A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Aoraki Mount Cook for Hiking, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a scenic, idyllic, and serene island. Many visitors also come to Koh Chang because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a world renowned, scenic, and dramatic mountain. Aoraki Mount Cook is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Aoraki Mount Cook travel costs.

Koh Chang and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Chang than Aoraki Mount Cook, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Chang is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Aoraki Mount Cook is more popular for its hiking. Aoraki Mount Cook is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand. Koh Chang is well known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches. Also, Koh Chang is famous for White Sand Beach.

How is Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Koh Chang is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Chang. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Koh Chang is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

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 Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang has a few options to choose from. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

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 Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is great for its luxury resorts. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Chang to choose from. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Koh Chang offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

Aoraki Mount Cook is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Aoraki Mount Cook draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Koh Chang is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Chang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook More Beautiful?

Koh Chang and Aoraki Mount Cook both are comparable with their world-class scenery and beauty.

Koh Chang is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

The famous beauty of Aoraki Mount Cook is one of the main draws. As the highest peak in New Zealand, this is a stunningly beautiful destination with glaciers, pristine forests, and world class views.

Is Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Koh Chang is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Chang. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

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 Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Koh Chang and Aoraki Mount Cook are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

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

Koh Chang is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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

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

While Koh Chang offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

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 Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

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

Koh Chang is generally not a very walkable island. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

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 Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Chang due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aoraki Mount Cook.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Chang than Aoraki Mount Cook. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Chang that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

One day in Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the mountain of Aoraki Mount Cook. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With food and nightlife around the scenic island of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Aoraki Mount Cook. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this mountain has to offer. This mountain offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With nightlife and food around the idyllic destination of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the dramatic mountain of Aoraki Mount Cook. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Chang or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Koh Chang is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. This island 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Chang and Aoraki Mount Cook, we can see that Aoraki Mount Cook is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

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