TMR Canada on Scene: Discovering Holbox, the Hidden Gem of Mexico

The small island of Holbox has only about 2,000 residents and is located about three hours from Cancun. There are still no paved roads or cars, and tourism is not yet too overwhelming.

After a recent press trip to the greater Cancun area, TMR Quebec extended our stay to visit the island and explore the contrasts. Cancun remains a magnet for visitors with its easy access, daily direct flights, white sand beaches, and well-oiled logistics for welcoming tourists.

A thousand miles from all this – yet only an easy drive away – is the small island of Holbox, which stands out for all these reasons.

It’s not easy to get to, it’s not (as) touristy, and yet you can get there directly from Cancun International Airport (CUN).

How to get there

There are a few options for getting to Holbox Island, but they are limited. From Cancun Airport, you can:

• Take an ADO bus , the local transport service, which runs between the airport and Chiquilá, where the ferry departs;
• Rent a car to Chiquilá, then park it for the duration of your stay on the island;
• Book a private transfer to Chiquilá.

Chiquilá is a small town where not much happens, except for the regular departure of the Holbox Express ferry, which runs between the mainland (Chiquilá) and Holbox (the island).

Good to know : even if you rent a car, you will have to leave it in Chiquilá, as Holbox is a car–free island .

For our part, we opted for the bus (around $22 USD per person). It was comfortable, air-conditioned, and punctual. In our opinion, it’s the best option.

Why go to Holbox?

First, for the change of scenery. As soon as you board the ferry — a crossing of about 25 minutes — you know a new adventure is about to begin. Upon arrival on the island, ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) that serve as taxis await passengers. The fare is fixed: 100 pesos (about $10 USD) to get anywhere on the island. However, you’ll need to bring cash.

The only means of transportation in Holbox are:

• Mountain bikes , used as taxis or for official deliveries
• Golf carts, which tourists can rent (not recommended, as the roads are made of sand and dirt)
• e-bikes 

That said, transportation isn’t essential: almost everything can be done on foot. Only one or two excursions require organized travel. The island has a surface area of ​​43 km², but only 7 km² is inhabited ; the rest is still wild and accessible only via guided tours. These are recommended, as Holbox is home to numerous species of birds, animals and sea creatures: crocodiles, whale sharks, rays, flamingos, and many more.

Beyond its magnificent beaches — famous for their immense sandbars stretching for several kilometers — Holbox is distinguished by its exceptional ecosystem and its nature reserve. The water is calm, ideal for children or those who prefer to avoid the waves. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted: nature is omnipresent and extremely rich.

If you dream of a complete change of scenery, taking your time and living like in the good old days , without sacrificing your comfort, Holbox is made for you.

Accommodations are mostly small beachfront lodges or boutique hotels. There are no mega all-inclusive resorts here: the atmosphere is bohemian and relaxed. Everyone gets around on foot or by bike, spends their days at the beach, then converges on the centre of the island at the end of the day to admire the sunset, before dining in a restaurant, toes in the sand.

If this appeals to you, then Holbox is definitely your next destination.