How to Plan Your Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu Tour in Rotorua

Rotorua is truly a unique destination with its geothermal activity making for an unforgettable experience. One of the best ways to explore this activity is on the Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu Tour. Here’s how to plan your trip for an adventure that you’ll never forget:

Booking the Tour

Booking your tour of the volcanic valley in Rotorua is easy. Head over to Viator.com and book your spot. The tour is self-guided, so you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Transportation

Getting to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley is easy. The tour operator provides free round-trip transportation from the city of Rotorua. Just make sure to arrive at the pick-up location on time.

What to Expect on the Tour

Once you arrive at the destination, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the geothermal landscape of Waimangu at your own pace. The area’s geothermal features include Frying Pan Lake, Inferno Crater Lake, and Lake Rotomahana, among others. Admire the breathtaking views of the hot springs and steam vents amidst the lush forest and grasslands. Get insights into geothermal activity from the guide sheet provided by the tour operator, allowing you to learn as you explore. The trail is well-maintained, and you won’t have any trouble hiking through it. As the tour is self-guided, you have the flexibility to take your own path and spend as much time as you’d like admiring the flora and fauna of Rotorua.

What to Bring

Make sure to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking in a geothermal environment. Sunscreen and hats are also essential, as there might not be enough shade. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized throughout your trek. You’ll also want to bring your camera as the scenery is like none other.

Important Tips

Before you embark on the tour, ensure that you read and understand all of the tour guidelines provided by the operator. This includes information on the geological history of the region, the flora and fauna, and more. Once you start your journey, stay on the trail to avoid any hazardous areas. Observe any signs of danger that warn you about geothermal areas, and follow the guide sheet provided by the tour operator to stay informed about them.

Book Your Tour Now

The Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu tour is a must-visit attraction in Rotorua. It’s the best way to explore the geothermal wonders of the region at your own pace. Make sure to book your spot now and be ready for an incredible adventure. Book the tour here.

FAQs About Rotorua

Rotorua is a beautiful city located on New Zealand’s North Island. It’s known for its geothermal attractions, Maori culture, and scenic beauty. If you’re planning a trip to Rotorua, you may have a lot of questions about the city. Below are some FAQs about Rotorua that will help you plan your trip.

1. What is Rotorua famous for?

Rotorua is famous for its geothermal attractions, such as geysers, hot springs, and mud pools. It’s also known for its Maori culture and heritage, with many opportunities to experience traditional Maori cuisine, performances, and art.

2. What are some things to do in Rotorua?

There are many things to do in Rotorua, including:

• Visit the geothermal parks, such as Wai-O-Tapu and Te Puia, to see geysers, hot springs, and mud pools.
• Experience traditional Maori culture, with performances, art, and cuisine.
• Enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing.
• Visit museums and historical sites, such as the Rotorua Museum and the Buried Village.

3. What is the best time to visit Rotorua?

The best time to visit Rotorua is from September to November or from March to May. During these months, the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, Rotorua is a year-round destination, with plenty to see and do in every season.

4. What is the climate like in Rotorua?

Rotorua has a warm-temperate climate, with mild temperatures throughout the year. The hottest months are January and February, with an average temperature of 22°C, while the coldest month is July, with an average temperature of 9°C. Rotorua also experiences high rainfall, with the wettest months being June and July.

5. How do I get to Rotorua?

Rotorua is easily accessible by car or plane. The city has its own airport, with regular flights to and from major cities in New Zealand. You can also drive to Rotorua from Auckland, which takes about three hours.

6. What is the accommodation like in Rotorua?

Rotorua has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and motels to luxurious hotels and resorts. You can find accommodation in the city centre or in more remote locations, depending on your preferences.

7. Is Rotorua safe for visitors?

Rotorua is generally a safe city for visitors. However, like any destination, there is a risk of petty crime, such as theft and pickpocketing. It’s important to take precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

8. What is the food like in Rotorua?

Rotorua is known for its unique cuisine that combines traditional Maori flavours with modern cooking techniques. Some popular dishes include hangi, which is meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven, and rewena bread, which is a traditional Maori bread made from fermented potato.

9. What is the currency used in Rotorua?

The currency used in New Zealand, including Rotorua, is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). You can easily exchange your currency at banks, currency exchange offices, and ATMs throughout the city.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Rotorua?

If you are a citizen of a visa waiver country, such as the United States or the United Kingdom, you do not need a visa to visit New Zealand for up to three months. However, it’s important to check with your local embassy or consulate for the latest visa requirements.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Rotorua

Rotorua is a popular tourist destination in New Zealand, known for its geothermal activity, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty. If you are planning a trip to Rotorua, you may be wondering how to make the most of your time there. In this guide, we will provide some useful tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Rotorua.

1. Visit the Geothermal Parks

Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity, and visiting one of the geothermal parks is a must-do activity. Te Puia, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland are some of the most popular geothermal parks in Rotorua. At Te Puia, you can witness the famous Pōhutu Geyser, which erupts up to 30 meters high. You can also explore the steam vents, mud pools, and hot springs in the park. Waimangu Volcanic Valley is the youngest geothermal system in the world and offers a unique experience of walking through an active geothermal area. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is known for its colorful pools of water, including the Champagne Pool and the Artist’s Palette.

2. Experience Maori Culture

Rotorua is also known for its rich Maori culture, and experiencing it should be on your list of things to do. You can visit the Tamaki Maori Village for a cultural experience that includes a traditional welcome ceremony, a hangi feast, and performances of Maori songs and dances. You can also visit the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute at Te Puia, where you can learn about traditional Maori arts and crafts, including carving and weaving. The institute also has a kiwi conservation area where you can see these endangered birds up close.

3. Explore the Redwoods

The Redwoods is a beautiful forest on the outskirts of Rotorua, known for its giant Californian Redwoods. You can take a walk or a bike ride through the forest and enjoy the stunning scenery. The forest has several well-marked trails, ranging from short walks to longer hikes, so you can choose one that suits your fitness level.

4. Soak in a Hot Pool

Rotorua has several hot pools that you can soak in to relax and unwind. The Polynesian Spa is one of the most popular hot pools in the city, offering various pools with different temperatures and views of Lake Rotorua. Alternatively, you can visit the Waikite Valley Thermal Pools, which are located about 30 minutes outside Rotorua and offer more natural, secluded pools.

5. Experience Adventure Activities

If you are an adrenaline junkie, Rotorua has plenty of adventure activities to offer. You can go ziplining with Rotorua Canopy Tours, take a skydive with Skydive Rotorua, or go white water rafting with Kaitiaki Adventures. You can also take a jet boat ride on Lake Rotorua with Katoa Lake Rotorua.

6. Visit the Rotorua Museum

The Rotorua Museum is housed in the beautiful and historic Bath House building in the Government Gardens. The museum provides an insight into the history and culture of Rotorua, including its geothermal activity and Maori heritage. The museum is currently closed for earthquake strengthening work, but is due to reopen in 2022.

7. Take a Day Trip to Hobbiton

If you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies, a day trip to Hobbiton is a must-do activity. Hobbiton is located about an hour’s drive from Rotorua and offers tours of the movie set that was used for filming the movies. You can explore the hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and other iconic locations from the movies.

Book Your Tour Now

Rotorua is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a range of activities for tourists. Whether you are interested in geothermal activity, Maori culture, adventure activities, or just relaxing in a hot pool, there is something for everyone in Rotorua. Follow our tips and you’ll have an unforgettable experience in this stunning part of New Zealand.