A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Lake Tekapo for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

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 Lombok and Lake Tekapo. 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.

Lombok

Lombok is a laid back, cultural, and stunning island. The famous beauty of Lombok is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Lombok travel costs.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a small, remote, and basic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Lake Tekapo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking. See Lake Tekapo travel costs.

Lombok and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lombok. Although Lombok and Lake Tekapo are both popular with visitors, Lombok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lombok is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lake Tekapo is known for its small town charm. Lombok is more touristy than Lake Tekapo and is popular for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also home to Mount Rinjani. Lake Tekapo is popular for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Lombok different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake Tekapo and Lombok. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

Lombok is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Lombok or Lake Tekapo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lombok is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Lombok is an experience not to be missed. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Lake Tekapo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Lombok is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

Lombok has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Lake Tekapo This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a great destination for its resorts. However, Lake Tekapo is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Lombok to choose from. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Lake Tekapo is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lake Tekapo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Lombok. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Lake Tekapo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Beaches?

Lombok is terrific for the beach. However, Lake Tekapo is not a beach destination.

Lombok offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Lake Tekapo is not a beach destination.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lombok and Lake Tekapo, and they are excellent.

Many visitors go to Lombok for the hiking trails. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Lake Tekapo is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

Lombok is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lombok. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Shopping in Lake Tekapo can be found for those interested. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo More Beautiful?

Lombok is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Lombok is one of the main draws. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Lake Tekapo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. You really want to get out of town and explore the area's stunning natural beauty.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Lake Tekapo are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Lake Tekapo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking are also popular in the area.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Lombok is terrific for couples. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Lombok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Lake Tekapo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is terrific for backpackers. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lombok is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Lake Tekapo. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lombok is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Public transit is quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Lombok or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Lake Tekapo is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Lake Tekapo is a somewhat walkable place. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

Lombok is generally not very walkable. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

For even more information, also check out Is Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Lake Tekapo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lombok or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Lake Tekapo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lake Tekapo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Lombok than Lake Tekapo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lombok that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Lake Tekapo 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 Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the peaceful island of Lombok. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Lake Tekapo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Lombok. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Lake Tekapo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the cultural island of Lombok. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake Tekapo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lombok. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. With so much to do, one week is probably not enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the basic destination of Lake Tekapo. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lombok Expensive? and Is Lake Tekapo Expensive?.