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

Should you visit La Paz or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See La Paz travel costs.

Yosemite National Park

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

La Paz and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
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 El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Yosemite National Park are both popular with visitors, La Paz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Paz is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Yosemite National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than La Paz and is known for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach.

How is La Paz different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

La Paz is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

La Paz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

La Paz is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Dining out in La Paz is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is La Paz or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

La Paz is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is La Paz or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is notable for its resorts. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Yosemite National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.


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

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

La Paz is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yosemite National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Yosemite National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Yosemite National Park Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

La Paz is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in La Paz. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

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

Around Yosemite National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.


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

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

La Paz is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is La Paz or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park as well. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

Both La Paz and Yosemite National Park are excellent 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 Yosemite National Park. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.


Is La Paz or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

Both La Paz and Yosemite National Park offer good public transit options.

La Paz has a few public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Yosemite National Park has some public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.


Is La Paz or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

La Paz
Yosemite National Park

La Paz is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

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

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

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

How long in La Paz or Yosemite National Park?

Both La Paz and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than in La Paz. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in La Paz or Yosemite National Park?

The city of La Paz offers shopping and museums. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

The beautiful destination of La Paz offers museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in La Paz or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

La Paz is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of La Paz. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the popular destination of Yosemite National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Yosemite National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $69

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $11
    Yosemite National Park $19

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 Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299

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


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

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 Yosemite National Park Expensive?.