A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a serene, tranquil, and scenic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and nightlife.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Koh Chang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock): Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Koh Chang have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Koh Chang is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) attracts visitors for its museums, food, hiking, and shopping. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Koh Chang is famous for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Koh Chang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Nightlife?

Koh Chang is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Koh Chang. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, excellent resorts can be found in both Koh Chang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

Koh Chang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find some of the region's top resorts. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Chang is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Families?

Koh Chang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Koh Chang is a very family-friendly destination. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very kid-friendly island. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Couples?

Koh Chang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Koh Chang is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great island to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Chang is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Koh Chang has some public transit options. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is somewhat walkable. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Chang due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 3-4 days is enough time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Koh Chang 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

One day in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Chang. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the serene destination of Koh Chang. It offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find museums and food around the other-worldly destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Chang. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the spiritual national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Chang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Chang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Koh Chang is in Asia and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is in Pacific, 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 Chang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Chang 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than you might in Koh Chang.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Chang Expensive? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive?.