A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mount Bromo vs. Lake Tekapo for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

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

Should I visit Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo? 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.

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is a breathtaking, scenic, and spectacular volcano. The famous beauty of Mount Bromo is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Mount Bromo travel costs.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a basic, small, and remote town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Lake Tekapo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Lake Tekapo travel costs.

Mount Bromo and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

Both Lake Tekapo and Mount Bromo have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Mount Bromo is better known for its impressive beauty, while Lake Tekapo is more popular for its shopping and small town charm. Mount Bromo is more touristy than Lake Tekapo and is popular for its sunrise views and scenic setting. Lake Tekapo is well known for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Mount Bromo different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

Dining out at restaurants in both Mount Bromo and Lake Tekapo can be an enjoyable experience.

Mount Bromo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find cheap noodle and rice dishes at the warungs in Cemoro Lawang. Some hotels have breakfast and you should pick up some food and water for the hike at a grocery store in town. There are also some stalls along the route, some that are open even at 3am to accommodate early hikers.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lake Tekapo. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.


Is Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

Neither Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Mount Bromo The stars and the early morning hike are the only nightlife you'll find here.

People don't go to Lake Tekapo for the nightlife. 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 Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

If you're looking to go hiking, Mount Bromo and Lake Tekapo both have superb trails.

Many visitors go to Mount Bromo for the hiking trails. The setting is beautiful, and best experienced at sunrise, which means most people hike through the night. Some people take horses and most people organized guided tours.

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 Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is mediocre for shopping. However, Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo More Beautiful?

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

Mount Bromo 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 Mount Bromo is one of the main draws. The setting and landscapes are spectacular, particularly at sunrise when most visitors make the trip.

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 Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its family-friendly activities.

Lake Tekapo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Mount Bromo is a family-friendly place to visit. It really depends on the age of your kids and their personality and adaptability as to whether this is a good trip for them. Many of the tours start in the middle of the night so you can see the spectacular sunrise. The trip can be a bit uncomfortable, but everyone is guaranteed an adventure!

Is Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

Mount Bromo is a great destination for couples. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Mount Bromo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Romantic sunrises and stunning views make this a wonderful destination for couples. The surroundings are surreal and you will long remember the experience.

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 Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

For backpackers, both Mount Bromo and Lake Tekapo are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Mount Bromo. Some backpackers choose to go without a guided tour, and this will let you save money. Cemoro Lawang is the closest town to the volcano.

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

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

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

Mount Bromo is a volcano 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 Mount Bromo. Most people visit with a guided tour because this saves a lot of time and allows you to see the sunrise.

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 Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Mount Bromo
Lake Tekapo

Mount Bromo and Lake Tekapo are notable when it comes to walkability.

Mount Bromo is somewhat walkable. The walk takes you across the sand and up some stairs. It's usually less than an hour.

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.


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

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Mount Bromo?

How long in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. In our opinion, Mount Bromo has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Mount Bromo than Lake Tekapo. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


  • How many days in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mount Bromo 1-2 
    Lake Tekapo 1-2

One day in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the scenic volcano of Mount Bromo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this volcano has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the remote town of Lake Tekapo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the scenic destination of Mount Bromo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This volcano offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the small destination of Lake Tekapo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

The spectacular volcano of Mount Bromo offers . 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The remote town of Lake Tekapo offers . 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Bromo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Lake Tekapo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Lake Tekapo or Mount Bromo?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mount Bromo is $25, while the average daily cost in Lake Tekapo is $84. 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 Mount Bromo and Lake Tekapo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mount Bromo $10
    Lake Tekapo $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mount Bromo $20
    Lake Tekapo $118
Compare Hotels in Mount Bromo and Lake Tekapo

Looking for a hotel in Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo? 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 Mount Bromo


Hotels in Lake Tekapo


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: Lake Tekapo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mount Bromo $7.03
    Lake Tekapo -

Is it cheaper to fly into Mount Bromo or Lake Tekapo?

Prices for flights to both Lake Tekapo and Mount Bromo 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
    Mount Bromo $8.84
    Lake Tekapo $22

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mount Bromo $7.88
    Lake Tekapo -

Tours and Activities in Lake Tekapo

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

  • Chameleon Stargazing Shared Tour: $71
  • Christchurch: Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo Small Group Day Tour: $173
  • Christchurch: Mt Cook Full-Day Private Tour via Lake Tekapo: $180
  • Christchurch: to Queenstown via Mt Cook 1 Way Tour: $231
  • Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience: $36
  • Highlights Tour with Tasting & Sunset in Oia: $116
  • Lake Tekapo Fishing Tour: $191
  • Lake Tekapo Guided 4WD Tours (Small Group, Carbon Positive): $173
  • Lake Tekapo High Country Farm Tour (Carbon Positive): $86
  • Lake Tekapo Scenic 4WD Cass Valley Wilderness Tour: $202
  • Lake Tekapo Scenic Wilderness Cass Valley Tour: $207
  • Lake Tekapo Ultimate Stargazing Experience: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mount Bromo $4.43
    Lake Tekapo -


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

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


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