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

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

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a local, tranquil, and idyllic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a breathtaking, other-worldly, and spiritual national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

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

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Lipe. Although Koh Lipe and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are popular destinations, Koh Lipe has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Lipe is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. 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.

How is Koh Lipe 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 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.


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

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

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

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a national park with a few options for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe 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.

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

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Koh Lipe and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Lipe. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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 Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Koh Lipe is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe is not to be missed. 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.

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

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

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Lipe is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

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

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

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking. 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 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very good for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

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.

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

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Koh Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

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, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. 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 Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Both Koh Lipe and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are fantastic destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

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

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

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

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

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 Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Koh Lipe is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

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


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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Lipe due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 3-4 days is enough time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

Families should spend more time in Koh Lipe than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Koh Lipe. 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 Lipe 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).


  • How many days in Koh Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koh Lipe 3-7 
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4

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

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Koh Lipe. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The beautiful national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers food and shopping. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the local destination of Koh Lipe. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Lipe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Koh Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Koh Lipe is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It is common to spend one week here. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 10-Day Tours in Australia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $151. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koh Lipe $44
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koh Lipe $88
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
Compare Hotels in Koh Lipe and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Looking for a hotel in Koh Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koh Lipe $18
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $74

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $112

Is it cheaper to fly into Koh Lipe or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Prices for flights to both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $129
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $188
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $202
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $244

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koh Lipe $23
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37

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

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • A Self-Guided Driving Tour in Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: $15
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $65
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $66
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $69
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $110
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $146
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $146
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $233

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koh Lipe $8.18
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Lipe and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 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 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 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 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive?.


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