A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fiordland National Park vs. Gili Trawangan for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Fiordland National Park and Gili Trawangan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a tropical, idyllic, and laidback island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Fiordland National Park and Gili Trawangan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Gili Trawangan. Although Fiordland National Park and Gili Trawangan are popular destinations, Gili Trawangan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Gili Trawangan is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fiordland National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Gili Trawangan is more touristy than Fiordland National Park and is known for its beautiful water and impressive scuba diving. It is also well known for beautiful beachfront setting. Fiordland National Park is famous for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments.

How is Fiordland National Park different from Gili Trawangan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

Gili Trawangan is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Gili Trawangan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art and cultural museums on the island, but most people spend their time soaking up the idyllic setting.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gili Trawangan is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Gili Trawangan. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is a town that serves as the basecamp for the park, and there are a range of restaurants and cafes there. Once you're in the park the dining options are limited, so it's best to come prepared with your own food supplies.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Nightlife?

Gili Trawangan is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

People head to Gili Trawangan just to party. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fiordland National Park. There are few amenities in the park, so bring your own drinks and supplies.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Resorts?

Gili Trawangan is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

Gili Trawangan has a handful of resorts to choose from. The island was long known for its backpacker vibe which included poorly concentrated beach huts. More recently there's been an upswing in upmarket accommodation, particularly on the quieter western and northern sides of the island.

Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gili Trawangan is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Gili Trawangan is not to be missed. Snorkeling and diving are a highlight on the island, and a big draw for many visitors. The island is small, with a large concentration of tourists, so if you book a boat trip, you'll likely be surrounded by others. This doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy colorful fish, a magical undersea world, and the occasional sea turtle.

Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Beaches?

Gili Trawangan is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Gili Trawangan is a very popular vacation destination. The island is filled with white sand beaches, most of which have restaurants and beachside bars nearby. One of the busiest beaches is near the port, but a quieter area is nearby Surf Point. The sunset side of the island is perfect in the evening when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, but the beaches on that side aren't as great as the other side of the island.

Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Hiking?

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Fiordland National Park specifically for its hiking. The park has world class hiking, and this is the main activity for most visitors. There are three main trails in the park, as well as many shorter hikes that you can do. Milford Track is probably the most famous hike, and it is often considered one of the best hikes in the world. Routeburn Track is a multi-day trek that passes through a variety of environments and landscapes. Other popular trails include Kepler Track, Hollyford Track, and Dusky Track.

Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

Gili Trawangan is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Gili Trawangan is a good destination for shopping. You'll find most things you need on the island, but this isn't a place people usually shop for fun.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Families?

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is one of the most popular family destinations. It's the largest national park in New Zealand, and it makes a great playground for the whole family. It's the perfect place to go for a hike or learn about the natural world. There are dolphins and seals, waterfalls, and glowworm caves. There are also fun adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

Gili Trawangan is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are many kid-friendly activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and biking. There are also glass bottom boat tours and a great laidback island vibe that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Do note that this is one of the more popular islands for backpackers, so there is a big party scene.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Couples?

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Fiordland National Park has plenty to offer. Couples who love the great outdoors will be in heaven in this stunning national park. There's gorgeous scenery, romantic boat trips, and world class hikes that are not to be missed.

Couples visit Gili Trawangan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. White sand, blue water, and a true tropical island paradise make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. It's one of the more energetic of the Gili Islands, so if you're looking for a calm retreat, there may be better options, but it still has wonderful resorts and great diving.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fiordland National Park and Gili Trawangan are both fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Fiordland National Park. As the largest national park in New Zealand, this is a world class backpackers destination and it is filled with amazing multi-day treks and once in a lifetime experiences.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Gili Trawangan. It's the most popular of the Gili Islands for backpackers so you'll find tons of hostels and a great nightlife scene. The energy is high and the scenery and idyllic beaches are wonderful.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gili Trawangan is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Gili Trawangan has some public transit options. Many tourists enjoy getting around the island by cidomo, which are horse-drawn carts. Otherwise, walking or biking are your best options.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fiordland National Park. Public transit is basically nonexistent in the park and there are few roads as well. Even so, having your own car is important as it gives you the flexibility to reach the sections that you want to visit.

Is Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan a more walkable city?

Gili Trawangan is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Gili Trawangan is very walkable. While it's the largest of the Gili Islands, it still small enough to walk around in about two hours and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Fiordland National Park is generally not very walkable. There are trails throughout the park and it's possible to access it on foot via Routeburn Track from Mt. Aspiring National Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Fiordland National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Gili Trawangan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gili Trawangan or Fiordland National Park?

How long in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

It's fun to spend time in either Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fiordland National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-6 days is a good amount of time for Fiordland National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gili Trawangan.

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

Couples should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Fiordland National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Gili Trawangan that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Fiordland National Park 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 Gili Trawangan.

One day in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

In Fiordland National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the idyllic island of Gili Trawangan. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

Fiordland National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Gili Trawangan is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fiordland National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Gili Trawangan is a great place to explore. Five days 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Fiordland National Park or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park of Fiordland National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gili Trawangan. Most people come for the beaches. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fiordland National Park and Gili Trawangan, we can see that Fiordland National Park is more expensive. And not only is Gili Trawangan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Fiordland National Park is in Pacific and Gili Trawangan is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Gili Trawangan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gili Trawangan 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 Fiordland National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fiordland National Park than you might in Gili Trawangan.

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