New Zealand is jam-packed with otherworldly adventures and one such experience is Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk in Taupo. One of the reasons we included the North Island of New Zealand in our itinerary, was so we could see the intriguing landscapes of bubbling craters and steaming vents. It’s like walking through a real life witch’s cauldron – just safely!
Taupo is home to a variety of geothermal attractions, The Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk offers a 45 minute (depending on how many stops you make) accessible loop which allows visitors to get nice and close to the action.
We visited on an overcast day which added to the atmosphere.
The Craters of the Moon thermal area sprang up in the 1950s when the nearby power station lowered underground water levels. As hot water was withdrawn from deep within the field, the water level in the deep reservoir dropped and the remaining water boiled more violently, producing more steam.
Large quantities of this extra steam escaped at Craters of The Moon and now draws tourists from around the world. It’s also interesting to see the plants that have managed to adapt and thrive in the steamy environment.
CRATERS OF THE MOON GEOTHERMAL WALK ACCESSIBILITY
While the Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk is linked by an accessible boardwalk there are some inclines on the route. Wai-O-Tapau Thermal Wonderland may be the more spectacular of the geothermal attractions in the area, Craters of the Moon is more accessible.
We took just over an hour to do the loop walk but we do stop to take quite a few photos along the way. The upper walkway and viewing platform isn’t accessible.
Parking is available close to the entrance and a unisex stand-alone accessible bathroom is available. 
And most importantly, for the girls in our family, the shop is accessible.
AJ swears by the restorative powers of the Rotorua Mud she bought in the gift shop at Craters of the Moon. It works so well on her skin, she asked a friend to get more supplies when they travelled to New Zealand. It’s available in other gift stores and at the airport.
Craters of the Moon is an easy way to enjoy the wonders of the geothermal action and we found access good throughout. This is a must-do accessible attraction when visiting Taupo.
You can read more about this attraction on the Craters of the Moon website.
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