograph the bioluminescent displays in darkness, with guides explaining the glowworm lifecycle and light-producing biology.
• Te Anau Lakefront Walking — Stroll along Te Anau village's waterfront before or after your cave tour to spot native birds and enjoy mountain vistas.
• Fiordland Nature Discovery Centre Visit — Learn about local conservation efforts and native species in the region at this educational facility near the departure point.

Food to try

• Green-lipped Mussel — A local New Zealand delicacy served fresh or cooked, commonly found in Te Anau restaurants and reflecting the country's coastal seafood culture.
• Venison Steak — Wild venison sourced from Fiordland farms is a regional specialty, often served with local berry sauces in Te Anau dining establishments.
• Whitebait Fritter — Tiny native fish are lightly battered and fried into a delicate seasonal dish, a Fiordland and West Coast tradition when in season.
• Crayfish (Koura) Tail — Fresh freshwater crayfish from Lake Te Anau are grilled or steamed and considered a premium local catch and delicacy.
• Fiordland Trout — Lake-caught rainbow and brown trout are prepared fresh at local restaurants, showcasing the region's pristine freshwater fishing heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Darkness and Quiet in Caves — The glowworms are sensitive to light and noise; visitors must follow guide instructions strictly, avoid flash photography, and maintain silence to protect the delicate ecosystem.
• Maori Heritage Connection — The caves and lake hold significance in Maori culture; guides often share local iwi perspectives and stories, and respectful listening honors this heritage.
• Weather-Dependent Access — Lake conditions can be unpredictable in Fiordland; tours may be cancelled or delayed due to wind and rain, so plan flexibility into your itinerary.
• Evening Tour Timing — Tours operate in evening hours when glowworms are most active and visible; book in advance during peak season and arrive early for check-in.

Nearby

• Te Anau — 2 km
• Mossbrae Falls (Southland) — 7 km
• Kepler Track — 8 km
• Lake Manapouri — 9 km