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

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

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Queenstown can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spiritual, spectacular, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a outdoorsy, nature-oriented, and spirited city. The beauty of Queenstown is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Queenstown travel costs.

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

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Queenstown. Although Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Queenstown are popular destinations, Queenstown has more sights and attractions for tourists. Queenstown is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, resorts, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is famous for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Queenstown is famous for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery. It is also well known for Kawarau Bridge.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Queenstown and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

Queenstown is an unbeatable place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a skiing destination.

Queenstown is among the world's best ski destinations. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Queenstown is not a good city for its museums and history.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Queenstown specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

Queenstown 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.

Queenstown has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

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

Queenstown has a large number of nightlife venues. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

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

There are plenty of resorts in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to choose from. 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.

Queenstown is not a resort destination.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

You'll find first-rate hiking in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Queenstown.

Many people visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking. 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.

Known for its hiking, Queenstown draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

Is the Shopping Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

Queenstown is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Queenstown is well-known for its shopping. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) as well. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

The beauty of Queenstown is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its mountains and surrounding beauty, this is a breathtakingly beautiful city.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. 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.

Queenstown is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Queenstown are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has plenty to offer. 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.

Queenstown has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

Queenstown is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Queenstown is extremely popular for backpackers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown Better for Students?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

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

Queenstown is very popular with students. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

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

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

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

Queenstown has some public transit options. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Queenstown

Queenstown is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Queenstown is a very walkable city. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached on foot.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable national park. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Queenstown Worth Visiting?.

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

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

Both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Queenstown have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Queenstown than in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-7 days is enough time in Queenstown.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Queenstown 2-7

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

With museums and food around the spectacular national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Queenstown. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown?

With food and shopping around the destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the spirited destination of Queenstown. It offers something for everyone. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the beautiful destination of Queenstown. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Queenstown?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Queenstown is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It is common to spend one week here. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Queenstown or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

  • Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Prices
    Australia Prices
    Queenstown Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $186
    Queenstown $130

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $186, while the average daily cost in Queenstown is $130. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Queenstown in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Queenstown $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Queenstown $110
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Queenstown

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


Hotels in Queenstown


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: Queenstown Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Queenstown $10

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Queenstown

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Queenstown:

  • ZQN Airport to Downtown|Hotels Private Transfer: $27
  • Tasman Glacier Helihike with Flight Transfers: $982
  • Milford Sound Cruise with Helicopter Transfer: $748
  • Queenstown to Mt Cook One Way Scenic Transfer: $115
  • Queenstown private transfer: $87
  • Queenstown International Airport to City Hotels Transfer : $90
  • Queenstown Airport to/from Wanaka Hassle Free Private Transfer : $101
  • QUEENSTOWN:Private 1 way Airport transfer to/from CBD Hotels: $52
  • Private Transfers from Queenstown Airport to Wanaka : $177
  • Private Airport Transfer Vice Versa in Queenstown by SUV: $69
  • From Cardrona Ski/Snowboard Rentals & Transfer: $152

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

Prices for flights to both Queenstown and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $81
    Queenstown $62

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Queenstown

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Queenstown.

  • Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza: $17
  • Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown: $119
  • Queenstown Wine & Food Tour: Scenery, Tastings & Delicious Lunch!: $135
  • Wine & Food Tour, Scenic Tastings & Paired Lunch: $138

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Queenstown $21

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Queenstown

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Queenstown are as follows:


  • Skyline Gondola (for 2)
    $30

Tours and Activities in Queenstown

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Queenstown are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Ultimate Jet Boat Adventure on the Kawarau River: $89
  • 20-Minute Remarkables Helicopter Tour from Queenstown: $167
  • 30-Minute High-Speed Thrill Queenstown Jet Boat Adventure : $65
  • Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour from Queenstown: $125
  • Beauties of Queenstown Private Walking Tour: $941
  • Boutique Winery Half-Day Tour & Vineyard Platter-Style Lunch: $150
  • Cardrona Valley Mountain Quad Experience from Wanaka: $215
  • Convertible Picnic Tour Queenstown: $113
  • Cruise Milford Small Group Day Tour from Queenstown : $221
  • Dart River Canoe and Jet Boat Experience from Queenstown: $264
  • Dart River Jet Boat and Wilderness Experience: $184
  • Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Queenstown: $278

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Queenstown $8.86

Sample the Local Flavors in Queenstown

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Queenstown:

  • Ice Bar Crawl: $23
  • Queenstown, Arrowtown, Gibbston: Join the Only Flexible Wine Tour: $53
  • Bike & Wine Tour: Arrowtown to Valley of the Vines: $69
  • Queenstown & Gibbston Valley: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tours: $75
  • Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch: $107
  • Queenstown's Original Wine Tour Celebrating 33 Years: $113
  • Classic Wine Tour: $127
  • Queenstown Classic Wine Tour: 3 Winery Visits, Cave Tour & Cheese: $131
  • Central Otago Wine Tour: $132
  • Award Winning Premium Wine Tour Queenstown Tasting at 4 Wineries: $137
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $144
  • Afternoon Boutique Wine Tour: $149


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Queenstown, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. And not only is Queenstown much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Queenstown would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Queenstown 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 Queenstown.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive? and Is Queenstown Expensive?.