A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Foz do Iguacu vs. Oaxaca de Juarez for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Foz do Iguacu and Oaxaca de Juarez 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.

Foz do Iguacu

Foz do Iguacu is a scenic, breathtaking, and spectacular park. Foz do Iguacu is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Foz do Iguacu travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez

Oaxaca de Juarez is a authentic, traditional, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Foz do Iguacu and Oaxaca de Juarez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Foz do Iguacu. Although Foz do Iguacu and Oaxaca de Juarez are roughly the same size, Foz do Iguacu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Foz do Iguacu is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Oaxaca de Juarez attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Foz do Iguacu is more touristy than Oaxaca de Juarez and is popular for its spectacular beauty and incredible volume of water. It is also well known for Iguacu National Park. Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene.

How is Foz do Iguacu different from Oaxaca de Juarez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oaxaca de Juarez and Foz do Iguacu. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Foz do Iguacu is a park with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Oaxaca de Juarez are among the most recognizable in the world. There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.

While most people don't head to Foz do Iguacu specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a handful of museums and nature parks in and near town.

Is the Food Better in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Oaxaca de Juarez have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.

Foz do Iguacu is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a variety of restaurants around town where you can sample the regional cuisine. A popular item on the menus is Surubí (a local river fish). Also make sure you try the Mbeyú (fried bread), and paraguayan soup (more like bread than an actual soup).

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Oaxaca de Juarez know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.

If you're looking for night time activities Foz do Iguacu has a few options to choose from. Head to the intersection of Avenida JK and Avenida Jorge Schimmelpfeng for the most lively nightlife scene in town. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants and bars, many with outdoor areas or live music.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its old town. However, Foz do Iguacu does not have a historic old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.

Foz do Iguacu does not have a historic old town.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez Better for Hiking?

Foz do Iguacu is great for hiking. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Foz do Iguacu for the hiking trails. There's a network of trails and walkways at the foot of the falls as well as above the falls. You can also venture into the surrounding rainforest or hike to Devil's Throat for a great view.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Oaxaca de Juarez make it a world-class shopping destination. The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.

Foz do Iguacu has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's shopping in the center of town, particularly around Avenida Brasil, Rua Barbosa, Rua Almirante Barroso, and Quintino Bocaiuva.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez More Beautiful?

Foz do Iguacu is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Foz do Iguacu is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The falls is absolutely breathtaking. The volume of water and enormity in size is something that you can only experience in person.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez Better for Families?

Foz do Iguacu is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Foz do Iguacu is a very family-friendly destination. Of course, the highlight for everyone is a visit to Iguacu National Park, which also offers boat rides, hiking, and spectacular views. In addition to this impressive park, the whole family will also enjoy a visit to Parque das Aves, which is a bird park that includes information on wildlife species and conservation.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a family-friendly place to visit. For trampolines, bouncy houses, and other fun activities, head to El Llano Park on a weekend. There's also an outdoor playground and other fun activities for kids at Museu Infantil de Oaxaca. Kid-friendly restaurants are abundant, and if the kids enjoy hiking, you can head out of town for a day trip.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez Better for Couples?

Both Foz do Iguacu and Oaxaca de Juarez are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Foz do Iguacu frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. While the town itself has limited entertainment, the waterfalls is a spectacular sight that has inspired more than a few marriage proposals.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. The city is famous for its cuisine, so food lovers will enjoy dining their way through town. There are also great hotels, beautiful gardens, and fascinating architecture.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for backpackers. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Oaxaca de Juarez. There are many very affordable hostels around town. The city is a mecca for backpackers in Mexico, and you'll find plenty of people to hang out with and great restaurants to explore.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Foz do Iguacu. This is one of the country's most popular backpacker destinations so you'll find plenty of hostels and young travelers to hang out with. The falls itself is truly incredible and well worth the trip.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Foz do Iguacu and Oaxaca de Juarez.

You'll find some public transit in Foz do Iguacu, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. It's 12 miles between the park and the town so you'll need to take either a taxi or a public bus. On your way to the park, you should arrange for a ride back because finding a taxi as you leave can be challenging.

While Oaxaca de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.

Is Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Foz do Iguacu is a park with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very walkable city. It's a walkable city that's fun to explore on foot, particularly in the historic center.

Foz do Iguacu is generally not a very walkable park. There are walkways near the waterfalls, but the city isn't particularly walkable and you'll need transportation to travel between the park and the town.

For even more information, also check out Is Foz do Iguacu Worth Visiting? and Is Oaxaca de Juarez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez or Foz do Iguacu?

How long in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

In either Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Foz do Iguacu because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Foz do Iguacu, and 2-5 days is enough time in Oaxaca de Juarez.

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Foz do Iguacu. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oaxaca de Juarez that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Foz do Iguacu 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 Oaxaca de Juarez.

One day in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the spectacular destination of Foz do Iguacu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

You'll find nightlife and food around the spectacular park of Foz do Iguacu. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oaxaca de Juarez. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

Foz do Iguacu is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the traditional destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

Foz do Iguacu is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Oaxaca de Juarez. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Brazil, The Best Budget Tours to Brazil, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Foz do Iguacu and Oaxaca de Juarez, we can see that Foz do Iguacu is more expensive. And not only is Oaxaca de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Foz do Iguacu is in South America and Oaxaca de Juarez is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Oaxaca de Juarez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Foz do Iguacu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Foz do Iguacu than you might in Oaxaca de Juarez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Foz do Iguacu Expensive? and Is Oaxaca de Juarez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Foz do Iguacu or Oaxaca de Juarez?

Foz do Iguacu has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Oaxaca de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Foz do Iguacu and Oaxaca de Juarez, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.