A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mount Bromo vs. Koh Tao for Backpackers, Food, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Mount Bromo or Koh Tao? 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.

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is a spectacular, breathtaking, and scenic volcano. Many visitors also come to Mount Bromo because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking. See Mount Bromo travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. Many visitors also come to Koh Tao because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Mount Bromo and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Mount Bromo and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mount Bromo is famous for its sunrise views and scenic setting. Koh Tao is famous for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Mount Bromo different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Tao. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tao is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Koh Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mount Bromo. You'll find cheap noodle and rice dishes at the warungs in Cemoro Lawang. Some hotels have breakfast and you should pick up some food and water for the hike at a grocery store in town. There are also some stalls along the route, some that are open even at 3am to accommodate early hikers.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a great island for nightlife. However, Mount Bromo is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Koh Tao has something for everybody. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

People don't go to Mount Bromo for the nightlife. The stars and the early morning hike are the only nightlife you'll find here.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Mount Bromo is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Mount Bromo is not a resort destination.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mount Bromo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Mount Bromo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Mount Bromo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tao. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Mount Bromo is not a beach destination.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Mount Bromo and Koh Tao both have very good trails.

Many visitors go to Mount Bromo for the hiking trails. The setting is beautiful, and best experienced at sunrise, which means most people hike through the night. Some people take horses and most people organized guided tours.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a popular place for shopping. However, Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Koh Tao. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Mount Bromo and Koh Tao both are comparable with their fantastic scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Mount Bromo because of it's amazing beauty. The setting and landscapes are spectacular, particularly at sunrise when most visitors make the trip.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mount Bromo or Koh Tao.

Mount Bromo offers lots of family activities. It really depends on the age of your kids and their personality and adaptability as to whether this is a good trip for them. Many of the tours start in the middle of the night so you can see the spectacular sunrise. The trip can be a bit uncomfortable, but everyone is guaranteed an adventure!

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mount Bromo and Koh Tao make for a very good place to visit.

Mount Bromo is a great volcano if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic sunrises and stunning views make this a wonderful destination for couples. The surroundings are surreal and you will long remember the experience.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Koh Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

Mount Bromo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Some backpackers choose to go without a guided tour, and this will let you save money. Cemoro Lawang is the closest town to the volcano.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mount Bromo and Koh Tao both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Bromo. Most people visit with a guided tour because this saves a lot of time and allows you to see the sunrise.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Mount Bromo or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a great island for its walkability. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its high level of walkability.

Koh Tao is very walkable. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

Mount Bromo is a somewhat walkable place. The walk takes you across the sand and up some stairs. It's usually less than an hour.

For even more information, also check out Is Mount Bromo Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Mount Bromo?

How long in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

Both Mount Bromo and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Mount Bromo. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Mount Bromo, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Mount Bromo 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 Tao.

One day in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

In Mount Bromo, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This volcano offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical island of Koh Tao. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

In Mount Bromo, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Bromo has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Tao. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

Mount Bromo is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Koh Tao. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mount Bromo or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Bromo. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Bromo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Tao. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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