Byron Bay: Glow Worms, Rainforest Hike & Waterfall Swim Tour

Summary

Swim at waterfalls hike rainforest trails and see glow worms after dark

You’ll wander ancient rainforests near Byron Bay with a local guide, swim (if you dare) beneath a wild waterfall, share vegan dinner as dusk settles in, then walk softly through darkness to see glow-worms light up hidden corners of Nightcap forest. Let yourself feel small under old trees and come back changed in ways you didn’t expect.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you step out of the van and the air just smells different? That’s how it started for us in Byron Bay — eucalyptus and something sweet, maybe damp earth. Our guide, Sophie, handed out snacks (vegan, but honestly better than I expected) while we laced up our shoes. She kept pointing out these tiny birds I’d never notice on my own. The drive up to Nightcap is only about an hour or so, but it felt like we’d crossed into another world by the time we stopped for the first lookout. There was this pale mist hanging over the trees — not fog exactly, more like the forest breathing.

The hike wasn’t hard but it did get my heart going; roots everywhere underfoot and everything felt alive. Sophie told us stories about how old these rainforests are — Gondwana stuff, which I guess means dinosaurs once wandered here? I kept thinking about that as we reached the waterfall. Cold water (I mean really cold) but a few of us went in anyway. My skin tingled for ages after. Someone joked that if you don’t at least dip your toes, you’re missing half the point of a day trip from Byron to Nightcap. Maybe they’re right.

Dinner was simple — warm bowls with lots of greens and beans — eaten sitting on logs while the sky turned that deep blue before full dark. Then came the part I didn’t expect: music drifting through the trees (one of the guides brought a handpan). We followed little torch lights down to where the glow-worms live. At first you don’t see much… then suddenly it’s like someone scattered stars across the mud walls. It’s quiet except for leaves moving overhead and someone whispering “wow” behind me. I tried to take a photo but honestly, nothing captures it right.

On the way back to Byron Bay I just watched headlights flicker between tree trunks and thought about how small moments stick with you longer than big ones sometimes. If you’re looking for something gentle but real — not just another tour — this glow worm tour from Byron is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rainforest hike, waterfall swim, glow-worm tour

• Hike through ancient rainforest
• Take photos at lookout
• Swim at waterfall (weather permitting)
• Enjoy organic vegan dinner
• Experience glow-worm magic at night
• Listen to live instrument music
• Return to Byron Bay

Top questions

How long does this glow worm tour from Byron Bay take?

The total driving time is around 1 hour 15 minutes each way, plus stops for hiking, swimming, dinner, and glow-worm viewing.

Is swimming at the waterfall included on this day trip?

Yes, swimming at a pristine waterfall is included if weather allows—bring swimwear and a towel just in case.

What kind of dinner is provided on this tour?

A vegan-friendly light dinner made with organic ingredients is included during your evening in the rainforest.

Are there any fitness requirements for this rainforest hike?

Travelers should have at least moderate physical fitness as there are uneven trails and some hiking involved.

Does this tour include pickup from Byron Bay hotels?

The tour includes roundtrip transport from Byron Bay in an air-conditioned vehicle; check if your hotel is on their pickup list.

Can infants join this rainforest & glow worm experience?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport; some hiking sections may be challenging with little ones.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip transport from Byron Bay in an air-conditioned vehicle, all entry fees and taxes covered, plus a vegan-friendly light dinner served outdoors before heading out to see the glow-worms sparkle after dark—just remember to bring sturdy shoes and something warm for later on.