Can you take a rental car from Isla Holbox to Cancun?

4 Ways to Travel from Holbox to Cancun - by Shared Minivan + Ferry (Combined Booking), Private Transport, Flight and Ferry + Bus Or Minivan (Separate Bookings)

4 Ways to Travel from Holbox to Cancun - by Shared Minivan + Ferry (Combined Booking), Private Transport, Flight and Ferry + Bus Or Minivan (Separate Bookings)

In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 61 kilometre distance from Holbox to Cancun. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.

There are 4 ways to get from Holbox to Cancun. You can choose between the private transport, flight, shared minivan + ferry (combined booking), ferry + bus or minivan (separate bookings). The most affordable option is by private transport, starting from $6. The fastest route is by flight (0h 30m).

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Transport	Duration	Price	Best For
FlightFastest	30m	($17)	--
Ferry + Bus or Minivan (Separate Bookings)	2h 25m	($41)	--
Private TransportBudget	2h 30m	($6)	--
Shared Minivan + Ferry (Combined Booking)	2h 50m	($37)	--

Route Overview

HolboxCancun61 km

Via Chiquila

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Private Transport

2.5hFrom ~$6

A private transfer from Holbox to Cancun is the easiest and most convenient option. Your tour operator will first guide you to the public Holbox ferry to Chiquila. Once there, a private shuttle will be waiting to take you to your destination in Cancun. Rates start from $6 for a vehicle that fits two passengers when you book through GetYourGuide. This price covers both individual ferry tickets and the private shuttle ride. If you're travelling in a larger group, the cost per person decreases. You can also find private transfers from Isla Holbox to Cancun International Airport on Viator. The entire trip takes 2.5h.

Ready to book your private transport?

From ~$6 · 2.5h

Direct operator sites

GetYourGuide Viator

Flight

30 minutesFrom ~$17

If you want the fastest way to get from Holbox to Cancun, a flight is your best option. There are no commercial flights between the two destinations, but Flights Cancun operates private flights daily. Rates start from $17 for a private plane that fits up to five people. Quite expensive, but also scenic. Flight time is 30 minutes and you’ll have an amazing aerial view of the Yucatan Peninsula for the entire journey. You can book your flight through BookAway. Keep in mind that there’s an additional [price 10 USD] airport fee per passenger. Also, since you’ll be taking a small plane, luggage space is limited. You may only be able to bring a small bag.

Flight departure and arrival points

Flights depart from Aerodromo de Holbox, which is situated within the tourist area at Holbox Island. This small airport should be just a short taxi ride away from your hotel or Holbox Beach. In Cancun, you will arrive at FBO Cancun, which is just inside Cancun Airport. From here, you can get to Cancun city centre via a 30-minute shared minivan, bus or taxi. Bus tickets start at [price 152 MXN] on BookAway.

Ready to book your flight?

From ~$17 · 30 minutes

KEY LOCATIONS

Departure & Arrival Stations

Holbox

Via Chiquila

Frequently Asked Questions

Although there are car ferries operating between Chiquila and Isla Holbox, it is not really advisable to take your rental car to the island. On your way to Holbox Island, it's best to leave your rental car at Chiquila Port, then just take it back on your way to Cancun. Make sure to check out our Top 10 Car Rental Tips to help you save money!

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Cancun?

Cancun is a vibrant beach city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. With its crystal blue waters and snow-white sand, the city can be too touristy for some visitors. But its location on Mexico’s east coast makes it the perfect gateway to other destinations like Chichen Itza, Isla Mujeres and Holbox. You’ll find most tourists in the Hotel Zone, which is full to the brim with all-inclusive resorts, restaurants and lively bars. Depending on what you’re looking for, Cancun can just be a short stopover or a holiday destination by itself. Whichever you decide, make sure to explore other nearby destinations for a more authentic Mexican experience!

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Ferry Schedule Notice

Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.

Carbon Footprint

This 61 km journey produces approximately 5 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.

Luggage Safety

Traveller Reviews

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4.36 reviews

Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
O
Oliver S.November 2025
Ferry

Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.

Jenny L.Jan 2026

Train

The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.

Carlos V.Oct 2025

Bus

Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.

Maya R.Dec 2025

Train

Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.

David H.Feb 2026

Bus

Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.

Sophie K.Jan 2026

Flight

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STAY

Where to Stay in Cancun

Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.

Treat Yourself

La Casa del Alux

This adults-only hotel offers luxurious suites and spacious apartments rather than just rooms. Most of which come with balconies overlooking the nearby idyllic lake. If you opt for an apartment, you’ll also be able to enjoy your own kitchen facilities. Scattered throughout the hotel there’s plenty of places to chill, from hammocks to sun loungers and little sun decks. La Casa del Alux is like a little oasis situated on the outskirts of Holbox town.

Chill out area and hammocks
Lake views
Huge suites and apartments
Adults only

Double rooms start from $80 per night

View on Booking.com

Mid-Range

Isla Bonita

Isla Bonita makes sure that you’re stay on a tropical island is comfortable. Their rooms are spacious, well air-conditioned and have their own private balcony for you to relax on. Did we mention that there’s also a swimming pool at the centre of the hotel? Some of the rooms also come with their own kitchen if you fancy whipping up a snack. If not, you’re only minutes from Holbox’s best restaurants and the beach.

Outdoor swimming pool
Rooms with private balconies
Great location
Airconditioned, spacious rooms

Double rooms between $50-80 per night

View on Booking.com

Budget

Kin Camping

Finding good accommodation on a budget is a relatively hard task on Holbox. Kin Camping is one of the best budget friendly options. And it also offers an unforgettable experience. Each of their tents comes with a comfy double bed, so you won’t be slumming it if that’s what you had in mind when you first saw the word camping. They’ve created a campsite with great facilities, including a communal kitchen, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to chill out and meet other like-minded travellers. The friendly staff are always there for anything you need.

Everything you need for camping
Communal kitchen
Great atmosphere
Relaxing chill out spots

Tent with double bed between $15-50 per night

View on Booking.com

How to Get from Holbox to Cancun

Compare Your Options

Private Transport

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Flight

Flight departure and arrival points

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Departure & Arrival Stations

Frequently Asked Questions