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

Should you visit La Paz or Jasper 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 La Paz and Jasper 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.

La Paz

La Paz is a cultural, beautiful, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See La Paz travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a breathtaking, adventure-filled, and stunning national park. You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

La Paz and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Jasper National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Jasper National Park are popular destinations, La Paz has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Paz is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Jasper National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. La Paz is famous for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also well known for Balandra Beach. Jasper National Park is famous for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is La Paz 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 La Paz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

La Paz
Jasper National Park

La Paz is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to La Paz can be an interesting and educational experience. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

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 La Paz or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

La Paz is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, La Paz makes for a great culinary experience. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

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 La Paz or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

La Paz is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

La Paz has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

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 La Paz or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


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

La Paz
Jasper National Park

La Paz is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to La Paz to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Jasper National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

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

The beaches in La Paz are among the best in the world. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Around Jasper National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Jasper National Park?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

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

La Paz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

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 La Paz or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

Both La Paz and Jasper National Park are high quality to visit with kids.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jasper National Park. 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 La Paz or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is notable for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

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

La Paz
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

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

La Paz
Jasper National Park

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in La Paz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

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 La Paz or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

La Paz
Jasper National Park

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

La Paz is very walkable. The city is very walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Jasper National Park?

In either La Paz or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than La Paz because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in La Paz or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of La Paz. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Jasper National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Jasper National Park?

La Paz is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in La Paz or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit La Paz for five days. You'll find shopping and museums around the city of La Paz. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jasper National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Jasper National Park?

The cultural destination of La Paz offers museums and nightlife. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Jasper National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or La Paz?

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

  • La Paz Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, 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 La Paz and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in La Paz 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 La Paz


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159
  • La Paz hotels to La Paz International Airport (LAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $80

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 La Paz or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and La Paz 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
    La Paz $60
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 3 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $77
  • 3 hrs SEAFOOD Tour in La Paz: $103

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.
    La Paz $11
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • Mural and Sculpture Art Tour at the Peace Center: $40
  • Coral Farm Snorkel Tour: $55
  • Pearl Farm Experience and shop: $65
  • Half Day Sandboarding and Paddleboarding Experience in La Paz: $83
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • RZR Tour of Mogote Dunes and Sandboarding: $103
  • Unique Mexican Spirits Tasting & Pairing Experience: $105
  • holy spirit island tour: $108
  • La Paz Beaches Half Day Tour: $111
  • Holy Spirit Island Tour Sea Lions Snorkeling and Beach: $111
  • Most Popular Tour in La Paz Isla Espíritu Santo and Sea Lions: $122
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $122

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

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

  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Jasper National Park: $14
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour: $62
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Morning Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour: $64
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $67
  • Jasper Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour with Maligne Lake Hike: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Jasper National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between La Paz and Jasper National Park, we can see that La Paz 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 La Paz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in La Paz 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 La Paz Expensive? and Is Jasper National Park Expensive?.