Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Show Caves

Underworld Adventures

Charleston, New Zealand

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST SHOW CAVES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 96 2026
Underworld Adventures

Limestone cave with stalactites, stalagmites, drapery formations and an underground stream lit by glowworms. Guided tours start with a van and small train through rainforest and a walk up steps, then go on foot through the cave, with an optional inner-tube float out down the river.

Highlights

  • Glowworm-lit cave stream
  • Rainforest train ride
  • Inner-tube river float

Good to know

  • Tours last about four hours
  • Own phones and cameras not allowed
  • Over 100 steps to cave entrance

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  2. Waitomo Glowworm Caves N° 73 Waitomo Glowworm Caves Waitomo Glowworm cave