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

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a colorful, cultural, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Although San Cristobal de Las Casas and Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. It is also home to the Cathedral of San Cristobal de las Casas. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is popular for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

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

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

San Cristobal de Las Casas offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

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

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for its Old Town?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have a historic old town.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

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


Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an amazing town to visit for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park 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, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park More Beautiful?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place 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.

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

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a family-friendly town. 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.

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

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

With fun activities for couples, both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park make for a excellent 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

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


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a few public transit options. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around San Cristobal de Las Casas on foot. 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In our opinion, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in San Cristobal de Las Casas.


  • How many days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Even though San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, many people enjoy the that this overlooked destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Lots of people come for the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This park offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $107
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $107, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Cristobal de Las Casas and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $42
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $84
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas


Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Cristobal de Las Casas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $29
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

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

Is it cheaper to fly into San Cristobal de Las Casas or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $52

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $13
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $27
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Cristobal de Las Casas and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, we can see that Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more expensive. And not only is San Cristobal de Las Casas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Cristobal de Las Casas would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Cristobal de Las Casas and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park than you might in San Cristobal de Las Casas.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Expensive?.


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