Best of Holbox

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Holbox

Perched above the Yucatan Peninsula, the car-free island of Holbox has breathtaking beaches, scenic lagoons and tropical rainforest with an astonishing abundance of wildlife. The entire island is part of Yum Balam, a 590-square-mile land and marine reserve that’s home to jaguars, tapirs, manatees and over 400 bird species. East of Holbox, the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico at Cabo Catoche, an area of pristine rainforest, virgin beaches, and abundant sea life. In the summer, massive whale sharks congregate near the island, offering unforgettable opportunities to swim with these gentle giants.

There are countless ways to experience the allure of this pristine region. Previous kimkim travelers have headed out on paddling excursions among the mangroves at dawn — the best time to see wildlife. Evening offers equally rewarding possibilities on tours kayaking under the stars. This is the chance to see bioluminescence (the otherworldly glow of light produced by sea organisms) as well as the spectacle overhead of unpolluted, constellation-filled skies.

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Mexico City's Chapultepec Castle served as a royal residence for Emperor Maximilian I during the 1860s

Mexico's Culture, Nature & Cuisine: Mexico City, Valladolid & Isla Holbox - 11 Days

Discover Mexico's cultural and natural wonders and cuisine on this 11-day tour of Mexico City, Valladolid, and Isla Holbox. Sample the capital city's gastronomy and history, from a street food tour to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán. Visit the Maya community of Yalcobá in Valladolid to swim in crystal-clear cenotes and learn about Maya milpa farming traditions. Then, embark on a ferry to Isla Holbox, where fishing, kayaking in bioluminescent waters, and hammock lounging await.

Hidden Mexico: Explore the Yucatán Peninsula - 12 Days

With 12 days to spare, you can discover the best of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula with plenty of time to relax and soak up the beach life. Start in Valladolid to learn about traditional cuisine and Maya cities such as Chichen Itz. Swim in little-known cenotes, explore the Cobá archeological site by bike, and while the day away on Playa del Carmen's beaches. Finish your trip with four days on Holbox Island, where you'll swim with whale sharks, observe exotic birds, and cruise through mangroves by kayak.

Mexico's Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 10 Days

Explore ancient Maya ruins, kick back on the beach, and visit the rainforest on this ten-day trip to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. Start the trip in Tulum for swims in cenotes, then head to Valladolid to see Chichén Itzá and other archaeological sites. End the trip on Holbox Island, a car-free oasis of sprawling beaches and quiet cafés.

Puerto Morelos, Tulum & Holbox: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Puerto Morelos, Tulum, and Holbox spend about 10 to 13 days in Mexico, which usually includes some time in Valladolid as well. If you're not interested in Valladolid, 8 to 12 days is enough for your Puerto Morelos, Tulum, and Holbox trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Puerto Morelos, Tulum, Holbox, and beyond.

Make Family Memories in Mexico City & the Yucatán Peninsula - 10 Days

This family-friendly adventure starts in Mexico City. You'll take a walking food tour through the center, ride the carousel at Chapultepec Park, and experience the wonders of ancient Teotihuacán from the birds-eye view of a hot air balloon. Then, it's off to the Yucatán to dive into the blue waters of cenotes, spot pink flamingoes at Ría Lagartos Reserve, and stroll the beaches of Holbox Island. End your tour with a once-in-a-lifetime swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world.

History, Nature & Gastronomy in Mexico City, Valladolid & Isla Holbox - 13 Days

Experience the best of Mexico's food and culture and still find time to relax on the beach on this 12-day trip from Mexico City to the Yucatán Peninsula. Start in the capital and explore the past, from Frida Kahlo's house to the pyramids of Teotihuacán. Then, head to Yalcobá to swim in freshwater cenotes and learn about Maya milpa farming before taking the ferry to Isla Holbox, where you'll fish, kayak in bioluminescent water, and chill in a hammock.

Scenic view of the Basilica of Guadalupe and Mexico City's skyline

Mexico City, Valladolid & Holbox: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Mexico City, Valladolid, and Holbox spend about two weeks in Mexico, which usually includes some time in Puerto Morelos, Tulum, and Pisté as well. If you're only headed to Mexico City, Valladolid, and Holbox, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 10 to 11 days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as six to nine days. Check out the below favorite Mexico City, Valladolid, and Holbox trips.

Experience the many shades of blue in Bacalar's lagoon

Discover the Yucatán: Natural Treasures & Maya Heritage - 14 Days

This 14-day journey through the Yucatán Peninsula weaves nature, Maya culture, and ancient wonders into one memorable adventure. Start your exploration in Tulum, where pristine beaches meet well-preserved Maya ruins. Then head to the Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar for a serene escape before immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Valladolid, with its colorful colonial charm and archaeological wonders. Finally, venture to Holbox, an island paradise packed with nature experiences.

Mexico Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 11 Days

Swim in a hidden jungle cenote, explore the Playa Ruinas near Tulum, and more on this eleven-day exploration of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. You'll go caving underground to see ancient geologic formations, visit the archaeological site of Coba, and end the trip by relaxing on Holbox Island's beautiful sand beaches.

Enjoy discovering natural sinkholes around the Yucatán

Outdoor Adventures on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula: Puerto Morelos, Valladolid, El Cuyo & Holbox - 10 Days

With 10 days in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, you can discover the best outdoor adventures, from snorkeling in Puerto Morelos' National Reef Park to boating among flamingoes in Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. Swim in little-known cenotes and spend an exciting day of kitesurfing on the north coast. Finish your trip with three days on Isla Holbox, where you'll cruise through mangroves by kayak and jump on a speedboat to the peninsula's northernmost point.

Relaxation on the Yucatán Peninsula - 8 Days

There are few better places for a quick recharge than Mexico's stunning Yucatán Peninsula. Over eight days, you'll travel down the famous Riviera Maya, hike around fortress ruins in Tulum, visit indigenous Maya communities, swim in exotic lagoons, and stroll around historic cities. However, you'll really kick back and relax during a couple of free days on the remote beaches of tranquil Holbox Island.

Yucatán Adventure: Mexico City, Valladolid, Puerto Morelos & Holbox - 15 Days

From tacos and mezcal shots in Mexico City to lazing on the beaches of Holbox Island, this tour offers it all in just over two weeks. Start in Mexico's capital, where you'll learn the city's history while floating on the canals of Xochimilco. Head to Valladolid and discover the Maya ruins of Chichén Itza and Yalcoba, then venture along the Maya Riviera and snorkel in Puerto Morelos. Finish it all up by relaxing on the beaches of Holbox with some bird and whale shark watching thrown in.

Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 12 Days

From the colonial streets of Valladolid to the peaceful beaches of Holbox Island, this 12-day itinerary delivers plenty of adventure and relaxation in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Tour ancient Maya ruins, go swimming in underground rivers, and enjoy some R&R on the white-sand beaches of Holbox Island. And that's just the start.

Treasures of the Yucatán Peninsula with Beach Stay - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary starts and ends in Cancún. In between, you'll enjoy a journey through the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, learning about Mayan history at Chichén Itzá, visiting colorful seaside villages, relaxing on the beach, snorkeling around the coral reef off Puerto Morelos, and taking a boat to Holbox Island for a few days away from civilization.

Take in the ancient Maya ruins and lie out on the pristine beaches of the Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya Road Trip - 13 Days

The Caribbean side of Mexico isn't known as the western Riviera for nothing—this stunning section of coast is lined with white-sand beaches home to towering hotels overlooking turquoise waters. More than that, it's filled with ancient Maya ruins, fairy-tale cenotes, and unspoiled nature reserves. You'll see all this and more as you spend 13 days on a self-drive tour around the region's natural highlights and resort towns—from Tulum to Playa del Carmen to Holbox Island.

Mexican Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 9 Days

From Mexico's Caribbean coast to the colonial streets of Valladolid, this nine-day trip showcases thousands of years of history and culture while leaving ample time for rest and relaxation. Dive into cenote lagoons, marvel at the great pyramids of Chichen Itza, and relax on the white-sand beaches of Holbox Island. Along the way, take part in cultural exchanges to learn about Indigenous Maya customs as you meet local families and enjoy traditional home-cooked meals.

A Puerto Morelos beach along Mexico's Riviera Maya

Puerto Morelos, Valladolid, Tulum & Holbox: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 10 to 13 days is perfect for a well-paced Mexico trip with stops in Puerto Morelos, Valladolid, Tulum, and Holbox. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in eight or nine days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Mexico City. See more ideas for Puerto Morelos, Valladolid, Tulum, and Holbox itineraries below.

Nature & Mayan Life: Tulum, Bacalar, Merida, Holbox & More - 14 Days

Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to see some of Mexico's best archaeological sites—including Chichén Itzá—while also leaving plenty of time for relaxation. You'll swim in beautiful cenotes, explore the colonial city of Merida, and experience Indigenous culture. End with a couple of days on Holbox Island, where sand, surf, and beautiful sunshine await.

Drink refreshing "cocos" (coconuts) on a Mexican beach

Food & Culture from Mexico City to the Yucatán - 15 Days

When you combine the incredible sights of Mexico with its delicious flavors, you have a recipe for the perfect vacation. This grand tour starts with Mexico City's highlights and includes copious samplings of tasty street food and famous spirits. From there, you'll travel to historical landmarks and natural wonders throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, from the pyramids of Chichen Itza to the white-sand beaches of the Riviera Maya to the remote islands of the far north.

Take the kids to see the ancient pyramids of Uxmal

Family Trip to Chiapas & the Yucatán Peninsula - 14 Days

The beaches and jungles of southern Mexico beckon on this adventurous, two-week family vacation. Start in Chiapas with the kids in tow to explore lost Maya cities, paddle across jungle lagoons, and join in the crafts and rituals of the native Lacandon people. Then it's on to the Yucatán Peninsula to cool off in turquoise swimming holes and tour colorful colonial cities before ending your trip on the white sands of Holbox Island.

Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 15 Days

Fifteen days in Mexico's Yucatán region is enough time to visit famous archaeological sites while also enjoying its famous white-sand beaches. Explore the ruins at Chichén Itzá, experience indigenous cultural traditions, and float in the turquoise waters of the Chemuyil cenotes—these are just a few of the highlights. You'll also venture to Holbox Island and enjoy its famous golden sunsets.

Highlights of Southern Mexico: Chiapas & Yucatán - 12 Days

This family-friendly itinerary of southern Mexico combines cultural activities with plenty of natural exploration. The first half of your trip will see you exploring Chiapas' Sumidero Canyon, el Chiflón and Misol-Ha waterfalls, and the impressive ruins of Palenque. From there, you will head to colonial-era Campeche where you will pick up your rental car and tour the Yucatán: from modern Mayan communities to ancient ruins, from refreshing cenotes to the white sands of Holbox Island.

El Castillo ruins at historically famous Tulum

Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 11 Days

When you combine the ancient Maya culture of the Yucatán Peninsula with its natural beauty, you have all the makings of the perfect holiday. Over 11 days, you'll visit the highlights of this region, like its famous Maya ruins, while also going off the beaten path to swim in turquoise cenote lagoons and visit indigenous villages. Beyond that, you'll participate in Maya culinary workshops, snorkel in marine reserves, and discover Holbox Island's tranquil paradise.

Relax in sun-kissedBacalar in the Yucatán

Yucatán Road Trip: Tulum, Bacalar, Valladolid, Mérida, Holbox & Puerto Morelos - 12 Days

Get ready for a 12-day road-trip adventure across Mexico's famed Yucatán Peninsula, known for its Caribbean beaches, underground cenotes, and ancient Maya ruins. You'll see all of it, starting at the fortress ruins in Tulum and then visiting biosphere reserves and exotic turquoise lakes. Next, you'll venture north to enjoy cultural exchanges in Indigenous communities, visit Spanish-colonial heritage cities, and descend into underground caves sacred to the Maya people.

A close up of Mexico City's "tacos al pastor"

Food & Culture from Mexico City to the Yucatán - 12 Days

Over 12 days, you'll experience the cultural highlights of Mexico City and the Yucatán Peninsula, from the cuisine to the historic landmarks to the natural beauty. It starts with a whirlwind tour of Mexico's capital, during which you'll nibble on street food, stroll the colonial streets of Coyoacán, and hike the pyramids of Teotihuacán. Then it's off to the stunning Yucatán region to laze on white-sand beaches, visit biosphere reserves, and hike around ancient Maya ruins.

Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 13 Days

Spend 13 days enjoying the best of the Yucatán Peninsula on this whirlwind itinerary. Tour the famous ruins at Uxmal, Tulum, and Chichén Itzá, plus visit Spanish-colonial heritage towns like Izamal and Valladolid. Throughout the adventure, you'll also dive into turquoise cenote lagoons, immerse yourself in local Maya culture, and enjoy some "me" time on the white-sand beaches of Puerto Morelos and Holbox Island.

Take a dip in the Caribbean Sea after exploring the Tulum Archaeological Zone

Cultural Highlights of Mexico - 13 Days

A great thing about Mexico is that its cultural highlights also make for some of the most fun activities. You'll experience many such adventures over 13 days as you tour the historic center of Mexico City, hike the pyramids of Teotihuacán, and visit colorful neighborhoods like Xochimilco. Then you're off to the famous Yucatán Peninsula to tour the ruins of ancient Maya cities, participate in indigenous cultural exchanges, and enjoy beach time on the Caribbean coast and the Holbox Island.

Join a boat tour through captivating Sumidero Canyon

Highlights of Chiapas & Yucatán - 13 Days

This 13-day adventure covers the highlights of two of southern Mexico's most historic and naturally beautiful states: Chiapas & Yucatán. In the former, you'll tour natural wonders like Sumidero Canyon and the Agua Azul waterfalls. In the latter, you'll visit its most famous archeological sites, like Palenque and Uxmal, while also enjoying the white-sand beaches of Holbox Island and Playa del Carmen.

See the turquoise waters of Laguna Bacalar by sailboat

Best of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula: Cities, Culture & Coast - 14 Days

With two weeks to spare, you can discover Yucatán's white-sand beaches, ancient Maya ruins, and colorful colonial cities at a relaxed pace. This adventurous itinerary takes you counter-clockwise around the peninsula from Valladolid to Tulum, checking off the region's many UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, nature reserves, and historic centers along the way. Highlights include snorkeling off Isla Holbox, sampling regional gastronomy in Mérida, and climbing the Maya pyramid at Calakmul.

Admire several waterfalls within Sumidero Canyon

Mexico's Natural & Archaeological Wonders: Chiapas to the Yucatán - 14 Days

Two weeks in Mexico is ideal for discovering the Chiapas and Yucatán regions' natural and archaeological treasures. Your route traverses the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula and finishes in Isla Holbox on the paradisical Caribbean Coast. Along the way, boat through natural wonders like the Sumidero Canyon, a brilliant pink lake in Ría Lagartos Reserve, and unspoiled beaches at Cabo Catoche. You'll also swim in cenotes and tour archaeological sites like Palenque, Uxmal, and Chichén Itzá.

Nature & Mayan Life: Tulum, Bacalar, Merida, Holbox, & More - 16 Days

Explore the best of Mexico's offerings on this comprehensive 16-day trip. Swim in crystal clear cenotes and go sailing in the Bacalar Lagoon. Continue to Chunhuhub for a mystical bonfire experience, then spend a few days exploring the historical sites of Merida and Chichen Itza. End the trip on Holbox Island for several days of sun, beach, and surf.

Take a scenic boat tour through the Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas

Adventure in Chiapas & the Riviera Maya - 14 Days

Over two weeks in Mexico, you'll discover the diverse state of Chiapas, with its jungle waterfalls, colonial cities, and Indigenous Maya communities. Then, get behind the wheel for a self-drive adventure around the Yucatán Peninsula, stopping to relax on the beach, swim in cenotes, and visit ancient ruins perched above the Caribbean Sea.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 18 Days

Take eighteen relaxing days to drive through the Yucatan Peninsula as you explore the best that Mexico has to offer: colonial cities, indigenous communities, white-sand beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins. Start the trip in Tulum for a dip into a turquoise cenote, then head to Bacalar for a sail on the lagoon. End in Valladolid and Holbox Island for sunrise at Chichen Itza and a couple days on the beach.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 17 Days

Seventeen days is enough time to see the Yucatan's highlights while leaving enough time for a couple of free days to walk around town and relax on the beach. Go sailing on the Bacalar Lagoon, visit indigenous communities to learn about traditional gum and corn production, and visit the UNESCO-designated Calakmul ruins.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 19 Days

Drive from city to beach on this nineteen-day immersive trip through the Yucatan Peninsula. From the colonial cities of Merida and Valladolid to the ancient Maya ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, you'll explore the best that the region has to offer. Tour historic sites, sample local fare, relax on beaches, and more as you make your way through the jungles and roads of the area.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 20 Days

Spend twenty days on a road trip through the Yucatan as you explore everything from ancient ruins to colonial cities. Go swimming in turquoise cenotes, head underground to visit Xibalba — the Mayan Underworld, and sail on the Bacalar Lagoon. With top stops including Chichen Itza and some of Mexico's best beaches, there's no shortage of adventure.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 21 Days

Fully immerse yourself into Mexican history and culture on this comprehensive three-week trip. From the colonial cities of Merida and Valladolid to the ancient Mayan ruins of Uxmal and Chichen Itza, this trip covers millennia of history and leaves room for relaxation and food. End the trip on Holbox Island for some of Mexico's loveliest beaches and plenty of sunshine

Other popular travel destinations in Mexico
Yucatán Peninsula · Mexico City · Valladolid · Oaxaca · Tulum · Mérida · Puerto Morelos · Chiapas · San Cristobal de las Casas · Puebla · Playa del Carmen · Cholula · Palenque · Bacalar · Campeche · Cancún · Chunhuhub · Uxmal · Calakmul · San Miguel de Allende · Guadalajara · La Paz · Guanajuato · Morelia · Querétaro · Cabo San Lucas · Pisté · Los Cabos

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