how to get to holbox island from cancun

3 min read 09-01-2025

Meta Description: Planning a trip to Holbox Island from Cancun? This comprehensive guide breaks down all transportation options—buses, ferries, taxis—with tips for a smooth journey to this Mexican paradise. Discover the best routes, costs, and travel times to make your island escape unforgettable!

Reaching the Secluded Paradise of Holbox Island

Holbox Island, a hidden gem off the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, beckons with its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and laid-back atmosphere. But getting there from Cancun requires a bit of planning. This guide outlines the various ways to reach this idyllic island, helping you choose the option that best suits your budget and travel style.

From Cancun to Holbox: Your Transportation Options

Getting to Holbox Island from Cancun typically involves a two-stage journey: first, reaching Chiquilá, the mainland port, and then taking a ferry to the island. Here's a breakdown of your choices:

1. The Bus and Ferry Combo: Budget-Friendly and Scenic

This is often the most economical way to travel.

Bus: Take a comfortable ADO bus from Cancun's bus station to Chiquilá. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours and offers stunning views of the Mexican countryside. The bus schedule is frequent, so checking their website beforehand is recommended.
Ferry: Once in Chiquilá, you'll find various ferry services ready to transport you to Holbox Island. The crossing takes around 20 minutes and provides breathtaking views of the turquoise waters. Note that ferry schedules vary, so confirming times in advance is beneficial.

Pros: Affordable, scenic journey. Cons: Longer travel time compared to other options.

2. Private Transfer: Comfort and Convenience

For a seamless and stress-free trip, consider a private transfer.

Taxi or Private Car: Hire a private car or taxi from Cancun to Chiquilá. This offers door-to-door service and eliminates the hassle of navigating public transport. Drivers often include the ferry fare in their price. Pre-booking is advisable, particularly during peak season.
Ferry: Upon arrival at Chiquilá, you'll simply hop on the ferry to Holbox.

Pros: Convenient, comfortable, faster than the bus. Cons: Significantly more expensive than the bus and ferry option.

3. Combination of Bus and Collective Taxi: A Balance of Budget and Convenience

A slightly less expensive alternative to a private car is a collective taxi. These are shared taxis offering more affordable transport to Chiquilá from Cancun. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis or can sometimes be pre-booked through your hotel.

Bus or Collective Taxi: Take either a bus to a designated point to meet your collective taxi or use the collective taxi service from Cancun directly.
Ferry: Upon arrival in Chiquilá, you'll easily find ferries to Holbox.

Pros: Offers a compromise between price and convenience, faster than the bus alone. Cons: Can be less comfortable than a private taxi and slightly more complicated to arrange than other options.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (November to April), booking your ferry tickets and private transfers ahead of time is strongly recommended to secure your spot.
Check Schedules: Ferry and bus schedules can change, so it's always best to confirm times before your journey. Websites and local tourism offices can provide up-to-date information.
Pack Light: Carrying heavy luggage on ferries and buses can be cumbersome. Pack lightly and efficiently.
Confirm Prices: Always confirm the price of your chosen mode of transport before setting off to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Enjoy the Journey: Embrace the journey—from the scenic bus ride to the delightful ferry trip—as part of your Holbox Island adventure!

Reaching Holbox: Your Island Escape Awaits!

No matter which route you choose, the journey to Holbox Island is a part of the adventure. With careful planning and the right information, you'll be relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches in no time! Remember to explore all the incredible things Holbox has to offer once you get there!