A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Nightlife, and Families

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

Cozumel

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

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a local, authentic, and remote town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is popular for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Cozumel 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 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

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

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.

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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Both Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cozumel. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

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

Cozumel offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

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 Cozumel or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cozumel is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cozumel. 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.


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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cozumel is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its diving and snorkeling.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cozumel is not to be missed. 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.

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

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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cozumel is very popular for its beaches. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Cozumel is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

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

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

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.


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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cozumel is a well-known place for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town 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, 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 Cozumel or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

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

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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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.

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


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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Both Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are very good 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Cozumel or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

For backpackers, both Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are very good places to visit.

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great island to visit for backpackers. It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cozumel is not known for its public transit.

While Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

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.


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

Cozumel
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

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

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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Cozumel or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cozumel due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 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 Cozumel.


  • How many days in Cozumel or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4

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

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this colorful destination offers. 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 island offers something for everyone.

In Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this island offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

In Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


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

Cozumel is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cozumel has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

Cozumel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cozumel $122
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140

The average daily cost (per person) in Cozumel is $122, 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 Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $63
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $126
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel 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 Cozumel


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $21
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60

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

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.
    Cozumel $40
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119

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 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
    Cozumel $10
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

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 comparing the travel costs between Cozumel and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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. Even though Cozumel is in North America and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is in Central America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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