Tours & Activities in Holbox

Discover the best tours and activities in Holbox with Mapache Hostel. From whale shark tours and kayaking adventures, to beach sunsets, bioluminescence experiences and local street food, our daily activities are designed to help travelers explore the island, meet new people and experience the real Holbox!

Most hostel-run activities are free or low-cost, while our reception team can help organize some of the best boat tours and outdoor experiences on the island.

Weekly Activities

A dog standing on the rocks in Holbox Island alongside the water and beach

Animal Shelter

Refugio Animal Holbox is doing valuable work in rescuing, caring for, and re-homing abandonded or hurt animals in the area. During this activity, guests can help walk the dogs along the beach and spend time with the animals while learning about the shelter’s work in Holbox. A perfect activity for animal lovers looking to give back while experiencing a quieter side of island life.

Red bikes lined up along the fence of Mapache Hostel in Holbox Island

Bike Rental

The most beautiful and ecological way to explore the island is by bike. At Mapache we offer our guests discounted rates for bike rental and show you where to spot flamingos and where to find the best sunset spots and beaches.

Guests, and now friends, of Mapache Hostel eating tacos on the food tour provided by the hostel volunteers

Streetfood Tour

Discover authentic Mexican street food in Holbox with a guided evening food tour through local hidden gems. Try regional favorites such as panuchos, salbutes and sweet marquesitas while exploring some of the island’s best cheap eats with other travelers from the hostel.

This is one of the best ways to experience local culture and flavors beyond the beach.

A beautiful sunset over the ocean and beach of Holbox Island, behind palm trees

Sunset & Volleyball

Holbox is famous for its unforgettable sunsets, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than with beach volleyball, kayaking or a cold drink by the ocean.

We’ll take you to one of our favorite beach bars where guests can relax, watch the sunset and enjoy discounted drinks and kayak rentals while meeting travelers from around the world.


Boat Tours & Experiences in Holbox

Looking for the best tours in Holbox? We can help organize unforgettable island experiences at accessible prices, including whale shark tours, kayaking adventures, snorkeling trips and visits to the Yum Balam nature reserve.

Want to reserve a tour before your arrival? Contact us directly through our Contact page or WhatsApp.

One of the Three Islands (3 Islands) from a birds-eye view, with crystal clear water, a lagoon, boat and white sand

3 Islands

This is Holbox‘s classic tour where you will visit 3 points of interest in the Yum Balam Lagoon.

The first stop is at a bird breeding station where you can see many pelicans and herons. This is followed by a visit to the pretty freshwater spring of Yalahau. Have a refreshing swim or a delicious ceviche at the local restaurant and admire the clear water. Your last stop will take you to Isla Pasion, a tiny, uninhabited island with a viewing tower from where you can spot flamingos.

Duration: 3 hours
Start time: 10:00 or 14:00
Price: 550 Pesos

A view of Cabo Catoche, with clear blue water

Cabo Catoche

This tour takes you to to Holbox‘s uninhabited part. First everyone will try their fishing skills to catch the group‘s lunch. As a second activity you will go snorkeling where you can see big stingrays, fish and if you are lucky, even a turtle. At times you can also spot dolphins on the way to your lunch site at Cabo Catoche. This stunning beach is only inhabited by fishermen and boasts an old lighthouse from where you can enjoy amazing views over the unspoiled nature of the island. Your guide will prepare a fresh ceviche lunch with the catch of the day while you can enjoy the beach or a game of volleyball.

Duration: 5 hours
Start time: 08:00
Price: 1100 Pesos

2 guests of Mapache in a kayak looking at 3 flamingos

Kayak

You will be picked up at the hostel and taken to the end of the hotel zone where you will hop into your kayaks. From there you will make your way to the entrance of the mangrove rivers in the uninhabited part of the island. The tour will take you through beautiful, lush and tranquil landscapes. You will be able to spot local birdlife, crocodiles and flamingos and enjoy the clear waters. Your guide will hand you a snack at a pretty spot where you will have a break before you head back. This tour leaves early in the morning after sunrise or before sunset.

Duration: 3-4 hours
Start time: 06:45 / 15:15
Price: 800 Pesos

A snorkeller swimming with a whale shark

Whale Sharks

After an early start we will go for a 2 hour boat ride to find the amazing whale sharks. The guides will give the group instructions on how to enter the water and each person will have two opportunities to swim with these gentle giants. Your guides can take photos as they will be with you at all times. After the activity we go to a reef to do snorkeling before having a fresh ceviche on the stunning beach at Cabo Catoche. On this tour there is also a chance to see other kinds of marine species such as dolphins, stingrays, manta rays, turtles or different kinds of seabirds. The tour also takes you through a beautiful ride through the mangroves’ rivers.

Duration: 7 hours
Start time: 07:00
Price: 2750 Pesos


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is whale shark season in Holbox?
Whale shark season in Holbox usually runs from June to September.

Can I book tours directly at the hostel?
Yes, Mapache Hostel can help guests organize tours and activities directly during their stay. Just come visit us at reception.

Are the activities suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers stay at Mapache Hostel for the social atmosphere and daily activities designed to help travelers connect.