A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cairns vs. Lake Tekapo for Hiking, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

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

Should I visit Cairns or Lake Tekapo? 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.

Cairns

Cairns is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and tropical city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a remote, basic, and small town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Cairns and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cairns. Although Cairns and Lake Tekapo are popular destinations, Cairns has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cairns is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Lake Tekapo attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Cairns is more touristy than Lake Tekapo and is popular for its stunning beaches, nearby rainforests, and easy access to the world's largest reef system. It is also well known for the Great Barrier Reef. Lake Tekapo is famous for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Cairns different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake Tekapo and Cairns. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

Cairns is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

Cairns offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time exploring nature and the outdoors, but there are some interesting cultural sights around town as well. Make sure you check out the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park as well as the Cairns Aquarium.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cairns or Lake Tekapo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cairns is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Cairns is an experience not to be missed. Waterfront dining with a view is what makes the restaurant scene special. Seafood is everywhere and you can enjoy the catch of the day while you relax on a beachfront terrace. There are also international restaurants that have everything from Spanish tapas to Japanese noodle bowls.

Lake Tekapo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

Cairns is a must-see party destination. For such as small city, the nightlife scene is incredibly vibrant, particularly during the peak tourist months. Backpackers are at the heart of the action, with many bars and clubs filling up each night with a young crowd. There are dance clubs, all night parties, cocktail bars, and beach side venues that are sure to offer a good time.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Lake Tekapo This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Resorts?

Cairns is a great destination for its resorts. However, Lake Tekapo is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Cairns to choose from. There are many beautiful resorts that offer access to the beach and have impressive pools. There are family-friendly resorts, romantic resorts, and even some budget-friendly options.

Lake Tekapo is not a resort destination.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cairns is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lake Tekapo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Cairns. It's access to the Great Barrier Reef make this one of the world's top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. The undersea world is filled with colorful coral, diverse tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and a truly magical setting.

Lake Tekapo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Beaches?

Cairns is terrific for the beach. However, Lake Tekapo is not a beach destination.

Cairns offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Near town you'll find stunningly beautiful beaches that range from hubs of activity to quiet coves. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is the closest beach to the city center and it has a sandy beach and plenty of amenities. For a quieter setting, head north to Holloways Beach or to the family-friendly Yorkeys Knob Beach. Do take note that if the beach doesn't have a stinger net, then it's recommended you wear a stinger suit (to avoid jellyfish stings).

Lake Tekapo is not a beach destination.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Cairns is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Cairns is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Near town you'll find wonderful national parks, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountain ranges. There are countless bush walks and hiking trails in the area. Head into the countryside and you'll get lost in nature and breathtaking views.

Many visitors go to Lake Tekapo for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Is the Shopping Better in Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

Cairns is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cairns. There's plenty of shopping around town in the form of shopping centers, markets, and boutique shops. Whether you're looking for trendy fashion or a fun souvenir, there are many places to explore.

Shopping in Lake Tekapo can be found for those interested. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Cairns is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cairns is very family-friendly. With the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest nearby, this is a playground for kids and adults alike. There are sandy beaches, rainforest walks, turtle rehabilitation centers, scenic railways, adventure sports, and so much more.

Lake Tekapo is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking are also popular in the area.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Cairns is a great destination for couples. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Cairns frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful tropical setting with world class beaches and diverse marine life. Couples who enjoy the outdoors and adventure will love this amazing destination. You can experience the area's wildlife, relax on sandy beaches, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. There is plenty of luxury, but also adventure-filled activities to choose from.

Lake Tekapo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns is terrific for backpackers. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cairns is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers flock to this coastal town for its easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and its many activities and vibrant energy. There are adventure sports, wild nightclubs, and no shortage of places to hang out with other backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Lake Tekapo. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cairns is a good destination for its public transit. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Cairns, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Sunbus operates a public bus service that travels through the city center and to many beaches. Most routes start at Cairns City Mall.

Public transit is quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Cairns or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Lake Tekapo is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its walkability.

Lake Tekapo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

Cairns is generally not very walkable. While you can walk around many parts of the city center, most visitors want to head into the rainforest or experience the nearby day trips, which require a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Cairns Worth Visiting? and Is Lake Tekapo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Cairns?

How long in Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cairns or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cairns than Lake Tekapo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Cairns, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lake Tekapo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cairns than Lake Tekapo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cairns that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cairns than Lake Tekapo 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 Cairns.

One day in Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical city of Cairns. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Lake Tekapo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the tropical destination of Cairns. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Lake Tekapo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the tropical city of Cairns. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake Tekapo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Cairns. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the small destination of Lake Tekapo. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand, and The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cairns and Lake Tekapo, we can see that Cairns is more expensive. And not only is Lake Tekapo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake Tekapo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake Tekapo and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cairns would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cairns than you might in Lake Tekapo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cairns Expensive? and Is Lake Tekapo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cairns or Lake Tekapo?

Cairns has a larger population, and is about 470 times larger than the population of Lake Tekapo. When comparing the sizes of Cairns and Lake Tekapo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.