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

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

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

Should I visit Ilha Grande 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.

Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Ilha Grande 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.

Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Although Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are popular destinations, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more touristy than Ilha Grande and is popular for its fishing and wildlife. It is also well known for Corcovado National Park. Ilha Grande is famous for

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

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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Both Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Ilha Grande has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The island still has a quiet, local vibe and that can be seen in the restaurants around town as well. Many places are locally owned and serve up traditional dishes. In particular, the seafood is excellent.

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 Ilha Grande or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Nightlife?

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Ilha Grande is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Ilha Grande. It's a quiet island with a national park and most people visit specifically to get away from the busy and active city scene.

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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

There's great scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Ilha Grande. There are several places where you can rent snorkeling or dive equipment. The area has coral and tropical fish, with the occasional sea turtle sighting. The visibility is generally good and the experience is worth enjoying, but make sure you check on water conditions.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.


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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for the beach. However, Ilha Grande is not a beach destination.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is considered a top beach destination. Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

Ilha Grande is not a beach destination.

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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ilha Grande is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ilha Grande is not a hiking destination.

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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a decent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and 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.

Ilha Grande offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The secluded beaches and surrounding nature make this a beautiful island to explore. It's made up of a national park and there are hiking trails and many scenic spots.

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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ilha Grande 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 Ilha Grande. Most families who visit the island come for the beaches. There are also many nice hikes, waterfalls, and even wildlife that the kids will enjoy. In the village there are a few restaurants. Many aren't geared specifically to kids, but they do have a selection that kids might enjoy.

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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

With fun activities for couples, both Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) make for a great place to visit.

Ilha Grande makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Scenic beaches and beautiful nature make this a wonderful couples retreat that's not far from Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have a more relaxed and quiet vibe than many places in Brazil and the island still holds on to its undiscovered atmosphere.

Couples visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Ilha Grande or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are both great destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Ilha Grande. It is possible to reach the island with a backpacker's budget, but it will take you more time than if you hire a private tour. Once you're on the island there are some hostels and budget hotels to choose from as well.

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

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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Ilha Grande is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some public transit options. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Ilha Grande. You'll need to take a boat to reach the island, and once you're there, there are not vehicles around.

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

Ilha Grande
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are great when it comes to walkability.

Ilha Grande is a very walkable . There are no cars on the island and very few roads. You'll spend a lot of time hiking around, which is the best way to enjoy the island. They don't call it "big island" for no reason though, so make sure you understand the distance between destinations.

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


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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Ilha Grande or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). In our opinion, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Ilha Grande. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Ilha Grande, and 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Families should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Ilha Grande. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Ilha Grande 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 Ilha Grande or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ilha Grande 2-4 
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4

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


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In Ilha Grande, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this destination offers. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the remote town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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


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In Ilha Grande, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have a weekend, this makes for a great vacation. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ilha Grande has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the remote destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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


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Ilha Grande is a popular choice for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The local town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


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


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Ilha Grande is a great place to explore. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Brazil, The Best Eco 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 Ilha Grande?

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

  • Ilha Grande Prices
    Brazil Prices
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ilha Grande $80
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140

The average daily cost (per person) in Ilha Grande is $80, 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 Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ilha Grande $35
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ilha Grande $70
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
Compare Hotels in Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Looking for a hotel in Ilha Grande 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 Ilha Grande


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: Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ilha Grande $17
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ilha Grande

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

  • Regular Transfer Angra dos Reis x Rio de Janeiro and Airports: $36
  • From Angra dos Reis: Shared Transfer to Rio de Janeiro: $46
  • Private Transfer Angra dos Reis to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Private Transfer from GIG to anywhere in the City Angra dos Reis: $182
  • Private Transfer from Angra dos Reis to Airport GIG in Rio : $182

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

Prices for flights to both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ilha Grande 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
    Ilha Grande $35
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60

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.
    Ilha Grande $6.36
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119

Tours and Activities in Ilha Grande

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

  • Regular Schooner Ride - Ilha Grande Tour: $12
  • Speedboat Tour Paradise Lagoons of Ilha Grande: $13
  • Boat Tour To The Beaches Of Angra Dos Reis: $18
  • Ilha Grande - From Abrãao: Lopes Mendes beach tour & trekking: $25
  • Shared Speedboat Tour - Paradise Island Tour: $32
  • Tour Of The Motorboat The Paradisiac Islands Of Angra Dos Reis: $42
  • Half-Day Ilha Grande Schooner Tour: $42
  • Six hour speedboat tour of Ilha Grande. Be amazed by the Blue and Green Lagoons: $55
  • Schooner Cruise with Caipirinha drinks by the Blue Lagoon: $56
  • Ilha Grande - Private Historical Walking Tour with Natural Pool.: $60
  • Full-Day Ilha Grande Northern Coast Speedboat Tour: $63
  • From Ilha Grande - Paradise Island 7 h - Speedboat tour: $65

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
    Ilha Grande $10
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ilha Grande and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more expensive. And not only is Ilha Grande much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ilha Grande 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 Ilha Grande would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ilha Grande 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 Ilha Grande.

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