Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland

Located in Rotorua, New Zealand - Wai-O-Tapu is a national park of jaw dropping proportions. The Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park is an all natural wonderland highlighting an active geothermal area featuring volcanic remnants that teases the eyes and stings the nose. Created thousands of years ago this completely all natural landscape features 18-square kilometers of volcano craters, mud pools, green sulphur lakes, hot springs, and the Lady Knox Geyser (which erupts daily at 10:15am). 

When you arrive there is ample parking and if you go in the afternoon, be sure to bring an umbrella and some water. It can be very hot and very much like the dessert. There is a strong sulfur smell some people were slightly sickened because of the heat, the smell and the sulfur fumes. But it is not that bad. 

The visitor center is state of the art and has AC, restrooms and lots of things to buy from natural body products to amazing paintings and of course trinkets. The are open everyday, 365 days a year, tickets for entry range from $11 to $32.50. Once you enter the park it is like any national park with some trails, slopes, steps, outlooks, limited shade and lots of photo taking opportunities. 

Be sure the really enjoy the views, the Champagne Lake was phenomenal and breathtaking. The natural state of the former volcano is really unique to see and the colors are so vibrant. You make have to wait for the wind to shift as depending on the way the wind is blowing you can see less or more of the crater. When the wind blows the sulphur away, it reals brilliant colors and vibrant hues of green, blue, orange and yellow. 

The Devil's Bath is also a fluorescent green pool which is truly a sight to see. There are many tourists from all regions and of course lots of cameras, selfie sticks and etc. If you take your own course away from the crowds you will find it peaceful and tranquil. As with any other park please keep your litter to yourself, be sure to stay hydrated and eat prior. Be prepared for some mild walking. I would recommend shorts and covered toe shoes. 

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The Champagne Pool is an eroded volcano crater.

Devil's Bath looked even more vibrant than in the photo.

As you wonder through there are several babbling hot springs and nooks to check out. I wore slippers which was ok, but I would recommend closed toe shoes or sneakers for better comfort.

You can choose one-three routes for your walk, which can take 30-75 minutes. Noted as one of the most surreal places in the world it definitely is a must see.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
201 Waiotapu Loop Rd
RD3
Waiotapu, Reporoa, Rotorua, New Zealand

https://www.waiotapu.co.nz/