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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.
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 ($)
Real highlights, tips, and the helpful advice straight from Bookme customers who’ve actually done this experience.
Yes it is a walk but it is mostly downhill and an easy stroll. Plus you get a shuttle back. The inferno crater steps certainly aren't steep at all ( was worried it was a steep climb up) at all and the view is worth seeing. The whole experience is an easy walk and so much to see along the way, the views, wildlife, especially at the wetlands area. a few bus stops and bathroom facilities. We didnt book the boat tour but once we got to the lake I wish we had off!!
Easy walk take your time reading all the signs with snippets of history. Fascinating crater lakes and waterways. So interesting. Great to have the shuttle bus back very well organised. The staff were friendly and helpful on reception and the cafe. Highly recommend.
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helendewit from New Zealand wrote on 06 December 2025
Fantastic
Must do!! I have been there three times over the past 4 years and each time the scenery is different!