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

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Koh Lanta and Fiordland National Park 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.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path, and tranquil island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a iconic, breathtaking, and world famous national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Koh Lanta and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Milford Track
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Lanta. Although Koh Lanta and Fiordland National Park are popular destinations, Koh Lanta has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Lanta is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fiordland National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Fiordland National Park is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments. Koh Lanta is famous for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park. It is also well known for Long Beach.

How is Koh Lanta different from Fiordland National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park?

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Koh Lanta 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 Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Koh Lanta 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 Lanta. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

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 Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Koh Lanta is very good for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Koh Lanta. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

Fiordland National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Koh Lanta 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 Lanta. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.


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

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Koh Lanta is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Lanta is a very popular vacation destination. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Fiordland National Park visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Many visitors go to Koh Lanta for the hiking trails. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.


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

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Koh Lanta is not a good area for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is an extremely popular national park to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Lanta. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

Is Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Both Koh Lanta and Fiordland National Park are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

Koh Lanta is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

Fiordland National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.


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

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Lanta. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

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

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Neither Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Public transit is quite limited 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 Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Koh Lanta
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a national park with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.


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

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

How long in Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park?

Koh Lanta and Fiordland National Park both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fiordland National Park than Koh Lanta because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

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


  • How many days in Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koh Lanta 2-5 
    Fiordland National Park 3-6

One day in Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful island of Koh Lanta. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. 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.

You'll find around the national park of Fiordland National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Lanta or Fiordland National Park?

Koh Lanta 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.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Fiordland National Park. 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 Lanta or Fiordland National Park?

Koh Lanta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find around the stunning national park of Fiordland National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.


A week in Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lanta. Most people head to the area for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Fiordland National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Fiordland National Park or Koh Lanta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Koh Lanta is $48, while the average daily cost in Fiordland National Park is $97. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Koh Lanta and Fiordland National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koh Lanta $24
    Fiordland National Park $48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koh Lanta $48
    Fiordland National Park $96
Compare Hotels in Koh Lanta and Fiordland National Park

Looking for a hotel in Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Koh Lanta


Hotels in Fiordland National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Koh Lanta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koh Lanta $5.66
    Fiordland National Park $42
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Koh Lanta

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Koh Lanta:


  • Ferry from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Koh Lanta

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Koh Lanta:

  • Pravate Transfer Lanta Island to Krabi Airport, Krabi Town, Ao nang: $74
  • One-Way Transfer from Koh Lanta to Krabi Town or Airport by Minivan: $11
  • Koh lanta to phuket any hotel Private transfer: $171
  • Koh Lanta :Krabi Airport Private Transfer:From Airport or Hotel: $111

Is it cheaper to fly into Koh Lanta or Fiordland National Park?

Prices for flights to both Fiordland National Park and Koh Lanta change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Koh Lanta $11
    Fiordland National Park $23
Typical Food Prices in Koh Lanta

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Koh Lanta:


  • Casual Breakfast
    $4.36
  • Casual Lunch
    $7.36
  • Casual Dinner
    $12
  • Fancy Dinner (for Two)
    $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Koh Lanta

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Koh Lanta.

  • Cooking Experience at Lanta Thai Cookery School From Koh Lanta: $48
  • Sukho Cuisine Thai Cooking School From Koh Lanta: $52
  • Cooking Class and Market Tour at Lanta Thai Cookery School on Koh Lanta: $53
  • Cooking Class & Market Tour with Thai Master Chef at Sukho Cuisine, Lanta: $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koh Lanta $31
    Fiordland National Park $20
Typical Entertainment Prices in Koh Lanta

Here are a few typical costs in Koh Lanta for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Emerald Cave Tour
    $19
  • Yoga Session (1 Hour)
    $9.55

Tours and Activities in Koh Lanta

Here are a few actual costs in Koh Lanta for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 4 Island Tour to Emerald Cave by Longtail Boat from Koh Lanta: $28
  • 4 Islands Day Tour By Opal Travel Speedboat: $42
  • Full Day Sea Cave and Mangrove Kayaking Tour From Koh Lanta: $52
  • Half Day 2 Caves Ko Skull Tour Ko Lanta and Kayaking Ko Talabeng: $25
  • Half Day Mangrove Forest Kayaking Tour From Koh Lanta: $29
  • Koh Ha Koh Rok Day Tour by Opal Travel Speed boat: $47
  • Koh Ngai, Koh Muk + Emerald Cave Snorkeling Tour by Classic Longtail Boat: $32
  • Koh Phi Phi Day Tour by Opal Travel Speedboat: $42
  • Lanta 4 Islands + Emerald Cave Snorkeling Tour: $26
  • Lanta 4 Islands tour (Longtail boat): $26
  • Lanta Mangrove Tour with Sea Cave Kayaking at Koh Talabeng: $30
  • Lanta Old Town and Mangrove Forest Sightseeing Tour: $40

Tours and Activities in Fiordland National Park

For Fiordland National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Te Anau: River Jet Boat and Bike Ride Tour with Local Guide: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koh Lanta $3.79
    Fiordland National Park $8.07


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

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