A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Okinawa vs. Aoraki Mount Cook for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a idyllic, tropical, and lush archipelago. Many visitors also come to Okinawa because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Okinawa travel costs.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a breathtaking, world renowned, and scenic mountain. You'll find world class beauty in Aoraki Mount Cook as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Aoraki Mount Cook travel costs.

Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Okinawa. Although Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook are popular destinations, Okinawa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Okinawa is famous for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also well known for the Kerama Islands. Aoraki Mount Cook is famous for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand.

How is Okinawa different from Aoraki Mount Cook?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Okinawa is great for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Okinawa. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Okinawa is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Okinawa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

Aoraki Mount Cook offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few cafes and restaurants in the village, but if you're doing any hiking you should pack your own food.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is great for its evening party scene. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Okinawa for the nightlife scene. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

People don't go to Aoraki Mount Cook for the nightlife. There's an upscale bar at the Hermitage Hotel, but otherwise very little to do at night.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is great for its luxury resorts. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Okinawa to choose from. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a resort destination.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Okinawa. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Okinawa offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook, and they are terrific.

Okinawa is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

People visit Aoraki Mount Cook specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are beginner trails as well as world class routes that bring out expert climbers. As the highest peak in New Zealand, many people come here for the challenge, but if you're looking for a most simple experience, the hiking opportunities are still abundant.

Is the Shopping Better in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Okinawa is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Okinawa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of terrific scenery and beauty in both Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook.

You'll find world class beauty in Okinawa as well. The islands are filled with beautiful natural environments that range from white sand beaches to mangrove forests. The water is turquoise and the setting is idyllic for vacationers.

Aoraki Mount Cook is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As the highest peak in New Zealand, this is a stunningly beautiful destination with glaciers, pristine forests, and world class views.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Okinawa is very family-friendly. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of short walks that are perfect for little legs. Kids will also enjoy the boat rides on the lakes and the area's superb stargazing.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook both terrific destinations for a couple.

Okinawa is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

Aoraki Mount Cook makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy the stunning glaciers, beautiful walks, and iconic views. Many couples take helicopter rides to fully experience the area. Stargazing and hiking is also high on the list of must-do romantic activities.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aoraki Mount Cook. While many activities in the area are expensive, the hiking is world class and there are a few hostels and camping opportunities nearby.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Okinawa is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Okinawa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Aoraki Mount Cook. Having a car is essential unless you take a private tour that provides transportation.

Is Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Okinawa is generally not very walkable. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.

Aoraki Mount Cook is generally not a very walkable archipelago. While there are many trails through the region, you really must have a car to access the trail heads and efficiently get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Okinawa Worth Visiting? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Okinawa?

How long in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

It's fun to spend time in either Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Okinawa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Okinawa, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aoraki Mount Cook.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Okinawa than Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Okinawa.

One day in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Okinawa, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

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

A weekend in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With museums and nightlife around the lush archipelago of Okinawa, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Aoraki Mount Cook, 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 Aoraki Mount Cook has to offer.

Five days in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With nightlife and food around the tropical destination of Okinawa, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Okinawa or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Okinawa is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aoraki Mount Cook. Many people enjoy the when visiting Aoraki Mount Cook. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Okinawa and Aoraki Mount Cook, we can see that Okinawa is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Okinawa is in Asia and Aoraki Mount Cook is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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