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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a rainforest-covered, lush, and laid back resort island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a breathtaking, world famous, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Koh Samui and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Samui than Fiordland National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Samui is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fiordland National Park is more popular for its hiking. Koh Samui is more touristy than Fiordland National Park and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Also, Koh Samui is famous for The Big Buddha Temple. Fiordland National Park is well known for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments.

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

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

Koh Samui 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 Samui. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

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 Samui or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People head to Koh Samui just to party. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Fiordland National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Samui is a perfect choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui 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 Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Samui is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Fiordland National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Fiordland National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Koh Samui is a popular spot for hiking. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

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

Koh Samui is very good for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Koh Samui. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Fiordland National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Fiordland National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Koh Samui is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Is Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Fiordland National Park is an amazing national park to visit for couples. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for romance.

Fiordland National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Koh Samui is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

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

Fiordland National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Fiordland National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

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

Koh Samui is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Koh Samui has some public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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 Samui or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Koh Samui and Fiordland National Park are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Koh Samui is generally not a very walkable resort island. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

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.

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

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

How long in Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park?

Koh Samui and Fiordland National Park both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Samui than Fiordland National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Fiordland 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 Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Fiordland National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the lush resort island of Koh Samui. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Samui or Fiordland National Park?

Koh Samui is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find around the world famous 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 Samui or Fiordland National Park?

Koh Samui is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. 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 Samui or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand.

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

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