A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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 Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a tropical, active, and adventurous city. Cancun is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Cancun travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a authentic, remote, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are popular destinations, Cancun has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cancun is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Cancun is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also well known for . Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is famous for its fishing and wildlife.



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How is Cancun different from Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Cancun. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Cancun specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.


Is the Food Better in Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Cancun has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) area. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Nightlife?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun is very popular for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Cancun is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Resorts?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun is very popular for its resorts. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cancun is a perfect choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.


Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its diving and snorkeling.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun is not to be missed. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Many visitors go to Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Beaches?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun is very popular for its beaches. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Cancun is a very popular vacation destination. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Hiking?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.


Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun is very good for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

Cancun is a great destination for shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

If you're looking to go shopping, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.

Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are somewhat similar when it comes to the very good scenery.

The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Families?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cancun is one of the most popular family destinations. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very family-friendly. Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.


Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Couples?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun is very popular for romance. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Cancun has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cancun. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Cancun has some public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

You'll find some public transit in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.


Is Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) a more walkable city?

Cancun
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are very good when it comes to walkability.

Cancun is a very walkable city. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very walkable destination. The town is relatively easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

It's fun to spend time in either Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cancun due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

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

Couples should spend more time in Cancun than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cancun that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Cancun.


  • How many days in Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cancun 4-7 
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4

One day in Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tropical destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful city offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great place to explore. 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 Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Cancun is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cancun has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Cancun is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here. It offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the local destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). This town 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Cancun?

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

  • Cancun Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cancun $153
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140

The average daily cost (per person) in Cancun is $153, while the average daily cost in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is $140. 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 Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cancun $89
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cancun $178
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
Compare Hotels in Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Looking for a hotel in Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? 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 Cancun


Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)


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: Cancun Hotel Prices and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cancun $16
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cancun

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Cancun:


  • Taxi Around Town
    $1.52
  • Airport Shuttle (for 2)
    $13
  • Ferry to Isla de Mujeres (for 2)
    $15
  • Local Bus (for 2)
    $1.85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cancun

Also for Cancun, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shared Transfer from Cancun Airport : $6.00
  • Cancun Airport Small-Group Transfer to Cancun Hotels: $6.00
  • Cancun Airport private transfer to Cancun hotel zone: $15
  • CUN Airport to Cancun City Centre Hotels Shared Transfer: $17
  • Cancun airport private Transfer: $17
  • Shared Round-Trip Transfer To/From Cancun International Airport: $20
  • Best SpeedBoat and Snorkeling tour with Transfer from Cancun: $25
  • Departure Private Transfer Cancun to Cancun Airport CUN by Minivan or Minibus: $29
  • Cancun Airport Hotel Private Transfer by Minivan: $32
  • Marriot Cancun Private Airport Transfers: $32
  • Private Transfer to/from Hotels in Cancun Area: $34
  • One-Way Private Airport Transfer Cancun & Riviera Maya : $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Cancun or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Prices for flights to both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Cancun 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
    Cancun $45
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60
Typical Food Prices in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cancun Pirate Ship Adventure : Dinner & Show at Sea 2 for 1 Deal: $50
  • Pirate Show in Cancun! Dinner & drinks: $62
  • Cancun Street Food Tour with Food Stalls, Local Market and Murals: $64
  • Pirate Shop & Dinner at Cancun! Drinks, Adventure and Fun: $65
  • Cancun Walking Food Tour: Local Food, Markets, and Street Art.: $77
  • Puerto Morelos Walking Food Tour: $77
  • Mexican Cooking Class with fresh Local Market ingredients selection and transpor: $79
  • Cancun Taco & Mexican Food Tour with Tequila Tasting: $79
  • Cancun Private Mural Art and Food Tour: $81
  • Hands-On Cooking Class in Drink & Cook Authentic Dishes: $85
  • Pirate’s Night Out: Dinner and Entertainment in the Caribbean: $89
  • Unforgettable Pirate Dinner Adventure in the Mexican Caribbean: $89

Typical Food Prices in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some typical examples of dining costs in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:


  • Dinner at Finca Exotica
    $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cancun $32
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cancun

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Cancun's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Seasick Pills
    $0.54
  • Whale Shark Tour (for 2)
    $92

Tours and Activities in Cancun

For Cancun, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • ATV Tour, Zip Lines, Horseback Riding, Cenote and Tequila Tasting: $10
  • Tour to Kin Ha Cenotes with Craft Jewelry Workshop : $12
  • Tulum Mayan Ruins + Shopping Tour + Tulum Jaguar Park: $13
  • Discover Isla Mujeres tour with snorkel, buffet and open bar : $14
  • Visit to 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen + Shopping Tour: $14
  • Speedboat jungle tour and snorkel: $15
  • Tour to Tulum and Cenote for the best price! : $16
  • Full Day Tour to Coba and Tulum Cenote Swim and Lunch: $16
  • Catamaran Adventure in Cancun: $16
  • Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling, Open Bar and Buffet: $16
  • Chichen Itza full day tour: $16
  • Chichen Itza Tour Full day food included: $16

Tours and Activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:

  • 30-minute Corcovado National Park Tour by Plane: $256
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Osa Jungle : $163
  • Bio-Luminescence and Sunset Kayak Tour: $67
  • Corcovado La Leona Day Tour from Puerto Jimenez - All Inclusive: $120
  • Corcovado National Park - Day Tour from Drake Bay: $145
  • Corcovado National Park - Private Siren Day Tour: $190
  • Gold Panning Private Adventure in Puerto Jimenez: $35
  • Isla del Caño snorkel tour from Drake Bay (Cano island) : $125
  • Kayak experience on Playa Blanca in Puerto Jiménez: $65
  • One Day Tour To Caño Island From Drake Bay: $145
  • One Day Tour to Corcovado (La Leona Station) From Puerto Jiménez: $230
  • Puerto Jimenez Birdwatching Tour Osa Peninsula Golfo Dulce: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cancun $12
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

Sample the Local Flavors in Cancun

Also in Cancun, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Social Pub Crawl in Cancun: $35
  • Bar Crawl Madness Tour in Cancun: $99


When comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Cancun 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 Cancun is in North America and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is in Central America, 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 Cancun Expensive? and Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive?.