A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Yellowstone National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone 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 Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone 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.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a scenic, idyllic, and wild city. The famous beauty of Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking, vast, and world-famous national park. The famous beauty of Yellowstone National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cabo San Lucas than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cabo San Lucas is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its hiking. Cabo San Lucas is well known for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Cabo San Lucas is famous for Land's End. Yellowstone National Park is well known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cabo San Lucas. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Cabo San Lucas is an experience not to be missed. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Cabo San Lucas is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Yellowstone National Park Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

If luxury resorts are your style, both Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone National Park have excellent options.

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Many of the resorts are along parts of the coastline where it's not safe to swim. If you really want to enjoy swimming at a beachfront property, make sure you do some research in advance. Medano Beach is a nice area to consider.

There are plenty of resorts in Yellowstone National Park to choose from. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Cabo San Lucas. There are many snorkeling and scuba diving excursions that go out on half day and full day trips. Some of the best snorkeling is found at Cabo Pulmo, which has the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is well known for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Cabo San Lucas is considered a top beach destination. Because of the water conditions, it's not safe to swim at many of the beaches in the area. This is particularly true on the Pacific side of the city. Many people consider Medano Beach to be one of the best in the area, but also nice are Lover's Beach, the ironically named Divorce Beach, and Chileno Beach.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cabo San Lucas. San Jose del Cabo is an "old town" that's a bit outside of town. It's particularly nice to visit on Thursdays when there's a nice market.

Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Yellowstone National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas for the hiking trails. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cabo San Lucas. There are many great shopping areas where you can pick up souvenirs or other interesting items to remember your trip. There are mall, markets, and boutique vendors that sell a variety of products.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone National Park both are comparable with their terrific scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Many visitors also come to Yellowstone National Park because of it's amazing beauty. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Both Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone National Park are excellent to visit with kids.

Cabo San Lucas is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the snorkeling, boat rides, and kid-friendly cuisine. There are many places where kids can get up close and personal with animals, such as Wild Canyon’s Kingdom or camel riding. You might even be able to see migrating whales during your visit. Surfing, fishing, and hiking are also popular in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yellowstone National Park is very family-friendly. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is very popular for couples. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Cabo San Lucas makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination and couples who enjoy a beach paradise with wildlife, diving, and outdoor adventures will appreciate Cabo San Lucas. There's also amazing Mexican food and world class resorts.

Yellowstone National Park is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Yellowstone National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

Many backpackers visit Cabo San Lucas. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Cabo San Lucas, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas
Yellowstone National Park

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Cabo San Lucas is a very walkable destination. The town is relatively easy to walk around with many things close together.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable city. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

For even more information, also check out Is Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cabo San Lucas has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Yellowstone National Park. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Yellowstone 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 Cabo San Lucas.


  • How many days in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cabo San Lucas 3-7 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the scenic city of Cabo San Lucas. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cabo San Lucas. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the nightlife. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the nightlife. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone National Park or Cabo San Lucas?

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

  • Cabo San Lucas Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cabo San Lucas $159
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Cabo San Lucas is $159, while the average daily cost in Yellowstone National Park is $181. 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 Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cabo San Lucas $57
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cabo San Lucas $114
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone 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 Cabo San Lucas


Hotels in Yellowstone 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: Cabo San Lucas Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cabo San Lucas $25
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cabo San Lucas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cabo San Lucas:

  • Cabo San Lucas Port to San Jose Del Cabo hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $144
  • Airport Transfer to Cabo San Lucas & Pacific side Hotels & Villas Round Trip: $192
  • Airport Transfer to Cabo San Lucas IDA: $123
  • Airport Transfers to Cabo San Lucas Pacifico Hotels RT: $290
  • Airport transfers and all: $95
  • Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL) to Cabo San Lucas -Arrival Transfer : $80
  • Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL) to Cabo San Lucas Port - Arrival Private Transfer : $74
  • Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL) to Cabo San Lucas Port- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $148
  • Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port to Airport CSL Departure Transfer: $74
  • Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port to Cabo San Lucas hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $74
  • Cabo San Lucas Port to San Jose Del Cabo hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $287
  • Cabo San Lucas to Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL) Departure Transfer: $98

Is it cheaper to fly into Cabo San Lucas or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park and Cabo San Lucas 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
    Cabo San Lucas $80
    Yellowstone National Park $80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cabo San Lucas

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cabo San Lucas.

  • Authentic Mexican Legacy Cooking Class in Cabo San Lucas: $75
  • San Jose del Cabo Food Tour & Visit to the Market: $79
  • Flavors of Authentic Mexican Food Tour: $79
  • San Jose del Cabo Morning Food Tour: $84
  • San José del Cabo for Meat Lovers Food Tour: $90
  • Sunset Mexican Dinner Cruise and Live Music in Cabo San Lucas: $95
  • Parrillada dinner with a Private Chef in your villa/condo in Cabo or San Jose: $95
  • Jumbo Shrimp Dinner in Your Private Villa or Condo in Cabo or San Jose del Cabo: $99
  • Cabo San Lucas Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar: $99
  • Cabo Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music & Open Bar on Cabo Wave: $99
  • Sunset E-bike Beach Ride with Mexican Dinner and Margaritas: $109
  • San Jose del Cabo City Highlights with Tequila Tasting and Dinner: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cabo San Lucas $39
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Cabo San Lucas

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

  • Shared Experience Glass Bottom Boat to the Arch in Cabo San Lucas: $15
  • Boat Tour to Cabo San Lucas Arch and Rock Formations: $17
  • The Ultimate Camel Safari Experience in Los Cabos: $17
  • Cabo San Lucas Arch Tour and we go down to Playa del Amor: $19
  • 2 in 1 Tour | Arc Tour with Beach Drop: $20
  • Tour to Arch in the only Clear Boat in Cabo Cruise Hotel PICKUP!: $24
  • Tour to Arch in the Clear Boat Cruise Ship Terminal Hotel PICKUP!: $27
  • Tour to The Arch and Lover's Beach (optional) from Cabo: $30
  • The Fenway Bar Experience: $30
  • Transparent Boat Tour Cabo San Lucas Arch and Playa del Amor: $36
  • Whale Watching Tour with Arch and Beach in Cabo San Lucas: $38
  • Shared Tour to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas: $39

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • Yellowstone's Old Faithful Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Yellowstone National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Yellowstone Lake & Hot Springs / 3 Hour Morning or Twilight Tour : $125
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cabo San Lucas $26
    Yellowstone National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Cabo San Lucas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cabo San Lucas:

  • Wine Tasting Sunset Cruise Tour in San Jose del Cabo: $280


When comparing the travel costs between Cabo San Lucas and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Yellowstone 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 Cabo San Lucas Expensive? and Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.


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