A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Joshua Tree National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a authentic, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a adventurous, unique, and fascinating national park. The beauty of Joshua Tree National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Mazatlan and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Joshua Tree National Park are both popular with visitors, Mazatlan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mazatlan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Joshua Tree National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Joshua Tree National Park is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Joshua Tree National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Joshua Tree National Park and Mazatlan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Mazatlan. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

Is the Food Better in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Mazatlan has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mazatlan is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Mazatlan. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for the beach. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Mazatlan attract visitors from all over. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Joshua Tree National Park does not have a historic old town.

Mazatlan is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Joshua Tree National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

People visit Joshua Tree National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

Mazatlan is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park More Beautiful?

Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Joshua Tree National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Joshua Tree National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Joshua Tree National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Mazatlan 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 Joshua Tree National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mazatlan. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mazatlan is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Mazatlan has some public transit options. There are city buses around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Mazatlan is a very walkable destination. The city is relatively walkable.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable city. You need a car to truly explore the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mazatlan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Joshua Tree 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 Mazatlan.

One day in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the authentic city of Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

The beautiful national park of Joshua Tree National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Mazatlan. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Joshua Tree National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

Mazatlan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Mazatlan or Joshua Tree National Park?

Mazatlan is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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