Holbox is well connected with Valladolid. You can get from Valladolid to Holbox by bus, private transfer, or rental car + ferry boat!
The beautiful Isla Holbox in Mexico is a must-see destination for all nature lovers!
Located in the Yum Balam Ecological Reserve in Quintana Roo state, Holbox is a paradise with stunning nature and a fascinating tropical vibe. Its ocean views and rich underwater wildlife make this one of the most breathtaking places on earth!
The location is perfect for many outdoor activities like kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and swimming. Visitors can swim with whale sharks, sea turtles, and more while exploring the magical Yum Balam Ecological Reserve lagoon.
Aside from its incredible underwater life, Holbox has a bustling downtown area where you can experience the local culture among the friendly locals. It’s also known for its vibrant urban core flooded with colorful murals adorning the buildings!
The small island can be reached on a ferry boat, and once you step foot here, you will notice that there are no cars in sight! Another thing that makes this paradise so unique.
If you’re looking for a chance to connect with nature, Holbox is the place for you!
Traveling between Valladolid and Holbox is easy, and you can choose between a bus, private transfer, and rental car + ferry boat!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Valladolid to Holbox.
How far is Holbox from Valladolid?
The air distance from Valladolid to Holbox is 82.6 miles or 133 kilometers.
However, since you have to travel to Chiquila first, you should know that the road distance from Valladolid to Chiquila is 99 miles or 158.8 kilometers. Then you have another 13 kilometers from Chiquila to Holbox by boat!
Transportation Options from Valladolid to Holbox
The following table outlines all transportation options from Valladolid to Holbox:
Method | Travel time | Price |
---|---|---|
Coach Bus + Ferry from Valladolid to Holbox | 3 hours | USD 36 |
Private Transfer + Ferry from Valladolid to Holbox | Custom Time | USD 216-USD 283 (+USD 15) |
Rental Car | ~ 3 hours | – |
Getting to Holbox from Valladolid
1. Coach Bus + Ferry from Valladolid to Holbox
Journey Duration: 3 hours
The most cost-effective and practical way to get from Valladolid to Holbox Island is with the ADO coach bus and Holbox Express ferry offer!
First, you must get on the bus from Valladolid that will take you to Chiquila. Then, the ADO bus will take you directly from Valladolid to the Chiquila port without hassle or additional transfers!
Then, you will get on the ferry to Holbox, which arrives on the island in about 30 minutes.

One of the best things about this offer is that your ferry ticket is not charged separately. You will save money by booking your ferry ticket as part of your reservation!
The trip takes 3 hours, and the trip is very comfortable with everything you need for a relaxing journey!
Valladolid to Holbox Coach Bus + Ferry Schedule:
- 09:50 AM to 01:00 PM: Coach Bus + Ferry to Holbox from Valladolid
Total price: USD 18
2. Private Transfer + Ferry from Valladolid to Holbox
Journey Duration: Custom Time
Another option to get from Valladolid to Holbox is the private transfer!
The driver will take you directly from Valladolid to the port in Chiquila, so you can catch any ferry boat you want!
Most of these vehicles are minivans or larger cars that provide private transportation services. This option may be a good idea if you’re traveling with a group because the cost can be shared.
You can find multiple offers for groups of different sizes and arrange the one that works best for you!
But remember that this trip will only take you to Chiquila, and the cost does not include the ferry you must take to reach Holbox.

The ferry ticket costs an additional USD 15, which is a pretty reasonable price, so you don’t have to pay much extra cash!
The road trip lasts about 2 hours, and the ferry boat takes 30 minutes to cross the lagoon between Chiquila and Holbox. Therefore, this might be one of the fastest ways to get from Valladolid to Holbox!
Prices for a private transfer from Valladolid to Chiquila:
- 1-3 passengers: USD 216
- 4-6 passengers: USD 251
- 7-10 passengers: USD 283
3. Driving with Rental Car + Ferry from Valladolid to Holbox
Journey Duration: ~3 hours
You can also rent a car to travel from Valladolid to Holbox Island. Several car rental companies make car rental in Valladolid simple and hassle-free, so you can unwind and enjoy your trip!
If you decide to rent a car, keep in mind that you must leave your vehicle in Chiquila before you take the ferry to Holbox. You can’t bring your vehicle with you since cars on Holbox are not allowed.
However, this shouldn’t be a problem! You can find secure parking in Chiquila and pick up your car after you return from Holbox!
Since renting a car in Mexico is so inexpensive, it’s one of the most economical ways to get from Valladolid to Holbox!
The road trip to Chiquila should take about 2 hours and an additional 30 minutes to take the ferry across.
So pick this mode of transportation if you want the flexibility to set your schedule and make stops along the way!

Best day tours in Holbox, Mexico
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
The following widget shows some of the best tours in Holbox, Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the ferry to Holbox take?
The average ferry journey from Chiquila to Holbox is 30 minutes.
Can you drive to Holbox?
Travelers with their vehicles or who have rented cars can reach Holbox by driving to Chiquila. This is the point where ferries go to Holbox. However, you can’t bring your car to Holbox, but you can leave it in secure parking in Chiquila.
Is there a car ferry to Holbox?
Holbox is a car-free island, so you can’t bring your car to the island. You can only take a passenger ferry!
How much is the ferry to Isla Holbox?
The price for a ticket on the Holbox ferry is USD 15.
Do you need to buy Holbox ferry tickets in advance?
There are usually enough seats for everyone, so you don’t need to book your tickets in advance. However, we do recommend it!