10 Things to Do in Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Rotorua, New Zealand
Waimangu Volcanic Valley is a spectacular geothermal area located in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand’s North Island. The valley was created in 1886 when Mount Tarawera erupted, destroying villages and leaving a dramatic landscape of steaming geothermal pools, vibrant crater lakes, and hot springs. The area is now a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming to explore and experience the unique geothermal wonders of the valley. Here are 10 things to do in Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Rotorua, New Zealand.
1. Explore the Geothermal Wonders: Waimangu Volcanic Valley is home to a range of incredible geothermal features. Visitors can explore the steaming hot springs, mud pools, and vibrant crater lakes, or take a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating geology of the area.
2. Visit the Inferno Crater Lake: The Inferno Crater Lake is the largest and most impressive feature of the valley. The lake is a vibrant turquoise colour and is surrounded by steaming cliffs and bubbling hot springs. Visitors can take a guided tour of the lake to learn more about its fascinating geology and history.
3. Take a Boat Tour: Waimangu Volcanic Valley is home to several lakes, including Lake Rotomahana and Lake Rotomahana. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lakes to get a unique view of the valley and its geothermal features.
4. Hike the Trails: Waimangu Volcanic Valley is home to several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Visitors can explore the valley's unique geothermal features and stunning landscapes on foot.
5. Visit the Waimangu Caves: The Waimangu Caves are a series of underground caves located in the valley. Visitors can explore the caves and learn more about their fascinating geology and history.
6. Visit the Geothermal Museum: The Waimangu Volcanic Valley Geothermal Museum is located in the valley and is a great place to learn more about the area's geothermal features. The museum houses a range of displays, including a replica of the 1886 eruption.
7. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Waimangu Volcanic Valley is home to several hot air balloon companies, offering visitors the chance to take a unique bird's eye view of the valley's stunning landscapes and geothermal features.
8. Visit the Frying Pan Lake: Frying Pan Lake is one of the most impressive geothermal features in the valley. The lake is a vibrant turquoise colour and is surrounded by steaming cliffs and bubbling hot springs. Visitors can take a guided tour of the lake to learn more about its fascinating geology and history.
9. Visit the Waimangu Thermal Village: The Waimangu Thermal Village is a small village located in the valley. Visitors can explore the village and learn more about the area's unique geology and history.
10. Go Horse Riding: Waimangu Volcanic Valley is home to several horse riding companies, offering visitors the chance to explore the valley on horseback. The horse riding trails offer stunning views of the area's geothermal features and landscapes.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley is a unique and fascinating geothermal area located in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand’s North Island. The valley is home to a range of incredible geothermal features, including steaming hot springs, mud pools, and vibrant crater lakes. Whether you’re looking to explore the geothermal wonders of the valley, take a boat tour of the lakes, or go horse riding, Waimangu Volcanic Valley has something for everyone.