Mystical trek

Overview

Enjoy views of the mysterious and beautiful Inferno Crater which rises and falls as it heats and cools. See the delicate sinter terraces growing from minerals solidifying out of the hot spring water. Waimangu Volcanic Valley is home to Frying Pan Lake, one of the largest hot water springs in the World.

Brilliantly coloured microbes cloak the hot rocks. Tiny springs and geysers play. Immerse yourself amongst the rare and unusual plants that grow on the hot earths of Waimangu, amongst the regenerating native forests.

Our shuttle bus returns you from the end of your self-guided walk / hike back to the entrance. We open daily at 8:30 am.

Trail Conditions and Timings

Our valley walk is divided into different sections, all serviced by regular shuttles allowing visitors to move between sections or walk the complete trail.

Highlights Walk: 1.5km, approx. 1 hour

• From Waimangu visitor centre to bus stop 1
• Easy downhill and flat. Optional steps up to Inferno Crater.
• Suitable for most levels of fitness.
• Includes panoramic views over the valley, the Southern Crater, regenerating forest, Frying Pan Lake, Cathedral Rocks, rare plants, hot springs, Inferno Crater Lake, Silica Terraces and stalactites

All the Hot Springs: 3.2km, approx. 1 hour 30 mins

• From Waimangu visitor centre to bus stop 2
• Downhill steps after Bus Stop 1, otherwise flat.
• Suitable for most levels of fitness.
• Includes panoramic views over the valley, the Southern Crater, regenerating forest, Frying Pan Lake, Cathedral Rocks, rare plants, hot springs, Inferno Crater Lake, Silica Terraces and stalactites
• A large number of native birds can be seen on this walk.

All the way to the Lake: 4.0km, approx 1 hour 45 mins

• From Waimangu visitor centre to Lake Rotomahana, bus stop 3
• Flat from Bus Stop 2.
• Suitable for most levels of fitness.
• The full 4km walk allows you to experience all Waimangu Volcanic Valley has to offer, including wonderful panoramas over the valley, Southern Crater, Emerald Lake, regenerating forest, Frying Pan Lake, Cathedral Rocks, rare plants, hot springs, Inferno Crater Lake, silica terraces and stalactites. There is excellent bird watching along this trail.

To the Lake including Mt Haszard add-on: 4.5km, Approx 2 hours

• Waimangu visitor centre to Lake Rotomahana, bus stop 3 via Mt Haszard hiking trail from Inferno Crater.
• Good fitness & walking shoes required. Inaccessible for pushchairs, or wheelchairs. Spectacular panoramic views of the valley, the surrounding region, Rainbow Mountain, Mt Tarawera, and Lake Rotomahana are highlights of this hike.

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