A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Jasper National Park for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cozumel or Jasper 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 Cozumel and Jasper National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a active, colorful, and scenic island. Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Cozumel travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. Many visitors also come to Jasper National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Cozumel and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Cozumel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cozumel is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Jasper National Park and is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Cozumel different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Cozumel or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Cozumel offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is well known for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Cozumel is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is well known for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Cozumel is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Cozumel specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is terrific for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cozumel are among the best in the world. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is well known for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Cozumel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Jasper National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Cozumel is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Jasper National Park.

Cozumel is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

Jasper National Park is a very kid-friendly island. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.


Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Both Cozumel and Jasper National Park are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Cozumel is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Jasper National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Jasper National Park. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

Cozumel is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.


Is Cozumel or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Jasper National Park

Cozumel is well known for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Cozumel is very walkable. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable island. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

In either Cozumel or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than Jasper National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cozumel than Jasper 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 Cozumel.


  • How many days in Cozumel or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Cozumel. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Jasper National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

Cozumel is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Jasper National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jasper National Park has to offer.


Five days in Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Cozumel for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the island of Cozumel. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jasper National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the lively destination of Cozumel. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cozumel, one week is sufficent for most.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jasper National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Jasper National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Cozumel?

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

  • Cozumel Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cozumel $122
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Cozumel is $122, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Cozumel and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $63
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $126
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel or Jasper 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 Cozumel


Hotels in Jasper 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: Cozumel Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $21
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

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

  • ATV Adventure to Jade Cavern with transfer: $83
  • ATV tour to jade cavern with transfer (single or double): $55
  • Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154
  • Cozumel Jungle ATV Tour Adventure and Caverns with transfer: $65
  • Cozumel Mayan Experience And Beach Getaway with Transfer: $55
  • Shared Transfer from Airport to Hotel: $27
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel -Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cozumel Airport to Cozumel: $67
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cozumel to Cozumel Airport: $67
  • Private Transfer from Cozumel Port to Cozumel Airport (CZM): $93

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Cozumel 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
    Cozumel $37
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cozumel

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

  • Under the Stars Twilight Snorkel and Seaside Dinner at Money Bar: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $110

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $40
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Cozumel

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

  • Skip the Line: Admission Ticket to El Cedral Town and Mayan Temple: $16
  • Transparent Boat Tour in See Marine Life Up Close: $19
  • Crystal Boat Trip and Snorkeling Tour from Cozumel: $19
  • Crystal-clear Boat trip & Snorkeling tour: $19
  • Tequila History and Tasting Experience and Unlimited Beach Break: $25
  • El Cielo Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel: $28
  • Cozumel’s Mayan Journey: Dance, Rituals, and Tasting Tour: $29
  • Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs: $29
  • Island Tour in Cozumel, Mayan Show & Tacos: $30
  • Transparent Boating and Snorkeling Tour in Cozumel All Inclusive: $32
  • Bicycle Adventure With Snorkel and Lunch: $33
  • VIP Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling 3 Reefs Tour: $35

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

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

  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $106
  • Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper: $230
  • E-Bike Safari Eco Tour: $176
  • Explore Jasper Tour: $184
  • Explore Jasper Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise: $184
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Jasper Ice Climbing Experience: $174
  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $10
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Cozumel

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cozumel:

  • Chocolate Seaside Workshop & Wine Tasting: $45
  • Downtown Cozumel and Brewery Experience: $69
  • Rum and Gin at Cozumel First Distillery : $99
  • Craft Beer Tasting Experience with Brewery Tour: $99
  • Cozumel Mixology Experience at Distillery : $109


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

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