A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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.

Oaxaca de Juarez

Oaxaca de Juarez is a historic, cultural, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a overlooked, underrated, and vast park. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 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
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 Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez. Although Oaxaca de Juarez and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both popular with visitors, Oaxaca de Juarez has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oaxaca de Juarez is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. It is also home to Mercado Benito Juárez. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is popular for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Oaxaca de Juarez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Oaxaca de Juarez that are not to be missed. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have a historic old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is great for hiking. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking trails. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park More Beautiful?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful lakes and mountains, without the large crowds of the more well-known parks, make this a great natural destination.

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


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers lots of family activities. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park make for a excellent place to visit.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great city 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a few public transit options. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Oaxaca de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oaxaca de Juarez and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Families should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Oaxaca de Juarez, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oaxaca de Juarez that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Oaxaca de Juarez.


  • How many days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Oaxaca de Juarez, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find around the underrated destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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.


A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. In Oaxaca de Juarez, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find around the vast park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Oaxaca de Juarez, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this city offers. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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.

A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Oaxaca de Juarez?

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

  • Oaxaca de Juarez Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $51
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $51, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $148. 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 Oaxaca de Juarez and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $18
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $36
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Oaxaca de Juarez


Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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: Oaxaca de Juarez Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also for Oaxaca de Juarez, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Taxi Transfer from Downtown Oaxaca to the Airport: $20
  • Private Transfer to Oaxaca Airport (OAX): $22
  • Transfer Hotel to Oaxaca Airport private service: $26
  • Oaxaca city: Roundtrip Private/Shared Airport Transfer: $27
  • From Oaxaca One way shared transfer to San Jose del Pacifico: $29
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez - Arrival Transfer: $30
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $30
  • Oaxaca hotels to Oaxaca Airport(OAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer Airport Hotel in Oaxaca: $34
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Oaxaca Airport (OAX) : $43
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Hotels to Oaxaca Airport: $46
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez - Round-Trip Transfer: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Oaxaca de Juarez or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Oaxaca de Juarez 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
    Oaxaca de Juarez $22
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oaxaca de Juarez

For Oaxaca de Juarez, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Oaxaca Street Food Tour - Best Rated : $35
  • Central Oaxaca Food Tour: $55
  • Food Tour at the Mercado de Abastos: $57
  • Tradicional Oaxacan Dinner on Agronomic Biodiversity_01: $60
  • Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class: $65
  • Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class: $66
  • Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu &Local Market Tour: $70
  • Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: Oaxaca de Juárez: $75
  • Oaxaca Central de Abastos Market Food Tour : $78
  • Oaxaca: 10 Mexican Salsas Cooking Class with Taco Tasting: $80
  • 10 Mexican salsas, enjoy cooking and tasting them in Oaxaca: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Oaxaca de Juarez.

  • Oaxaca Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $5.13
  • Oaxaca: Colonial City Bus Tour: $5.45
  • Walking Tour Oaxaca: $5.59
  • Oaxaca: Legends Tour Mezcalbús: $6.53
  • Oaxaca: Monte Alban, Cuilapam, and Artisan Villages Tour: $20
  • Oaxaca: Guided Bike Tour to the Largest Tree in the World: $20
  • Oaxaca: Oaxaca City Beyond the Surface Walking Tour: $22
  • Half Day Teotitlan Del Valle Village Shared Tour : $25
  • Monte Albán Morning Half-Day Tour –Small Group, Transport & Guide: $27
  • Oaxaca : City Tour: $27
  • Oaxaca: The Art of Death walking tour: $27
  • Montealban Tour: $28

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Oaxaca de Juarez

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oaxaca de Juarez:

  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl: $17
  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl with Mezcal Shots and Live Music: $18
  • Check out Hierve el Agua, Mitla, the Tule Tree, Rugs, and a Mezcal Distillery Tour: $49
  • Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $50
  • From Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $54
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery tour: $55
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $55
  • Personalized Tour to Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $101
  • Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings: $125
  • Mezcal Distillery Day Trip: $134
  • Artisanal Mezcal distillery in an authentic Zapotec village : $150
  • Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua, Mezcal Distillery, and Lunch Tour: $272


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Oaxaca de Juarez and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, we can see that Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more expensive. And not only is Oaxaca de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Oaxaca de Juarez Expensive? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Expensive?.