A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Alice Springs for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Lombok or Alice Springs?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lombok and Alice Springs. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lombok

Lombok is a cultural, stunning, and peaceful island. Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Lombok travel costs.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a outdoorsy, charming, and friendly town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Alice Springs is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Alice Springs travel costs.

Lombok and Alice Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Alice Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lombok. Although Lombok and Alice Springs are both popular with visitors, Lombok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lombok is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Alice Springs is known for its hiking and small town charm. Lombok is popular for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also home to Mount Rinjani. Alice Springs is popular for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

How is Lombok different from Alice Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Alice Springs and Lombok. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lombok or Alice Springs?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Lombok and Alice Springs.

Lombok offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Alice Springs. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.

Is the Food Better in Lombok or Alice Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lombok is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lombok has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Alice Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Lombok and Alice Springs.

If you're looking for night time activities Lombok has a few options to choose from. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alice Springs. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

In Lombok, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lombok is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Beaches?

Lombok is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Lombok is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Hiking?

Alice Springs is a world-class destination for hiking. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Alice Springs is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

Lombok is a popular spot for hiking. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Alice Springs?

Lombok is a great island for its shopping areas. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lombok. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Alice Springs is a great destination for shopping. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs More Beautiful?

Lombok is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Alice Springs is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The surrounding area is filled with beautiful landscapes and dramatic views.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Alice Springs are very good family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Alice Springs is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Couples?

Lombok is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Lombok is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Alice Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lombok, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Alice Springs. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lombok and Alice Springs both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Public transit is generally limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Is Lombok or Alice Springs a more walkable city?

Alice Springs is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Alice Springs is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

Lombok is generally not very walkable. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

For even more information, also check out Is Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alice Springs or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Alice Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Lombok or Alice Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lombok due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alice Springs.

Families should spend more time in Lombok than Alice Springs. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lombok, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lombok than Alice Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lombok that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Alice Springs 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 Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the stunning destination of Lombok. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Alice Springs might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Alice Springs?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Alice Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laid back destination of Lombok. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Lombok. 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 one week exploring. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Alice Springs is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lombok Expensive? and Is Alice Springs Expensive?.