Explore the raw beauty of the world's youngest geothermal site on a self-guided, ecology-focused adventure among the craters of the spectacular Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
Explore the raw beauty of the world's youngest geothermal site on a self-guided, ecology-focused adventure among the craters of the spectacular Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
This exciting geothermal attraction has a very unique ecology with rare botany and plenty of fascinating geothermal features to explore.
See the Hypnotic steam rising from the Echo Crater, marvel at the stunning Frying Pan Lake (the world's largest hot water spring), and take in the beauty and dazzling blue of the Inferno Crater hot lake. The newly forming silica terraces are also a highlight not to be missed.
Waimagu Volcanic Valley is a protected scenic reserve and includes the beautiful Lake Rotomahana. The entire valley is shrouded in pristine native forest providing sanctuary for a wide variety of New Zealand birdlife.
At any stage during your walk, you can jump on board a courtesy shuttle which regularly circles the valley back to the Waimangu Visitor Centre.
There are a range of walking options for all abilities and ambitions including:
Easy Walking
A range of easy, mainly downhill walkways through pristine native bush, teeming with spectacular birdlife and geothermal highlights. Encounter hot pools, steaming volcanic craters, newly forming silica terraces, rare geothermal plants and the multi-coloured rocks of this mysterious and beautiful valley.
Mt Haszard Hiking Trail
If your looking for a bit more of an expedition opt for an invigorating hike along the Mt Haszard Hiking Trail taking you high above the valley floor with superb panoramic views of the unique landscape.
Beginning at the inferno crater the Mt Haszard trail follows parts of the original Waimangu walking route from the early 1900's when visitors came to view the Waimangu Geyser erupting.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley is just 20 minutes South of Rotorua or 40 minutes North of Taupo.
Click here for the Full Day Experience including Lake Rotomahana Cruise
All prices are shown inNZD ($)
Peaceful & natural location. Take time to sit, listen to the birds & bubbling water, then saunter the mostly downhill path to the lake. Get the free bus back to the entrance. Excellent service & friendly staff. Worth the money.
great experience, fascinating place to visit.
It is beautiful but even $50 with the discount was overpriced. I didn't do the boat ride maybe that is the main attraction. If you are going to pay a lot for a volcanic attraction I would recommend a geyser.
The most perfect day to experience this beautiful valley. Stunningly created lookout points. Wide and safe pathways. Plenty of seating to rest, admire the surroundings and just chat with fellow walkers. Rubbish facilities throughout. Immaculate toilet facilities. Super pleasant staff. Fantastic to have the bus service back if you didn't want to return on foot. Totally recommend this experience. Thankyou.
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chantellep9 fromAustralia wrote on 05 November 2025
Well worth the entry fee
Allow a few hours to explore this park, as there’s so much to stop and admire. The colours, the sounds, the amount of life (and the smells). I found it fascinating. I liked how they had it in three sections so that you could catch the bus back early if you didn’t want to walk the full 4km. Well worth the entry fee.