A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malang vs. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

Should I visit Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Malang travel costs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a breathtaking, other-worldly, and spiritual national park. The famous beauty of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Malang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Although Malang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are popular destinations, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Malang attracts visitors for its food and nightlife. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Malang and is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. It is also well known for Uluru. Malang is famous for its many nearby natural attractions.

How is Malang different from Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Both Malang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Malang is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.


Is the Food Better in Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Malang is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Malang has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an experience not to be missed. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Is Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Nightlife?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Malang is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Resorts?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is well known for its resorts. However, Malang is not a resort destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Malang is not a resort destination.


Is Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Hiking?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Shopping is a popular activity in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Malang.

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Is Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) More Beautiful?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is one of the main draws. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Families?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Couples?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Students?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Malang is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Malang. The university means that there's a large student population in town.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Is Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Malang is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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 limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) a more walkable city?

Malang
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Malang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.


For even more information, also check out Is Malang Worth Visiting? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Malang?

How long in Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

It's fun to spend time in either Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Malang 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).


  • How many days in Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malang 1-3 
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4

One day in Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Malang. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malang, one day is sufficent for most. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Malang. It offers something for everyone. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the destination of Malang. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Malang is a great place to explore. Most people visit for the food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the spiritual destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Prices
    Australia Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Malang $76
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $186

The average daily cost (per person) in Malang is $76, while the average daily cost in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $186. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malang $43
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malang $86
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
Compare Hotels in Malang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Looking for a hotel in Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malang $1.36
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malang

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malang:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Alice Springs Coach Transfer: $171

Is it cheaper to fly into Malang or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Prices for flights to both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $81

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $134
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $197
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $219
  • Mt Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock Resort inc Dinner: $258

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Malang $8.53
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37

Tours and Activities in Malang

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

  • 1 Day - Bromo Afternoon Siesta Tour start MALANG or SURABAYA // 11:00 - 18:00: $80
  • 1 Day - Tumpak Sewu, Kapas Biru Waterfall, Goa Tetes cave* Tour // 07:30 - 17:00: $75
  • 1 Day - ULTIMATE TOUR Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Goa Tetes cave // 07:30 - 17:30: $52
  • 1 Day Amazing Bromo Sunrise tour from Malang Surabaya 7 spots: $41
  • 1 Day Mount Bromo Sharing Tour Package from Malang: $34
  • 1Day - Bromo Non Sunrise Tour via Malang (to avoid crowd): $79
  • 1Day - Bromo Sunrise Tour via Malang (Sharing or Private Jeep): $39
  • 1Day - Malang Cycling Village Tour: $60
  • 2 Days - Bromo Ijen Bali Ultimate Tour // D1 01.00 - D2 14.00: $175
  • 2 Days Shared Tour from Malang to Mount Bromo and Ijen: $104
  • 2-Day Tour: Mount Bromo & Tumpak Sewu from Malang or Surabaya: $164
  • 2Days - Bromo Sunrise Ijen Adventure via Malang: $199

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $70
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $73
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $73
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $117
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $120
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $160
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $160
  • Palm Valley 4WD Tour from Alice Springs: $174
  • Best of Alice Springs Full Day Tour: $178
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience: $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Malang -
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malang and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive?.


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