Holbox Island, pronounced hole-bosh in English, is a small island in Mexico located off of the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. This enchanting tranquil island is ideal for nature lovers and one of the few remaining paradises on Earth. Isla Holbox is part of the biosphere reserve of flora and fauna and the protected area of Yum Balam. Within the island, all the streets are white sand; colorful houses with gabled roofs are the perfect canvases that year after year receive the work of countless national and international mural artists, capturing the “Holboxenian” essence in huge murals that bring life to the entire picturesque village.
Once a strategic port for the Maya and part of the Ekab Chiefdom that extended around Cancun and the islands offshore, Holbox was rediscovered 150 years ago, by pirates, who sought out the freshwater Yalahua spring in which to cool off after long voyages. Arriving at such a paradise, many pirates decided to stay on Holbox and they married some of the local women. The resulting seven families still live on the island to this day but have now been joined by people from around Mexico and the world who have chosen to make the island home.
We encourage guests to give 1 hour of SERVICE at Isla Holbox's Animal Sanctuary. Your help is always welcome! You can help by: walking dogs, bathing dogs cleaning kennels, bowls, or the courtyard, playing with the dogs and loving them, or monthly voluntary work. Please consider carving out an hour of time during your vacation on Isla Holbox to give back to the community. We appreciate your service!
Siesta Daily 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM A siesta (from Spanish, pronounced [ˈsjesta] and meaning "nap") is a short nap taken in the early afternoon, often after the midday meal. It is strongly recommended you take a siesta each afternoon between at least the hours of 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. ~Siesta at your Lodging or a Beach Club or Restaurant daily ~
Take a boat tour to Passion Island, Isla Pajaros and Yalahau Spring from Isla Holbox. On this guided excursion, view over 35 species of nesting birds on Isla Pajaros (Bird Island). Continue to Passion Island to see the resident flamingos, then swim in the cenote (freshwater sinkhole) at Yalahau. See pelicans, frigates and flamingos Go swimming in a freshwater cenote 3.5 Hours
Every year, the largest aggregations of whale sharks in the world are found off the coast of Holbox Island. Whale sharks migrate through the waters around Holbox feeding on the abundant plankton found there. Swimming with whale sharks is a unique and ethereal experience that you won’t easily forget. 8 Hour Tour
According to The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), ecotourism can be defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education Ecotourism typically involves travel to destinations where flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions. Ecotourism is intended to offer tourists an insight into the impact of human beings on the environment and to foster a greater appreciation of our natural habitats. What is ecotourism and why is it important? Ecotourism focuses on unadulterated, pristine natural environments; ... It minimizes the impact of tourism on the environment; It boosts employment and financial opportunities for local people; It encourages conservation by providing financial benefits in its favor. Embrace your wanderlust with less impact on our planet.