Waimangu Valley Walk and Cruise: the World's Largest Hot Spring, Shuttle Both Ways

Waimangu is a valley you walk down and ride back up. The shuttle inside it runs free and stops along the way, so the amount of walking is a decision you make at each stop rather than one you commit to at the gate. The track down splits into a graded path and rougher hiking trails, which take the same direction at different levels of effort. Frying Pan Lake is on the route, and it is the largest hot spring in the world. Further along, Inferno Crater Lake, whose water sits an unlikely blue against the grey around it. The trails end at Lake Rotomahana, where the boat cruise starts. The commentary covers the lake's history and the Pink and White Terraces that were once on its shore. From the water: geysers spouting at the edge, cliffs steaming where the heat comes through, and fumaroles. After the cruise the shuttle takes you back up to the visitor centre, which is the part that makes the whole valley reachable for people who cannot walk it in both directions. Check in at 587 Waimangu Road and start when you like. Cancel at least 24 hours ahead for a full refund.