A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Aoraki Mount Cook for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a lively, accessible, and popular town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a world renowned, scenic, and dramatic mountain. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Ao Nang and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ao Nang. Although Ao Nang and Aoraki Mount Cook are popular destinations, Ao Nang has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ao Nang is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Aoraki Mount Cook attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Ao Nang is famous for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. It is also well known for the Island Boat Tours. Aoraki Mount Cook is famous for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand.

How is Ao Nang different from Aoraki Mount Cook?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aoraki Mount Cook and Ao Nang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Ao Nang is adequate for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Ao Nang specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ao Nang is a good destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ao Nang is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Aoraki Mount Cook offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few cafes and restaurants in the village, but if you're doing any hiking you should pack your own food.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Ao Nang is great for its evening party scene. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Ao Nang for the nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is great for its luxury resorts. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Ao Nang to choose from. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a resort destination.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Beaches?

Ao Nang is a good destination for the beach. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Ao Nang offers a nice beach destination. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

Aoraki Mount Cook is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

People visit Aoraki Mount Cook specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are beginner trails as well as world class routes that bring out expert climbers. As the highest peak in New Zealand, many people come here for the challenge, but if you're looking for a most simple experience, the hiking opportunities are still abundant.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Ao Nang is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ao Nang has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook.

Ao Nang is a family-friendly town. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aoraki Mount Cook. There are plenty of short walks that are perfect for little legs. Kids will also enjoy the boat rides on the lakes and the area's superb stargazing.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Aoraki Mount Cook is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Aoraki Mount Cook makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy the stunning glaciers, beautiful walks, and iconic views. Many couples take helicopter rides to fully experience the area. Stargazing and hiking is also high on the list of must-do romantic activities.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ao Nang. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aoraki Mount Cook. While many activities in the area are expensive, the hiking is world class and there are a few hostels and camping opportunities nearby.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ao Nang is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Ao Nang offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Aoraki Mount Cook. Having a car is essential unless you take a private tour that provides transportation.

Is Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

Ao Nang is great for its ease of walking around. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its walkability.

Ao Nang is a very walkable destination. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Aoraki Mount Cook is generally not very walkable. While there are many trails through the region, you really must have a car to access the trail heads and efficiently get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

It's fun to spend time in either Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aoraki Mount Cook.

Families should spend more time in Ao Nang than Aoraki Mount Cook. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ao Nang, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Ao Nang than Aoraki Mount Cook. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ao Nang that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ao Nang than Aoraki Mount Cook if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Ao Nang.

One day in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Ao Nang, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

In Aoraki Mount Cook, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This mountain offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With shopping and nightlife around the accessible town of Ao Nang, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Aoraki Mount Cook, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aoraki Mount Cook has to offer.

Five days in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the popular destination of Ao Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Ao Nang is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aoraki Mount Cook. Many people enjoy the when visiting Aoraki Mount Cook. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Ao Nang and Aoraki Mount Cook, we can see that Ao Nang 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. Even though Ao Nang is in Asia and Aoraki Mount Cook is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ao Nang Expensive? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Expensive?.