Taupo: Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave Entry Ticket

Waikato, Rotorua



Explore a geothermal wonderland of bubbling mud pools, gushing geysers, boiling hot springs, and beautiful silica terraces. View Ruatapu Cave, one of two thermal caves in the world.

Overview

Orakei Korako is a geothermal park located between Taupo and Rotorua, suitable for families and dog owners interested in natural geothermal features.

Highlights

  • Explore the park featuring mud pools, hot springs, and colorful silica terraces
  • Visit the rare geothermal Ruatapu Cave
  • See up to 23 active natural spurting geysers

Description

Orakei Korako, also known as Hidden Valley, has the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Wander at your own pace through an unspoiled thermal valley surrounded by vibrant colors, bubbling hot springs, mud pools, and erupting geysers.

The park is located in the Taupo Volcanic Zone between Taupo and Rotorua. Visitors start at the visitor center, then take a short ferry ride to access the geothermal area.

Be sure to visit the rare Ruatapu Cave (Sacred Hole), which descends about 35 meters to a clear hot pool below. The park accommodates dogs and offers a suitable day out for all ages.

Includes

  • Entry to Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park
  • Self-guided tour
  • Return ferry rides on demand from the visitor center to the geothermal area

Important Information

  • Open in all weather conditions
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Visitors should have moderate physical fitness
  • Ferry operates on demand from 8am; last departures at 4pm with returns by 5pm

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes and check ferry schedules before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Orakei Korako Geothermal Park is known for having New Zealand’s most active geysers, colorful silica terraces, and natural geothermal features like mud pools and hot springs near Rotorua.
Orakei Korako Geothermal Park is located between Taupo and Rotorua in New Zealand’s Taupo Volcanic Zone.
Yes, the park includes access to the rare geothermal Ruatapu Cave, which visitors can discover during their visit.
Visitors can see up to 23 active natural spurting geysers within Orakei Korako Geothermal Park.
Orakei Korako is suitable for families who enjoy natural geothermal landscapes and outdoor experiences near Rotorua.
Yes, entry to Orakei Korako Geothermal Park requires a ticket, which can be booked in advance.
Orakei Korako can be visited year-round, but check the official website for current opening hours and seasonal conditions.
Orakei Korako is accessible by car or tour from Rotorua, located approximately midway between Rotorua and Taupo.
Yes, the park has walking trails that take visitors around mud pools, silica terraces, and geysers.
Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs of the geothermal features and landscapes within Orakei Korako.

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