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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Zion National Park?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Zion 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. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. Many visitors also come to Zion National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Zion 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
  • 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 Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez. Although Oaxaca de Juarez and Zion 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 Zion National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Zion National Park is more touristy than Oaxaca de Juarez and is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Oaxaca de Juarez is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. It is also home to Mercado Benito Juárez.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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 Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.


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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Oaxaca de Juarez is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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 Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

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

Zion National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.


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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Oaxaca de Juarez can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Zion National Park does not have a historic old town.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

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

People visit Zion National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known 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.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Zion National Park More Beautiful?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Zion 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 Zion National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

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

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Zion 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.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly destination. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

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 Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Zion National Park make for a very good 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.

Zion National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.


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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

For backpackers, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Zion National Park are fantastic 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 Zion National Park. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez and Zion National Park both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Oaxaca de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.

Zion National Park has a few public transit options. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Zion National Park

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known 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.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.


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

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

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Zion National Park?

Both Oaxaca de Juarez and Zion 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 Zion National Park than in Oaxaca de Juarez. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Zion 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 Zion 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 Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historic destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Zion 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 Zion National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Oaxaca de Juarez. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oaxaca de Juarez has to offer.

You'll find around the breathtaking park of Zion National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oaxaca de Juarez has to offer.

Zion 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 Zion National Park?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Zion 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Zion 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
    Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $51
    Zion National Park $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $51, while the average daily cost in Zion National Park is $146. 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 Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $18
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $36
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Zion National Park

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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Zion National Park $30

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 Zion National Park?

Prices for flights to both Zion 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
    Zion National Park $64

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
    Zion National Park $26

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

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

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

  • Private Sunset Guided Tour to Great Chamber by Four-Wheel Drive: $125
  • Slot Canyon Tour & Sandboarding UTV Adventure: $129
  • 2-Hour Private Light Painting Experience on the Sand Dunes: $299
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $125
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105
  • Coral Pink Sand Dunes Ride Climb and Rappel Adventure: $139
  • East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $174
  • East Zion Brushy Cove Jeep Tour: $117
  • East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour: $201
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $130
  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Zion National Park $8.28

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 Zion National Park, we can see that Zion 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 Zion National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zion 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 Zion National Park Expensive?.