A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sao Paulo vs. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a cultural, dynamic, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a remote, local, and authentic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Sao Paulo and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sao Paulo than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sao Paulo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Sao Paulo is well known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene. Also, Sao Paulo is famous for Ibirapuera Park. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is well known for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Sao Paulo different from Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Sao Paulo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Sao Paulo is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Sao Paulo that are not to be missed. While many visitors overlook Sao Paulo for other destinations in Brazil, those that do visit will be rewarded with a large number of museums and sights. It's the largest city in South America, and there's plenty to do. Highlights include Museu de Arte, Museu de Arte, Museu de Arte Contemporânea, and the cathedral

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.


Is the Food Better in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Sao Paulo is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sao Paulo makes for a great culinary experience. The city offers a huge mix of fine dining restaurants, street food vendors, family-friendly restaurants, and large local markets. The cuisine has many influences such as the Portuguese, West Africa, and even the Middle East. Popular dishes include the street food coxinha, feijoada (black bean and beef stew), and cachooro-quente (local hot dogs).

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Nightlife?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Sao Paulo is very popular for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Sao Paulo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. As the economic hub for Brazil, you'll find tons of bars, clubs, and venues throughout the city. The best neighborhood for a party is Vila Madalena, which is filled with restaurants and bars. For live music and food trucks, check out Rua Augusta. There are also many different neighborhoods in this megacity, and many have a lively energy and plenty to do at night. Every night you should be able to find something different to do.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sao Paulo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Sao Paulo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Beaches?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town for the beach. However, Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Hiking?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town for hiking. However, Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for the hiking trails. Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Sao Paulo is very popular for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

Sao Paulo is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping opportunities are diverse, from megamalls to local markets, and international boutiques. There are many great neighborhoods for shopping, like Jardins, where you'll find high end stores. The main shopping street is Rua Oscar Freire. Downtown Sao Paulo has a mix of retail stores and market stalls that sell everything from cheap fashion to inexpensive odds and ins.

If you're looking to go shopping, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.


Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Families?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Sao Paulo is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to the zoo or one of the kid-friendly museums around town. There are also a number of parks, some kid-friendly restaurants, and even an amusement park.

Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Couples?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town for couples. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

Sao Paulo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many great activities that will make for an exciting couples trip. There are parks and museums, bars and restaurants, and theaters where you can see a show. Many couples enjoy a visit to the Botanical Garden of Sao Paulo or a stroll through Ibirapuera Park. You can watch the sunset with a view of the city from one of the many rooftop bars and then enjoy some samba dancing on the town.


Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Sao Paulo is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's overlooked by many travelers, backpackers who linger for awhile will enjoy the city's authenticity and cultural scene. There are also a number of hostels around town.

Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Students?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Sao Paulo is very good for students. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not popular with students.

Sao Paulo is a good city to visit for students. The city is large with a diverse population and plenty to offer students. There are good educational institutions and a great international vibe as well.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not popular with students.

Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Sao Paulo is very popular for its public transit. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Sao Paulo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It's a huge city, so you'll likely make use of the metro during your trip. There are six lines to the metro system and they provide convenient access to many of the city's top attractions. The city also has many bus routes as well.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some public transit options. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.


Is Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Sao Paulo and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Sao Paulo is a very walkable destination. It's a megacity that has a wide range of neighborhoods. The city center is generally very walkable, but because of its size, you'll want to have an itinerary planned out for each day.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very walkable. The town is relatively easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Sao Paulo Worth Visiting? and Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Sao Paulo?

How long in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

It's fun to spend time in either Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sao Paulo, and 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Families should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Sao Paulo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Sao Paulo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Sao Paulo 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 Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).


  • How many days in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sao Paulo 2-3 
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4

One day in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Each neighborhood in Sao Paulo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Each neighborhood in Sao Paulo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sao Paulo has to offer.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the remote destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Sao Paulo is a popular choice for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the local town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Sao Paulo is a great place to explore. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil, The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Sao Paulo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Sao Paulo Prices
    Brazil Prices
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sao Paulo $60
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140

The average daily cost (per person) in Sao Paulo is $60, while the average daily cost in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is $140. 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 Sao Paulo and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sao Paulo $28
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sao Paulo $56
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
Compare Hotels in Sao Paulo and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Looking for a hotel in Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Sao Paulo


Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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: Sao Paulo Hotel Prices and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sao Paulo $5.76
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sao Paulo

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

  • Private Transfer from Rio de Janeiro Airport (GIG) (SDU): $16
  • Sao Paulo Airport (GRU) Private Transfer to Sao Paulo City/Hotels: $27
  • Transfer CGH Airport Congonhas <> Sao Paulo city / Hotel: $38
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Congonhas Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $39
  • Private Departure Transfer: São Paulo Hotels to Congonhas Airport: $39
  • Receptive and Transfer Airports, Cities and Coast: $42
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Guarulhos International Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $47
  • Transfer GRU airport Guarulhos <> Sao Paulo / Hotel / CGH airport: $65
  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Sao Paulo APT-HTL(GRU): $67
  • Transfer (Taxi) airport to Sao Paulo: $77
  • Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport (GRU) to Sao Paulo Private Transfer: $79
  • Private Transfer from Guarulhos to Santos: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Sao Paulo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Prices for flights to both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Sao Paulo 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
    Sao Paulo $24
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sao Paulo

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

  • Make 9 Brazilian Faves in a 4-Hour Cooking Workshop in Sao Paulo: $85
  • Authentic Brazilian Cooking Experience in SP: Feijoada & Moqueca: $189

Typical Food Prices in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some typical examples of dining costs in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:


  • Dinner at Finca Exotica
    $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sao Paulo $3.89
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119

Tours and Activities in Sao Paulo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sao Paulo.

  • Sao Paulo Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Downtown-Center History Walking Tour - in English: $31
  • São Paulo: 2 Hour Immersion Waling Tour in Paulista Avenue: $34
  • São Paulo Must-see Attractions Walking Tour with a Guide: $48
  • Boat Trip Billings Dam and Experience Bororé Island: $50
  • São Paulo: 2 Hours - Liberdade "Street Food" Tour - In English: $55
  • Sao Paulo, Pinheiros - Food & Graffiti Tour - In English: $65
  • São Paulo Highlights Walking Tour with a Guide: $66
  • City Tour Meet São Paulo Half-Day: $68
  • Sao Paulo Culture Walking Tour: $69
  • Shared tour of the tourist attractions of São Paulo: $77
  • São Paulo’s Full Day City Tour: Main City Sights in 7 Hours – (Shared Group): $79

Tours and Activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:

  • 30-minute Corcovado National Park Tour by Plane: $256
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Osa Jungle : $163
  • Bio-Luminescence and Sunset Kayak Tour: $67
  • Corcovado La Leona Day Tour from Puerto Jimenez - All Inclusive: $120
  • Corcovado National Park - Day Tour from Drake Bay: $145
  • Corcovado National Park - Private Siren Day Tour: $190
  • Gold Panning Private Adventure in Puerto Jimenez: $35
  • Isla del Caño snorkel tour from Drake Bay (Cano island) : $125
  • Kayak experience on Playa Blanca in Puerto Jiménez: $65
  • One Day Tour To Caño Island From Drake Bay: $145
  • One Day Tour to Corcovado (La Leona Station) From Puerto Jiménez: $230
  • Puerto Jimenez Birdwatching Tour Osa Peninsula Golfo Dulce: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sao Paulo $3.38
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

Sample the Local Flavors in Sao Paulo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Sao Paulo:

  • Fine wine tastings in São Roque - Tour with local guides: $192


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sao Paulo and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more expensive. And not only is Sao Paulo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sao Paulo is in South America and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Sao Paulo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sao Paulo 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than you might in Sao Paulo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Sao Paulo Expensive? and Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive?.