A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Redwood National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Merida or Redwood National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Redwood National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Merida

Merida is a traditional, colonial, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Merida and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • 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 Merida or Redwood National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Merida. Although Merida and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Merida has more sights and attractions for tourists. Merida is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Merida is famous for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. It is also well known for Grand Plaza. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Merida different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Merida or Redwood National Park?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Merida is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Merida. The city is filled with culture and traditional heritage, and there are many museums and architectural landmarks that will educate and inform visitors on the area. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a highlight for many visitors. It's also worth visiting Museo Casa Montejo and Museo Palacio Canton. If you want to visit ruins, then the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins are about 45 minutes outside of town.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Merida or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Merida is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Merida is an experience not to be missed. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Merida or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Merida is well known for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Merida is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Most tourists take advantage of the nightlife scene in the city's downtown area, while locals congregate in the northern part of town. The city has bars, theaters, night clubs, and live music that keeps the energy high late into the night.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Merida or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Merida is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park has a beach worth visiting. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Merida is not a beach destination.


Is Merida or Redwood National Park Better for its Old Town?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Merida is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Redwood National Park does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Merida. Centered around the city's Grand Plaza, the old town is filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings. The Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral built in the Americas. There are also monuments and examples of Mayan art and culture.

Redwood National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Merida is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Redwood National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Merida is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Redwood National Park?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Merida is well known for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Merida. There are colorful markets that are filled with artisan crafts and traditional clothing. Visitors enjoy discovering the unique vendors and picking up souvenirs that are unique to the area.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.


Is Merida or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Redwood National Park. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Merida. The weekend is the best time to visit the city, as this is when there are the most activities. There are live performances that educate visitors on Mayan traditions. There are also historic museums, bike-friendly streets, and a vibrant central market.

Is Merida or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Merida is a nice destination for couples. If you're interested in Mayan culture and history, then this is a wonderful destination. There are also romantic hotels, excellent restaurants, and plenty of fascinating activities that couples will enjoy.

Is Merida or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Merida. It's a relatively large city with a number of hostels and budget hotels, so backpackers will have no problem finding a place to stay.


Is Merida or Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Merida is a good destination for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Merida, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Merida or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Merida
Redwood National Park

Merida is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Merida is a very walkable destination. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have a car.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Merida Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Merida?

How long in Merida or Redwood National Park?

In either Merida or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Merida because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Redwood 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 Merida.


  • How many days in Merida or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Merida 1-2 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Merida or Redwood National Park?

In Merida, you'll find shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Merida, one day is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Redwood 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 Merida or Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Merida. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Merida or Redwood National Park?

Merida is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Merida or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the traditional destination of Merida. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the monumental destination of Redwood National Park. This 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 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood National Park or Merida?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Merida is $88, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $111. 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 Merida and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Merida $44
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Merida $88
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Merida and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Merida or Redwood 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 Merida


Hotels in Redwood 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: Merida Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Merida $18
    Redwood National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Merida

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

  • Merida hotels to Mérida International Airport (MID) - Private Departure Transfer: $33
  • One-way Airport Transfers to Merida Hotels: $120
  • Mexico Private Transfer from Merida airport to central Merida: $41
  • Mexico Private Transfer from Merida hotels to Merida airport: $41
  • Private Transfer From Uxmal to Merida, English Speaking Driver: $73
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Merida One Way: $47
  • Private Transfer from Merida city hotels to Progreso Cruise Port: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Merida or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park and Merida 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
    Merida $29
    Redwood National Park $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Merida

For Merida, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traveling Spoon Yucatecan Sopa de Lima Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Private Nandayo Food Tour: $42
  • Merida Walking Food Tour. Authentic & Local Cuisine: $63
  • Taste of the Yucatan: Merida Cooking Class and Market Visit: $89
  • Private Yucatecan Cooking Lesson in a Local Merida Home: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Merida $16
    Redwood National Park $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Merida

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


  • Train at the Zoo
    $0.12
  • Uxmal Entrance (for 2)
    $20
  • Mayan Village Entrance (for 2)
    $6.01

Tours and Activities in Merida

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

  • Panoramic Sightseeing Tour of Merida: $8.00
  • Mérida Scavenger Hunt and Sights Private Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Walking Tour Across the Historic Center in Merida: $22
  • Walking Tour in the City of Mérida: $22
  • Merida Private Tour on a Budget : $29
  • Mérida Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $35
  • 3 Hour Tour in The Sotuta de Peón Live Museum: $60
  • Merida Street Food Walking Tour: $65
  • Tour to Uxmal + Choco Story Chocolate Museum: $67
  • 6-hour Guided Tour to Uxmal and Kabah Express: $67
  • Private Walking Tour in City of Merida: $75
  • Day of the Dead Tour & Taco buffet: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Merida $16
    Redwood National Park $11


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

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



When is the best time to visit Merida or Redwood National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Merida or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

Both Redwood National Park and Merida during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Merida for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Merida is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In Redwood National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Merida. In the summer, Merida often gets less sunshine than Redwood National Park. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

Merida usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Merida or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Redwood National Park. Many visitors come to Merida in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Merida is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Merida in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Merida gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Merida usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Merida or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Merida as well as Redwood National Park. Most visitors come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Merida is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 20°C (68°F), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the winter, Merida often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Redwood National Park. Merida usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Merida 20°C (68°F) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Merida or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

Both Redwood National Park and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Merida because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

Merida is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during spring. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Merida. In April, Merida usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Merida

Merida Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 50 mm (2 in) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 21°C (70°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 22°C (72°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 210 mm (8.3 in) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)