A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Foz do Iguacu vs. Mazatlan for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Foz do Iguacu and Mazatlan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Foz do Iguacu

Foz do Iguacu is a breathtaking, spectacular, and scenic park. The beauty of Foz do Iguacu is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Foz do Iguacu travel costs.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a cultural, authentic, and historical city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Foz do Iguacu and Mazatlan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Foz do Iguacu than Mazatlan. While Mazatlan is larger than Foz do Iguacu, Foz do Iguacu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Foz do Iguacu is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Mazatlan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Foz do Iguacu is more touristy than Mazatlan and is known for its spectacular beauty and incredible volume of water. Also, Foz do Iguacu is famous for Iguacu National Park. Mazatlan is well known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas.

How is Foz do Iguacu different from Mazatlan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mazatlan and Foz do Iguacu. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Foz do Iguacu is a park with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Mazatlan. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

While most people don't head to Foz do Iguacu specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a handful of museums and nature parks in and near town.

Is the Food Better in Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Foz do Iguacu is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a variety of restaurants around town where you can sample the regional cuisine. A popular item on the menus is Surubí (a local river fish). Also make sure you try the Mbeyú (fried bread), and paraguayan soup (more like bread than an actual soup).

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan has a better nightlife scene.

Foz do Iguacu has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the intersection of Avenida JK and Avenida Jorge Schimmelpfeng for the most lively nightlife scene in town. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants and bars, many with outdoor areas or live music.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Foz do Iguacu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Foz do Iguacu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a great destination for the beach. However, Foz do Iguacu is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Mazatlan attract visitors from all over. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Foz do Iguacu is not a beach destination.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its old town. However, Foz do Iguacu does not have a historic old town.

Mazatlan is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Foz do Iguacu does not have a historic old town.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for Hiking?

Foz do Iguacu is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Foz do Iguacu. There's a network of trails and walkways at the foot of the falls as well as above the falls. You can also venture into the surrounding rainforest or hike to Devil's Throat for a great view.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Mazatlan and Foz do Iguacu.

Foz do Iguacu offers some nice shopping areas. There's shopping in the center of town, particularly around Avenida Brasil, Rua Barbosa, Rua Almirante Barroso, and Quintino Bocaiuva.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan More Beautiful?

Foz do Iguacu is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Foz do Iguacu is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The falls is absolutely breathtaking. The volume of water and enormity in size is something that you can only experience in person.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for Families?

Foz do Iguacu is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Foz do Iguacu is a very kid-friendly park. Of course, the highlight for everyone is a visit to Iguacu National Park, which also offers boat rides, hiking, and spectacular views. In addition to this impressive park, the whole family will also enjoy a visit to Parque das Aves, which is a bird park that includes information on wildlife species and conservation.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for Couples?

Foz do Iguacu is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Foz do Iguacu frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. While the town itself has limited entertainment, the waterfalls is a spectacular sight that has inspired more than a few marriage proposals.

Mazatlan is a good park for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Foz do Iguacu and Mazatlan are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Foz do Iguacu is a great park to visit for backpackers. This is one of the country's most popular backpacker destinations so you'll find plenty of hostels and young travelers to hang out with. The falls itself is truly incredible and well worth the trip.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mazatlan. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Foz do Iguacu and Mazatlan.

You'll find some public transit in Foz do Iguacu, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. It's 12 miles between the park and the town so you'll need to take either a taxi or a public bus. On your way to the park, you should arrange for a ride back because finding a taxi as you leave can be challenging.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Foz do Iguacu is a park with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Mazatlan is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable.

Foz do Iguacu is generally not a very walkable park. There are walkways near the waterfalls, but the city isn't particularly walkable and you'll need transportation to travel between the park and the town.

For even more information, also check out Is Foz do Iguacu Worth Visiting? and Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mazatlan or Foz do Iguacu?

How long in Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

In either Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than Foz do Iguacu because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Foz do Iguacu, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mazatlan.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mazatlan than Foz do Iguacu. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mazatlan that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Foz do Iguacu 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 Mazatlan.

One day in Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

The beautiful park of Foz do Iguacu offers nightlife and food. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historical destination of Mazatlan. 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 Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

Foz do Iguacu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

Foz do Iguacu is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the historical destination of Mazatlan. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

Foz do Iguacu is a great place to explore. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the city of Mazatlan. 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 Luxury Tours to Brazil, The Best Budget Tours to Brazil, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Foz do Iguacu and Mazatlan, we can see that Mazatlan is more expensive. And not only is Foz do Iguacu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Foz do Iguacu is in South America and Mazatlan is in North 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 Foz do Iguacu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Foz do Iguacu 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 Mazatlan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mazatlan than you might in Foz do Iguacu.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Foz do Iguacu Expensive? and Is Mazatlan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Foz do Iguacu. When comparing the sizes of Foz do Iguacu and Mazatlan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Foz do Iguacu is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Mazatlan has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan in the Summer?

Both Mazatlan and Foz do Iguacu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Foz do Iguacu for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Mazatlan in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Foz do Iguacu is around the same temperature as Mazatlan in the summer. The daily temperature in Foz do Iguacu averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Mazatlan fluctuates around 29°C (83°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. It's quite rainy in Foz do Iguacu. In January, Foz do Iguacu usually receives less rain than Mazatlanin July. Foz do Iguacu gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan in the Autumn?

Both Mazatlan and Foz do Iguacu during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Foz do Iguacu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mazatlan for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Foz do Iguacu is cooler than Mazatlan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Foz do Iguacu in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Mazatlan averages at about 27°C (81°F)in October.

Foz do Iguacu usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Mazatlanin October. Foz do Iguacu gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Foz do Iguacu and Mazatlan. Most visitors come to Foz do Iguacu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Foz do Iguacu is generally around the same temperature as Mazatlanin January. Daily temperatures in Foz do Iguacu average around 18°C (64°F), and Mazatlan fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In July, Foz do Iguacu usually receives more rain than Mazatlanin January. Foz do Iguacu gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Foz do Iguacu or Mazatlan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Foz do Iguacu as well as Mazatlan. The spring months attract visitors to Foz do Iguacu because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year.

Foz do Iguacu is around the same temperature as Mazatlan in the spring. The daily temperature in Foz do Iguacu averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Mazatlan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

Foz do Iguacu receives a lot of rain in the spring. Foz do Iguacu usually gets more rain in October than Mazatlanin April. Foz do Iguacu gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Mazatlan and Foz do Iguacu