Lost World Half Day Waitomo Cave Adventure

The Lost World Half Day Adventure is a dry caving trip, so rain generally does not affect the experience. Unlike some of Waitomo Adventures' wet caving trips, you won't be travelling through the wet sections of the cave system where stream levels can rise after rainfall.

We provide a basic photo service. Our guides take photos on basic cameras and these are provided to clients via internet at no extra charge. However, please be aware that the focus of our activities is on adventure, not photography.

We have found that the flow of these activities becomes disrupted if clients take their own camera gear.
One person’s photographic dream can be at the expense of others in the group who just want to get on with the adventure. There are also safety issues e.g. where loose gear could fall and become damaged or even injure someone.

For all these reasons, no client photography equipment is permitted on any activities. This includes no cameras; no videos; no Go-Pros etc. If you are a professional photographer and really want to take photos with your own gear, then you can talk to us about arranging an exclusive trip for this purpose.

You are welcome to take your camera to the very start of the activity, but will have to leave it behind in the lockers before you head underground. Your understanding and cooperation are much appreciated!

Clients must have basic fitness

• Test 1. be able to complete 45 x 200mm step-ups within 60 seconds
• Test 2. Be able to climb onto a 1m high flat bench with no hand holds and unassisted
• Test 3. Be able to go bush walking or skiing for a day

Important

Tests 1 & 2 may be checked by operator at the time of check-in.
Inability of client to complete tests will result in their removal from trip and forfeiture of ticket price.
We therefore strongly recommend that clients complete these tests prior to booking and again immediately prior to travel

Previous abseiling experience isn't listed as a requirement for the Lost World Half Day Adventure. Your instructor descends alongside you on a separate rope, providing information and reassurance throughout the 100-metre descent. Participants do, however, need to meet the operator's basic fitness requirements before taking part in the adventure.

After reaching the bottom of the Lost World cavern, you'll continue through the underground cave system with your guide. Along the way, look for glowworms and giant flowstone formations before climbing through caverns, across ledges and up ladders, including the 30-metre climb known as the Stairway to Heaven.

Basic fitness is required because the experience involves more than the 100-metre abseil. Once underground, you'll travel through caverns, negotiate ledges and ladders and climb back towards the surface. Participants must meet the operator's physical requirements, which may be checked before the adventure begins.