A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shiretoko National Park vs. Queenstown for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a nature-oriented, spirited, and bustling city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Shiretoko National Park and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Queenstown than Shiretoko National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Queenstown is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is known for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery. Also, Queenstown is famous for Kawarau Bridge. Shiretoko National Park is well known for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Shiretoko National Park different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Queenstown is among the best in the world. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Shiretoko National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

Queenstown offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Shiretoko National Park. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.

Is the Food Better in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Queenstown is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

While Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Queenstown offers plenty to do in the evening. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.

Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Shiretoko National Park and Queenstown are both places where visitors can find world-class hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Shiretoko National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

Around Queenstown visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

Is the Shopping Better in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Queenstown. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown Better for Families?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Queenstown is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

Shiretoko National Park is a family-friendly remote,natural,scenic,pristine. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown Better for Couples?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for romance.

Queenstown has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.

Shiretoko National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Queenstown is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

Shiretoko National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown Better for Students?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for students. However, Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.

Queenstown is a great city to visit as a student. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for times when you don't have a car.

Queenstown has a few public transit options. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown a more walkable city?

Shiretoko National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its walkability.

Queenstown is a very walkable destination. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached on foot.

Shiretoko National Park is somewhat walkable. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.

For even more information, also check out Is Shiretoko National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Queenstown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Shiretoko National Park?

How long in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

Both Shiretoko National Park and Queenstown have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Queenstown than in Shiretoko National Park. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Shiretoko National Park, and 2-7 days is enough time in Queenstown.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Queenstown than Shiretoko 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 Queenstown.


  • How many days in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4 
    Queenstown 2-7

One day in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

With around the national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine of Shiretoko National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the active city of Queenstown. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.


A weekend in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

With around the destination of Shiretoko National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Queenstown is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

Shiretoko National Park, a popular remote,natural,scenic,pristine, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Queenstown 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.

A week in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

Shiretoko National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Queenstown. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 10-Day Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Queenstown or Shiretoko National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Shiretoko National Park is $74, while the average daily cost in Queenstown is $104. 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 Shiretoko National Park and Queenstown in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shiretoko National Park $33
    Queenstown $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shiretoko National Park $66
    Queenstown $110
Compare Hotels in Shiretoko National Park and Queenstown

Looking for a hotel in Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown? 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 Shiretoko National Park


Hotels in Queenstown


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: Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices and Queenstown Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $26
    Queenstown $10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Queenstown

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Queenstown:

  • Queenstown Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Queenstown: $68
  • From Mount Cook Transfer w/ Guided Landmark Tour: $104
  • Private Transfer from Queenstown Airport to Milford Sound Port: $166
  • Private Transfer from Queenstown to Milford Sound Cruise Port: $166
  • Private Transfer from Queenstown Central to Wanaka: $178
  • Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Airport: $178
  • Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Central: $178
  • Milford Sound Cruise with Helicopter Transfer: $736
  • Tasman Glacier Helihike with Flight Transfers: $890

Is it cheaper to fly into Shiretoko National Park or Queenstown?

Prices for flights to both Queenstown and Shiretoko National Park 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
    Shiretoko National Park $25
    Queenstown $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Queenstown

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Queenstown.

  • Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza: $18
  • Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown: $114

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $15
    Queenstown $21

Typical Entertainment Prices in Queenstown

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Queenstown are as follows:


  • Skyline Gondola (for 2)
    $30

Tours and Activities in Queenstown

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Queenstown are as follows:

  • Time Tripper Underwater Experience: $8.91
  • Skip the Line: Odyssey Sensory Maze Entry Queenstown Ticket: $19
  • Private Race Car Simulation Experience: $20
  • Gibbston Valley Wines - Winery Tour: $23
  • Escape Adventure AR Experience in Queenstown: $24
  • Fear Factory Haunted House Admission Ticket: $24
  • Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience with Drink Options: $25
  • Go Karts - Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park: $30
  • Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise: $35
  • Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown: $36
  • Kids Club Experience Including Childcare: $48
  • Guided Segway Tour: $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $10
    Queenstown $8.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Queenstown

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Queenstown:

  • Ice Bar Crawl: $24
  • Queenstown & Gibbston Valley: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tours: $53
  • Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Bannockburn - departing Queenstown: $60
  • Afternoon brewery tour with lunch: $110
  • Afternoon Wine Tasting Tour with 3 Wineries: $110
  • Original Wine Tour: $112
  • Classic Wine Tour: $118
  • Queenstown Classic Wine Tour: 3 Vineyards, Caves and Cheeseboard: $120
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $130
  • Afternoon Boutique Wine Tour: $132
  • The Ultimate Luxury Hop on Hop off Wine Tour: $138
  • Central Otago Wine Tour from Queenstown Including Lunch: $144


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

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