Wolgan Valley Walk & Glow Worm Cave

Katoomba

, Australia

Walk from Katoomba to the hidden valleys of Newnes, past sandstone cliffs, Aboriginal sites and luminous glow worms. A rewarding walk through one of NSW’s most underrated natural regions.

Overview

The Wolgan Valley Walk & Glow Worm Cave tour offers a rare opportunity to explore one of New South Wales’ most secluded and scenic landscapes. Nestled on the western edge of the Blue Mountains, Wolgan Valley remains relatively untouched, yet its towering escarpments, sandstone pagodas and lush valleys easily rival its more well-known neighbours.

This guided, Pack Free walk begins in Katoomba before heading into the Wollemi wilderness. Over the next three days, guests will hike through diverse terrain, from rugged ridgelines to serene valleys, uncovering glow worm tunnels, Aboriginal rock art and remarkable rock formations along the way. One of the most memorable highlights is the glow worm tunnel, where thousands of bioluminescent insects light up the darkness in a quiet, surreal display of nature’s brilliance.Time is also spent exploring the historical village of Newnes and the striking formations around Donkey Mountain. These experiences offer not only geological wonder, but cultural insight into the past lives of this remarkable region. Wildlife sightings and sweeping views make each step feel worthwhile.

Evenings are spent in comfortable accommodation, including a night at the historic Carrington Hotel and two nights in rustic cabins within Wollemi National Park. With meals featuring local produce and fine wine, and your main luggage transported each day, this walk balances adventure with ease.With knowledgeable local guides leading the way and each detail thoughtfully arranged, this is a journey for those who appreciate raw beauty, quiet trails and meaningful connection to country.

Departure Dates

30 Oct 2025 | 6 Mar 2026

Inclusions
  • 4 days Pack Free guided walk
  • 1 night at The Carrington Hotel in Katoomba
  • 2 nights in cabins at Newnes, Wollemi National Park
  • 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
  • Trail snacks and fresh fruit provided daily
  • Fine wine and non-alcoholic drinks served with dinner
  • Expert local guides with cultural and natural knowledge
  • Return transfers between Katoomba and Wolgan Valley trailheads
  • National Park entry fees
Highlights
  • Walk through the famous Glow Worm Tunnel and see thousands of glowing insects
  • Explore sandstone cliffs, pagodas and scenic ridgelines in Wolgan Valley
  • Discover Aboriginal rock art and learn about the cultural history of the region
  • Visit the historic ruins of Newnes, once a bustling oil-shale mining village
  • Hike around Donkey Mountain’s spectacular rocky outcrops and views
  • Stay at the historic Carrington Hotel and remote cabins under the stars
  • Enjoy dinners with local wine and produce in a relaxed bush setting
  • Travel light with luggage transfers included throughout the walk
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Day Katoomba

Arrive in Katoomba and check in to the historic Carrington Hotel for a 1 night stay in a Colonial Room. This grand art deco manor sits in the heart of town, close to local shops, cafes and restaurants. The evening is free to enjoy a meal at one of Katoomba’s dining spots or dine at the hotel’s restaurant at your own expense.

Overnight in Katoomba

Day 2: Katoomba to Wollemi National Park

After breakfast, meet your guides and transfer to Wollemi National Park to begin your walk. Journey through eucalypt forest, pagoda rock formations, and lush gullies before entering a disused rail tunnel lit by thousands of glow worms. Descend into the Wolgan Valley, following the creek to Newnes. Stay overnight in comfortable bushland cabins and enjoy a guide prepared dinner with local produce.

Overnight in Newnes

Day 3: Pipeline Pass Lookout and Newnes Ruins

Start with a scenic walk beside the Wolgan River before ascending Pipeline Pass to a stunning lookout over the valley. The route follows an old oil pipeline, with some steep and hands-on sections. Return to Newnes for lunch and choose between the Philosophers Walk beneath Old Baldy or visit Maiyingu Marragu, a sacred Wiradjuri rock art site. Finish the day with a relaxing dinner and wine.

Overnight in Newnes

Day 4: Deep Pass Canyon Trail Walk

After breakfast, head to Deep Pass Canyon for a walk through lush forest, rockpools, and narrow sandstone passages. Some steep sections and rope ladders are part of the adventure, with an optional shorter 3km route available. Enjoy the quiet beauty of this lesser-known area before returning to Katoomba around 4.00pm to conclude your journey.

Terms & Conditions

Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.

Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.

Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.

Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.

Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.

Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.

Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).

Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 45 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 45 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.

Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.

PRICE FROM
AU$
1899
per person twin share
Trip Summary
● Duration:
4 Days
● Starts: Katoomba
● Ends: Katoomba
● Trip Type: Pack Free Guided Walking Tour
● Accommodation: 1 night at The Carrington Hotel, 2 nights in Newnes cabins
● Transportation: Return transfers from Katoomba to trailheads included

Enquire Now

CALL US

If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.

EMAIL

Email our friendly travelcation experts today
[email protected]