A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Death Valley National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Death Valley National Park 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.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

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.

La Paz and Death Valley National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Death Valley National Park are both popular with visitors, La Paz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Paz is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Death Valley National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Death Valley National Park is popular for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to La Paz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

While most people don't head to Death Valley National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.


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

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz 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 La Paz is an experience not to be missed. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

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 La Paz or Death Valley National Park Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz 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 La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

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 La Paz or Death Valley National Park Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz is very good for its resorts. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its luxury resorts.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

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 La Paz or Death Valley National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Death Valley National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

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

Is La Paz or Death Valley National Park Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz is renowned for the beach. However, Death Valley National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, La Paz is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Death Valley National Park is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Death Valley National Park Better for Hiking?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

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 La Paz or Death Valley National Park Better for Families?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

Both La Paz and Death Valley National Park are superb to visit with kids.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Death Valley National Park. 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 La Paz or Death Valley National Park Better for Couples?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is notable for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Death Valley National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.


Is La Paz or Death Valley National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

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

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz 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.

La Paz has a few public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

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

Is La Paz or Death Valley National Park a more walkable city?

La Paz
Death Valley National Park

La Paz 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.

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Death Valley National Park or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either La Paz or Death Valley National Park. In our opinion, La Paz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in La Paz than Death Valley National Park. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Death Valley National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Death Valley National Park 2-4

One day in La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

In La Paz, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this cultural destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Death Valley National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

In La Paz, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting La Paz. 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 city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Death Valley National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of La Paz. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the dramatic destination of Death Valley National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to 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 La Paz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $118, 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 La Paz and Death Valley National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Death Valley National Park $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Death Valley National Park $74
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Death Valley National Park

Looking for a hotel in La Paz 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 La Paz


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: La Paz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Death Valley National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Roundtrip Transfer to La Paz International Airport: $73
  • La Paz Airport to Costa Baja Private Roundtrip Transfer: $89
  • La Paz Int. Airport (LAP): Private Transfer to La Paz hotels: $174
  • Private Transfer from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas: $241
  • La Paz Airport: Private Roundtrip Transfer to La Ventan: $259

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Death Valley National Park?

Prices for flights to both Death Valley National Park and La Paz 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
    La Paz $38
    Death Valley National Park $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 4 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $13
    Death Valley National Park $36

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • Transparent Boat Tour with Mushroom Rock: $64
  • Pearls of Pearl Farm Experience: $64
  • Half Day Sandboarding and Paddleboarding Experience in La Paz: $82
  • Unique Mexican Spirits Tasting & Pairing Experience: $85
  • Sunset Sandboarding at La Paz Dunes Tour: $89
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $91
  • Supercombo 2-Day City Tour: $105
  • From Los Cabos: City Tour La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos: $115
  • Half Day Private Tour of the Beaches of La Paz: $115
  • holy spirit island tour: $118
  • Los Cabos Tour from La Paz: $119
  • Snorkel Tour with Whale Shark in La Paz: $121

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
    La Paz $12
    Death Valley National Park $8.57


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between La Paz and Death Valley National Park, we can see that La Paz 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 La Paz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in La Paz 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 La Paz Expensive? and Is Death Valley National Park Expensive?.


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