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Kuirau Park

Kuirau Park

4.5 (3,632 reviews)
ParkPoint of InterestEstablishment

Best time to visit

Early morning, when there are the fewest crowds and the mist of steam rises above the ground creating a mystical scene. In winter it is especially impressive because the contrast between cold air and hot steam is most pronounced.

Budget tips

Entry is completely free, there is no parking fee or entrance ticket. Bring your own water and snacks as there are no kiosks or restaurants in the park.

Recommended for

Budget travelers, Nature photographers, Families with children, Geology enthusiasts

Plan your visit

30-60 minutes

About

Quick facts: More than 60 hot springs and muddy puddles are scattered throughout this public park, and the water temperature in some reaches 100°C. The park is completely free for visitors and open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Highlights: You can touch the heated ground with your own hands, which is boiling just below the surface at temperatures up to 120°C, while jets of steam burst out between your feet. There is no fence, no barrier, just you and raw volcanic energy literally beneath your feet.

Insider tips

  • Bring comfortable sneakers because the paths are smooth and occasionally damp from steam.
  • The best photos of the muddy puddles are taken in the early morning hours when the light is soft and the steam is clearly visible.
  • Do not touch the water in the hot springs, the temperature can cause burns in seconds.
  • Skip the midday hours in summer because the sun softens the visual effect of the steam and puddles.

Practical info

Opening hours

Directions

Official website

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