Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox
A remote island off the farthest eastern point of the Yucatán Peninsula, Holbox (pronounced "hohl-bosh") is a half-deserted fishing village, a modest wildlife refuge, and a desert-island getaway for travelers seeking solitude. From Valladolid, take Highway 180 east for about 90km (60 miles) toward Cancún; turn north after Nuevo Xcan at the tiny crossroads of El Ideal. Drive nearly 100km (60 miles) north on a poorly maintained state highway to the tiny port of Chiquilá, where you can park your car in a secure parking lot; walk 180m (600 ft.) to the pier, and haggle over the $20 boat ride 3km (2 miles) to the island. There is a ferry, but it runs only five times per day.

In the late 1840s, Holbox was a refuge for European landowners fleeing Indian mobs during the Caste Wars. Nowadays the village of Holbox is empty when the fishing fleet is out, and only half populated in the best of times. On the beach just beyond the village are a few comfortable palapa hotels, which charge $80 to $130 per night and have all the amenities, including a restaurant and a swimming pool. Villas Delfines (tel. 998/884-8606 or 998/874-4014; fax 998/884-6342) is one; Villas Flamingos (tel. 800/538-6802 in the U.S. and Canada) is another. Both of these places offer peace and quiet on a broad, sandy beach. Besides swimming in the Gulf waters, which are a dull green instead of the blue of the Caribbean, you can visit the nearby bird sanctuary that's on the island. Several of the town's residents will be happy to take you on a tour, but this place is more for people who simply want to relax by the seashore.

HOLBOX ADVENTURE
Visit the enchanting island Holbox, which is part of the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve and experience the great photo opportunities on Little Bird Island, where important aquatic birds nest: Pink Flamingos, Egrets, Herons, Cormorants, White and Brown Pelicans, Terns, etc. Frequently groups of dolphins are seen in this area. We will have a delicious, relaxing lunch and time to stroll through the small village. The eco-tour begins at 8:00 AM with pick up at your hotel, returning approximately at 7:00 PM.
Groups only: Minimum of 6 personsPrice: 95.00 USD/person. Children under 8 pay 70%.