Luxmore Caves

Overview

Tucked just below Mt. Luxmore and a short walk from Luxmore Hut, Luxmore Caves are a wild, undeveloped limestone cave system right off the Kepler Track. They’re an adventurous detour if you’ve already made the climb to the hut—no handrails, no lights, just your beam cutting across ancient rock.

What You'll See

Expect classic cave formations: stalactites, stalagmites and thin, rippling “curtain” or “shawl” features that look dramatic under a strong headlamp. There are several small chambers and passages to poke around—go as far as you feel comfortable.

Getting There

Reach the area via the Kepler Track from the Control Gates car park near Te Anau. Plan for a solid climb: some guides quote 5–6 hours (about 14 km) to Luxmore Hut one way, and others faster—plan conservatively. From the hut, it’s a short signed side track (roughly 10–15 minutes) to the cave entrance.

Safety and Gear

This is true “wild caving.” Bring a bright headlamp (plus spare batteries) and wear sturdy footwear with good grip. Surfaces inside and on the side track can be slick, and in winter or shoulder seasons the approach may be icy. There’s no infrastructure in the cave; only enter as far as you’re confident.

Amenities

There are no amenities at the caves. Luxmore Hut (nearby) has toilets and seasonal water; use the hut facilities before or after your cave visit.

Wildlife

Around the hut, you may spot alpine birdlife (keep an eye out for cheeky kea). Inside the cave, keep impacts to an absolute minimum—don’t touch formations.

Best Time to Visit

The Great Walks season (late October to late April) offers the safest mix of weather and track conditions. Outside this window, the side track can be icy and the alpine environment is far less forgiving. Visit during daylight hours so the approach and return are straightforward; bring your own lighting for the cave itself.