A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. Yellowstone National Park for Food, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone 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 authentic, traditional, and historic city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a vast, world-famous, and popular national park. Many visitors also come to Yellowstone National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Yellowstone 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
  • 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 Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oaxaca de Juarez is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Oaxaca de Juarez and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for Mercado Benito Juárez.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Oaxaca de Juarez on the map. 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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Oaxaca de Juarez is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Yellowstone National Park Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

Yellowstone National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

People visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Yellowstone National Park because of it's amazing beauty. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Yellowstone National Park make for a high quality 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

For backpackers, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Yellowstone National Park are first-rate places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Oaxaca de Juarez. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Yellowstone National Park. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Oaxaca de Juarez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Yellowstone National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable city. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.


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

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Oaxaca de Juarez and Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park than in Oaxaca de Juarez. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic city of Oaxaca de Juarez. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Yellowstone 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 national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find around the world-famous national park of Yellowstone National Park. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $51
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $51, while the average daily cost in Yellowstone National Park is $181. 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 Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $18
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $36
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • From Oaxaca One way shared transfer to San Jose del Pacifico: $29
  • From Oaxaca: Private Transfer to Huatulco: $436
  • From Oaxaca: Transfer to Puerto Escondido: $408
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez - Arrival Transfer: $30
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez - Round-Trip Transfer: $60
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $30
  • Oaxaca Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $60
  • Oaxaca city: Roundtrip Private/Shared Airport Transfer: $27
  • Oaxaca hotels to Oaxaca Airport(OAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $30
  • Oaxaca: Santiago Apoala Waterfall Day Trip with Transfers: $71
  • Private Luxury Transfer from the Oaxaca Airport to your Hotel: $75
  • Private Transfer Airport Hotel in Oaxaca: $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Oaxaca de Juarez or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park $80

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
    Yellowstone National Park $34

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: Guided Bike Tour to the Largest Tree in the World: $20
  • Oaxaca: Monte Alban, Cuilapam, and Artisan Villages Tour: $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: The Art of Death walking tour: $27
  • Oaxaca : City Tour: $27
  • Montealban Tour: $28

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $250
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $299
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Salt Lake City: Yellowstone 4-day Tour with Airport Pickup: $918
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.