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

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

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 Gili Trawangan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a idyllic, laidback, and tropical island. The beauty of Gili Trawangan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Gili Trawangan travel costs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Gili Trawangan: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gili Trawangan than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gili Trawangan is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Gili Trawangan is more touristy than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and is known for its beautiful water and impressive scuba diving. Also, Gili Trawangan is famous for beautiful beachfront setting. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is well known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Gili Trawangan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Gili Trawangan 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 Gili Trawangan?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very good for its museums and history. However, Gili Trawangan is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Gili Trawangan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of art and cultural museums on the island, but most people spend their time soaking up the idyllic setting.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Gili Trawangan can be an enjoyable experience.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Gili Trawangan is an experience not to be missed. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

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

Gili Trawangan is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Gili Trawangan is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gili Trawangan Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

Gili Trawangan has a few great resort options. The island was long known for its backpacker vibe which included poorly concentrated beach huts. More recently there's been an upswing in upmarket accommodation, particularly on the quieter western and northern sides of the island.

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

Gili Trawangan is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Gili Trawangan is not to be missed. Snorkeling and diving are a highlight on the island, and a big draw for many visitors. The island is small, with a large concentration of tourists, so if you book a boat trip, you'll likely be surrounded by others. This doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy colorful fish, a magical undersea world, and the occasional sea turtle.

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

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

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

With world-famous beaches, Gili Trawangan is a very popular vacation destination. The island is filled with white sand beaches, most of which have restaurants and beachside bars nearby. One of the busiest beaches is near the port, but a quieter area is nearby Surf Point. The sunset side of the island is perfect in the evening when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, but the beaches on that side aren't as great as the other side of the island.

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

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking. 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.

Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Gili Trawangan is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Gili Trawangan has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most things you need on the island, but this isn't a place people usually shop for fun.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

With stunning beauty, Gili Trawangan attracts visitors from all around. Crystal blue waters and white sand beaches make this an idyllic island paradise. The setting is perfect for hanging out by the water and soaking up the island vibe.

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

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gili Trawangan.

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.

Gili Trawangan is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are many kid-friendly activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and biking. There are also glass bottom boat tours and a great laidback island vibe that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Do note that this is one of the more popular islands for backpackers, so there is a big party scene.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Gili Trawangan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Gili Trawangan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. White sand, blue water, and a true tropical island paradise make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. It's one of the more energetic of the Gili Islands, so if you're looking for a calm retreat, there may be better options, but it still has wonderful resorts and great diving.

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

Gili Trawangan is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Gili Trawangan is extremely popular for backpackers. It's the most popular of the Gili Islands for backpackers so you'll find tons of hostels and a great nightlife scene. The energy is high and the scenery and idyllic beaches are wonderful.

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.

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

Gili Trawangan is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Gili Trawangan has some public transit options. Many tourists enjoy getting around the island by cidomo, which are horse-drawn carts. Otherwise, walking or biking are your best options.

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

Gili Trawangan 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.

Gili Trawangan is a very walkable island. While it's the largest of the Gili Islands, it still small enough to walk around in about two hours and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable national park. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Gili Trawangan Worth Visiting?.

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gili Trawangan. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-4 days is enough time in Gili Trawangan.

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

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Gili Trawangan. 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 Gili Trawangan than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Gili Trawangan.

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

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find food and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Gili Trawangan. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Gili Trawangan?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the tropical destination of Gili Trawangan. It offers something for everyone. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gili Trawangan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Gili Trawangan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week 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.

Gili Trawangan is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

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

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 Gili Trawangan Expensive?.