A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Sequoia National Park for Resorts, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cancun or Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a adventurous, wild, and party-hard city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a surreal, impressive, and magical national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Cancun and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cancun or Sequoia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Sequoia National Park are popular destinations, Cancun has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cancun is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Sequoia National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cancun is famous for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also well known for . Sequoia National Park is famous for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty.


How is Cancun different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cancun. 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.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Cancun or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cancun. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Cancun has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Cancun is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.


Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cancun is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Beaches?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Cancun is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

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 Sequoia National Park?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is a city with good options for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cancun. 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, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.

Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sequoia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cancun is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Sequoia National Park is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Sequoia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Cancun is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Couples visit Sequoia National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.


Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Sequoia National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Cancun is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Is Cancun or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Cancun
Sequoia National Park

Cancun is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Sequoia National Park?

Both Cancun and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cancun has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cancun than Sequoia National Park. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cancun than Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cancun 4-7 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Cancun or Sequoia National Park?

In Cancun, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cancun. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Sequoia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cancun or Sequoia National Park?

Cancun is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sequoia National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Cancun or Sequoia National Park?

In Cancun, you'll find nightlife and food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Sequoia National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Cancun?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cancun is $148, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park 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 Cancun and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cancun $98
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cancun $196
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Cancun and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cancun or Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cancun $18
    Sequoia National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cancun

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


  • Taxi Around Town
    $1.68
  • Airport Shuttle (for 2)
    $14
  • Ferry to Isla de Mujeres (for 2)
    $17
  • Local Bus (for 2)
    $2.04

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cancun

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

  • transfers between hotels in Cancun hotel strip: $20
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Cancun APT-HTL (CUN): $45
  • Transfers in Private Minibus: $97
  • Transfers in Private MiniVan wi fi on board: $61
  • Transfers in Luxury Sedan from Cancun Airport: $85
  • Transfers in Lincoln Strecth Limousine with Wi Fi on board: $261
  • Transfers in Lincoln Strecth Limousine with Wi Fi on board: $121
  • Transfers From Hotel to Hotel: $100
  • Transfer in Private vehicle from Cancun Airport (CUN) - Akumal City: $74
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Cancun Airport (CUN) - Akumal City: $67
  • Transfer in Luxury Mercedes Benz Minivan: $91
  • Transfer from Puerto de Chiquila to Cancun Airport: $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Cancun or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia 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 $29
    Sequoia National Park $31
Typical Food Prices in Cancun

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


  • Lunch for Two
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cancun

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

  • Captain Hook: Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun: $46
  • Mayan Chichen Itza And Pirate Dinner Two Day Experience: $57
  • The Ultimate Cancun Taco & Street Mexican Food Tour: $59
  • Dinner Show with Pirates! (2x1 Price): $62
  • (2x1 price) Dinner Show and Pirates Experience : $63
  • (2x1 price) Pirate Night! Dinner, Fun and Show: $63
  • (2x1 price)Pirate Adventure! Open Bar, Dinner and Show : $63
  • Pirate Show and Dinner (2x1 price)! Best Promo : $64
  • Cancun Street Food Tour with Food Stalls, Local Market and Murals: $64
  • Private Ultimate Cancun Taco and Street Mexican Food Tour: $69
  • Guided Cancun Local Mexican Food Tour: $77
  • Cancun Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $78

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cancun $35
    Sequoia National Park $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cancun

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


  • Seasick Pills
    $0.60
  • Whale Shark Tour (for 2)
    $102

Tours and Activities in Cancun

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

  • ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote Transportation Included: $8.00
  • Bacalar tour + Lunch + Boat, from Cancun and Riviera Maya: $139
  • Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club: $85
  • Full Day All Inclusive Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres : $99
  • Full Day Chichen-Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Complete Tour: $37
  • Holbox Island Magic Tour from Cancun : $144
  • LDS Tour to Chichen Itza + Cenote : $165
  • Party Adventure at Isla Mujeres from Cancun & Playa del Carmen: $93
  • Private Tour to Tulum Ruins and Cenotes : $257
  • Reef and Sunken Ship Snorkeling Experience in Cancun: $85
  • Riviera Maya Luxury Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch and Drinks: $139
  • (4x1) Full day tour to Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen : $48

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

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

  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cancun $13
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

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: $37
  • Small Group EkBalam Pink Lakes Cenote and Tequila Distillery Tour: $287


When comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Sequoia 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. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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