Thermal Path Tour

North Island

Real Rotorua

from

NZ$150

per adult

Book Now

Couple relaxing and laughing in a natural hot spring near Rotorua

Experiences

Hot Springs and Geothermal Attractions

Nature & Wildlife

Hiking & Walking

Family-friendly Tours

Small Group Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Rotorua

Travel Time: 4 hours

Difficulty: 1

Minimum Age: 6

Details

Uncover Rotorua’s Quiet Geothermal Corners

Rotorua’s volcanic landscape is bursting with activity, but not every hot spring or mud pool is marked on the tourist map. The Thermal Path Tour takes you off the beaten track to places like Sulphur Point, Rainbow Mountain, and the bubbling Wai-o-tapu mud pools. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the region’s volcanic past and the science behind its steamy terrain.

This tour is designed for those who want a more relaxed and authentic geothermal experience. With fewer crowds and no rush, you’ll have time to absorb the sounds, scents, and surreal visuals of Rotorua’s raw, natural power. It’s a geothermal journey like no other.

Couple soaking in a hot pool at Waikite Valley near Rotorua with steam rising.

Family enjoying a relaxing soak in an outdoor geothermal pool in Rotorua.

Family on a wooden lookout platform overlooking a steaming geothermal feature in Rotorua

Steam rising from a pale blue geothermal lake with a boardwalk in Rotorua.

Volcanic landscape with green crater lake at Rainbow Mountain near Rotorua.

Geothermal mud pool mid-eruption with steam and flying mud near Rotorua.

Boiling geothermal pool with thick steam clouds and rocky edges in Rotorua.

Steaming waterfall at Kerosene Creek, a natural hot spring stream near Rotorua.

Hand holding a temperature reader showing 77.5°C on geothermal ground in Rotorua

Close-up of white lichen growing among moss in Rotorua’s geothermal area

Group of hikers looking out over the turquoise crater lake at Rainbow Mountain near Rotorua.

Bubbling geothermal mud pool erupting with steam in Rotorua

Aerial view of geothermal valley with steam rising and winding hot streams in Rotorua

Steam rising from an active mud pool surrounded by native bush near Rotorua.

Still geothermal lake reflecting the forest and Mount Tarawera in Rotorua

Family standing on a lookout platform above a steaming geothermal valley in Rotorua

Bare trees rising from a steaming geothermal flat at Waiotapu near Rotorua.

Temperature reading of 41.8°C next to a foot soaking in a natural hot stream in Rotorua

Silhouetted visitors standing in steam on a wooden platform at a Rotorua geothermal site.

Soak, Stroll, and Connect with Nature’s Energy

At Waikite Valley, unwind in natural hot springs surrounded by native bush and steam-filled air—perfect for dipping your toes or sinking into total relaxation. Unlike the busy spa hotspots, these pools are peaceful, scenic, and offer a more intimate connection with nature. Whether you prefer a full-body soak or a gentle foot dip, the tour adapts to your comfort level.

As you stroll between thermal features and scenic lookouts, you’ll get to know Rotorua from a deeper, more grounded perspective. It’s a chance to explore one of New Zealand’s most geologically rich regions while avoiding the crowds. Come away with a new appreciation for the forces bubbling just beneath the surface.