A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Fraser Island for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

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

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Fraser Island can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spiritual, spectacular, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a stunning, serene, and breathtaking island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Fraser Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Fraser Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Fraser Island is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Fraser Island and is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is famous for Uluru. Fraser Island is well known for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Fraser Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fraser Island and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its museums and history.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Fraser Island. The stunning natural beauty is the appeal of this island. It is worth visiting the Maheno Shipwreck which was once a trans-Tasman liner.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

Fraser Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are settlements on the island where you can pick up food and essentials, but don't expect much more than the basics. There are also several restaurants.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a moderate national park for nightlife and partying. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its evening party scene.

Most people don't head to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Fraser Island doesn't offer many options. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Fraser Island is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to choose from. 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.

Fraser Island is not a resort destination.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Fraser Island. The waters around the island are not designed for snorkeling, as the currents are strong and there are often large sharks. There are several dive spots including a ship wreck as well as a beautiful reef that is filled with hard and soft corals.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Fraser Island is a very popular vacation destination. The idyllic beaches really are paradise. The water is blue, the sand white, and the rainforest feels undiscovered. The most famous beach is Seventy-Five Mile Beach, but other beautiful spots include Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and the Champagne Pools (the only oceanfront spot where you can swim).

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

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Fraser Island is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fraser Island. There are many stunning hikes on the island and many visitors choose to camp during their visit. It's possible to organize a group hike with a guide as well, which is recommended as it is the safer option.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. 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.

Fraser Island is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The kids will love the peaceful beaches and stunning landscapes as much as the adults. There are walking trails, beautiful water, and between the months of July and November you can go whale watching.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Fraser Island are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has plenty to offer. 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.

Fraser Island has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's stunning beaches and serene setting make for a truly romantic destination. You can picnic on the white sand or float down Eli Creek. Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding are also fun.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Fraser Island are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

Fraser Island is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. It's truly a bucket list destination, so even though it may be challenging to reach, it's well worth the effort. There are ferries that leave from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, or you can visit as part of an organized tour.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Neither Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fraser Island. The roads are sand and you'll need a vehicle of your own to get around. Because of the conditions, it requires four wheel drive.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Fraser Island

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

Fraser Island is generally not a very walkable national park. The island is large enough that you'll likely want a vehicle (four wheel drive) to get around and fully experience it.


For even more information, also check out Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Fraser Island Worth Visiting?.

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

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

In either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fraser Island than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 3-5 days is enough time in Fraser Island.

Families should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Fraser Island. 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 Fraser Island. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) that are great 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 Fraser Island 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Fraser Island 3-5

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the other-worldly destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Fraser Island. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the serene destination of Fraser Island. It offers something for everyone. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the breathtaking destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Fraser Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island.


A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Fraser Island is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Sydney, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $152, while the average daily cost in Fraser Island is $208. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Fraser Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Fraser Island $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Fraser Island $204
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Fraser Island

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Fraser Island? 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


Hotels in Fraser Island


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Fraser Island $93

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:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $114

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

Prices for flights to both Fraser Island and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $47
    Fraser Island $48

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: $131
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $191
  • Uluru and Kata Tjuta Experience with BBQ Dinner: $205
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $237

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Fraser Island $45

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:

  • A Self-Guided Driving Tour in Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: $13
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $60
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $65
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $67
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $105
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $142
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $142
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $237

Tours and Activities in Fraser Island

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

  • 2 Hours Hervey Bay Funset Cruise: $53
  • Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watching Cruise: $73
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $100
  • Hervey Bay: Half Day Whale watching & Island Stop Tour: $111
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour: $182
  • Remote Fraser Island Experience: $144
  • Remote K'gari (Fraser Island) & Whale Experience: $166

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Fraser Island $21


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

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