A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ocho Rios vs. Mazatlan for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Ocho Rios or Mazatlan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ocho Rios or Mazatlan, 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.

Where Should I go: Ocho Rios or Mazatlan?

Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios, or "Ochi" is a town located on the northeastern shore of Jamaica and is a popular hub for cruise ships. It is a great destination for tourists as it has many resorts and beautiful beaches.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is located on the Pacific coast in the Mexican state of Sinaloa. The city has a population of almost 500,000, making it the second largest city in the state. It is a popular tourist destination because of its beautiful beaches and resort hotels. Most people head to Mazatlan specifically for its beaches, but the city itself is somewhat large and diverse with many different cultures and ethnicities represented. Many foreigners come here not only to vacation, but also to retire. You'll meet people from all over Europe, as well as Canada and the United States.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Mazatlan or Ocho Rios?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ocho Rios is $77, while the average daily cost in Mazatlan is $79. 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 Ocho Rios and Mazatlan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ocho Rios $52
    Mazatlan $33
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ocho Rios $104
    Mazatlan $66
Compare Hotels in Ocho Rios and Mazatlan

Looking for a hotel in Ocho Rios or Mazatlan? 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 Ocho Rios


Hotels in Mazatlan


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: Ocho Rios Hotel Prices and Mazatlan Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ocho Rios $7.60
    Mazatlan $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ocho Rios

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

  • Airport Transfer to Ocho Rios Hotels (Round-Trip): $110
  • Airport Transfer to Runaway Bay Hotels (Round-Trip): $99
  • Private Airport Transfer to Bahia Principe Grand Hotel : $100
  • Runaway Bay Hotels Private Transfer: $80
  • 11. Ocho Rios Hotels&Resorts Airport Private Fun-Transfer to/from Sangster Intl : $60
  • AirBnB Roundtrip Shuttle / One Way MBJ Airport Transfers: $25
  • Airport Transfer Roundtrip Jamaica MBJ: $29
  • Airport transfers to Hotel, Guest houses or Villas in St.Ann, Ochi Rios Jamaica: $110
  • Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica Private Airport transfer : $61
  • Convenient Airport Transfer To Riu Hotel Ocho Rios : $80
  • Couples Resorts Airport Transfers Montego Bay MBJ (Private Roundtrip): $300
  • From Scenic Guided Horseback Ride with Transfer: $195

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mazatlan

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mazatlan:

  • Mazatlan Intl Airport (MZT): Private Transfer to Mazatlan: $296
  • Private roundtrip airport to hotel transfer in Mazatlan: $262
  • Mazatlan Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Mazatlan hotels: $236
  • Private Airport-Hotel Transfer: $119
  • Round transfer airport to hotel in Mazatlán: $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Ocho Rios or Mazatlan?

Prices for flights to both Mazatlan and Ocho Rios 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
    Ocho Rios $17
    Mazatlan $34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ocho Rios

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

  • From Flavors of Jamaica Guided Food Tour: $89
  • Taste of Jamaica Farm & Food Tour: $98
  • Ocho Ros: Hillside Cooking Class, Jamaican Style: $130
  • Taste of Jamaica Food Tour: $140
  • The Jamaica School of Cooking and Ocho Rios Highlights Tour: $141
  • Ocho Rios Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner: $218

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mazatlan

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

  • Mercado walking food tour: $78
  • Mazatlan routes of taste food tour: $84
  • Authentic Mexican Cooking Class in Mazatlan: $84
  • Tacos, Beer and Mezcal Food Tour in Mazatlan: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ocho Rios $15
    Mazatlan $9.59
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ocho Rios

For Ocho Rios, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Tour of Brimmer Hall Estate
    $11
  • Admission to Coyaba Gardens
    $5.47
  • Tour of Prospect Plantation
    $18

Tours and Activities in Ocho Rios

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Ocho Rios.

  • Blue Hole Admission Fee Ticket: $25
  • Private Sightseeing Tour in Ocho Rios : $30
  • Private Blue Hole and Shopping Tour from Ocho Rios: $30
  • Private Guided Tour To Yaaman Adventures Safari jungle park: $40
  • Ocho Rios Sightseeing and Taxi from Runaway Bay & Ocho Rios: $40
  • Blue Hole Private Tour from Ocho Rios with Pickup: $40
  • Blue Hole And Konoko Falls Combo Tour From Ocho Rios & Runaway Bay!: $43
  • Private Konoko Falls and Sightseeing Tour from Ocho Rios : $45
  • Half-Day Blue Hole and Secret Falls Tour from Runaway Bay: $46
  • Blue Hole Tour from Ocho Rios: $49
  • Dunn's River Falls and Blue Hole Private Tour from Ocho Rios: $50
  • Private Tour From Ocho Rios To Konoko Falls And Garden and Shopping: $50

Tours and Activities in Mazatlan

Here are a few actual costs in Mazatlan for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Barrio Bites tour: $78
  • Beach Activities and All Inclusive Tour: $58
  • BeachBlast ATV's & City Tour: $99
  • Bird Watching Mazatlán - Birding Tour: $115
  • City Tour with Tequila Tasting & Beach Hotel Day Pass Included : $49
  • From Zipline & ATV Adventure with Tequila Tasting: $210
  • Half-Day Tour to Tequila Factory and Villages from Mazatlan: $75
  • Half-Day Ziplining Experience from Mazatlán: $110
  • Jungle and beach ATV tour + lunch + tequila tasting: $120
  • Mazatlán: Beach & Jungle ATV Tour w/ Lunch & Tequila Tasting: $126
  • Mazatlán: Tequila Factory & Country Sightseeing: $103
  • Mazatlán: Zipline Adventure, Sightseeing & Mezcal Tasting: $128

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ocho Rios $7.71
    Mazatlan $18


When comparing the travel costs between Ocho Rios and Mazatlan, we can see that Mazatlan is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Ocho Rios is in Caribbean Islands and Mazatlan is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ocho Rios Expensive? and Is Mazatlan Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ocho Rios or Mazatlan?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Ocho Rios. When comparing the sizes of Ocho Rios and Mazatlan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Ocho Rios or Mazatlan?

Mazatlan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ocho Rios experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ocho Rios or Mazatlan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ocho Rios as well as Mazatlan. Ocho Rios attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Ocho Rios is generally around the same temperature as Mazatlan. Daily temperatures in Ocho Rios average around 29°C (83°F), and Mazatlan fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ocho Rios this time of the year. In the summer, Ocho Rios often gets more sunshine than Mazatlan. Ocho Rios gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mazatlan receives 216 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Mazatlan. Ocho Rios usually gets less rain in July than Mazatlan. Ocho Rios gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ocho Rios 29°C (83°F) 
    Mazatlan 29°C (83°F)

Should I visit Ocho Rios or Mazatlan in the Autumn?

Both Mazatlan and Ocho Rios are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ocho Rios throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the shopping scene.

Ocho Rios is around the same temperature as Mazatlan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ocho Rios averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Mazatlan fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ocho Rios. Ocho Rios usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mazatlan during autumn. Ocho Rios gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Mazatlan receives 233 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Ocho Rios. In October, Ocho Rios usually receives more rain than Mazatlan. Ocho Rios gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ocho Rios 28°C (82°F) 
    Mazatlan 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Ocho Rios or Mazatlan in the Winter?

Both Mazatlan and Ocho Rios during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ocho Rios because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year.

In the winter, Ocho Rios is a little warmer than Mazatlan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ocho Rios in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Mazatlan averages at about 20°C (67°F).

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ocho Rios. In the winter, Ocho Rios often gets more sunshine than Mazatlan. Ocho Rios gets 257 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mazatlan receives 203 hours of full sun.

Ocho Rios usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Mazatlan. Ocho Rios gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ocho Rios 26°C (79°F) 
    Mazatlan 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Ocho Rios or Mazatlan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocho Rios and Mazatlan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ocho Rios year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches.

In April, Ocho Rios is generally a little warmer than Mazatlan. Daily temperatures in Ocho Rios average around 26°C (80°F), and Mazatlan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In Ocho Rios, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ocho Rios usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mazatlan during spring. Ocho Rios gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Mazatlan receives 250 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ocho Rios usually receives more rain than Mazatlan. Ocho Rios gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ocho Rios 26°C (80°F) 
    Mazatlan 22°C (72°F)

Typical Weather for Mazatlan and Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios Mazatlan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (79°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 20°C (67°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Feb 26°C (79°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Mar 26°C (80°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Apr 26°C (80°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 1 mm (0 in)
May 28°C (82°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 24°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Jun 28°C (83°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 29°C (83°F) 199 mm (7.8 in)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 29°C (83°F) 219 mm (8.6 in)
Sep 29°C (83°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 28°C (83°F) 227 mm (8.9 in)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 28°C (82°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 18 mm (0.7 in)