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

Should you visit Auckland or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and thrill-seeking city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Auckland travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a authentic, remote, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Auckland. Although Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are popular destinations, Auckland has more sights and attractions for tourists. Auckland is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Auckland is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is famous for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Auckland 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 Auckland. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Auckland is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Auckland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

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 Auckland or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Auckland 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, Auckland makes for a great culinary experience. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

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 Auckland or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Nightlife?

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Auckland is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Auckland offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

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 Auckland or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are very good choices for a beach vacation.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

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.

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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Auckland is a well-known place for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

Auckland is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

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 Auckland or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Auckland or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Both Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Couples visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.


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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

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

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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Auckland is a well-known place for students. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not popular with students.

Auckland is very popular with students. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

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

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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

You'll find some public transit in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.


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

Auckland
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Auckland 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 Auckland, and 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Auckland.


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

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

Each neighborhood in Auckland has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers something for everyone.

The beautiful town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Each neighborhood in Auckland has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Auckland has to offer.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


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

Auckland is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Auckland 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, 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 Auckland?

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

  • Auckland Prices
    New Zealand Prices
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Auckland $170
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140

The average daily cost (per person) in Auckland is $170, 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 Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Auckland $99
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Auckland $198
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
Compare Hotels in Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Looking for a hotel in Auckland 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 Auckland


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: Auckland Hotel Prices and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Auckland $17
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Auckland

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Auckland:


  • Bus from Airport
    $9.47
  • Airport Shuttle
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Auckland

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

  • Departure Transfer: Auckland Central City Centre to Auckland Airport: $25
  • AKL Airport to City Centre|Hotels Private Transfer: $26
  • Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Airport: $26
  • Auckland:City Hotel Transfers to/from Cruise Ship in Minivan: $32
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Auckland HTL-APT (AKL): $38
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Auckland APT-HTL (AKL): $38
  • Private Transfer from Auckland Airport (AKL) to Auckland Port: $43
  • Airport Private Transfer: $43
  • Auckland City Hotel to Cruise Ship Transfer by SUV: $48
  • Auckland Cruise Port Private Transfer to City Hotels: $54
  • Auckland:Private 1 way Airport transfer to/from CBD Minivan: $58
  • Private One-Way Transfer: Auckland Airport to Auckland City Hotel: $59

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

Prices for flights to both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Auckland 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
    Auckland $46
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60
Typical Food Prices in Auckland

For Auckland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Breakfast
    $4.73

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Auckland

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

  • Harbour Sailing Cruise with 3-Course Dinner: $93
  • Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner: $101
  • Flavours of the City Walking Food Tour: $101
  • Waiheke Island: Private Sunset Wine Tour & 2 Course Dinner: $392
  • Māori Evening Dinner and Private Show Experience: $519
  • From Kiwi Bird Encounter & 3-Course Dinner Tour: $550

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.
    Auckland $27
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119
Typical Entertainment Prices in Auckland

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Auckland's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Auckland Sky Tour (for 2)
    $33
  • Waiheke Island Tour (for 2)
    $119

Tours and Activities in Auckland

For Auckland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Auckland War Memorial Museum Entry Ticket: $9.27
  • Skip the Line: Auckland Museum General Admission Ticket: $9.53
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Auckland's Hidden Stories: $12
  • Maritime Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • Maritime Museum Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14
  • Explore Self Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Vibrosaun Therapy Experience: $18
  • Waitematā Harbour Cruise with Live Commentary: $20
  • Odyssey Sensory Maze Entry Auckland Ticket: $21
  • Auckland Takapuna: Escape Game Adventure: $23
  • Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern: $25
  • Auckland CBD: Escape Game Adventure: $26

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
    Auckland $13
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

Sample the Local Flavors in Auckland

Also in Auckland, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Waiheke Island: Scenic Island Wine Tour & Local Wine Tasting: $110
  • Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Auckland with 3-Course Vineyard Lunch: $119
  • Ultimate Auckland Experience Full Day Tour with Brewery Lunch : $149
  • Waiheke Island: The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour: $159
  • Kumeu Wine Tour: $164
  • Waiheke Island: Wine Tour & Lunch at Award Winning Venue: $168
  • From Small Group Kumeu Wine Tour with Lunch: $180
  • Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Platter Lunch: $183
  • Piha Waitakere Rainforest Wine Tour from Auckland: $188
  • City Tour with Wine Tasting and Black Sand Beach: $217
  • Auckland City Tour & Kumeu Wine Country Includes Wine Tastings & Lunch : $238
  • Shore Excursion from Auckland - Private Tour & Wine Tasting: $278


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Auckland and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Auckland is more expensive. And not only is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Auckland is in Pacific 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland than you might in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

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