Waimangu Hiking Tour: Exploring New Zealand’s Geothermal Landscapes

Discover the stunning geothermal landscapes of New Zealand on a self-guided hiking tour through Waimangu. Explore unique craters, steaming geysers, and picturesque lakes, capturing the beauty on camera.

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Waimangu Volcanic Valley - Check in at the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and pick up your Wanderer Guide. You may also like to download the free Waimangu App.
    Then follow the walking trails through the valley at your own pace. There are a number of different options to take depending on how much time and energy you have. Marvel at the stunning…
What's Included
  • Complimentary Guide Sheet
  • Admission Fee for Self-Guided Walk
  • In-vehicle Air Conditioning
  • Internal Shuttle Bus Access
What's Not Included
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks (available to purchase)
  • Transport to/from attractions
Additional Information

Embark on a self-guided trek through the geothermal terrains of New Zealand with this Waimangu hiking expedition. Traverse along off-beat paths in the Waimangu area, appreciating nature’s wonders such as Frying Pan Lake, Inferno Crater Lake, and Lake Rotomahana. Wander around distinct craters and vaporous geysers, immortalizing the breathtaking…

Location
587 Waimangu Road
Waimangu Road
Come into the Waimangu Visitor Center and see our reception staff
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(226 Ratings)
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Northstar63320866022
Jul 10, 2025
Stunning scenery - Always a lovely walk. The track is well maintained. There is a slip currently at one point but you get to see the best parts before then. The staff are lovely, the bus takes you back up the hill or can pick you up at points on the way.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Danr803
Jul 7, 2025
Really fascinating and beautiful place. - This was our favorite of the Volcanic sites in Rotorua. With the eruption that created it so recent (1886), it gives you a sense of the living changes in the landscape. While Wai-o-tapu had some sites that are unique in New Zealand, this felt more unique in the world. The walk is also quite tranquil and beautiful apart from the interesting story it tells.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jelliot32
Jun 14, 2025
Waimangu magic - We love the geothermal area around Rotorua. There is just nothing like it in Australia. Over a few years have probably visited all the tourist sites in the region and I reckon on favourite is Waimangu volcanic valley. It is an extensive site with lots of spectacular awesome features such as Fryin-pan Lake that but a walk through the valley while referring to the info in our 'Wanderer Guide' provides a great insight into the geological processes that created this awe-inspiring landscape, which was largely created by the great Tarawera eruption of 1886. The fold-out guide is quite comprehensive and is a really valuable reference to have as you come to each of the marked landscape features We did the 3.5 km walk from the park HQ down to the wharf on Lake Rotomahana in 2 hours, waiting half an hour and caught the bus back. We did not do the lake cruise not could we take the side-trek to Mt Haszard as this was closed when we visited. (Otherwise would have definitely done that too.) Interestingly, we read the walk was suitable for those aged 0-64. We are both at least 5 years older than this supposed maximum and did not have any trouubles at all. I'd say any reasonably fit person can do the walk: it is mostly downhill, there are numerous benches to take a breather and you can always catch the bus back.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
I2849lbmartinl
May 27, 2025
A Must-Visit in Rotorua! - The valley offers an incredible walk through geothermal landscapes with steaming vents, hot springs, and the famous Frying Pan Lake—one of the world’s largest hot water springs. The vibrant colors and otherworldly scenery made it feel like stepping into a different world.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Andrew_y
May 9, 2025
Superb valley walk. - The best volcanic experience we have done so far. Beautiful scenery and vegetation; fascinating pools, streams and geysers.
Review provided by Viator
Wanderer718892
Apr 21, 2025
Once in lifetime experience - Amazing view and a rich history of the village and Kiwi bird. If you are allergic to sulphuric stuff bring a mask . Enjoy and have fun . Visit now
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Philwe701mr
Mar 30, 2025
Gentle stroll through earth’s history - Leisurely stroll through terrain that varies from Jurassic Park style overgrown valley to sulphurous springs and a tranquil lake. We took about 3 hours one way and took the bus pack. Some truly dramatic volcanic lakes. Although downhill would not be suitabl3 fo4 anyone with mobility issues. Very peaceful and not crowded
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jellyfishslayer
Mar 3, 2025
Great walk even in the rain - Did this in the rain but still loved it and had a great time. Umbrellas provided free at reception. Lots of different volcanic things to see and then the geyser on the boat trip. Do the whole walk as there’s a free bus back to the visitor centre. You don’t need to do the boat trip but we enjoyed it. The first part of the walk is well signed but the last part after second lot of toilets is confusing as to which route to take. Also keep an eye on the time if you are getting the boat. It’s easy to spend too much on the first half then have to route march to get to the jetty in time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ant_niob391
Feb 23, 2025
Paradise exists - Absolutely fascinating this proposed tour going through some must-see spots of this valley of volcanic formation. The colors of nature explode before our stunned gaze. One of the best moments of my trip through Nkva Zealand!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Rusovarela
Feb 21, 2025
Spectacular - It's a movie place We did the walking tour which is spectacular, it looks like Jurasic Park. What you see and the closeness of what you see is amazing All very well marked and easy to walk We did not take the bus back and it rained all the way, the road itself is easy but it is a good idea to have the bus back
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $44
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).