A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fiordland National Park vs. Koh Tao for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao?

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 Koh Tao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a breathtaking, world famous, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a tropical, popular, and laid back island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Fiordland National Park and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Fiordland National Park and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Tao 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. Fiordland National Park is famous for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments. Koh Tao is famous for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Fiordland National Park different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Tao. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

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 Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Koh Tao has a large number of nightlife venues. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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 Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Tao. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao is not to be missed. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Tao is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Fiordland National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Fiordland National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is very good for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Koh Tao. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Fiordland National Park is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is an amazing family-friendly national park to visit. 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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Fiordland National Park is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for couples.

Fiordland National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fiordland National Park and Koh Tao are both terrific 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 Koh Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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

Koh Tao is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

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 Koh Tao a more walkable city?

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

Koh Tao is very walkable. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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 Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Fiordland National Park?

How long in Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao?

Both Fiordland National Park and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Fiordland National Park. Usually, 3-6 days is a good amount of time for Fiordland National Park, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao?

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the tropical island of Koh Tao. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Koh Tao?

In Fiordland National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Koh Tao is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Koh Tao?

Fiordland National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fiordland National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Fiordland National Park or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fiordland National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Fiordland National Park. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fiordland National Park and Koh Tao, we can see that Fiordland National Park is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Fiordland National Park is in Pacific and Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao.

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 Koh Tao Expensive?.