Arachnocampa luminosa is a glowworm—technically, a species of fungus gnat—that is unique to New Zealand. Although they’re found throughout the country, the premier place for viewing them is at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, located two hours west of Rotorua, where a galaxy of these tiny creatures illuminate the dark interior—cooler than any glow-in-the-dark ceiling stickers you may have cherished as a child. Take the guided boat tour, which drifts along the Waitomo River through the glowworm-lit grotto, to learn about the caves’ historical and geological significance.
