A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Jakarta vs. Aoraki Mount Cook for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Jakarta and Aoraki Mount Cook. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Jakarta

Jakarta is a sprawling, friendly, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Jakarta travel costs.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a dramatic, breathtaking, and world renowned mountain. Many visitors also come to Aoraki Mount Cook because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Aoraki Mount Cook travel costs.

Jakarta and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jakarta than Aoraki Mount Cook, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jakarta is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Aoraki Mount Cook is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Aoraki Mount Cook is more touristy than Jakarta and is known for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand. Jakarta is well known for its diversity, culture, cuisine, and mega-malls. Also, Jakarta is famous for Istiqlal Mosque.

How is Jakarta different from Aoraki Mount Cook?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aoraki Mount Cook and Jakarta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Jakarta is great for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Jakarta. There's a huge number of museums around town like the National Museum, Museum Layang-Layang, and Museum MACAN. There's also Merdeka Square, which is one of the world's biggest public squares and Istiqlal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Jakarta is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Jakarta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are so many different cultures represented in Indonesian cuisine, and you'll find them all in Jakarta. The food stalls, restaurants, and casual eateries all have their own flavor and style, which makes dining in this mega-city a true adventure.

Aoraki Mount Cook offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few cafes and restaurants in the village, but if you're doing any hiking you should pack your own food.

Is Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Jakarta is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Jakarta has a few options to choose from. It's a huge city, so there's a very active nightlife scene, but it's mostly focused on locals and not tourists like you'll find elsewhere in Indonesia. For the best nightlife district, head to Kemang, which has many bars and clubs.

People don't go to Aoraki Mount Cook for the nightlife. There's an upscale bar at the Hermitage Hotel, but otherwise very little to do at night.

Is Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is terrific for hiking. However, Jakarta is not a hiking destination.

Aoraki Mount Cook is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are beginner trails as well as world class routes that bring out expert climbers. As the highest peak in New Zealand, many people come here for the challenge, but if you're looking for a most simple experience, the hiking opportunities are still abundant.

Jakarta is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Jakarta is great for its shopping areas. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Jakarta. The city is filled with high end luxury malls where you can buy the latest fashions and many international brands. Around town you'll also find everything from local handicrafts to chic boutiques and grand international chains.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook More Beautiful?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Aoraki Mount Cook because of it's amazing beauty. As the highest peak in New Zealand, this is a stunningly beautiful destination with glaciers, pristine forests, and world class views.

Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Both Jakarta and Aoraki Mount Cook are notable family-friendly destinations.

Jakarta offers lots of family activities. Most visitors skip out on this huge city, and it's definitely not the first place that comes to mind when you think about family-friendly destinations, but there's actually a very fascinating culture that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There's the Kota area, which has colonial architecture. There's also a puppet museum and several history museums. But for most kids, the highlight is a visit to the Taman Impian Jaya Ancol area, which has amusement parks and even SeaWorld.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of short walks that are perfect for little legs. Kids will also enjoy the boat rides on the lakes and the area's superb stargazing.


Is Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is terrific for romance. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Aoraki Mount Cook is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the stunning glaciers, beautiful walks, and iconic views. Many couples take helicopter rides to fully experience the area. Stargazing and hiking is also high on the list of must-do romantic activities.

Jakarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most travelers looking for a romantic destination will head to the many famous honeymoon spots in Indonesia. But for those who make their way to Jakarta, there is sure to be a lot of adventure and culture. The city has many great museums as well as nature parks and amusement parks.

Is Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

For backpackers, both Jakarta and Aoraki Mount Cook are notable places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Jakarta. Visitors often have strong feelings about this city, whether they love it or hate it. For those backpackers who spend some time here, they're sure to be treated to a look at true Indonesian culture, which is hard to find in the more touristy areas.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aoraki Mount Cook. While many activities in the area are expensive, the hiking is world class and there are a few hostels and camping opportunities nearby.

Is Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Jakarta is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Jakarta. Public transportation has improved a lot recently. There's a commuter line as well as buses. The system can be a bit overwhelming and slow though, so tourists often avoid it.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Aoraki Mount Cook. Having a car is essential unless you take a private tour that provides transportation.


Is Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

Jakarta
Aoraki Mount Cook

Jakarta and Aoraki Mount Cook are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Jakarta is generally not a very walkable city. Central Jakarta is more walkable than most of the city but, in general, the city has a lot of traffic and isn't the best for exploring on foot.

Aoraki Mount Cook is generally not very walkable. While there are many trails through the region, you really must have a car to access the trail heads and efficiently get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Jakarta Worth Visiting? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Jakarta?

How long in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

It's fun to spend time in either Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Jakarta, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aoraki Mount Cook.

Families should spend more time in Jakarta than Aoraki Mount Cook. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Jakarta, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jakarta than Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Jakarta.


  • How many days in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jakarta 1-3 
    Aoraki Mount Cook 2-4

One day in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

When visiting Jakarta, people usually allow for lots of time. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

In Aoraki Mount Cook, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This mountain offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

When visiting Jakarta, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Aoraki Mount Cook, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aoraki Mount Cook has to offer.


Five days in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the sprawling big city of Jakarta. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Jakarta is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aoraki Mount Cook. Many people enjoy the when visiting Aoraki Mount Cook. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Indonesia, The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Aoraki Mount Cook or Jakarta?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Jakarta is $73, while the average daily cost in Aoraki Mount Cook is $124. 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 Jakarta and Aoraki Mount Cook in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jakarta $32
    Aoraki Mount Cook $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jakarta $64
    Aoraki Mount Cook $118
Compare Hotels in Jakarta and Aoraki Mount Cook

Looking for a hotel in Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook? 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 Jakarta


Hotels in Aoraki Mount Cook


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: Jakarta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jakarta $20
    Aoraki Mount Cook $27
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jakarta

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jakarta are as follows:


  • Taxi to Station
    $1.04

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jakarta

Also for Jakarta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Ujung Genteng Sukabumi: $245
  • Private Transfer from Jakarta Airport (CGK) to Ujung Genteng Sukabumi: $230
  • Private Transfer from Sukaresmi Pandeglang Regenc to Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP): $196
  • Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Sukarasa Kuningan Regency: $196
  • Private Transfer from Sukaresmi Pandeglang Regency to Jakarta Airport (CGK): $184
  • Private Transfer from Jakarta Airport (CGK) to Sukaresmi Pandeglang Regency: $184
  • Private Transfer from Jakarta Airport (CGK) to Sukaresmi Garut Regency: $184
  • Private Transfer from Jakarta Airport (CGK) to Sukarasa Kuningan Regency: $184
  • Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Sukaresmi Bandung: $175
  • Private Airport Transfer Jakarta VIP Sedan : $153
  • Private Airport Transfer Jakarta VIP Luxury Van: $141
  • Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Sukarasa Bandung: $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Jakarta or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Prices for flights to both Aoraki Mount Cook and Jakarta 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
    Jakarta $28
    Aoraki Mount Cook $46
Typical Food Prices in Jakarta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Jakarta:


  • Dinner
    $2.62
  • Dinner
    $0.72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jakarta

For Jakarta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mangga Besar Food Tour: $49
  • Jakarta Night Tour with Dinner at Café or Food street: $55
  • Kota Tua Food Tour: $64
  • Melawai Night Street Food Tour: $67
  • Halfday Batavia by Night with dinner at Cafe Batavia & souvenir: $120
  • Jakarta Private Cooking Class and Experience Tour: $120

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jakarta $12
    Aoraki Mount Cook $23

Tours and Activities in Jakarta

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Jakarta.

  • 1 Day Jakarta Historical Tour : $75
  • 1 Day Motorcycle Tour To Citorek Banten West Of Java: $177
  • 4 Hours Jakarta Private City Tour - (Most Tourist Attractions): $55
  • 7 Hours Indonesia Cultural & Heritage Park Tour: $110
  • Afternoon city tour Jakarta: $82
  • Bandung City Tour Mountain Volcano and Hotspring ( Start From Jakarta): $154
  • Batik Course & City Tour Jakarta: $60
  • Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park Tourism ( TMII ): $135
  • Bogor City Full-Day Private Tour from Jakarta with Pick Up: $160
  • Bogor City Tour Nature waterfall with Local Food ( Start From Jakarta ): $130
  • Bogor City Tour With a guide and lunch: $136
  • City Tour Jakarta: $75

Tours and Activities in Aoraki Mount Cook

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Aoraki Mount Cook.

  • 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour: $299
  • Day Tours from Mount Cook: $120
  • Gibbston Valley Wines - Cave Tour : $17
  • Guided Tour with Cheese & Wine Pairing: $21
  • Half-Day Self-Guided Ride and Wine Bike Tour from Arrowtown: $59
  • Moeraki Boulders Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier lookout Small Group Tour from Queenstown: $150
  • Mt Cook Small Group Scenic Day Tour from Queenstown: $150
  • Mt Cook Tour: Finish at Christchurch, Queenstown or Dunedin: $1,042
  • Mt Cook Tour: Finish at Queenstown, Christchurch or Dunedin: $1,040
  • Mt Cook to Christchurch One-Way Small Group Tour via Lake Tekapo: $108
  • Mt Cook to Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour (one-way): $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jakarta $4.06
    Aoraki Mount Cook $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Aoraki Mount Cook

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aoraki Mount Cook:

  • Kinross Winery: Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience: $15
  • Gibbston Valley Wine Tour - Self-Guided Audio Tour: $24
  • Kinross Winery: Premium Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience: $45


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jakarta Expensive? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Expensive?.