A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Cristobal de Las Casas vs. Jasper National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a colorful, cultural, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Jasper 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
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Although San Cristobal de Las Casas and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. San Cristobal de Las Casas is popular for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. It is also home to the Cathedral of San Cristobal de las Casas. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jasper National Park and San Cristobal de Las Casas. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to San Cristobal de Las Casas can be an interesting and educational experience. The town is filled with historical churches such as the main Cathedral of San Cristobal. While this is the most notable church, there are also smaller churches worth visiting like the Templo Santo Domingo, Iglesia de Guadalupe, and Iglesia de San Cristobal. For museums, make sure you check out the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, Na Bolom, and Museo de Ambar.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Cristobal de Las Casas makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine is a mix of Spanish-influenced cured meats such as ham and sausage, as well as indigenous flavors like tamales and burritos. There's also a lot of great pizza around town as well as several Asian restaurants.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's an active nightlife scene that includes everything from late night clubs to salsa lessons. Most tourists who want to party head to the pedestrian streets around the plaza. There are countless bars where you'll likely find a crowd late into the night. Some clubs have a cover charge on weekends but, in general, drinks are cheap and getting around is easy.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park Better for its Old Town?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its historic old town. However, Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to San Cristobal de Las Casas to see the historical old town. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Jasper National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

People visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is terrific for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The nearby villages are famous for their weaving, leather, pottery, and embroidery, so many visitors pick up souvenirs at the colorful markets around town. This is one of the best towns in Mexico to purchase local items, and you should definitely set aside time to explore and shop.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of mountains, this town is colorful and charming.


Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Jasper National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. While kids may not appreciate the town's beauty and culture, they will have fun exploring the night market or taking a chocolate-making class. There are pedestrian streets where everyone can explore without fear of traffic and pizza restaurants that appeal to the kids as well.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

With fun activities for couples, both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Jasper National Park make for a very good place to visit.

San Cristobal de Las Casas makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy culture, markets, traditional cuisines, and new experiences will love their time here. It's a fun place to simply wander. You can explore the markets and then eat at a local restaurant before making your way back to your boutique hotel.

Couples visit Jasper National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Jasper National Park. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels in town as well as budget-friendly hotels. Backpackers love the laid back nature of this town as well as the many markets and nature-oriented activities.


Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in San Cristobal de Las Casas, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Urbano buses are minibuses that connect the town to the outlying residential areas. There are also colectivos that travel to nearby villages.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Jasper National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is terrific for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around San Cristobal de Las Casas on foot is easy. Walking is the best way to experience the town. Most of the sights can be reached on foot and there are pedestrian-only streets that let you avoid the traffic.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is San Cristobal de Las Casas Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

In either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than San Cristobal de Las Casas because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Jasper National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Cristobal de Las Casas that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Jasper 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas.


  • How many days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit San Cristobal de Las Casas for five days. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This national park offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

Because San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Jasper National Park. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

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

  • San Cristobal de Las Casas Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $107
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $107, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $42
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $84
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas


Hotels in Jasper 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: San Cristobal de Las Casas Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $29
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Cristobal de Las Casas

Also for San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer Hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas to TGZ Airport: $53

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into San Cristobal de Las Casas or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and San Cristobal de Las Casas 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
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $37
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Cristobal de Las Casas

For San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • City Tour with Dinner Pizza and Wine: $71

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $13
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in San Cristobal de Las Casas

For San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Rancho Nuevo Caves and Arcotete Ecotourism Center: $23
  • Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan: $28
  • Tour to San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Indian communities: $35
  • Adventure through the Grottos del Arcotete, and Rancho Nuevo: $39
  • Tour Sumidero Canyon and Magic Town of Chiapa de Corzo: $42
  • Adventure to the Sumidero Canyon Viewpoints and Chiapa de Corzo: $42
  • Maya Cultural Tour From San Cristobal: Chamula, Zinacantan: $45
  • Private Tour in San Cristobal de las Casas: $48
  • Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour: $48
  • Tour to the Viewpoints, Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo: $50
  • Tour to the Chiflón Waterfalls and Montebello Lagoons: $50
  • Sink Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo Tour : $50

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

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

  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $106
  • Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper: $230
  • E-Bike Safari Eco Tour: $176
  • Explore Jasper Tour: $184
  • Explore Jasper Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise: $184
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Jasper Ice Climbing Experience: $174
  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $27
    Jasper National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between San Cristobal de Las Casas and Jasper National Park, we can see that San Cristobal de Las Casas is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Cristobal de Las Casas Expensive? and Is Jasper National Park Expensive?.