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

Should you visit Malang or Shiretoko National Park?

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

Should I visit Malang or Shiretoko 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 cultural, under-rated, and authentic city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Malang travel costs.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. Shiretoko National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking. See Shiretoko National Park travel costs.

Malang and Shiretoko 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Malang or Shiretoko National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Malang than Shiretoko National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Malang is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Shiretoko National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Malang is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is known for its many nearby natural attractions. Also, Malang is famous for the Rainbow Village. Shiretoko National Park is well known for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Malang different from Shiretoko National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Shiretoko 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 Shiretoko National Park?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Malang is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Malang. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Shiretoko National Park. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.


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

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Malang is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine 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.

While Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Malang or Shiretoko National Park Better for Nightlife?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Malang is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for nightlife.

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.

Shiretoko National Park doesn't offer many options. Peaceful evenings and relaxing in nature are the best way to pass the time here, not socializing in a bar.

Is Malang or Shiretoko National Park Better for Hiking?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko 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 Shiretoko National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

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 Shiretoko National Park?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Malang is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Malang or Shiretoko National Park More Beautiful?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Shiretoko National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The park is among the most beautiful in Japan. It has a scenic natural setting that is particularly nice during the winter season.

Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Malang or Shiretoko National Park Better for Families?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Malang or Shiretoko National Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Malang. 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.

Shiretoko National Park offers lots of family activities. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.


Is Malang or Shiretoko National Park Better for Couples?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

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

Couples visit Shiretoko National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.

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 Shiretoko National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is well known for backpackers. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Shiretoko National Park. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.

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 Shiretoko National Park Better for Students?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Malang is a nice place to visit for students. However, Shiretoko 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.

Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.


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

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Malang is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.

Is Malang or Shiretoko National Park a more walkable city?

Malang
Shiretoko National Park

Malang and Shiretoko National Park both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Shiretoko National Park is a somewhat walkable place. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.

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

Should I spend more time in Shiretoko National Park or Malang?

How long in Malang or Shiretoko National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malang than Shiretoko 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 Malang.


  • How many days in Malang or Shiretoko National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malang 1-3 
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4

One day in Malang or Shiretoko National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the authentic city of Malang. Most people head to the area for the food. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Shiretoko 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 Shiretoko National Park?

Malang is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Shiretoko National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Malang or Shiretoko National Park?

Malang is a great place to explore. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shiretoko National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Malang or Shiretoko National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malang. Most people head to the area for the food. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park destination of Shiretoko National Park. This remote,natural,scenic,pristine 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Shiretoko 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
    Shiretoko National Park Prices
    Japan Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Malang $76
    Shiretoko National Park $96

The average daily cost (per person) in Malang is $76, while the average daily cost in Shiretoko National Park is $96. 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 Shiretoko National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malang $43
    Shiretoko National Park $34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malang $86
    Shiretoko National Park $68
Compare Hotels in Malang and Shiretoko National Park

Looking for a hotel in Malang or Shiretoko 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 Shiretoko 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 Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malang $1.36
    Shiretoko National Park $27

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 Shiretoko National Park?

Prices for flights to both Shiretoko 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
    Shiretoko National Park $45

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
    Shiretoko National Park $15

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 -
    Shiretoko National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malang and Shiretoko National Park, we can see that Shiretoko National Park is more expensive. And not only is Malang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Shiretoko National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Shiretoko 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 Shiretoko National Park Expensive?.


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