A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ensenada vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Should I visit Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park? 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.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a cultural, outdoorsy, and historic city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a other-worldly, breathtaking, and spectacular park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Ensenada and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ensenada than Bryce Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ensenada is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Bryce Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Ensenada and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Ensenada is well known for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. Also, Ensenada is famous for Avenida Lopez Mateos.

How is Ensenada different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bryce Canyon National Park and Ensenada. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Ensenada is very good for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Ensenada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.


Is the Food Better in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Ensenada is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ensenada has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Ensenada is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Ensenada has a few options to choose from. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a park with a few options for its resorts. However, Ensenada is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Ensenada is not a resort destination.


Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Ensenada is adequate for the beache. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Ensenada. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Ensenada is not a hiking destination.

People visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Ensenada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Ensenada is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ensenada. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.


Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very kid-friendly park. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Ensenada offers lots of family activities. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Bryce Canyon National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Ensenada is a good city for couples to visit. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is very popular for backpackers. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bryce Canyon National Park. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Ensenada is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.


Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ensenada and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Is Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Ensenada
Bryce Canyon National Park

Ensenada is a great city for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Ensenada is a very walkable city. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Ensenada Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Ensenada because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ensenada, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Families should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Ensenada. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bryce Canyon National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ensenada than Bryce Canyon 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 Ensenada.


  • How many days in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ensenada 2-3 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Ensenada, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this outdoorsy destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful park of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Ensenada, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bryce Canyon National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Ensenada. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bryce Canyon National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Ensenada. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Ensenada?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ensenada is $99, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135. 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 Ensenada and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ensenada $47
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ensenada $94
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Ensenada and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Ensenada or Bryce Canyon 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 Ensenada


Hotels in Bryce Canyon 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: Ensenada Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ensenada $21
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ensenada

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ensenada:

  • Transfer: From Tijuana to Valle de Guadalupe & Ensenada: $408
  • Border and Tijuana Airport Transfers to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Ensenada or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Ensenada 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
    Ensenada $39
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ensenada $11
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Ensenada

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

  • 8 Hour Private Tour : $131
  • ATV Off-Road Adventure through Valle de Guadalupe + Winery Visit: $77
  • Adventure in Ensenada with Zipline, Marine Geyser and Shops: $99
  • Bike and wine amazing Adventure in Valle de Guadalupe": $130
  • City tour on electric horse wagon.: $58
  • Couple Tour: $125
  • Electric Motorcycle Tour and rental.: $140
  • Ensenada : The unique bufadora private tour: $39
  • Ensenada Shore Excursion: Blowhole and La Bufadora Tour with Horseback Riding: $81
  • Ensenada Taco Tour by local guide: $94
  • A thrilled family adventure of ziplines: $70
  • Mezcal, Tequila, Ceviches and shoping Tasting Tour: $70

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • The Beauty of Full-Day Audio Driving Private Tour: $7.19
  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Self-Driving Bundle Tour : $25
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $110
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Thunder Mt. 4 Hour Ride: $120
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ensenada $11
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78

Sample the Local Flavors in Ensenada

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

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience in Maglén: $29
  • Xecue Wine Tasting in the Guadalupe Valley: $39
  • Wine tour valley of guadalupe: $60
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tasting Tour: $78
  • From Wine Tasting at Guadalupe Valley Ensenada: $87
  • From Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour: $97
  • Wine Tasting Tour in Valle de Guadalupe: $115
  • Private Wine Tour at Valle de Guadalupe (A wine tasting included).: $119
  • wine tours and driver service through valle de guadalupe, Ensenada B.C. Mexico: $135
  • Wine tasting tour for Cruise Ship Visitors. All Inclusive!: $199
  • Private and custom group Wine tour Valle de Guadalupe : $220
  • Valle Experience by Ansell Wine Tours: $269


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ensenada and Bryce Canyon National Park, we can see that Bryce Canyon National Park is more expensive. And not only is Ensenada much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ensenada would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ensenada 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 Bryce Canyon National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bryce Canyon National Park than you might in Ensenada.

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