A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Death Valley National Park for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Death Valley National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a relaxing, laid back, and idyllic island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a dramatic, striking, and vast national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Isla Mujeres and Death Valley National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Death Valley National Park are both popular with visitors, Isla Mujeres has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Isla Mujeres is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Death Valley National Park is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isla Mujeres is popular for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also home to the Underwater Museum of Art. Death Valley National Park is popular for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Death Valley National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Death Valley National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.


Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Dining out in Isla Mujeres is an experience not to be missed. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

Death Valley National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is very good for its evening party scene. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

Death Valley National Park doesn't offer many options. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.

Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its resorts. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Isla Mujeres is a perfect choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Death Valley National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.


Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Death Valley National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Isla Mujeres is not to be missed. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Death Valley National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is renowned for the beach. However, Death Valley National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Isla Mujeres is a very popular vacation destination. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

Death Valley National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Hiking?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Death Valley National Park is a popular spot for hiking. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is very good for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Many visitors go to Isla Mujeres to go shopping. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.

Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Death Valley National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Isla Mujeres is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

Death Valley National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is renowned for couples. Also, Death Valley National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Isla Mujeres has plenty to offer. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Death Valley National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.


Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Death Valley National Park. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is very good for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Isla Mujeres has a few public transit options. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is quite limited in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.

Is Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres
Death Valley National Park

Isla Mujeres is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable destination. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable island. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Death Valley National Park or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Death Valley National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-4 days is enough time in Death Valley National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Death Valley National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Isla Mujeres that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Death Valley 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 Isla Mujeres.


  • How many days in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isla Mujeres 1-2 
    Death Valley National Park 2-4

One day in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

In Isla Mujeres, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this idyllic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Death Valley National Park, many people enjoy the that this dramatic national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

In Isla Mujeres, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Death Valley National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Isla Mujeres. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This island offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the striking destination of Death Valley National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the island of Isla Mujeres. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Death Valley National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Death Valley National Park or Isla Mujeres?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isla Mujeres is $148, while the average daily cost in Death Valley National Park is $87. 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 Isla Mujeres and Death Valley National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isla Mujeres $78
    Death Valley National Park $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isla Mujeres $156
    Death Valley National Park $74
Compare Hotels in Isla Mujeres and Death Valley National Park

Looking for a hotel in Isla Mujeres or Death Valley 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 Isla Mujeres


Hotels in Death Valley 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: Isla Mujeres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $35
    Death Valley National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isla Mujeres

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Isla Mujeres:

  • Private Transfer: Playa Mujeres to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Isla Mujeres or Death Valley National Park?

Prices for flights to both Death Valley National Park and Isla Mujeres 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
    Isla Mujeres $46
    Death Valley National Park $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $21
    Death Valley National Park $36

Tours and Activities in Isla Mujeres

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Isla Mujeres are as follows:

  • Excursion Crystal Boat Tour at the Caribbean: $35
  • Tour Isla Mujeres excursion in Collective Transparent Boat: $37
  • Crystal Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres and Reefs: $43
  • Snorkel Tour at Musa and Manchones Reef: $45
  • Clear Boat Tour "La Isla": $47
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Adventure at the Underwater Museum: $47
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure: $49
  • Snorkel Experience in Underwater Museum: $52
  • Cancun: Isla Mujeres 12 pm Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling: $59
  • UNDER WATER MUSEUM CANCUN SNORKEL ISLA MUJERES - Experience with Ticket: $65
  • Sunset Snorkeling Experience in Cancun: $70
  • Sunrise Snorkeling Experience in Cancun: $70

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Death Valley National Park are as follows:

  • Death Valley Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Death Valley on Mojave Desert VIP Small Group Tour from Las Vegas: $219

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isla Mujeres $25
    Death Valley National Park $8.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Isla Mujeres

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

  • Isla Mujeres Golf Cart Bar Crawl : $175


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

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


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