Trip Planner:
South Pacific
/
New Zealand
/
North Island
/
Waikato Region
/
Taupo District
/
Taupo
/
Craters of the Moon
Witness the power of nature erupting from the ground at Craters of the Moon. A part of New Zealand's largest geothermal field, this protected natural area is home to numerous craters, mud pools, and steaming fumaroles. Continuous geological activity has created the distinctive landscape, where hot steam rises over scarce, low vegetation. Two hiking trails lead through the area; the main track is generally flat and covered in a boardwalk, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The top track, with a series of steps, is less accessible, but takes you to an elevated lookout from where you can enjoy the view over the field. Plan to visit Craters of the Moon during your Taupo vacation using our convenient Taupo vacation planner.
Create an itinerary including Craters of the Moon
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Craters of the Moon reviews
-
Craters of the Moon is a region with natural geothermal activity in north of Taupo. It lies within the Taupo volcanic region, producing bubbling craters, steam vents and colourful soil. more »
-
Unfortunately there wasn’t much thermal activity happening on our visit. Was a bit of a wasted visit. For free you can see more thermal action in Rotorua. more »
-
It is a beautiful place that reminds us of the might of Mother Earth. Definitely worth visiting when you are in Taupo. Make sure you stick to the designated paths, take a hat, a bottle of water and sunglasses. Even on a cool day, it might get a bit warm so wearing a short sleeve top with a jacket on top that you can remove is a good idea. Toilets are available on the premises once you pay and you go through the doors to start your walk. Ample parking for cars and caravans.
-
Don't know why is called the Craters of the Moon as there are no craters! Lots of vents though so it can get very hot! Sorry but I was not impressed with it! There are lots of other nicer places to visit! At least the entrance fee is cheap, if I remember correctly it was $8/person.
Plan your trip to Taupo
Get a personalized trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedulesBook it
Choose from the best hotels
and activities. Up to 50% offManage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
Popular things to do in Taupo
Side trips from Taupo
Hidden gems in Taupo
Kid-friendly things to do in Taupo
Outdoors in Taupo
Nearby attractions in Taupo
Trips to Craters of the Moon by other users
21 days in New Zealand
BY A USER FROM NEW ZEALAND
Stewart Island
Dunedin
Queenstown
23 days in New Zealand
BY A USER FROM SAUDI ARABIA
Queenstown
Wellington
Tongariro National Park
17 days in New Zealand
BY A USER FROM NEW ZEALAND
Queenstown
Te Anau
Paihia
6 days in New Zealand
BY A USER FROM NEW ZEALAND
Auckland
Rotorua
Taupo
27 days in New Zealand
BY A USER FROM SINGAPORE
Auckland
Paihia
Rotorua
33 days in New Zealand
BY A USER FROM DENMARK
Piha
Kawakawa
Russell
