Rotorua is a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its geothermal activity and Maori culture, this city offers more than just bubbling mud pools — it’s a playground for hikers and trekkers eager to explore New Zealand’s volcanic landscape and native forests. We especially love the Rotorua Hiking: Mt Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Experience, which combines a stunning volcanic hike with fascinating geology insights, all led by expert guides. This tour offers a chance to traverse rugged trails with confidence, knowing you’re with a group that ensures safety and local knowledge. Whether you prefer a half-day adventure or a longer trek, Rotorua’s terrain provides a perfect backdrop for every level of hiker.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top five hiking and trekking tours available in Rotorua. From a guided volcanic crater hike to immersive forest walks and scenic horse treks, each experience offers a unique way to see this remarkable part of New Zealand. If you’re trying to decide which tour suits your interests and fitness, keep reading — our detailed breakdown will help you choose confidently.
- 1. Rotorua Hiking: Mt Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Experience
- 2. Guided Horse Trekking from Rotorua
- 3. Hike New Zealand’s Finest Forest – Whirinaki Forest
- 4. Rotorua: Scenic Horse Trek
- 5. Rotorua: Kaituna Rafting & Mt. Tarawera Guided Hike Combo
- How to Choose the Right Hiking or Trekking Tour in Rotorua
- Final Thoughts
1. Rotorua Hiking: Mt Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Experience
At number one on our list is the Rotorua Hiking: Mt Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Experience, which offers an immersive journey into one of New Zealand’s most iconic volcanic features. This half-day tour lasts around four and a half hours, including pickup and drop-off from your Rotorua accommodation. The guided hike takes you through lush, winding trails into the central North Island wilderness, with the focus on Mount Tarawera, a volcano famous for its eruption in 1886.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of adventure and education. Your guides share insights into the region’s geology, making it more than just a walk. The trail climbs to sweeping viewpoints, offering spectacular vistas of the crater and surrounding landscape. The bumpy off-road drive through native bush adds to the adventure factor, and the hike itself is suitable for those with moderate fitness — it’s challenging but doable. Skilled guides ensure safety and share stories of Māori history linked to the area, adding cultural depth.
Guests rave about the professional guides and the “spectacular views,” often noting the hike’s balance of rugged terrain and educational content. The cost of $121.01 per person is reasonable considering the comprehensive experience and included transport.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for history and geology buffs, adventurous travelers, and those wanting a guided, safe exploration of Mount Tarawera’s volcanic majesty.
2. Guided Horse Trekking from Rotorua
For a different pace, the Guided Horse Trekking offers a scenic ride through the Mt. Ngongotaha foothills. This approximately one-hour experience is suitable for riders aged 12 and above with a weight limit of 200 lbs (90 kgs). It’s a wonderful way to see Rotorua from atop a gentle horse, with the trail winding over varied terrain and providing sweeping views of Lake Rotorua.
What sets this tour apart is its accessibility and the relaxed nature of a horseback ride, ideal for those who prefer a gentle adventure over a strenuous trek. The guide is attentive and ensures rider comfort, making it suitable even for beginners or those with limited riding experience. All safety gear, including helmets, is provided, and the horses are responsive and well-trained.
Guests appreciate the experience’s ease, with reviews mentioning how the guide made them feel at ease, even for those new to riding. One comment notes the “fantastic scenery” and “beautiful horses,” with the top view over Rotorua being a favorite highlight.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families, beginners, or those who want a peaceful, scenic experience on horseback without the physical challenge of a hike.
3. Hike New Zealand’s Finest Forest – Whirinaki Forest
Taking you into the heart of New Zealand’s lush wilderness, the Hike New Zealand’s finest forest – Whirinaki Forest is a full-day adventure that explores one of the world’s most impressive rainforests. This 7-hour tour from Rotorua includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. The forest is famous for towering native trees like kahikatea, matai, miro, rimu, and totara, some over a thousand years old.
Led by a local guide and a professional photographer, this trek offers a rich experience of native flora and fauna. The trails are well-maintained but rugged enough to satisfy those craving a true bushwalk. Along the way, you’ll encounter surprising wildlife and breathtaking scenery, making it a favorite for nature lovers and photographers alike.
What makes this tour special is its focus on native New Zealand ecosystems and the chance to see rare bird species in their natural habitat. The tour includes lunch, and the guide’s expertise ensures you understand the forest’s ecological importance. It’s a premium experience at $303.27, but the depth of immersion and expert guidance make it worthwhile for serious hikers.
Guests describe it as “exploring among 1000-year-old giants,” and many say it’s a must-do for those who want to see the best of NZ’s rainforests.
Bottom Line: Ideal for experienced hikers and nature photographers eager to enjoy pristine native forests.
4. Rotorua: Scenic Horse Trek
At number four, the Rotorua: Scenic Horse Trek is a one-hour ride through Rotorua’s countryside. This tour offers a relaxed way to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Rotorua and the surrounding landscapes. Suitable for all riding abilities, it matches you with a well-trained horse and takes you along gentle trails that are perfect for a quick escape into nature.
This experience appeals to travelers who want a brief but memorable outdoor activity without the physical exertion of a long hike. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making it perfect for families or first-time riders. The pace is leisurely, so you can take your time enjoying the scenery, which includes rolling farmland and distant volcanic peaks.
Guests often highlight the “great views” and “friendly horses,” with many rating it a perfect half-hour to an hour activity. It’s especially popular among those short on time but wanting to see Rotorua differently.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for families or anyone seeking a short, scenic ride in a beautiful setting without much technical riding.
5. Rotorua: Kaituna Rafting & Mt. Tarawera Guided Hike Combo
For the ultimate Rotorua adventure, the Kaituna Rafting & Mt. Tarawera Guided Hike Combo offers a full-day experience blending land and water thrills. This 9-hour tour features a guided hike up Mount Tarawera, followed by whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River, renowned for its world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.
The tour starts with a scenic off-road drive to Mount Tarawera, then a guided hike that provides panoramic views and insights into the volcanic crater. Afterward, the adrenaline kicks in with rafting through 14 rapids, including the famous waterfall, with all safety gear provided. The guides are experienced and ensure a safe, fun experience for all.
This combo is perfect for thrill-seekers and those wanting a full day of active adventure. It’s also an excellent choice for those interested in Maori culture, as the tour incorporates cultural insights along with scenic vistas. Reviews highlight its value as an all-in-one adventure, with many describing it as “thrilling and unforgettable.”
Price-wise, the tour offers excellent value considering the variety of activities packed into one day. It is best suited for fit travelers who aren’t afraid of a full day on the move.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for thrill-seekers and adventurers looking to combine hiking, cultural insights, and whitewater rafting into one epic day.
How to Choose the Right Hiking or Trekking Tour in Rotorua
When selecting your tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and time available. If you love volcanic landscapes and geology, the Mt Tarawera hike is hard to beat. For a relaxed scenic ride, the horseback tours are perfect, especially for families or those less keen on hiking. Serious nature lovers will appreciate the Whirinaki Forest trek for its ancient trees and wildlife. Meanwhile, if you want a full-day adrenaline rush, the Kaituna rafting and hike combo delivers both scenic views and adventure.
Booking early is a smart move, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill quickly. Think about combining activities if your schedule allows — for example, pairing the horse trek with a visit to Rotorua’s geothermal parks or Maori cultural sites.
Final Thoughts
Rotorua offers a fantastic variety of outdoor experiences, whether you’re after a rugged hike, a gentle horse ride, or an all-day adventure. For travelers seeking a guided, educational experience, the Mt Tarawera hike shines. If you prefer scenic, relaxed rides, take a look at the horseback tours. For those wanting deep immersion in NZ’s native forests, the Whirinaki Forest trek is unmatched. And for adventure junkies, the Kaituna River combo is hard to beat.
No matter your choice, booking ahead will ensure you secure your spot for these popular tours. Now’s the time to plan your Rotorua outdoor adventure — the volcanic landscapes and lush forests won’t explore themselves!