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

Should you visit Merida or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a popular, world-famous, and stunning national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Merida and Yosemite 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
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Merida or Yosemite National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Merida. Although Merida and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Merida and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Merida is famous for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. It is also well known for Grand Plaza.

How is Merida different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Merida is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Merida offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Merida is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

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).

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Merida or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Merida is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Merida offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Merida or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Merida is not a resort destination.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Merida is not a resort destination.


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

Merida
Yosemite National Park

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

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

Known for its hiking, Yosemite National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Merida is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Yosemite National Park?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Merida is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Merida or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Merida and Yosemite National Park.

Merida has some public transit options. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

You'll find some public transit in Yosemite National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Is Merida or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Merida
Yosemite National Park

Merida is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

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

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

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

How long in Merida or Yosemite National Park?

Both Merida and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than in Merida. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Merida 1-2 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Merida or Yosemite National Park?

The city of Merida offers museums and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

The traditional destination of Merida offers nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Merida. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

Merida is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Merida. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Yosemite National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park is $129. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Merida $44
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Merida $88
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Merida and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Merida or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Merida $18
    Yosemite National Park $41

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

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

Prices for flights to both Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $40

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
    Yosemite National Park $19
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

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

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

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Family Fun Private Half Day Fly Fishing Adventure: $215
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Private Guided Hiking Tour in Yosemite: $293
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Waterfalls of Yosemite: Customizable Private Tour: $495
  • Yosemite Full Day Small Group High Country / Mariposa Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $11
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

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


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