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

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

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

Should I visit Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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.

Surabaya

Surabaya is a local, undiscovered, and authentic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Surabaya travel costs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a breathtaking, other-worldly, and spiritual national park. The famous beauty of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Surabaya and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Surabaya. Although Surabaya and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are both popular with visitors, Surabaya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Surabaya is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Surabaya and is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Surabaya is popular for its role in Indonesia's independence revolution. It is also home to the Submarine Monument.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

While most people don't head to Surabaya specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You'll likely pass through town on your way somewhere else, but if you have some time to kill, check out Suramadu Bridge, the House of Sampoerna, Cheng Hoo Mosque, Sanggar Agung Temple, and Ampel Mosque. It's also worth a visit to the Submarine Museum and the Heroes Monument.


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

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

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

Dining out in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Surabaya. It's a port city, and the cuisine reflexs this. You'll find a mix of different flavors that combine Javanese, Chinese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian cuisines. Dishes include a lot of vegetables as well as tofu and tempeh. Many dishes are also sweet in flavor or incredibly spicy.

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

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Surabaya is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Surabaya. Like the rest of the city, the nightlife scene has a local vibe. There are night markets, fascinating neighborhoods, and some lively clubs and bars.

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.

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

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for its resorts. However, Surabaya is not a resort destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Surabaya is not a resort destination.


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

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Surabaya is very good for the beach. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Surabaya to enjoy the beach. You'll find a few beaches within a short drive of the city center. Some of the popular ones include Ria Kenjeran Beach, Bentar Beach, and Delegan Beach.

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

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

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Surabaya is not a hiking destination.

People visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Surabaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Surabaya is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Surabaya is well-known for its shopping. The city has a great mix of air-conditioned mega-malls and colorful street markets. Bratang Market has become a favorite but it's also worth checking out Tugu Pahlawan Market and Ampel Market.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.


Is Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) More Beautiful?

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Surabaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is one of the main draws. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

Surabaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

For families, Surabaya is not always the best place to visit. You'll like be passing through this city enroute to somewhere else, but if you have some time to kill, check out the Submarine Museum. You can also wander through the market area of Qubah or explore Chinatown.

Is Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Couples?

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for couples. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for romance.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Surabaya is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are some sights an museums that you can visit while you're in town.


Is Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for backpackers. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Surabaya is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town but most backpackers don't spend more than a night in town.

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

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Surabaya 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 Surabaya. There's a bus system, but it's mostly used by locals. There are two types of buses - normal buses and patas buses, which are express.

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

Surabaya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Surabaya 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.

Surabaya is a very walkable city. It's one of the more walkable cities in Indonesia and it has the feel of a bunch of neighborhoods combined together.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Surabaya Worth Visiting? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting?.

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Surabaya, and 3-4 days is enough time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

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

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Surabaya. 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 Surabaya 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 Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Surabaya 1-2 
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4

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

Surabaya is a big city destination where you can fill many days. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Surabaya, one day is sufficent for most. 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 Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Surabaya is a undiscovered big city where you can fill many days. It offers something for everyone. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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 Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the big city destination of Surabaya. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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 Surabaya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Surabaya is a great place to explore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Indonesia, The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Surabaya?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Surabaya Prices
    Indonesia Prices
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Prices
    Australia Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Surabaya $76
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $186

The average daily cost (per person) in Surabaya is $76, while the average daily cost in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $186. 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 Surabaya and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Surabaya $36
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Surabaya $72
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
Compare Hotels in Surabaya and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Looking for a hotel in Surabaya 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 Surabaya


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: Surabaya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Surabaya $2.66
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Surabaya

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Surabaya:

  • Private Transfer from Yogyakarta to Bromo: $234
  • Private Transfer from Waru to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $33
  • Private Transfer from Tanggulangin to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $52
  • Private Transfer from Taman to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $49
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya City to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $33
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Tanggulangin: $52
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Tambak Sawah: $35
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Taman: $42
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Surabaya City : $33
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Sidoarjo: $52
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Semampir: $33
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Segoro Tambak: $33

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:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Alice Springs Coach Transfer: $171

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

Prices for flights to both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Surabaya 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
    Surabaya $37
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $81

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: $134
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $197
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $219
  • Mt Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock Resort inc Dinner: $258

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Surabaya $4.56
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37

Tours and Activities in Surabaya

Here are a few actual costs in Surabaya for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day Bromo Private Day Tour with Madakaripura Waterfall: $131
  • 1 Day Tour, Wonderful Mount Bromo Sunrise From Surabaya or Malang: $136
  • 1 days Majapahit temple history tour: $100
  • 1Day - Bromo Madakaripura Day Tour: $128
  • 2Days - Bromo Family Tour via Surabaya: $163
  • 2Days - Bromo Madakaripura Adventure via Surabaya or Malang: $155
  • 2Days - Bromo Sunrise Ijen Tour via Surabaya: $199
  • 2Days/1Night Bromo Private Tour with Hotel: $189
  • 3-Day Tour: Mount Bromo & Ijen Crater from Surabaya or Malang: $264
  • 3D2N Mount Bromo & Ijen Crater Tour from Surabaya: $289
  • 3Days - Adventure Bromo Ijen via Surabaya: $245
  • 3Days - Adventure Bromo Ijen via Surabaya or Malang: $275

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
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $70
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $73
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $73
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $117
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $120
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $160
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $160
  • Palm Valley 4WD Tour from Alice Springs: $174
  • Best of Alice Springs Full Day Tour: $178
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience: $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Surabaya -
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Surabaya Expensive? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive?.


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