A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fiordland National Park vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

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 Fiordland National Park and Koh Pha Ngan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a iconic, breathtaking, and world famous national park. The famous beauty of Fiordland National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Fiordland National Park travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a funky, beautiful, and backpacker-friendly party island. Koh Pha Ngan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and nightlife. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Fiordland National Park and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Fiordland National Park and Koh Pha Ngan are both popular with visitors, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Pha Ngan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fiordland National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Fiordland National Park and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also home to the Full Moon Parties. Fiordland National Park is popular for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments.

How is Fiordland National Park different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Pha Ngan and Fiordland National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its restaurants. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Koh Pha Ngan. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is a town that serves as the basecamp for the park, and there are a range of restaurants and cafes there. Once you're in the park the dining options are limited, so it's best to come prepared with your own food supplies.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

People head to Koh Pha Ngan just to party. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fiordland National Park. There are few amenities in the park, so bring your own drinks and supplies.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a handful of resorts to choose from. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Koh Pha Ngan. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Fiordland National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Many people visit Fiordland National Park specifically for its hiking. The park has world class hiking, and this is the main activity for most visitors. There are three main trails in the park, as well as many shorter hikes that you can do. Milford Track is probably the most famous hike, and it is often considered one of the best hikes in the world. Routeburn Track is a multi-day trek that passes through a variety of environments and landscapes. Other popular trails include Kepler Track, Hollyford Track, and Dusky Track.

Many visitors go to Koh Pha Ngan for the hiking trails. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Is the Shopping Better in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is a good destination for shopping. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Fiordland National Park is one of the main draws. This is one of the most beautiful parks in New Zealand. It has striking mountains, dramatic fjords, and pristine beech forests.

The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is one of the most popular family destinations. It's the largest national park in New Zealand, and it makes a great playground for the whole family. It's the perfect place to go for a hike or learn about the natural world. There are dolphins and seals, waterfalls, and glowworm caves. There are also fun adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Fiordland National Park has plenty to offer. Couples who love the great outdoors will be in heaven in this stunning national park. There's gorgeous scenery, romantic boat trips, and world class hikes that are not to be missed.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fiordland National Park and Koh Pha Ngan are both fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Fiordland National Park. As the largest national park in New Zealand, this is a world class backpackers destination and it is filled with amazing multi-day treks and once in a lifetime experiences.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Pha Ngan. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Pha Ngan is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fiordland National Park. Public transit is basically nonexistent in the park and there are few roads as well. Even so, having your own car is important as it gives you the flexibility to reach the sections that you want to visit.

Is Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its walkability. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Koh Pha Ngan is somewhat walkable. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

Fiordland National Park is generally not very walkable. There are trails throughout the park and it's possible to access it on foot via Routeburn Track from Mt. Aspiring National Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Fiordland National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Fiordland National Park?

How long in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fiordland National Park than Koh Pha Ngan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-6 days is a good amount of time for Fiordland National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

Families should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Fiordland National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Koh Pha Ngan, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Fiordland National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Pha Ngan that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Fiordland National Park 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Fiordland National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the high energy party island of Koh Pha Ngan. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

Fiordland National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Fiordland National Park, many people enjoy the that this iconic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Fiordland National Park or Koh Pha Ngan?

Fiordland National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Most people come for the beaches. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fiordland National Park and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Fiordland National Park is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Fiordland National Park is in Pacific and Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Pha Ngan 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 Fiordland National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fiordland National Park than you might in Koh Pha Ngan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Fiordland National Park Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.