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One of the Yucatan Peninsula’s best-kept secrets, Isla Holbox is a rejuvenating, car-free island that presents the ultimate opportunity for remote relaxation. Without a whiff of pollution in the air or a single tarmac road in sight, you can look forward to the soothing sound of foamy waves lapping the sun-drenched sandy shores, as birds chirp mirthfully in the distance.
It’s hardly surprising that Isla Holbox’s unparalleled charm makes it a prime destination for sun-seeking summer holiday-makers. However, while the island’s remote location is commonly regarded as one of its major pull factors, getting there can be somewhat of a challenge.
Don’t let this put you off, though; while you’ll need to put in some extra legwork to reach Holbox, it’ll be worth every step once you’re lounging around on the beach, with a chilled coconut water in hand!
So, if you’ve got your heart set on travelling to Holbox, what are the best ways to get there?
Catch a ferry from Chiquilá
Wondering how to get from Chiquila to Holbox? The port of Chiquilá is a former fishing hamlet that enables tourists to cross from Chiquila to Holbox by ferry. Two ferry companies sail to and from Holbox Island every 30 minutes, with the first ferry departing Chiquila at 6am, and the last ferry leaving at 9.30pm. Whether you board the 9 Hermanos or the Holbox Express to reach this dreamy island, the price and duration will be very much the same. At the time of writing, tickets cost around $13 and the crossing to Holbox takes around 25 minutes.
Fly from Cancun airport
If you’ll be travelling to Holbox from an international airport, you’ll fly in to Cancun International Airport and travel to Chiquila from there. Fortunately, Isla Holbox is one of the most renowned tourist hubs in the region, so you should be able to catch a direct flight to the island from Cancun with little to no trouble at all. Expect the journey to last around 30 minutes, with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and coastline alone the way.
Rent a car at Cancun Airport
Hiring a car at Cancun Airport is a budget-friendly, hassle-free way to reach Holbox, especially if you’ll be exploring some of the various things to do in Cancun before visiting the island. If you plan properly beforehand, you can hire a fairly economical car in Mexico for around $30 to $40 per day, including insurance and taxes. Once you’ve got your hire car sorted, head to Chiquila to board the 30-minute ferry to Holbox (as detailed above).
The easiest, quickest way to reach Chiquila from Cancun Airport is simply to drive south on the 180 towards Valladolid upon leaving the airport. Next, take a right turn from Valladolid Neuvo to reach QROO5, and follow the directions to Chiquila. It should take you around two hours, travelling at a steady pace along the scenic, well-paved roads.
Drive from Tulum to Chiquila
Travelling from Tulum to Chiquila by car, drive northwest on the 190 towards the Coba Archeological Site. Then, turn right from Coba to follow the 190 before taking another right turn towards Cancun, followed by the a left turn to meet QROO5. This 2.5 hour-route will take you straight to Chiquila, passing Kantunikin on the way. Before you set off, treat yourself to a visit to one of the best restaurants in Tulum, so you can refuel ahead of your road trip.
Fly by private plane
Undoubtedly, the simplest, fastest way to reach Holbox is via the small island airport, Aerodromo de Holbox. However, as this is a private airport, you’ll need to catch a private plane in order to land there. While you’ll get to enjoy some seriously dreamy window seat views over the entire Yucatan Peninsula as you fly, book well in advance in order to guarantee a seat on the plane, and take advantage of the most economical fares.
Catch a bus
Unsurprisingly, boarding a bus is one of the most affordable ways to reach Holbox, particularly if you’re not keen on the prospect of hiring a car due to budget constraints, or lack of confidence. Buses to Holbox operate from most of Mexico’s major cities, with Grupo ADO being one of the most reputable bus companies on the island, praised for its smart, air-conditioned coaches with compact washrooms and television sets.
These are the top 6 modes of transportation to reach Isla Holbox. Before you plan your itinerary, consider visiting Holbox during the dry season, from November to February, to make the most of the trip.
Have you ever been to Holbox? What was your favourite way to travel across the island?
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