A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Puerto Vallarta vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a cultural, coastal, and colorful town. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a vast, overlooked, and underrated park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Puerto Vallarta and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 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 Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Puerto Vallarta than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Puerto Vallarta is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Puerto Vallarta is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is known for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. Also, Puerto Vallarta is famous for the Malecon. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Puerto Vallarta different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a town with good options for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

Puerto Vallarta is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Puerto Vallarta makes for a great culinary experience. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Puerto Vallarta offers plenty to do in the evening. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Resorts?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a resort destination.

Puerto Vallarta is a world class resort vacation destination. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Puerto Vallarta is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Beaches?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Puerto Vallarta attract visitors from all over. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular spot for hiking. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Puerto Vallarta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Puerto Vallarta is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly town. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Puerto Vallarta and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.


Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Puerto Vallarta and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are superb destinations for backpackers.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

Puerto Vallarta has a few public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Puerto Vallarta
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

Puerto Vallarta is very walkable. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Puerto Vallarta Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Puerto Vallarta?

How long in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Puerto Vallarta and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Vallarta, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Puerto Vallarta.


  • How many days in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Puerto Vallarta 3-5 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Puerto Vallarta, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The underrated destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Puerto Vallarta, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. In Puerto Vallarta, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this coastal destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Puerto Vallarta, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this town offers. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This park offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular choice for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Puerto Vallarta?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Puerto Vallarta is $115, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $126. 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 Puerto Vallarta and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Puerto Vallarta $63
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Puerto Vallarta $126
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Puerto Vallarta and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Puerto Vallarta


Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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: Puerto Vallarta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Puerto Vallarta $19
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Puerto Vallarta Roundtrip Shuttle Airport Transfer: $32
  • Private transfer from Puerto Vallarta Airport - Hotel Zone: $37
  • Private Airport Transfer to Marina Vallarta: $37
  • Private Airport Transfer to Hotel Zone: $40
  • Puerto Vallarta from Cruise Port to Hotels Arrival Transfer: $44
  • Puerto Vallarta Port to Puerto Vallarta Airport(PVR)-Departure Private Transfer : $44
  • Nuevo Vallarta: Private Airport Transfer to South Zone 2: $48
  • Private Airport Transfer to Romantic Zone: $48
  • Nuevo Vallarta:Private Airport Transfer to North Zone 3: $51
  • Private Airport Transfer to Mismaloya: $51
  • Mexico Private Transfer from Marina Vallarta to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) Airport: $55
  • Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) to Punta de Mita hotels - Private Arrival Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Puerto Vallarta or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Puerto Vallarta 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
    Puerto Vallarta $37
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Puerto Vallarta

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

  • 3-Hour Guided Food Tour in Puerto Vallarta: $45
  • Off The Beaten Path Food Tour. Dinner in Pitillal : $55
  • Dinner Tacos Food Tour: $55
  • Puerto Vallarta 3-Hour Food Tour of Authentic Local Cuisine: $59
  • Puerta Vallarta: Seafood Lover's Food Tour: $59
  • Downtown Puerto Vallarta Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours: $59
  • Seafood Lover's Tour with Vallarta Food Tours : $59
  • Signature Taco and Street Food Tour in Puerto Vallarta: $65
  • Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas: $84
  • Bucerias Bike and Food Tour: $90
  • Mexican Cooking Class and Tequila Tasting: $96
  • Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour : $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Puerto Vallarta $19
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Vallarta are as follows:

  • City Tour Puerto Vallarta - Churches, Tequila Test and more: $18
  • Mexico: Puerto Vallarta City Tour: $20
  • Hop-On-Hop-Off City Bus Tour: $23
  • Guided SUP Board Tour with Digital Photos: $23
  • Butterfly Experience Nature Park Admission : $24
  • Private Bike City Tour with Photo Session in Puerto Vallarta: $24
  • Hop On Hop Off Tour with Free Stops in Puerto Vallarta: $24
  • Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour in Puerto Vallarta: $27
  • Hike and Yoga Jungle Experience in Mexico: $30
  • City Tour, Tequila and Coffee Factory Tour: $31
  • EcoHike experience through the jungle, mountains and hidden beach: $31
  • Stand Up Paddle Boarding Adventure in Puerto Vallarta: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Puerto Vallarta $24
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Puerto Vallarta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Fun Mexican Wine Tasting in Beautiful Garden of Puerto Vallarta: $40
  • Brewery Bus Tour from Mexico: $85
  • All you can drink Bar Crawl: $99
  • Mountains Route, visiting a traditional distillery: $270


When comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, we can see that Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


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