A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Florianopolis vs. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for Beaches, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

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

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

Should I visit Florianopolis or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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.

Florianopolis

Florianopolis is a relaxing, scenic, and vibrant city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Florianopolis 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.

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

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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florianopolis. Although Florianopolis and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are popular destinations, Florianopolis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florianopolis is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Florianopolis is famous for its sandy beaches, world-class surfing, and beautiful nature. It is also well known for Praia Mole. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is famous for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Florianopolis 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 Florianopolis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Florianopolis is very good for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

Florianopolis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of science and cultural museums in the area that will introduce you to the region's local wildlife and history.

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 Florianopolis or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Florianopolis is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Florianopolis makes for a great culinary experience. Perhaps the most popular local dish is feijoada, which is a stew that's slow cooked in a clay pot. It's a great dish for sharing and it originated in the region's African slave population. Another common food is pão de queijo, which is a dough that is made from cassava root flour. Also make sure you try the seafood, which is available in many restaurants around town.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Florianopolis is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Florianopolis offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene can vary between peak tourism times and the low season. There are plenty of bars around town that cater to the locals, and you can expect these to be open year round. Alternatively, there are also places that specifically open during the summer months and will close during the off season.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Florianopolis is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Florianopolis. You'll find a wide range of resorts that include everything from 5 star to more budget-friendly. There are also all-inclusive resorts and smaller, more personal places.

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


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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florianopolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Florianopolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Florianopolis 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, Florianopolis is a very popular vacation destination. There are miles of beautiful beaches that are popular for surfing. Joaquina Beach is one of the most popular beaches, particularly with surfers, but Mole Beach is quickly catching up in popularity. Campeche Beach is one of the widest and longest stretches of beach on the island.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

If you're looking to go hiking, Florianopolis and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) both have great trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Florianopolis. The island is filled with beautiful jungles, striking beaches, and many dramatic settings that make it a great place to hike. The hikes also vary in length and skill level, so there really is something for everyone.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.


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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

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

Florianopolis is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping malls and boutique retail shops that make for a great shopping experience.

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 Florianopolis or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Florianopolis. There are many outdoor activities, sports, beaches, and parks in the city. If your kids like to run around and have fun, you'll find some diverse experiences here.


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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Florianopolis is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the beautiful beaches and walking paths in the area. There's impressive natural beauty and a touch of undiscovered charm.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Florianopolis is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not the most popular destination in Brazil, it does have a huge appeal with surfers.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

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

Florianopolis has some public transit options. There are buses around town, including buses that travel between the downtown and the beaches.

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

Florianopolis
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Florianopolis is not a walkable destination.

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

Florianopolis is not a walkable destination. Most people get around the city with a vehicle.

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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Florianopolis or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. However, 3-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Florianopolis 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).


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

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

In Florianopolis, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the remote destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Florianopolis or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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

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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Florianopolis or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Florianopolis is a popular choice 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. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the authentic destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Florianopolis or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Florianopolis is a great place to explore. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the beautiful town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Brazil, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Brazil, 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 Florianopolis?

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

  • Florianopolis Prices
    Brazil Prices
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Florianopolis $74
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140

The average daily cost (per person) in Florianopolis is $74, 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 Florianopolis and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Florianopolis $25
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Florianopolis $50
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
Compare Hotels in Florianopolis and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Looking for a hotel in Florianopolis 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 Florianopolis


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Florianopolis $13
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florianopolis

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

  • Shared Transfer: $13
  • Hercilio Luz Airport - North Island Transfer: $13
  • Private Transfer Florianópolis Airport to City Center: $31
  • Shared transfer from Florianópolis airport to Balneário Camboriú: $56
  • Transfer Hotels in Florianópolis/Airport - private: $67
  • Private Transfer from FLN Airport to the City Balneario Camboriú : $81
  • Private Transfer from Florianópolis Airport to Bombinhas: $115
  • Roundtrip transfer from Florianópolis Airport to Bombinhas: $228

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

Prices for flights to both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Florianopolis 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
    Florianopolis $36
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60
Typical Food Prices in Florianopolis

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


  • A Quick Snack
    $0.42

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.
    Florianopolis $25
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119
Typical Entertainment Prices in Florianopolis

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


  • Internet
    $0.56

Tours and Activities in Florianopolis

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

  • Florianopolis Walking Tour - History, Art and Gastronomy: $17
  • Bombinhas Beach and 4 Islands Tour: $21
  • Florianópolis city tour (full day): $21
  • Shared Shuttle between Florianópolis Airport and Hotel with optional City Tour: $26
  • Discover Florianópolis: Full Day City Tour and Local Highlights: $27
  • Rafting Adventure in Apuama - Rio Cubatão in Greater Florianópolis: $35
  • Floripa City Tour by Bus - Whole Island - The Most Complete City Tour: $35
  • Tour Balneario Camboriu and Laranjeiras Beach TELEFERICO INCLUDED: $36
  • Balneário Camboriú tour and cable car ride from Florianópolis: $39
  • Secret Island Adventure: Gravata Trail, Floripa: $39
  • Blumenau City Tour - departing from Florianópolis: $40
  • Blumenau City Tour from Florianópolis: $40

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
    Florianopolis $8.34
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
Typical Alcohol Prices in Florianopolis

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florianopolis from other travelers:


  • Beer
    $0.56


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Florianopolis and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more expensive. And not only is Florianopolis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Florianopolis is in South America and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Florianopolis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florianopolis 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than you might in Florianopolis.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Florianopolis Expensive? and Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive?.