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

Should you visit Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao, 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a remote, rugged, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come to Mount Aspiring National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a popular, laid back, and mellow island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Mount Aspiring National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park is more popular for its hiking. Koh Tao is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Mount Aspiring National Park different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

Koh Tao offers plenty to do in the evening. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Koh Tao specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is very popular for the beach. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Tao are among the best in the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Mount Aspiring National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao?

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

Koh Tao offers some nice shopping areas. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Mount Aspiring National Park and Koh Tao are somewhat similar when it comes to the amazing scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in Mount Aspiring National Park as well. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Mount Aspiring National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Mount Aspiring National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Mount Aspiring National Park and Koh Tao are both superb to visit as a couple.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Koh Tao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

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

Both Mount Aspiring National Park and Koh Tao are amazing destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Mount Aspiring National Park. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Tao, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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

Both Mount Aspiring National Park and Koh Tao offer respectable public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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

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

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

How long in Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao?

Both Mount Aspiring National Park and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Mount Aspiring National Park. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Mount Aspiring National Park , and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Mount Aspiring 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao?

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful destination of Koh Tao offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao?

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

A week in Mount Aspiring National Park or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Aspiring National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The popular island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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