A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mexico City vs. Sequoia National Park for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Sequoia 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.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a colorful, cultural, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Mexico City travel costs.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a surreal, impressive, and magical national park. Sequoia National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Mexico City and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
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


Is there more to do in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Sequoia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Mexico City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Sequoia National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo.

How is Mexico City different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Mexico City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Mexico City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Mexico City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Mexico City is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Sequoia National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.


Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Mexico City is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Sequoia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City is a good destination for visiting its old town. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Sequoia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Mexico City. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.


Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Sequoia National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mexico City or Sequoia National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mexico City. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.

Sequoia National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Sequoia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Mexico City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.


Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sequoia National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Mexico City is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Mexico City. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Mexico City is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors to Mexico City can move around easily with public transportation. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.


Is Mexico City or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Mexico City
Sequoia National Park

Mexico City and Sequoia National Park are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Mexico City is generally not a very walkable city. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

Both Mexico City and Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park than in Mexico City. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Sequoia 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 Mexico City.


  • How many days in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mexico City 3-5 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the magical national park of Sequoia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Sequoia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

Mexico City is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the surreal national park of Sequoia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the dynamic big city of Mexico City. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Sequoia National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Mexico City?

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

  • Mexico City Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mexico City $212
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Mexico City is $212, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $152. 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 Mexico City and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mexico City $38
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mexico City $76
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Mexico City and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Mexico City or Sequoia 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 Mexico City


Hotels in Sequoia 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: Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mexico City $12
    Sequoia National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Mexico City:


  • Metro
    $1.09
  • Uber Ride
    $3.80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

Also for Mexico City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Mexico APT-HTL (MEX) : $36
  • Transfer from Mexico City Airport to Puebla: $245
  • Transfer Mexico City Airport to Downtown and Zona Rosa Hotels: $80
  • Transfer Airport - Hotel or vice versa: $58
  • Transfer & assistance one-way from/to Mexico City Airport/hotel : $34
  • Toluca Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $99
  • Toluca Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Teotihuacan: Private Balloon Flight with optional Transfer: $293
  • Six Flags Ticket + Hassle-Free Transfers: $116
  • Shared Balloon Flight in Teotihuacan with transfer: $274
  • San Miguel De Allende City Tour with Transfer from Mexico City: $156
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Mexico City Airport (MEX): $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Mexico City or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Mexico City 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
    Mexico City $43
    Sequoia National Park $53
Typical Food Prices in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $12
  • Coffee and Snacks
    $4.24
  • Dinner for 2
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Street Food Tour Mexico City - Best rated : $35
  • Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
  • San Juan Market Food Tour Exotic Bites & Flavors: $52
  • Coyoacán Market Food Tour Urban Eats & Local Legends: $52
  • Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $53
  • Art and Food Tour with Lunch: $54
  • Tortilla Crawl: Food Tour in Mexico City: $55
  • Mexico City Vegan & Veggie Market Explorer plus Cooking Lesson: $55
  • Private Half-Day Traditional Markets Street Food Tour in Mexico City: $57
  • 3 Hours Food Tour Best Vegan Tacos in Mexico City: $61
  • Old Town Food Tour of 7 Tastings & Secret Dish: $66
  • Frida Kahlo Museum & Coyoacan Tacos & Food Tour: $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mexico City $14
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Frida Kahlo Tour with Admission Tickets: $76
  • Hiking Tour on the Iztaccíhuatl Volcano from Puebla (private): $176
  • Mexico City Tour and Visit Chapultepec Castle. Private service: $180
  • Mixology, Food, Wine and Beer Experience in Xochimilco: $99
  • Monarch Butterfly Tour from Mexico City: $220
  • Private Tour Teotihuacan Essentials: $140
  • Private Walking Tour Gems of the Historic Center of Mexico City: $131
  • Private guided tour of the Soumaya Museum : $279
  • Romantic tour in San Andrés Mixquic: $150
  • Sunrise HotAir Balloon Adventure Over Teotihuacan's Pyramids: $160
  • Xochimilco Floating Gardens and Coyoacan Private Tour: $161
  • "Guided Tour Plus" EN Ruins "TEMPLE MAJOR" with OFFICIAL GUIDES: $34

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mexico City $19
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Mexico City:

  • Guided Pub Crawl with Party Games: $23
  • Mexico City Pub Crawl: $23
  • Zona Rosa Pub Crawl Experience: $94
  • Teotihuacan´s Best Balloon Flight: Pyramids and Brewery tours : $120
  • Cavas Freixenet Wine Tour from Mexico City: $222
  • Private Cheese and Wine Tour to Queretaro: $479


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

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