A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Resorts, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Bryce Canyon National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a lively, ancient, and archeological town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a spectacular, other-worldly, and breathtaking park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Tulum and Bryce Canyon 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
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
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Bryce Canyon National Park are popular destinations, Tulum has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tulum is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Bryce Canyon National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Tulum is famous for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also well known for the Tulum archeological ruins. Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters.

How is Tulum different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is very popular for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Tulum are world-renowned. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.


Is the Food Better in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Tulum has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

Tulum is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Tulum is a perfect choice. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.


Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum is not to be missed. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is very popular for the beache. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Tulum is a very popular vacation destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Bryce Canyon National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.


Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is a great town for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Tulum is well-known for its shopping. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Tulum and Bryce Canyon National Park are superb to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bryce Canyon National Park is very family-friendly. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Bryce Canyon National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Tulum has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.


Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Many backpackers visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Tulum offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Public transit is generally limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Is Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Tulum
Bryce Canyon National Park

Tulum is a great town for its high level of walkability. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Tulum is a very walkable town. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Tulum has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Tulum than Bryce Canyon National Park. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum than Bryce Canyon 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 Tulum.


  • How many days in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tulum 3-5 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Tulum, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this ancient destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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.

In Bryce Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Tulum, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bryce Canyon National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Tulum, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this ancient destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This town offers something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fun place to experience. In Bryce Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful town of Tulum. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

You'll find around the spectacular destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Tulum?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tulum is $122, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135. 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 Tulum and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tulum $60
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tulum $120
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Tulum and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Tulum or Bryce Canyon 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 Tulum


Hotels in Bryce Canyon 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: Tulum Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tulum $28
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Tulum

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Tulum are as follows:


  • Scooter Rental
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tulum

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Tulum:

  • Round-trip Private Transfer Cancun Airport to TULUM - up to 9 pax: $299
  • Roundtrip Transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum: $269
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum: $254
  • Transfer from Tulum airport to Bacalar: $233
  • Private Luxury Transfer Tulum to Cancun Airport: $220
  • Private Transfer Tulum-Bacalar with optional 2h in Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: $210
  • Private Transfer From Cancun Airport - Tulum: $208
  • Cancun Airport Departure transfer from Akumal, Tulum: $191
  • Tulum to Chetumal - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $182
  • Private Transfer Tulum Zone - Cancun International Airport: $160
  • One Way Private Tulum Transfers to or from Cancun Airport: $160
  • Tulum to Mahahual - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Tulum or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Tulum 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
    Tulum $34
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33
Typical Food Prices in Tulum

Some typical examples of dining costs in Tulum are as follows:


  • Lunch
    $3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tulum

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

  • Tulum Local Walking Food Tour: $86
  • Vegan Walking Food Tour with Tasting: $87
  • Mexican Cooking from Scratch and Mezcal Tasting in a Local Home in Tulum: $87
  • Mayan Night Guided Tour, Cenote Swim and Mayan Dinner: $209
  • Private transfer for 5 hours (go dinner,cenotes, shopping and more) : $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tulum $32
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Tulum

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

  • Private Tour - The best Cenotes in Yucatan - Suytun & Oxman: $195
  • Romantic tour in Tulum: $169
  • 4-Hour Cenotes Tour with Hotel Pickup in Riviera Maya: $109
  • 5 Hours Mayan Snorkeling Experience in Tulum: $90
  • 5x1 Deluxe Tour Tulum, Coba, Cenote Transportation from Tulum: $88
  • 5x1: Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Mayan Village Full Day Tour: $99
  • ATV Cenote and Zipline Adventure from Tulum: $119
  • ATV Extreme Adventure Single with Ziplines and Cenote Swim: $137
  • ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote & Tulum Pickup: $75
  • ATV Tour with Ziplines and Cenote Swim Experience in Quintana Roo: $59
  • Adventure Tulum: $105
  • Adventure in the Mayan Jungle with ATV and Zip Line in Tulum: $90

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • The Beauty of Full-Day Audio Driving Private Tour: $8.99
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Self-Driving Bundle Tour : $25
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $105
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $110
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Thunder Mt. 4 Hour Ride: $120
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tulum $25
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78

Sample the Local Flavors in Tulum

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Tulum:

  • 30 Minutes Brewery Tour in Tulum: $39
  • Wine Tasting at Pan y Vino Tulum: $58
  • Beer Tasting and Brewery Tour: $69


When comparing the travel costs between Tulum and Bryce Canyon National Park, we can see that Bryce Canyon 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 Tulum Expensive? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Expensive?.