Overview
The Journey Step by Step
Cancún International Airport (CUN) is about 145 km (90 miles) from Chiquilá port, where the ferry to Holbox departs. Under normal traffic conditions, the overland journey takes 2 to 2.5 hours. Add 30 minutes on the ferry, and you should plan for 3 to 3.5 hours door-to-door.
Important detail: **Holbox is a car-free island**. No matter how you get to the mainland, the final leg is always the ferry from Chiquilá. Transport options vary greatly in price, from the $17 USD ADO bus to $200+ USD luxury private transfers.
Option 1
Shared Shuttle (Best Value)
Shared shuttles depart directly from Cancún Airport Terminal 2 and take you straight to the Chiquilá dock. If you land at a different terminal (3 or 4), take the free inter-terminal airport shuttle to Terminal 2.
- Cost: ~$40–55 USD per person (one way).
- Typical schedule: 10:15 am, 1:00 pm, 3:45 pm, 6:00 pm.
- Pros: Direct from the airport, AC, highly reliable for solo travelers.
What travelers say: "On time shuttle, got me where I needed safely with no issues. Make sure you read the communications via WhatsApp... the drivers go above and beyond to make the bumpy roads bearable."
Option 2
Private Transfer (Most Comfortable)
If you're traveling in a group, a private transfer can be the most seamless and cost-effective way to reach Holbox. A driver waits for you inside the airport with your name on a sign, loads your luggage, and drives you directly to Chiquilá. Available 24/7.
- Avg Cost: ~$215 USD per van (up to 8 people).
- Pros: Full schedule flexibility, and the driver waits if your flight is delayed.
- Best for: Families with children, groups of 4+, or late-night arrivals.
Option 3
ADO Bus (Most Affordable)
The ADO is cheap but requires two separate buses. First from the airport to downtown Cancún (~$7 USD), then from the ADO terminal to Chiquilá (~$12–18 USD).
Total travel time is longer (3–4 hours), but the buses are incredibly safe, comfortable, and air-conditioned. Ideal for budget travelers and backpackers.
Final Leg
The Chiquilá to Holbox Ferry
6:00 am to 9:30 pm daily
Holbox Express (Red) and 9 Hermanos (Blue). They alternate departures every 30 minutes.
~$15 USD ($300 MXN) per adult
No advance reservations needed. You just buy at the ticket booth upon arrival. It is straightforward and large boats guarantee you get a spot.
Frequently asked questions
What people ask
What is the cheapest way to get there?
The ADO bus (~$17 USD). It requires a bus from the Airport to downtown Cancun, and then a direct ADO to Chiquilá.
Where does the ferry depart from?
From the port of Chiquilá. They depart every 30 minutes from 6:00 am to 9:30 pm.
Can I rent a car?
Yes, but cars are prohibited on Holbox island. You must leave it in a paid parking lot in Chiquilá (~$5-10 USD/day).
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