A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lipe vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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 Koh Lipe and Mount Aspiring National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a small, local, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Koh Lipe and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Lipe. Although Koh Lipe and Mount Aspiring National Park are popular destinations, Koh Lipe has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Lipe is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Koh Lipe is famous for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere. It is also well known for Sunrise Beach. Mount Aspiring National Park is famous for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Koh Lipe different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Koh Lipe offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Lipe. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is not a good place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Koh Lipe for the nightlife. This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a resort destination.

Koh Lipe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Koh Lipe specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is very popular for the beache. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Lipe are among the best in the world. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Many people visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Many visitors go to Koh Lipe for the hiking trails. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.


Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is a moderate island for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park.

Koh Lipe is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Mount Aspiring National Park is very family-friendly. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for couples.

Koh Lipe has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.


Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

It's common for backpackers to visit Koh Lipe. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Koh Lipe and Mount Aspiring National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe
Mount Aspiring National Park

Koh Lipe is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

Koh Lipe is a very walkable island. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable island. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Koh Lipe Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Lipe than Mount Aspiring National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Lipe than Mount Aspiring 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 Lipe.


  • How many days in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koh Lipe 3-7 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The idyllic destination of Koh Lipe offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful national park of Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lipe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Koh Lipe is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Lipe has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mount Aspiring National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The small island of Koh Lipe offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Mount Aspiring National Park 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 national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Lipe?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Koh Lipe is $85, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $109. 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 Lipe and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koh Lipe $44
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koh Lipe $88
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
Compare Hotels in Koh Lipe and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring 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 Lipe


Hotels in Mount Aspiring 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 Lipe Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koh Lipe $18
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Koh Lipe

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Koh Lipe:

  • Private Transfer Pak Bara Pier to Hatyai Airport by Van: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Koh Lipe or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Koh Lipe 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 Lipe $26
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koh Lipe $23
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Tours and Activities in Koh Lipe

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

  • 2 Hours Tour Sunset Cruise Around Lipe: $15
  • Experience the Koh Lipe Backyard including 5 Mysterious Islands: $21
  • Full-Day Koh Lipe 7 Islands Snorkeling Experience with Lunch: $24
  • Experience the Koh Lipe Frontier in the Eastern Adang Archipelago: $25
  • Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) 1 day Experience: $111

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koh Lipe $8.18
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09


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

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