A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malang vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

Should I visit Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Malang

Malang is a authentic, cultural, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Malang travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Malang and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Malang. Although Malang and Mount Aspiring National Park are popular destinations, Malang has more sights and attractions for tourists. Malang is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Malang is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its many nearby natural attractions. It is also well known for the Rainbow Village. Mount Aspiring National Park is famous for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Malang different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Malang is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Malang offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of museums around town that provide information on the city's culture and history. There are also mosques, temples, and the famous Rainbow Village.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Malang is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Malang is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. This is a top foodie destination and you'll find plenty of amazing street food. It's also the credited with being the birthplace of bakso (meatballs). Many of the dishes around town are sweet, spicy, and served with peanut sauce. It's been influenced by many different cuisines such as Chinese, Javanese, Madurese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Malang is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Malang. The universities around town mean that there's a youthful vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll also find a mix of cultural activities as well as modern and trendy venues. There are dance clubs, upscale lounges, and everything in between.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Many people include a hike when visiting Malang. Many visitors use this city as a base for hiking Mount Bromo. It's popular to hire a jeep tour from town, or you can hire a private driver or motorbike. Near town you'll also find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Indonesia - Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It's possible to hike to the base of the waterfall, but it's a very challenging route.


Is the Shopping Better in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Malang is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Malang offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find places to pick up many local items. The region is known for its ceramics, wood, and rattan (palms).

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the main draws. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Malang offers lots of family activities. If you're willing to head just outside of town, you'll find theme parks and waterparks. Some of the favorites are Batu Secret Zoo, Jatim Park, Selecta Park, and Batu Night Spectacular.


Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for romance. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Mount Aspiring National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Malang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy culture, museums, temples, and great food will have a good time visiting this city. It is also a bit cooler than much of Indonesia, which can make a nice escape from the heat.

Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Malang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through town when they're headed to climb Mount Bromo. There are plenty of hostels and cheap places to stay as well as some sights that are worth checking out.

Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Malang is a nice place to visit for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Malang is a good city to visit for students. The university means that there's a large student population in town.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.


Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Malang and Mount Aspiring National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Malang. Angkot or mikrolet are small buses or modified cars that carry passengers around town. Many visitors also hire a motor scooter or driver to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Malang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Malang and Mount Aspiring National Park both are nice when exploring on foot.

Malang is somewhat walkable. The city center is relatively walkable.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable place. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Malang Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Malang?

How long in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Malang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Malang, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

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


  • How many days in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malang 1-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The authentic destination of Malang offers shopping and museums. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malang. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malang has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Malang is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic city of Malang. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the remote destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. This national park 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 Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Malang?

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

  • Malang Prices
    Indonesia Prices
    Mount Aspiring National Park Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Malang $76
    Mount Aspiring National Park $122

The average daily cost (per person) in Malang is $76, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $122. 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 Malang and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malang $43
    Mount Aspiring National Park $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malang $86
    Mount Aspiring National Park $116
Compare Hotels in Malang and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ? 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 Malang


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


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: Malang Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malang $1.36
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malang

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malang:

  • Private Transfer - Malang To Surabaya International Airport: $38
  • FROM YOGYAKARTA TRANSFER TO BROMO/SURABAYA/MALANG CITY.: $50
  • Yogyakarta ;Transfer Service From Yogyakarta to Bromo/Malang: $109

Is it cheaper to fly into Malang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Malang 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
    Malang $29
    Mount Aspiring National Park $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Malang

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Malang.

  • Malang Cooking Class by Mam Warti: $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Malang $8.53
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Tours and Activities in Malang

Here are a few actual costs in Malang for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • From Bromo Sunrise Guided Group Tour: $32
  • 1 Day Mount Bromo Sharing Tour Package from Malang: $34
  • 1Day - Bromo Sunrise Tour via Malang (Sharing or Private Jeep): $39
  • Waterfalls Tour: $40
  • 1 Day Amazing Bromo Sunrise tour from Malang Surabaya 7 spots: $41
  • Bromo Adventure: $50
  • 1 Day - ULTIMATE TOUR Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Goa Tetes cave // 07:30 - 17:30: $52
  • 1Day - Malang Cycling Village Tour: $60
  • Private Tour in Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls from Malang or Surabaya: $64
  • East Java Dirt Bike Tours: $65
  • 1 Day - Tumpak Sewu, Kapas Biru Waterfall, Goa Tetes cave* Tour // 07:30 - 17:00: $75
  • 1Day - Bromo Non Sunrise Tour via Malang (to avoid crowd): $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Malang -
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.07


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

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