A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Yellowstone National Park for Backpackers, Resorts, Families, and Couples

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

Cozumel

Cozumel is a lively, vibrant, and active island. Cozumel offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Cozumel travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-famous, popular, and immense national park. Many visitors also come to Yellowstone National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Cozumel and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cozumel than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cozumel is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cozumel is well known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Yellowstone National Park is well known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife.

How is Cozumel 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 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Cozumel 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 Cozumel. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Cozumel is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cozumel area. 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.

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 Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Cozumel is well known for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

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

Is Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Cozumel and Yellowstone National Park.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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 Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Cozumel is very popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cozumel a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Cozumel is very popular for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cozumel. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

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

Many people visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Cozumel 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 Cozumel. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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 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.

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

Is Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Both Cozumel and Yellowstone National Park are great 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. 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.

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

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

Cozumel is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.


Is Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Yellowstone National Park

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

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

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable island. 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 Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 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 Cozumel.


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

One day in Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the active island of Cozumel. 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 . Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cozumel. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Cozumel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this island 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Yellowstone National Park?

Cozumel is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to 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 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
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cozumel $122
    Yellowstone National Park $181

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



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $63
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $126
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel 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 Cozumel


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: Cozumel Hotel Prices and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $21
    Yellowstone National Park $37

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

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

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park $80

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $40
    Yellowstone National Park $34

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 Yellowstone National Park

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

  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $250
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $299
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Salt Lake City: Yellowstone 4-day Tour with Airport Pickup: $918
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $10
    Yellowstone National Park $19

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

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