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

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

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 Sado 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 in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Sado

Sado is a cultural, off-the-beaten-path, and traditional island. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food. See Sado travel costs.

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

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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Although Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Sado are popular destinations, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Sado attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Sado and is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. It is also well known for Uluru. Sado is famous for its beautiful scenery, traditional culture, and population of endangered crested ibis.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Sado is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Sado specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The former gold mines are open to the public and fascinating to explore. For a traditional town, head to Shukunegi, which has narrow alleys and historic homes. Also worth a visit is the Sado History Museum.

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.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Sado 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 Sado is an experience not to be missed. You'll find great seafood including crab, tuna, and prawns. There are also fresh vegetables, rice, and other typical Japanese ingredients in the area.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a moderate national park for nightlife. However, Sado is a mediocre island for nightlife and partying.

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.

Sado doesn't offer many options. This is a quiet island and doesn't have much in the form of nightlife.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is notable for its resorts. However, Sado 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.

Sado is not a resort destination.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Sado is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sado. There is wonderful hiking on the island. Head to the Osado Mountain Range for wildflowers and spectacular views and scenery.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular place for shopping. However, Sado is a mediocre island for its shopping opportunities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sado has some nice offerings. You'll find shops where you can pick up any necessities that you may have forgotten. There are also souvenir shops where you can find local items to remember your trip.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

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

You'll find world class beauty in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) as well. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

Sado is not a destination known for its beauty.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Sado is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is 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.

Sado is a family-friendly national park. The former gold mines are fascinating and open to the public. There are also parks and interesting wildlife such as the Japanese ibis that you can see.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Sado is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Sado makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The area's history and nature make it a unique place for a couple's trip. There are museums, and outdoor spaces that you visit as well as the interesting mines.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is notable for backpackers. Also, Sado is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Sado is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as guesthouses that backpackers can stay at while they're in town.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Neither Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Sado 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 Sado. There are no trains on the island and the bus routes are infrequent and slow. You really must have a car to explore the area.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Sado

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular place for its walkability. However, Sado is a mediocre island for its high level of walkability.

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

Sado is not a very walkable national park. The island isn't particularly walkable, so you'll want to have a vehicle to explore.

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

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Sado. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than in Sado. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-3 days is enough time in Sado.

Families should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Sado. 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 Sado. 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 Sado 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 Sado? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Sado 2-3

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Sado. 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 Sado?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Sado. It offers something for everyone. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Sado?

You'll find shopping and museums around the spectacular destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and food around the destination of Sado. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Sado?

The spiritual national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Sado 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. 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.


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

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

  • Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Prices
    Australia Prices
    Sado Prices
    Japan Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $186
    Sado $82

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $186, while the average daily cost in Sado is $82. 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 Sado in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Sado $31
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Sado $62
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Sado

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


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: Sado Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Sado $14

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Sado?

Prices for flights to both Sado 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) $81
    Sado $42

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.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Sado $8.74

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

Tours and Activities in Sado

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

  • Sado Island Highlights: 3-Hour Bike Tour: $84

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Sado $69


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

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 Sado Expensive?.


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