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

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

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 Koh Tao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a other-worldly, spiritual, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a tropical, popular, and laid back island. Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao 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 and hiking. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is well known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Koh Tao is well known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. 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.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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

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

Koh Tao has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Koh Tao.

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.

Koh Tao is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

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

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao is not to be missed. 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.

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

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

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Tao is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

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

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Koh Tao?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Koh Tao.

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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. 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.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Koh Tao are somewhat similar when it comes to the terrific scenery.

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.

The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for couples.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao 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, Koh Tao is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

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

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

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 Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao 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.

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. 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.

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 Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

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

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

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao.

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

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find museums and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao?

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the mellow destination of Koh Tao. It offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Koh Tao?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 shopping and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It is common to spend one week here. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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 Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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 Koh Tao Expensive?.