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

Should you visit Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Aoraki Mount Cook 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.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a scenic, dramatic, and breathtaking mountain. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Khao Lak and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Khao Lak than Aoraki Mount Cook, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Khao Lak is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Aoraki Mount Cook is more popular for its hiking. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Also, Khao Lak is famous for Khao Sok National Park. Aoraki Mount Cook is well known for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand.

How is Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Khao Lak is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to 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 Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Is Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

Aoraki Mount Cook is an amazing mountain to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Around Aoraki Mount Cook visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Khao Lak has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Khao Lak is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Khao Lak. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Aoraki Mount Cook are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Khao Lak is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Aoraki Mount Cook is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

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

Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

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 Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

Khao Lak and Aoraki Mount Cook both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

Aoraki Mount Cook is generally not a very walkable area. 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 Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

It's fun to spend time in either Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Khao Lak due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aoraki Mount Cook.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak.

One day in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Khao Lak, 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.

The beautiful mountain of Aoraki Mount Cook offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With shopping and nightlife around the serene area of Khao Lak, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this mountain makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aoraki Mount Cook, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With nightlife and food around the idyllic destination of Khao Lak, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this area makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Khao Lak is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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. This mountain offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Aoraki Mount Cook, we can see that Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak Expensive? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Expensive?.