How to get from Tulum to Holbox, Mexico

AnaMarija Mishachkovska 6 Oct 2021 Last updated: 4 Apr 2025 2 min read No comments


You can get from Tulum to Holbox by ferry + ADO bus, private transfer, rental car, or taxi.

The most popular and cheapest option is the ADO bus + ferry, which costs USD 56 and takes a bit over 4 hours.

The fastest way is by private transfer or rental car + ferry, which takes about 2.5 hours.

I’ve journeyed across Mexico more times than I can count, gathering invaluable tips and insights.

In this piece, I’ll share various transportation options, arming you with the knowledge to make your trip enjoyable and straightforward!

Transportation Options

The following table outlines all transportation options:

MethodTimePrice
ADO Bus + Ferry+4 hrs$56
Private Transfer + Ferry4 hrs+$265
Rental Car + Ferry+4 hrs
Uber/ Taxi + Ferry+4 hrs

Getting to Holbox from Tulum

1. We recommend ADO Bus + Ferry

Journey Duration: 4+ hours

ADO Bus is a reliable and safe company we prefer to travel within Mexico. All their buses have air conditioning, reclinable seats, a TV, and a bathroom.

ADO bus will take you from Tulum to the ferry terminal in Chiquila, where you can board the ferry to Isla Holbox.

While booking the bus and ferry ticket separately on your own is possible, we highly recommend purchasing a combined bus and ferry ticket with GuateGo online in advance.

ADO Bus + Holbox Express Ferry Schedule:

The table below displays the ADO bus + Holbox Express ferry timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

Departure timeArrival timeDurationPrice per person
10:20am05:00pm4h 20m$56

2. Private Transfer + Ferry

Journey Duration: Around 4 hours

If you want to travel independently from bus or shuttle schedules, a private transfer to Chiquila might be a better option.

We recommend taking a private transfer, especially for families and groups.

Prices for a private transfer + ferry:

  • 1 to 3 passengers: USD 265
  • 4 to 6 passengers: USD 299
  • 7 to 10 passengers: USD 320

4. Rental Car

Journey Duration: Around 4 hours

Chiquila has many secure parking lots, and they will charge per day. These services can cost you $6/day (120.25 Mexican pesos).

From Chiquila, you can take the ferry to Isla Holbox.

Ferry Schedule:

The table below displays the Holbox Express Ferry timetable for trips from Chiquila to Holbox, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DepartureArrivalDurationPrice
07:30am08:10am40m$15
08:30am09:10am40m$15
09:30am10:10am40m$15
10:30am11:10am40m$15
11:30am12:10pm40m$15
12:30pm01:10pm40m$15
01:30pm02:10pm40m$15
02:30pm03:10pm40m$15
03:30pm04:10pm40m$15
04:30pm05:10pm40m$15
05:30pm06:10pm40m$15
06:30pm07:10pm40m$15
07:30pm08:10pm40m$15
08:30pm09:10pm40m$15
09:30pm10:10pm40m$15

5. Uber or Taxi

Journey Duration: Around 4 hours

Last but not least, you can take a taxi or Uber from Tulum to Chiquila. However, to save money, we recommend booking your transfer in advance.

If you still prefer taking a taxi, click here to purchase your ferry ticket in advance.

Best day tours in Holbox

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a direct bus?

Yes, a direct ADO coach bus departs from Tulum and arrives at Chiquilá.

Where do I catch the bus from?

Tulum to Chiquilá bus services, operated by ADO, depart from the ADO Tulum station.

Where does the bus arrive?

Busses operated by ADO, arrive at the ADO terminal on Av. Delfines No. 6, Chiquilá.

Can I drive?

Yes, the driving distance is 104 miles or 167.5 kilometers. Driving the distance by car takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Where do you park for the Chiquila ferry?

The ferry pier in Chiquila is within walking distance of several parking lots where you can leave your car safely.

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