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Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour

Explore the amazing scenery of the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Lake Rotomahana on this spectacular guided walking and kayaking tour - your geothermal Rotorua adventure awaits!

Waimangu Valley Tour

The Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour is a spectacular guided journey by foot through the worlds youngest geothermal system, leading you to a unique kayaking tour along the wonderous steaming cliffs of Lake Rotomahana.

This experience is exclusive to Taiao Adventures thanks to Waimangu Valley.

Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour Details

Our steaming cliffs kayak on Lake Rotomahana and walking experience in Waimangu Valley is an incredible exploration into unique geothermal landscapes. Fumaroles, geysers and boiling lakes combined with regenerating native vegetation showcase an amazing natural location where land and water breathe together.

  • The tour begins when your friendly guide picks you up and shuttles you from Rotorua out to the enriching Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

  • You then journey through the heart of the Waimangu Valley, a dynamic volcanic area that stands testament to Rotorua’s amazing geological history.

  • Your knowledgeable guide is available to answer any questions about the unique landscapes, native forest, colourful terraces, and geothermal features.

During the Tour:

  • Your walk will lead you to Lake Rotomahana, where the adventure part of your activity begins.

  • Your guide will provide you with all necessary equipment, then run through safety and basic kayak instruction before you take the helm on the water.

  • From here, you will kayak a short distance before being lost in a spectacular geothermal display of steaming cliffs and colourful landscapes.

  • From your kayak, you will have a unique vantage point and perspective of the raw beauty and power these geysers create.

Guide Insights:

  • Your guide will share the story of the valley along with insight into Maori culture and heritage.

After the Tour:

  • This is an activity you will never forget!

Tours Operate Daily

Pick up & return transfers included from the Rotorua Information Center.

Address: 1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua

Departing times:

  • Summer 12:25pm (Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar)

  • Winter 10:00am (April, May, June, July, Aug, Sept)

Allow 5 hours for the round trip from Rotorua

The kayak tour time on the water is approximately 90 minutes.

Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Kayaking Tour Highlights

  • Spectacular geothermal wonders

  • Includes entrance to Waimangu Volcanic Valley Walk and Bus

  • Perfect for all ages (5 years and over)

  • Small group tours with exclusive lake access (1 guide per 9 kayakers)

  • Beautiful New Zealand Nature (including Weweia Dab Chicks!)

  • Guided Tour: Our expert guides have an in-depth understanding of the geothermal Rotorua landscape and will ensure your walk & kayaking experience is both safe & educational

  • Pick-up & return transfers included from Rotorua Information Centre

  • Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence Award

What to wear and bring

  • Towel

  • Bottled Water

  • A packed lunch if you wish (food is also available for purchase at the Waimangu Cafe)

  • Credit Card/Cash/Eftpos for food and drinks available to purchase from Waimangu Cafe

  • We recommend that you should bring a water proof camera! (These are carried at your own risk)

  • Clothing appropriate for the season, recommendations below

During summer months (November to March)

Exercise type clothing that is quick drying + a warm jumper

During colder months (April to October)

Pants/leggings for your bottom half and a minimum of three layers for your top half (which are preferably thermal, fleece, or wool)

  • Rain jacket if it looks likely to rain

  • Change of clothes (just incase)

  • A smile and sense of adventure!

More Information

  • We recommend that you arrive at least 10 mins prior to the meeting time at the Rotorua Information Centre. Once you meet your guide, you can forget about time altogether!

  • Allow at least 5 hours for the round trip leaving from and returning to Rotorua

  • We will do our best to get in touch well in advance if the weather looks bad, unfortunately sometimes mother nature wins. If our regulations allow us to operate then we will operate.

  • Suitable for all ages 5 years old and above

  • All participants 16 years and under must be supervised by a responsible adult 18 years or over

  • The kayaks are ‘two person sit-on-top kayaks’ a weight limit of 220kg (total per kayak) applies

Why choose our Steaming Cliffs Kayaking Tour?

At Taiao Adventures, we believe in providing experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Our Waimangu Valley Walk & steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour does just that, immersing you in the heart of Rotorua's geothermal marvels.

Feel the thrill of kayaking on geothermal waters while surrounded by Rotorua's unique geothermal scenery. You will experience the magic of the Rotorua geothermal landscape like never before.

Book your Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour with Taiao Adventures today and embark on the geothermal adventure of a lifetime!

Safety Brief

This tour is in an active volcanic and geothermal area with a range of hazardous features such as boiling water and steaming geysers.

The activity of these features has been mild for many years however the operator cannot guarantee your safety in regards to these natural features; participation in the activity is therefore at the participants sole risk.

Prices

Adult: $195
Child: $95

Sustainability Commitment

Taiao Adventures provides authentic, eco-friendly outdoor tours led by grassroots leaders. Our tours explore lakes, glow worm caves, and the Waimangu Valley while prioritising environmental conservation.

We take extra care to preserve the glow worm habitats, consulting with a renowned expert to ensure they are not disturbed by our tours in any way.

Sustainable commitment - sustainable tourism

Guided Tours

All of our tours are personally guided with one of our fun, friendly and professional guides from our team.

These awesome staff members work collaboratively with you in line with our core values to create and deliver the very best experience possible.

Friends of Taiao Adventures

Is this adventure for you?

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or prefer a more relaxed pace, we've got a tour to suit every taste.

Adventure awaits...