Full Day Tour of Holbox Island and Yalahau Cenote with Lunch

Traveling from Cancun and the Riviera Maya offers plenty of options, but if you’re hunting for a day packed with nature, relaxing beach time, and a taste of local flavor, this full-day tour to Holbox Island and Yalahau Cenote might catch your eye. We’ve looked into it, and while it has some standout moments, it also has its quirks—so let’s break down what you can expect if you’re considering signing up.

Two things we really like about this experience: first, the chance to combine a relaxing swim in the Yalahau Cenote with a visit to the charming Holbox Island, and second, the inclusion of bike rental—a fun way to explore the island at your own pace. However, on the flip side, some reviews suggest this trip can feel a bit disorganized, with inconsistent experiences reported. So, if you’re someone who prefers everything tightly scheduled and well-managed, you’ll want to read further.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, beach time, and a bit of adventure, especially if you’re okay with a long day and a flexible schedule. Families with older children might find it enjoyable, but it’s a full 12 hours—so plan accordingly for little ones.

Key Points

• Includes boat tour, bike rental, and lunch—making it a comprehensive experience.
• Good value for the price—around $99 per person for a full day of activities.
• Long day with early start—begins around 6 am, so be prepared for early mornings.
• Mixed reviews on organization—some travelers praise it, others find it poorly managed.
• Highlights are Holbox Island and Yalahau Cenote—both offer unique scenic and relaxing moments.
• Adventure and nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see mangroves, swim, and explore the island.

This tour is designed to give you a broad taste of the attractions around Cancun, with a focus on nature and relaxed exploration. The day kicks off with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cancun, Playa Mujeres, Riviera Maya, or Playa del Carmen—most travelers report being picked up right at their hotel lobby, which makes things easy. The transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, a small but crucial detail when you’re sitting in the Mexican heat for hours.

The Itinerary — Step by Step

1. Transfer to Chiquila

After about 30 minutes riding in a van, you’ll arrive at Chiquila, a small fishing town that acts as the gateway to Holbox Island. Here, you’ll get a quick briefing before heading on your boat tour. This part is usually straightforward; some reviews note the pickup is punctual, which is a relief.

2. Yalahau Lagoon and Cenote

Your first major stop is the Yalahau Lagoon, where you’ll take a boat ride to the cenote itself. This cenote is famous for its fresh waters and beautiful surroundings. You’ll have some time to swim and relax, which many travelers find to be the highlight of the trip. The ticket for the cenote is included, and safety is prioritized with life jackets provided.

One reviewer described it as “a moment of tranquility and contact with nature,” which really captures the appeal. Expect to spend about an hour here—enough to cool off and soak in the natural beauty.

3. Chiquila and Breakfast

Back on land, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast—typically a box with a sandwich and some drinks—while on the bus or at the stop. The reviews mention this part is pretty standard, though some note that it’s nothing fancy.

4. Holbox Island

The main highlight for many is the two hours of free time on Holbox. The island is well-loved for its relaxed vibe, stunning beaches, and small-town charm. During this time, you can wander along the shoreline, dip your toes in the sand, or rent a bike—which is included for an hour. One review praised this as a “different experience,” especially riding around in a golf cart, which adds a fun, informal touch.

Be aware, some travelers mention that Holbox is a bit of a walk from the main dock, so you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes. Also, consider bringing cash if you plan to buy souvenirs or food outside the included lunch.

5. Passion Island

The boat then takes you to Passion Island, a place to see mangroves, enjoy some nature walks, and take photos from a viewpoint. This part is about appreciating the natural environment and capturing some scenic shots. The one-hour stop here tends to be praised for its views, though the reviews suggest that the organization and timing can vary.

The included lunch is a bonus—most travelers get to choose from different dishes, and many mention the food was tasty and filling. The tour also provides soda, water, beer, and tequila on board, which helps keep spirits high during the long day.

However, drinks at the restaurant are not included, so if you want anything else, you’ll need to pay separately. Some users also mention the conservation fee of MX$800 per person, which is a significant additional cost but common in protected areas.

While many reviews highlight the fantastic guide (one mentioned a guide named José Luis with a good sense of humor), others point out issues with organization. Several travelers mention that the trip felt rushed, especially for families with young children or those hoping for a perfectly smooth experience. One review called the trip “disastrous” due to poor organization and the lack of promised activities like Mosquito Island.

It’s worth noting that some travelers found the tour to be well run, with enthusiastic guides and beautiful scenery. The inclusion of bike rental and the opportunity to explore Holbox at your own pace are big pluses.

A few reviews mention that the tour has a long duration, starting at 6 am and returning around 8:45 pm, making it a long day for some. If you’re traveling with little ones or prefer a more relaxed pace, this could be a consideration.

Price: At $99 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes transportation, boat rides, a cenote visit, bike rental, and lunch. For a full day of diverse activities, it’s generally considered good value, though the optional conservation fee adds a hefty extra cost.

Duration: Expect about 12 hours, with an early start and late return. This means an early wake-up and a full day on your feet, but for many, it’s worth the effort.

Group Size: The maximum number of travelers is 45, which usually means a manageable group, but some reviews hint that the organization can vary depending on the day and guide.

Booking and Planning: Most travelers book about 3 weeks in advance, so if you’re a planner, it’s good to secure your spot early.

If you love adventure, nature, and beach days, and don’t mind a bit of a long, busy schedule, this tour can be a rewarding way to explore beyond Cancun. It’s ideal for those who enjoy guided group tours with included amenities like lunch and bike rental, and for travelers who are comfortable with some unpredictability or minor disorganization.

Families with older children or teenagers might enjoy the mix of activities, especially the boat rides and swimming. However, if you’re looking for a slow-paced or very organized experience, you might want to consider other options.

This full-day tour offers a rich blend of scenic beauty, relaxing swims, and island exploration for a reasonable price. The inclusion of bike rental, boat rides, and a tasty lunch makes it quite a full package, especially for those wanting to see Holbox and Yalahau without fussing over individual bookings.

While some reviews mention organizational hiccups and a long day that tests patience, many travelers come away satisfied, especially with the chance to see Passion Island and swim in the cenote’s clear waters. The tour suits curious explorers who enjoy nature, scenic views, and a dash of adventure, provided they’re prepared for a full day and possible variability in experience.

In the end, this trip can be a memorable part of your Cancun adventure—if you’re flexible and ready to embrace the day with an open mind.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cancun, Playa Mujeres, Riviera Maya, or Playa del Carmen is part of the package. The ride is in an air-conditioned vehicle, starting early around 6 am.

What does the tour include?
You get boat rides, tickets to Yalahau Cenote, life jackets, bike rental for an hour on Holbox Island, a delicious lunch, and breakfast on board. Plus, pickup and drop-off are covered.

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 12 hours long, with an early start and late return, making it a full-day commitment.

What are the main highlights?
The key attractions are swimming in Yalahau Cenote, exploring Holbox Island, and visiting Passion Island. The scenic views and relaxed beach time are the major draws.

Is this suitable for families?
While older children and teens might enjoy the activities, keep in mind the long hours and active nature of the tour. It’s not specifically tailored for young kids or those needing a more relaxed pace.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a light breakfast and a different dish of lunch are included. Drinks at the restaurant are extra, and there’s an additional conservation fee of MX$800 per person.

Can I bring my own drinks?
You can bring your own drinks, but alcohol and beverages are also available on the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, hat, cash for souvenirs or extra drinks, and anything else you’d want for a day in the sun.

If you’re after a day that combines nature, a splash of adventure, and scenic island views, this tour can fit the bill—just go in with flexible expectations and an open mind.