You can get from Merida to Holbox by ferry + ADO bus, private transfer, rental car, taxi, or private flight.
The most popular and cheapest option is the ADO bus + ferry, which costs USD 54. The journey takes about 7 hours, and you’ll need to board the ferry in Chiquila to get to Holbox.
The fastest way is by private flight. This flight takes about 1 hour.
Traveling around Mexico has been incredible, and I’ve gathered some experience and some neat travel insights to share!
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ADO Bus + Ferry | 7-8 hrs | $54 |
| Private Transfer + Ferry | ~5 hrs | – |
| Taxi + Ferry | ~5 hrs | ~$220 |
| Private Flight | ~1 hr | – |
| Rental Car + Ferry | ~5 hrs | – |
How far is Merida from Holbox?
The distance from Merida to Chiquilá is 190 miles or 306 kilometers. The distance from Chiquilá mainland to Holbox island is 8.01 miles (12.9 km).
Getting to Holbox from Merida
1. ADO Bus + Ferry
Journey Duration: 7-8 hours
From the bus terminal in Merida, you will first travel to the bus station in Chiquila. Once you arrive in Chiquila, you will board the ferry to Isla Holbox.
One ticket costs USD 54 and includes both transportation modes, which is convenient since you don’t have to book everything separately!
All ADO buses have air conditioning, reclinable seats, bathrooms, and TVs.
The table below displays the ADO bus + Holbox Express ferry timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:15am | 02:00pm | 7h 45m | $54 |  |
| 06:45am | 02:00pm | 7h 15m | $54 | |
2. Private Transfer + Ferry
Journey Duration: Around 5 hours
Another option is to book a private transfer from your hotel in Merida to Chiquila.
In Chiquila, you can take the ferry to Isla Holbox. Read our detailed guide for more information on traveling from Chiquila to Isla Holbox.
Tip: Book your ferry ticket online in advance!
The table below displays the Holbox Express ferry timetable for trips from Chiquila to Holbox, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:30am | 08:10am | 40m | $15 | |
| 08:30am | 09:10am | 40m | $15 | |
| 09:30am | 10:10am | 40m | $15 | |
| 10:30am | 11:10am | 40m | $15 | |
| 11:30am | 12:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 12:30pm | 01:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 01:30pm | 02:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 02:30pm | 03:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 03:30pm | 04:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 04:30pm | 05:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 05:30pm | 06:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 06:30pm | 07:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 07:30pm | 08:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 08:30pm | 09:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
| 09:30pm | 10:10pm | 40m | $15 | |
3. Flight
Journey Duration: `~1 hour
There are no commercial or scheduled flights to Holbox; however, you can take a private flight from Merida to Holbox Island.
The flight from Merida is the fastest way to Holbox, lasting about 1 hour.
This option is considerably more expensive than the others, and it’s only suitable for those who want luxury during their travels.
4. Driving with Rental Car + Ferry
Journey Duration: Around 5 hours
You can also travel by rental car. Once you arrive in Chiquila, you can leave your car at one of the many secure parking lots. Parking fees start at $6/day (120.25 Mexican pesos).
From then on, you must board the ferry to Holbox, which will take about 40 minutes to arrive on the island.
You can get your tickets at the counter, or book them online for only USD 15!
To learn more about this part of your trip, check out our guide on how to get from Chiquila to Holbox, Mexico!
5. Uber or Taxi + Ferry
Journey Duration: Around 5 hours
If you spontaneously travel to Isla Holbox, you can also take a taxi or Uber from Merida to Chiquila.
The trip by car takes around four hours, and an Uber costs about 220 USD (4,400 Mexican pesos).
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
What are the transportation options available?
You can travel by ferry + ADO bus, private transfer, rental car, taxi, or private flight.
How often do ferries run from Chiquila to Holbox?
The ferries typically run every 30 minutes to an hour during peak travel times, with reduced schedules during the off-season. It’s always good to check the ferry schedule ahead of your trip.
How much does a ferry ticket to Holbox cost?
A ferry ticket to Holbox generally costs around USD 15.
Can I bring a vehicle to Holbox?
Holbox is a car-free island; therefore, vehicles are not permitted. Visitors usually get around the island on foot, by bicycle, or by hiring a golf cart.
How long does it take to travel from Chiquila to Holbox?
The ferry ride from Chiquila to Holbox typically takes around 40 minutes.
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