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

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

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Redwood 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 charming, colorful, and cultural town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. San Cristobal de Las Casas offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Redwood 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
  • 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 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 Redwood National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Redwood National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Cristobal de Las Casas is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Redwood National Park is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is famous for the Cathedral of San Cristobal de las Casas. Redwood National Park is well known for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

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

Dining out in San Cristobal de Las Casas is an experience not to be missed. 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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

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 Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for its beaches. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a beach destination.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Redwood National Park does not have a historic old town.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

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

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an amazing town to visit for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

Redwood 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.

Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Families?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

Redwood 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.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

With fun activities for couples, both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Redwood National Park make for a superb 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 Redwood National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

Redwood 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 Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a good destination for its public transit. However, Redwood 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Redwood National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its 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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.


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

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

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

In either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood 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 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Redwood 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 Redwood 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 Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

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

Even though San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this impressive 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Cristobal de Las Casas. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town. It offers something for everyone.

In Redwood 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. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this impressive 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 park offers something for everyone.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Redwood 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $107
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $107, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $42
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $84
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Redwood 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 Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $53

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 Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $56

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
    Redwood National Park $33

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
    Redwood National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Cristobal de Las Casas and Redwood National Park, we can see that Redwood 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 Redwood National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Redwood 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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.


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