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

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

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Yellowstone 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than San Cristobal de Las Casas and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. 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.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

San Cristobal de Las Casas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

Yellowstone National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

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

People visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

With fun activities for couples, both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Yellowstone National Park make for a high quality 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 Yellowstone National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Yellowstone National Park

San Cristobal de Las Casas is very popular for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable town. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.


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

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

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

Both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

Families should spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than San Cristobal de Las Casas. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

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

Even though San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the shopping. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this popular 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 Yellowstone National Park?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful national park offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $107
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $107, while the average daily cost in Yellowstone National Park is $181. 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 Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $42
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $84
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $29
    Yellowstone National Park $37

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 Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park $80

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
    Yellowstone National Park $34

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 Yellowstone National Park

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

  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $250
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $299
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Salt Lake City: Yellowstone 4-day Tour with Airport Pickup: $918
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $27
    Yellowstone National Park $19


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


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