A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) vs. Ensenada for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ensenada can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a authentic, remote, and local town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a historic, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Ensenada travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ensenada: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • 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 nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Although Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ensenada are popular destinations, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Ensenada attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Ensenada is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is known for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is famous for its fishing and wildlife. It is also well known for Corcovado National Park.

How is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) different from Ensenada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ensenada and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Ensenada is very good for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

Ensenada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.


Is the Food Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Ensenada is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ensenada makes for a great culinary experience. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Ensenada is very good for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Ensenada. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ensenada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Ensenada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada Better for Beaches?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for the beach. However, Ensenada is a city with minimal options for the beach.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is considered a top beach destination. Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

The beach in Ensenada is worth checking out. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada Better for Hiking?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Ensenada is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Ensenada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Ensenada is very good for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

Ensenada is a great destination for shopping. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

If you're looking to go shopping, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada More Beautiful?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ensenada is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Ensenada is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada Better for Families?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Ensenada offers lots of family activities. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada Better for Couples?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

Ensenada is a good town for couples to visit. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town to visit for backpackers. It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Ensenada is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular place for its public transit. However, Ensenada is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada a more walkable city?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Ensenada

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ensenada both are great when exploring on foot.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very walkable. The town is relatively easy to walk around.

Ensenada is a very walkable town. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting? and Is Ensenada Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ensenada or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

How long in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ensenada. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than in Ensenada. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), and 2-3 days is enough time in Ensenada.

Families should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Ensenada. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Ensenada. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Ensenada 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).


  • How many days in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada? Ideal Length of Stay
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4 
    Ensenada 2-3

One day in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

The beautiful town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Ensenada, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Ensenada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this city offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ensenada has to offer.

Five days in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ensenada is a popular choice for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Ensenada is a great place to explore. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Ensenada or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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

  • Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
    Ensenada Prices
    Mexico Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140
    Ensenada $115

The average daily cost (per person) in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is $140, while the average daily cost in Ensenada is $115. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ensenada in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
    Ensenada $42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
    Ensenada $84
Compare Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ensenada

Looking for a hotel in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada? 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)


Hotels in Ensenada


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: Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices and Ensenada Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
    Ensenada $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ensenada

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ensenada:

  • Border and Tijuana Airport Transfers to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Ensenada?

Prices for flights to both Ensenada and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60
    Ensenada $61
Typical Food Prices in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some typical examples of dining costs in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:


  • Dinner at Finca Exotica
    $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ensenada

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ensenada.

  • Mexican Cooking Class at Hacienda Eco-Domes | Valle de Guadalupe: $84
  • Tacos and Margaritas Food Tour in Ensenada Mexico: $85
  • Cooking Class and Margarita Madness at Valle de Guadalupe : $89
  • Surprises, Delights and Joys Ensenada Wine, Mezcal, and Food Tour: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119
    Ensenada $9.79

Tours and Activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:

  • Gold Panning Private Adventure in Puerto Jimenez: $35
  • Puerto Jimenez Birdwatching Tour Osa Peninsula Golfo Dulce: $60
  • Kayak experience on Playa Blanca in Puerto Jiménez: $65
  • Bio-Luminescence and Sunset Kayak Tour: $67
  • Corcovado La Leona Day Tour from Puerto Jimenez - All Inclusive: $120
  • Isla del Caño snorkel tour from Drake Bay (Cano island) : $125
  • Sirena Day Tour - Corcovado NP All Inclusive from Puerto Jimenez: $145
  • One Day Tour To Caño Island From Drake Bay: $145
  • Corcovado National Park - Day Tour from Drake Bay: $145
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Osa Jungle : $163
  • Corcovado National Park - Private Siren Day Tour: $190
  • Scuba Diving Tour at Cano Island (Isla del Caño) from Drake Bay: $195

Tours and Activities in Ensenada

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

  • La Bufadora Punta Banda Tour: $38
  • La Bufadora Tour in Baja California: $42
  • Las Cañadas Campamento Horseback Riding Experience: $44
  • The Bufadora private Tour: $49
  • Tacos, Brews and Views Tour : $50
  • Full Day Private Tour or Guadalupe Valley Weekend: $52
  • Tacos, Tequila, Cerveza - A Private Tour of Ensenada: $53
  • Las Cañadas Canopy Tour in Ensenada: $53
  • Valle de Guadalupe Adults Only Tour: $56
  • Explore Ensenada with Private Car and Walking Tour: $65
  • Private Massage Experience in Ensenada: $65
  • Las Canadas Ecopark and Bufadora private tour : $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
    Ensenada $9.98

Sample the Local Flavors in Ensenada

Also in Ensenada, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience in Maglén: $27
  • Tractor Pull Around Vineyards and Wine Tasting Tour: $56
  • Private Ensenada Tacos and Wine Tour : $109
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Experience: Wine Tastings Included: $112
  • Valle de Guadalupe COUPLES wine tasting for 2: $135
  • wine tours and driver service through valle de guadalupe, Ensenada B.C. Mexico: $145
  • Pvt Wine Tastings + Cheese Store + Massage Shore Excursion: $149
  • Wine Tasting Tour ONLY for Cruise Ship Visitors. ALL INCLUSIVE!: $221
  • Private and custom group Wine tour Valle de Guadalupe : $238


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Ensenada, we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more expensive. And not only is Ensenada much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is in Central America and Ensenada is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Ensenada would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ensenada 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than you might in Ensenada.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive? and Is Ensenada Expensive?.