A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Sequoia National Park for Attractions, Resorts, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Sequoia National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a archeological, tropical, and active town. Tulum is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Tulum travel costs.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a breathtaking, surreal, and impressive national park. You'll find world class beauty in Sequoia National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Tulum and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Sequoia National Park are both popular with visitors, Tulum has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tulum is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Sequoia National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Tulum is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also home to the Tulum archeological ruins. Sequoia National Park is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty.

How is Tulum different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia National Park and Tulum. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Tulum from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Tulum or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Tulum. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Tulum has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Tulum is a world class resort vacation destination. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.


Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tulum is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park Better for Beaches?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Tulum is considered to be a world-class beach destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Sequoia National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.


Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is a very popular place for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Tulum. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.

Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Sequoia National Park as well. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

The beauty of Tulum is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Both Tulum and Sequoia National Park are great to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sequoia National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.


Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Sequoia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Tulum is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Couples visit Sequoia National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is terrific for backpackers. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sequoia National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Many backpackers visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

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

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Tulum has some public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.


Is Tulum or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Tulum
Sequoia National Park

Tulum is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Tulum is very walkable. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

Both Tulum and Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park than in Tulum. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum than Sequoia 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 Tulum.


  • How many days in Tulum or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tulum 3-5 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

In Tulum, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this impressive destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tulum. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sequoia National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

Tulum is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sequoia National Park is a fun place to experience. In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the tropical destination of Tulum. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Tulum?

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

  • Tulum Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tulum $133
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Tulum is $133, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $152. 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 Tulum and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tulum $54
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tulum $108
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Tulum and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Tulum or Sequoia 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 Tulum


Hotels in Sequoia 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: Tulum Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tulum $25
    Sequoia National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Tulum

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Tulum are as follows:


  • Scooter Rental
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tulum

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Tulum:

  • Xcaret to Tulum - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $84
  • Tulum to Xcaret - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $115
  • Tulum to Playa del Carmen - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $121
  • Tulum to Mahahual - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $206
  • Tulum to Chetumal - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $250
  • Tulum to Cancun - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $191
  • Tulum Hotels to Merida Rejon Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $215
  • Tulum Archaeological Zone: Cenote, Lunch & Transfer: $191
  • Tulum Archaeological Zone and Jaguar Park With Transfer and Lunch: $152
  • Tulum Airport: One-Way or Roundtrip Private Transfer: $144
  • Roundtrip Transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum: $269
  • Round Trip Transfer from Tulum Airport to Hotels: $158

Is it cheaper to fly into Tulum or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Tulum 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
    Tulum $54
    Sequoia National Park $53
Typical Food Prices in Tulum

Some typical examples of dining costs in Tulum are as follows:


  • Lunch
    $2.72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tulum

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

  • Salsa Class with Mezcalita Workshop & Mexican Dinner in Tulum: $71
  • Mexican Cooking from Scratch in a Local Home in Tulum: $87
  • Tulum Local Walking Food Tour: $88
  • Tulum Vegan Food Tour: $92
  • Temazcal Mayan Ritual Tour and Cenote Swim with Yucatecan Dinner: $120
  • Mexican Cooking class experience in Tulum: $131
  • Private Authentic Mayan Cooking Class with Tulum Hotel Transfers: $280
  • Private Mayan Food Cooking Class, Cenote and Coba Ruins : $289
  • Private transfer for 5 hours (go dinner,cenotes, shopping and more) : $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tulum $29
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Tulum

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Tulum are as follows:

  • Chichen Itza & Cenote Chichikan Bus Tour Experience from Tulum: $71
  • Full Day Tour from Tulum to Rio Lagartos: $229
  • Luxury Tour to Chichen Itza and 2 Cenotes Only From Tulum: $128
  • Private Tour - The best Cenotes in Yucatan - Suytun & Oxman: $195
  • Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve Guided Tour: $220
  • Tulum Extreme Mayan Adventure with ATV, Zipline and Cenote: $38
  • 2 Cenotes Private Tour – VIP Adventure with Expert Guide: $154
  • 2 tanks Cenote Diving Adventure in Tulum for Certified Divers: $200
  • 3 in 1 Experience in Tulum: $111
  • 5 Hours Mayan Snorkeling Experience in Tulum: $94
  • 5x1 Deluxe Tour Tulum, Coba, Cenote Transportation from Tulum: $88
  • ATV Adventure and Horseback Ride with Ziplines, Cenote from Tulum: $82

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tulum $23
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Tulum

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Tulum:

  • 30 Minutes Brewery Tour in Tulum: $39
  • Beer Tasting and Brewery Tour: $69


When comparing the travel costs between Tulum and Sequoia National Park, we can see that Sequoia National Park 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 Tulum Expensive? and Is Sequoia National Park Expensive?.