A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alice Springs vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a charming, friendly, and laid back town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a remote, rugged, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Alice Springs. Although Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Alice Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Alice Springs is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its impressive beauty. Alice Springs is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. It is also home to Alice Springs Desert Park. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Alice Springs different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Alice Springs. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Alice Springs is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Alice Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Alice Springs is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Alice Springs. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Alice Springs is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alice Springs. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park are destinations which offer first-rate hiking.

Around Alice Springs visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

Mount Aspiring National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.


Is the Shopping Better in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Alice Springs is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Alice Springs offers some nice shopping areas. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park are high quality to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Alice Springs. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Alice Springs is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.


Is Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Mount Aspiring National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Alice Springs. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Is Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Public transit is generally limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Alice Springs
Mount Aspiring National Park

Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park are good when it comes to walkability.

Alice Springs is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

Mount Aspiring National Park is somewhat walkable. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Alice Springs?

How long in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Alice Springs because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alice Springs, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Alice Springs than Mount Aspiring National Park . Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Alice Springs, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Alice Springs than Mount Aspiring National Park . You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Alice Springs that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alice Springs 2-4 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Even though Alice Springs is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alice Springs has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Alice Springs is a fun place to experience. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the rugged destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Alice Springs is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Alice Springs?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alice Springs is $100, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $116. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alice Springs $53
    Mount Aspiring National Park $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alice Springs $106
    Mount Aspiring National Park $126
Compare Hotels in Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Alice Springs


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Alice Springs Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alice Springs $21
    Mount Aspiring National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alice Springs

Also for Alice Springs, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Uluru to Alice Springs or Alice to Uluru 1-Way Luxe Transfer: $133
  • Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) Coach Transfer: $136

Is it cheaper to fly into Alice Springs or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Alice Springs change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Alice Springs $25
    Mount Aspiring National Park $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alice Springs

For Alice Springs, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • From Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner: $239
  • Ayers Rock Day Trip from Alice Springs Including BBQ Dinner: $246

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alice Springs $15
    Mount Aspiring National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Alice Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alice Springs.

  • Skip the Line: Alice Springs School of the Air Guided Tour Ticket: $10
  • Alice Springs Desert Park General Entry Ticket: $28
  • Alice Springs Desert Park Nocturnal Tour: $29
  • Alice Springs Camel Tour: $63
  • West MacDonnell Ranges Half day Tour -Small Group: $104
  • From Alice Spring: West MacDonnell Ranges Half-Day Tour: $105
  • Alice Springs Airport to West MacDonnell Ranges Half-Day Tour: $112
  • Historical Alice Tour: $115
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $115
  • Historical Alice Tour: $117
  • Alice Springs Airport to Alice Springs City Half Day Tour: $126
  • West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alice Springs $18
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.44
Typical Alcohol Prices in Alice Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Alice Springs:


  • Glass of Wine in Alice Springs
    $4.79


When comparing the travel costs between Alice Springs and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alice Springs Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.