The starting point is Cancun, where you can also stay for the first days of your trip.

Along the 22 km of coastline, you will find beaches for all tastes, some of them large and lively, with waves for surfers, while others are more protected and quiet. Don’t miss the archaeological site of El Rey in the Hotel Zone.

The Hotel Zone of Cancun, shopping, and nightlife will not leave you indifferent. Coco Bongo is one of the most famous local nightclubs, although there are smaller venues where you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Isla Mujeres is a tiny island that can only be accessed by ferry from Cancun.

Relax in Playa Norte, watch sea turtles, and swim with whale sharks. Don’t miss a visit to Garrafon Park, an ideal place for snorkeling, as its waters are not too deep and are full of bizarre reefs and colorful aquatic species.

You can also go kayaking or bathe in a temazcal (a traditional sauna).

The cliffs of Punta Sur are a sight to behold, especially at dawn. Nearby are the archaeological remains of the Temple of the Mayan goddess Ixchel, which gave the island its name before the Spanish colonists discovered it.

Rent a golf cart to get around the island. It is worth stopping at the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA), where 500 sculptures are submerged underwater, although you can access it from both Isla Mujeres and Cancun.

Taste local cuisine, based on fish and seafood.

Return to Cancun.

Holbox is a small island, without asphalt, of only 40 km wide and 1,5 km long, located on the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. There are no cars in Holbox, and visitors can only get around on foot, by golf cart, or by bicycle.

One of the main and popular attractions of Holbox Island is its bioluminescent sea, and Punta Cocos Beach is the best place to enjoy this amazing phenomenon that makes the water glow with every movement.

Punta Mosquito is a partially accessible white sand bank with panoramic views.

Isla Holbox is home to pink flamingos, pelicans, and other exotic birds, and the more adventurous can rent a kayak and explore its mangroves. The Holbox Island is also home to whale sharks.

Just a 30-minute boat ride from Holbox is the Yalahau Cenote (Ojo de Agua), a place with fresh water that, according to ancient legend, has strange properties: diving into its waters will make you feel 10 years younger.

Don’t forget to try one of the most typical dishes, lobster pizza.

Return to Cancun.

Leaving Cancun behind head to the next destination – Playa del Carmen.

Halfway there, stop in Puerto Morelos, a small fishing village, known for the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park. The underwater site is part of the Mesoamerican Reef. Its leaning lighthouse and beach are worth a visit.

Another option is to visit Xel-Há, considered one of the largest natural aquariums in the world. Take an underwater walk. On the surface, you can visit some Mayan remains – such as the Bird Building.

Xcaret Park could be another alternative plan: a tropical forest, a Mayan village, a museum, an aquarium, a butterfly garden, a sea turtle pool or an aviary are some of the activities you can do there.

Continue to Playa del Carmen where you will find a lot of accommodation options.

Playa del Carmen is an area with frenetic activity. Located in the heart of the Riviera, this cozy resort town combines natural beauty, culture, and fun. Its Fifth Avenue is famous, full of shops and restaurants.

Visit Cozumel, the largest island in Mexico. Cozumel is located about 19 km off the coast of Playa del Carmen. To get there, you’ll need to take a ferry from Playa del Carmen to San Miguel de Cozumel, the island’s main town.

Discover the boardwalk and Plaza del Sol in San Miguel.

Visit the Punta Sur National Park and Ecological Reserve and enjoy a beautiful panoramic view from its lighthouse, soak up Mayan culture at the island museum and the jungle-surrounded archaeological sites of San Gervasio.

Cozumel is a paradise for diving lovers, as it has more than 40 diving spots.

Delight in the local cuisine, where lionfish, prepared in ceviche, grilled or breaded with coconut, is the star.

Return to Playa del Carmen.

Drive an hour south from Playa del Carmen to the famous ruins of Tulum. Between the 13th and 14th centuries, this was one of the main Mayan cities and an important port, so its archaeological remains are located next to the sea.

This region is full of cenotes, lagoons, underground rivers, and white-sand beaches.

This area has a variety of ecosystems (jungle, tropical, wetland, savannah, and sea) inhabited by more than 2,000 species of plants, 345 species of birds and 70 species of mammals, as well as turtles, crocodiles, and iguanas.

Return to Playa del Carmen.

Three and a half hours separate Playa del Carme from Mahahual, your next destination on this road trip. It’s another of the best areas for diving in the Mexican Caribbean, as it has the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve.

The largest of Mexico’s coral atoll is located here. The bottom of the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve contains the remains of Spanish and English ships from the 16th and 17th centuries that perished in its waters.

Mahahual is also famous for its paradisiacal beaches.

After a hard day of sightseeing, and adventures, the best thing to do is relax in one of the local restaurants on the Mahahual Malecon (boardwalk) to enjoy local specialties such as ceviche, grilled fish, or tacos al pastor.

An hour’s drive away is the hidden city of Chacchobén in the middle of the jungle.

The next destination is Chetumal, a two-hour road drive from Mahahual.

Chetumal is the perfect contrast between the sea and the jungle. Its bay is a protected area, as it is home to numerous manatees (a native species of mammal that lives in the sea), birds, and marine fauna.

Take advantage of your stay here to tour the center, where you can visit its market, the cultural center of the Fine Arts, where you can see exhibitions and concerts, as well as stroll along the boardwalk and the bay.

Don’t forget to order a Machado or try its sea and jungle dish, stuffed shrimp or lobster with white wine, garlic, and butter.

Near the city, there are several archaeological sites of the Mayan culture, the closest being Oxtankah, but there are also others a little further away such as the archaeological sites of Kohunlich, Dzibanché, and Kinichná.

Return to Chetumal.

Start the day early with a visit to Bacalar, a peaceful and picturesque town around a 1.5-hour drive from Chetuma. Explore the Bacalar Lagoon with a boat tour, and swim in the crystalline waters of the Pirate’s Channel.

Take time to wander through the charming streets of Bacalar, where you can enjoy a quiet lunch overlooking the lagoon, and visit the Fort of San Felipe, a colonial-era fort built to protect the area from pirates.

Continue your journey back to Riviera Maya, which is about a 3-hour drive from Bacalar. You can end the trip with a relaxing evening at one of the Riviera Maya’s many beautiful beaches or a quiet dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Holbox Island is accessed by ferry from the mainland small town of Chiquilá.

The island has no cars, with transport by most residents and tourists by golf cart or moped. Vehicle entry is not allowed at Holbox in order to protect the environment and prevent the streets from accumulating sand.

A few charter airlines fly to Holbox from Cancún and Playa del Carmen. There is a small airstrip called Holbox Aerodrome that can accommodate five-seater and 13-seater Cessna aircraft.

Situated just off the coast of Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is a world-renowned destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. This picturesque island boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and a vibrant coral reef system teeming with marine life.

Explore the underwater wonders, swim with colorful fish, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Palancar and Columbia Reef. Cozumel also offers captivating Mayan ruins, such as San Gervasio, and charming beachfront restaurants where you can savor delectable seafood.

Accessible by ferry from Playa del Carmen.

Isla Mujeres is a captivating island paradise located just a short distance from noisy Cancun. This idyllic small island is known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back ambiance.

Embrace the slow pace of life as you soak up the sun on one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Explore the vibrant underwater world by snorkeling or diving or take a boat tour to swim alongside whale sharks (seasonal).

Explore the quaint town, try delicious seafood, and witness a sunset at Punta Sur.

Accessible from Cancun.

Holbox Island is located on the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula.

For those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Holbox is a hidden gem that promises tranquility and natural beauty. Holbox offers a peaceful retreat with its pristine beaches, shallow turquoise waters, and abundant wildlife.

Immerse yourself in the island’s laid-back vibe as you stroll along the sandy streets, spot flamingos in their natural habitat at Yalahau Lagoon, and swim with gentle giant whale sharks (seasonal).

Enjoy a relaxing day at Playa Punta Coco and witness the breathtaking bioluminescence phenomenon after sunset.

Accessible by Chiquila Holbox ferry.

This small island is located northeast of Cancun.

Contoy Island, a protected natural reserve, offers an untouched paradise for nature enthusiasts. Contoy Island is home to over 150 bird species, including frigatebirds and pelicans, making it a bird-watchers paradise.

Explore the untouched beaches, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and take guided nature walks to learn about the island’s flora and fauna. As a protected area, Contoy Island has limited daily visitors, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience with nature.

Contoy Island can be reached by boat tour from Cancun or Isla Mujeres.

Located between Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres, Isla Blanca offers a serene escape from the bustling beaches of Cancun. This hidden gem boasts pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Isla Blanca is perfect for kiteboarding and windsurfing due to its ideal wind conditions.

Spend your day sunbathing on the secluded beaches, exploring the lagoon by kayak, or simply enjoying a picnic amidst the serene surroundings. As the island remains relatively undeveloped, it provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Accessible by boat from Cancun.

Holbox Island is often ranked among the best holiday destinations. This island boasts beautiful white powdery sands framed by the sparkling turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, creating the perfect setting for any traveler.

What sets Holbox apart is its amazing laid-back atmosphere. Unlike many bustling resorts on the mainland, Holbox offers a serene retreat from the crowds, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.

The island’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty, in stark contrast to the more commercialized tourist destinations. Situated within the stunning Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve, Holbox is a wildlife lover’s paradise.

The Holbox Island is home to a variety of wildlife including flamingos, pelicans, endangered sea turtles, and even crocodiles. Bird watchers and nature lovers will have endless fun exploring the island’s diverse habitats.

One of the most exhilarating experiences on Holbox is swimming with whale sharks.

This popular attraction attracts visitors from all over the world who come to see these gentle giants up close. Plus, the opportunity to swim alongside wild dolphins will add even more excitement and wonder to your adventure.

Holbox’s unique combination of natural beauty, rich wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Holbox promises an unforgettable experience.

Cozumel offers everything you need for the perfect tropical island getaway. Known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear warm waters, Cozumel is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

Cozumel is famous also for its world-class diving. Cozumel is surrounded by the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making it a dream destination for divers from all over the world.

The underwater scenery is breathtaking, with vibrant coral formations and an abundance of marine life waiting to be explored.

Those looking for adventure and water sports should visit Chankanaab Park, to enjoy diving, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and kitesurfing, offering a wide range of activities to suit all tastes, budgets, and skill levels.

Cozumel also offers a variety of experiences for history buffs.

Cozumel is home to ancient Mayan ruins. The remarkable site of San Gervasio is Cozumel’s largest and most important archaeological site on the island and serves as a sanctuary to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of fertility and love.

Cozumel offers a diverse range of activities and experiences. This island seamlessly combines natural beauty, adventure, and history, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking relaxation and excitement.

Isla Mujeres provides a tranquil escape from the noisy Cancun. The island is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Isla Mujeres is home to some of the most spectacular beaches on the planet.

Playa Norte stands out as a must-visit.

This stunning beach is surrounded by coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for diving and snorkeling. The clear waters and vibrant marine life create an underwater paradise that captivates both novice and experienced divers.

The island’s underwater treasures extend beyond natural reefs.

There is a lighthouse reef teeming with vibrantly-colored fish, offering a mesmerizing snorkeling experience. Visit an underwater museum of art, where submerged sculptures provide a unique and thought-provoking diving excursion.

Beyond its aquatic allure, Isla Mujeres holds historical significance.

The southern tip of the island is home to the ruins of an ancient Mayan temple. Although much of it was destroyed by a hurricane in 1988, parts of the temple can still be viewed, particularly magical at sunrise.

These ruins offer a serene and reflective spot, adding a touch of mystique to the island’s charm.

Isla Mujeres combines natural beauty and a peaceful tranquil ambiance, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in a unique and enchanting environment.

The island of Espiritu Santo is located in the Sea of ​​Cortez. Considered the most beautiful island in the region, it boasts dozens of coves with stunning white sandy beaches that lure travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Espiritu Santo Island offers a pristine environment teeming with wildlife. The island can be reached by joining a boat tour from La Paz, where several outfitters organize excursions to this natural wonder.

Upon arrival you will be greeted by some of the clearest waters you have ever seen, ideal for snorkeling and diving.

The underwater world here is truly impressive. You might even have the delightful experience of tickling the belly of a baby sea lion while admiring the colorful array of tropical fish that inhabit the reefs.

The surrounding waters are a haven for marine life. Killer whales, dolphins, stingrays, sea turtles, and even blue or humpback whales can often be seen, adding to the island’s charm.

For those who prefer a land-based activity, Espiritu Santo also has nature trails ideal for walking and exploring. On these trails, you may encounter native black-tailed rabbits and other unique wildlife that call the island home.

Espiritu Santo Island is an experience that immerses you in the natural splendor and biodiversity of the Sea of ​​Cortez. This island offers unforgettable adventures that showcase the breathtaking beauty and ecological richness of one of the world’s most remarkable regions.

Located in Banderas Bay near Puerto Vallarta, the Marietas Islands are a volcanic archipelago set in a protected marine park, serving as both an important bird sanctuary and a vibrant marine ecosystem.

This unique destination offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and biodiversity.

The Marietas Islands are home to around 90 different species of birds. The islands’ protected status ensures that their natural habitats are preserved, allowing visitors to observe these avian residents in their unspoiled environment.

From November to March, the waters around the Marietas Islands become a haven for migrating humpback whales that journey from Alaska to enjoy the warmer climate.

Watching these magnificent creatures breach and play in the bay is an unforgettable experience. The islands’ waters are also perfect for diving and snorkeling, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of marine life.

Book a day trip from Puerto Vallarta. These tours offer an exciting opportunity to explore the islands’ natural wonders, from hidden beaches to underwater caves, ensuring a memorable adventure for all who visit.

Whether you are observing the diverse bird species, or diving into the crystal-clear waters, the Marietas Islands provide an extraordinary experience that highlights the ecological richness and stunning landscapes of this protected marine paradise.

If you want to see something truly unique, visit Isla Agaltepec, an island located on Lake Catemaco in eastern Mexico.

Unlike most tourist destinations, this island is home to about 100 residents – all of them the famously loud and endangered Mexican howler monkeys. Humans are not allowed to inhabit the island, providing a haven for these wonderful creatures.

Mexican howler monkeys were relocated to Agaltepec Island due to the threat of poaching, making the island an important refuge for their conservation. Visitors can still observe these fascinating animals by taking a boat tour from the nearby town of Catemaco.

These tours offer a rare and intimate look into the lives of howler monkeys in their natural habitat, providing an educational and unforgettable experience.

Exploring Agaltepec Island is a wonderful adventure that combines conservation efforts with the opportunity to connect with nature. For animal lovers and those looking for a new travel experience, Agaltepec Island is a must-visit destination.

Janitzio, located on Lake Patzcuaro, is famous for its Day of the Dead celebrations but is worth a visit at any time of year.

As one of the five islands of this vast lake, Janitzio serves as the spiritual and cultural center of the indigenous Purépecha people. The island can be reached by a short boat ride from the town of Patzcuaro, making it a convenient and interesting destination.

During the Day of the Dead celebrations in late October and early November, Janitzio turns into a mesmerizing spectacle. The island cemetery is lit with candles and locals hold vigils near the graves of deceased loved ones, creating a deeply moving and visually stunning spectacle. This celebration is a profound expression of Purepecha traditions and beliefs, offering visitors a unique insight into their cultural heritage.

Even beyond Day of the Dead celebrations, Janitzio offers a rich cultural experience. The island is dotted with historical sites and vibrant markets where you can immerse yourself in local traditions and crafts.

Climbing to the top of the island, you will see a towering statue of José María Morelos, hero of Mexican independence, with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.

Whether you’re drawn to the charm of Day of the Dead or simply want to explore the island’s cultural richness, Janitzio promises an unforgettable visit. The island’s combination of spiritual significance, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty makes it a must-see destination in the heart of Mexico.

Located near Holbox Island, Contoy is an undiscovered gem known to few outside of Mexico. This small, narrow island, stretching just five miles in length, limits the number of visitors each day due to its size, allowing only 200 people to experience its tranquil beauty.

Contoy is considered the most important seabird nesting site in the entire Mexican Caribbean, providing refuge to more than 150 species of tropical birds and four species of turtles. The island’s serene nature and rich biodiversity make it a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Only a select few tour companies have government permission to bring guests to Contoy, usually departing from Isla Mujeres or Cancun. This exclusivity ensures that the island remains a tranquil destination, free from the crowds that frequent many other tourist destinations.

A visit to Contoy offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature in a pristine setting. Whether you’re watching the many species of birds, or simply relaxing on the beach, Contoy promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Famous picturesque Playa Ruinas is the beach that most often represents Tulum, with its beautiful white sands and turquoise waters home to well-preserved Mayan ruins.

The clifftop Castillo (“Castle”) was constructed as a watchtower in the 13th century and is now the third most visited archaeological site in all of Mexico.

The beach itself with its warm Caribbean waters is popular for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and all manner of water sports, while a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops are available to enjoy after a day of fun in the sun.

Lover’s Beach, officially known as Playa del Amor, is one of Mexico’s most famous beaches.

The beach is easily accessible by water taxi from the Cabo marina and boasts some incredible rock formations, fascinating caves, and clear azure waters. On the Sea of Cortez side, you can enjoy some outstanding snorkeling too.

While you’re here you can enjoy dining at the area’s many upscale restaurants, as well as take part in the happening party scene with numerous cozy bars and clubs.

Balandra Beach is the very best beach in all of Mexico.

Located a short drive from the city of La Paz, it boasts ultra white, soft sands that frame a gorgeous lagoon with clear cerulean waters that make it look as if it should be in the Caribbean.

This place is home to a unique mushroom-shaped rock that’s easy to swim out to, or even walk to when the tide is low.

In nearby La Paz, stroll the promenade that hugs the shoreline known as the Malecon, a beautiful place to enjoy a sunset as well as to dine at waterfront eateries and shop for local goods.

Chen Rio Beach is located on Cozumel, an island located off the Yucatan Peninsula.

Considered one of the top diving and snorkeling destinations in the Western Hemisphere.

Explore a spectacular underwater world and enjoy soaking up the sun and sand, or rent a scooter and explore some of the lesser-visited areas of the island, Mayan ruins, and a marine park.

Nestled between the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range and the Pacific Ocean, Todos Santos is a fabulous arts community, with a thriving food scene and a nearly always empty beach that stretches for miles.

Punta Lobos is an ideal place for surfing. Don’t forget your board, or just enjoy long strolls, watching the baby sea turtle releases and some of the most stunning sunsets on the planet.

Playa Norte (“North Beach”), is the main beach on Isla Mujeres, a tiny island just 10 miles off the coast of Cancun.

Playa Norte is famous for its glistening white sands that are lined with palm trees, and strikingly clear warm waters that are calm, shallow, and for safe swimming and snorkeling.

At Playa Norte you can rent a lounger at any one of the beach clubs, and enjoy live reggae parties starting at sunset with live salsa music and dancing on Sunday afternoons.

Hobox is a small island located just three hours from Cancun, the best-kept secret on the Yucatan Peninsula, offering a tranquil escape with seven miles of postcard-perfect sands and crystal-clear cerulean waters.

While there is little in the way of facilities, and no upscale hotels, unspoiled beaches can be discovered around every corner.

Every year from May through September, whale sharks gather in this area to feed on the plankton-rich waters that have made it one of the best destinations on Earth to see or even swim with the ocean’s largest fish too.

The island is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with more than 150 bird species, including flamingos and pelicans.

Playa de Tecolote or Tecolote Beach is one of the best beaches for swimming near La Paz and the entire Baja Peninsula.

Enjoy barefoot dining at the casual eateries on the beach, which serve tasty local dishes while gazing out at the brilliant waters in varied shades of blue and out to the uninhabited island of Espíritu Santo.

Wave runners and paddle boards are available for rent too.

Playa Maroma, or Maroma Beach, has become one of the Riviera Maya’s top resort destinations, offering luxurious accommodations and indulgent amenities to its already enticing natural advantages.

Playa Maroma boasts a lush tropical backdrop, bordered by mangroves and jungle, along with perfect white sands and extraordinary Caribbean waters in a shade of blue that causes jaws to drop.

Cabo Pulmo is also named the “jewel of the East Cape”.

Cabo Pulmo is a breathtaking 70-mile coastline that arcs from San Jose del Cabo to Los Barriles.

The unspoiled beaches give way to a calm, shallow bay that houses one of just three living reefs on the entire continent, located in a 10-mile-long by a three-mile-wide underwater park.

This area has one of the oldest living coral reefs and has the highest concentration of sea life in the Sea of Cortez, including tropical fish, manta rays, sea turtles, sea lions, moray eels, and bull sharks.

No matter where you are on the beach, you can expect to catch some of the most glorious sunrises you’ll ever wake up to.

But apart from the good temperature, the truth is that the many tourist places in Cancun and its hotel infrastructure are the main focus of travelers. Cancun is one with the most hotel infrastructure beach resorts in the Riviera Maya.

Variety of hotels in Cancun and the Riviera Maya

Cancun has a huge and varied hotel offer to respond to the millions of tourists who visit its surroundings every year. From cheaper options to others with more glamor, any traveler will be able to find his comfort zone during the days of his vacation.

Cancun is divided into 3 districts and one of them is the Hotel Zone, where the popular tourist area with shops and beaches is located.

There are almost two hundred hotels in Cancun, and the third part of them is luxury 5 and 4 stars Cancun hotels. Along with the classic B&B, there are many all-inclusive, family, and adult-only hotels for all budgets.

Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites

Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites is maybe the best Cancun four-star hotel.

This 4-star hotel, located just a few steps from the heart of the Hotel Zone, is ideal for anyone looking for a place to enjoy a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. It is a safe and quiet place where the whole family can enjoy to the fullest.

Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites is an oceanfront resort that stands out for its magnificent view of the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy a delicious breakfast from the terrace of your room, which will make your stay a unique experience.

The privileged location of the Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites offers the best beach in Cancun and just a few steps away, the heart of the hotel zone, discos, shopping malls, and golf courses.

Holbox means “black hole” in Yucatec Maya.

The climate is subhumid warm, creating a stable and consistent temperature year-round with rains in summer, the average annual rainfall is 877.7 mm, with the influence of cyclones in summer and autumn.
The average annual temperature is 26.4° C.

During hurricane season, the island is often evacuated as it can get directly damaged by hurricane winds.

Holbox is part of the Yum Balam Flora and Fauna Protection and Biosphere Reserve, created by the federal government as a protection area on June 6, 1994, during the administration of Carlos Salinas de Gortari.

It is accessible by sea from the port of Chiquilá, where you can take the ferry to cross the Yalahau Lagoon, in an approximate journey of 20 minutes, or by a private boat service.

Holbox is a natural refuge of several species, both endangered and threatened. and most of the inhabitants are interested in protecting that area. Hence, it hosts tourism projects with a sustainable focus, seeking a minimal impact on the various ecosystems, fauna and endemic vegetation in the area.

Within the island, there is no pavement and there are only some cars, all streets are white sand, which allows pedestrian travel.

Traditional means of transportation are electric or gasoline golf carts and bicycles.

These lands have been inhabited since time immemorial by the Maya. Before the conquest, it was part of the Ekab chieftaincy, which extended from Cabo Catoche to Ascension Bay, along with the islands of Contoy, Isla Blanca, Isla Mujeres, Cancún and Cozumel.

The first mentions of the island were in 1852 from a document sent by Don Bartolomé Magaña to the Governor of Yucatán.
The adjacent mainland was frequently attacked by the Maya, therefore, people sought refuge on this island.

In the late nineteenth century, the largest islands, well protected from the sea, received from Yucatan many survivors fleeing the Mayan social rebellion, known as the Caste War and, around 1891, formed the Party of the Islands, with head in Isla Mujeres and that included Holbox.

As of 1880, some Yucatecan businessmen began the colonization of the peninsular north and created the Colonizing Company of the Eastern Coast and the Company El Cuyo and Annexes. This occupation was carried out between 1880 and 1920, in order to expand and diversify the agricultural and forestry border of Yucatán; Therefore, at the beginning of the century there were already estates and towns such as Solferino, Moctezuma, Punta Tunich, Yalahau, Chiquilá, San José, San Fernando, San Ángel, El Ideal and the sugar mill San Eusebio.

Hurricanes in 1886 completely destroyed the island, but the island was rebuilt following.

On November 24, 1902 the Federal Territory of Quintana Roo was created, so Holbox was integrated as a Sub-Prefecture of the Northern District.

In 1910 the population of the state was grouped into eight municipalities, which for economic reasons were divided into three areas that still persist: north, center and south; The north zone included the municipalities of Holbox, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres. At that time, Holbox was the municipal seat of eight locations, but shortly after, in 1921, Isla Mujeres absorbed them.

In the mid-twentieth century, coastal towns, with few exceptions, increased their population, which generated an over-exploitation of resources. In 1960 there were structural changes in the settlements, the importance of Holbox decreased and its population was reduced to scarce 500 inhabitants. The decade of the seventies was key for Quintana Roo because it was at that time when its population structure changed and, in 1974, it became a state.

Holbox island not yet heavily touristed, the island’s main industry is fishing. However, the island is developing a growing tourist industry in the form of whale shark viewing.

Holbox has several alternatives to enjoy nature, but the one that attracts most visitors is the experience of swimming with the impressive whale shark from June to September, an opportunity you can experience in very few parts of the world.

Kiteboarding in Holbox

Holbox has one of the safest beaches for learning how to kiteboard. Conditions are ideal for beginners, as the beach has shallow waters, no big obstacles on the wide and long beach, many days of wind during the winter months, and a nearby school with professional instructors.

Advanced riders can find also very good conditions when the north or south winds reach 25 knots or more.

Yalahau

30 minutes from Holbox is Yalahau, a spring of crystalline waters that encloses as much beauty as history. It is said that it has healing properties, so this beautiful eye of water is considered a “fountain of youth.”

It was an important merchant port for the state, it was located in the coastal region of the current municipality of Lázaro Cárdenas, almost in front of the island of Holbox and a few kilometers from the port of Chiquilá.

Its location at the entrance of the so-called Yalahau Lagoon or Conil Bay was due to the greater depth of its waters, fishermen and Mayan travelers used the place as a source of fresh drinking water.

Birds Island

Pajaros Island is a small islet covered with mangroves and cacti located in the Yalahau or Conil lagoon, where a great diversity of birds live, some in danger of extinction; So there are two viewpoints and walkers in order to minimize direct contact with the birds, in order to protect the natural environment while admiring them.

Flamingos, cormorant, herons, frigates, pelicans, wild ducks, seagulls, are just some of the species to observe in a space still in a natural state.

Passion Island

Passion Island is a small islet that is 10 minutes from Holbox by boat. It is recommended to enjoy virgin beaches, the sun and the sea; for its calm atmosphere and its tropical adventure space, far from civilization.

Cabo Catoche

Cabo Catoche is a “tip” on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico is located approximately 53 kilometers north of Cancun. Its location belongs to the continental territory of Holbox Island. Cabo Catoche determines the continental divide between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

In the vicinity of Cabo Catoche, and during the colonial era, a Catholic temple was built, which is known as Boca Iglesia. There are no walkable roads to reach Cabo Catoche by land, only by sea you can access to visit the ruins of Ekab and Boca Iglesia.

Lobster is the main product of this fishing and many of the dishes made on the island center around lobster or other seafood.

The island has virtually no cars, with transport by most residents and tourists by golf cart or moped. The entrance of vehicles is not allowed at Holbox in order to protect the environment and to prevent the streets from getting sand.

There are several ways to reach Holbox. You could travel by car or public bus to Chiquila port and then catch the Holbox ferry across to the island. Or you can fly to the island by plane. Your plan will depend on where you’re coming from and how much you want to spend.

Traveling to Isla Holbox by plane

There’s a tiny airport on Isla Holbox, so you can reach the island by private plane. Most flights leave from Cancun airport, but you can also make arrangements to fly from Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel and Merida. The journey time is around 40 minutes, making it the quickest way to reach Holbox.

It’s not cheap though. Prices start around 470 USD one way, and as the planes are small, there may be limits on how much luggage you can take. You can check out all the latest prices and info on the Flights Holbox website.

You’re guaranteed some incredible views from a plane window!

Traveling to Isla Holbox by public bus

The cheapest and easiest way to get to Holbox is by public bus. Rather than the collectivos (minibuses) you see all over Mexico, these are smart coaches run by ADO (Mexico’s main bus network).

From Cancun bus station, the journey to Chiquila by bus takes around three and a half hours, and when I looked, tickets were between $180 MXN (9.50 USD / £7.48) and $300 MXN (15 USD / £12.50) depending on when you travel. The buses from Chiquila also go to Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, Valladolid, Merida and a few other places.

The buses drop you off at the ferry port in Chiquila, where you can buy tickets for the ferry to the island.

You can check out all the latest prices and info on the ADO website.

Approximate costs of buses to Holbox (including journey time)

Cancun to Holbox – 266 MXN (3 hours 10)
Playa Del Carmen to Holbox – 276 MXN (2 hours 30)
Tulum to Holbox – 360 MXN (3 hours 40)
Merida to Holbox – 418 MXN (5 hours 30)
Valladolid to Holbox – 198 MXN (2 hours 25)

Traveling to Isla Holbox by car

As with the bus routes, if you travel by car, the furthest you can get is Chiquila port, where you’ll need to park up and hop on the Holbox ferry.

rom Cancun, it’s just two hours by car to Chiquila. Once in the town, you’ll need to find somewhere to leave your car. While none of it feels very official, there are lots of small car parks – i.e. enterprising locals letting you park in their yards/garages for a small fee!

Catching the Isla Holbox ferry from Chiquila

There are two ferry companies operating between Chiquila and Holbox and funnily enough, they offer exactly the same service and cost the same price. The only difference really is that one runs on the hour, and the other on the half-hour, meaning you’ll never wait long for the next boat.

The ferry to Holbox takes 15 minutes. You can travel on the Holbox Express on the way there, and catch the 9 Hermanos ferry when you leave. Tickets for the Holbox ferry cost 150 MXN per person for adults and $100 MXN for kids.

The ferries start at 05:00 and finish around 20:30.

Traveling to your hotel on Isla Holbox

When you step off the ferry you’ll be greeted by a row of golf carts, ready to drive you to your Holbox accommodation. You’ll pay between 20-30 MXN (around £1) to be driven the few minutes across the island to the center.

If you don’t have much luggage, then the walk to the main square takes less than ten minutes.

You can dial 078 from any phone, where you can find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, fairs and exhibitions, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.

Or dial the toll-free (in Mexico) number 01-800-006-8839.

You can also request information to the email correspondencia@sectur.gob.mx

MORE EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

General Information: 040 (not free)

SNational Emergency Service: 911

Radio Patrols: 066
Police (Emergency): 060
Civil Protection: +52(55)5683-2222
Anonymous Complaint: 089

Setravi (Transport Mobility): +52(55)5209-9913
Road Emergency: 074

Cruz Roja: 065 o +52(55)5557-5757
Firefighters: 068 o +52(55)5768-3700