Pre-Trip Checklist: Isla Holbox

Essential Preparations

steps organized by timeline, from major bookings to last-minute tasks.

Planning Milestones

Follow this timeline for a smooth preparation.

Months Before

Book International Flights to Cancun.

Secure airfare to Cancun (CUN) for best rates.

Reserve Main Accommodation on Holbox.

Especially for high season or holidays.

Book Major Tours like Whale Sharks.

Guarantee your spot for seasonal or popular excursions.

Month Before

Arrange Airport Transfers to Chiquilá.

Secure private, shared, or bus transportation.

Purchase Travel Insurance.

World Nomads offers comprehensive coverage.

Consult Your Doctor for Health Advice.

Discuss vaccinations and any health precautions.

Week Before

Reconfirm All Bookings.

Double-check flights, lodging, and tours.

Notify Your Bank of Travel Dates.

Avoid card issues while abroad.

Prepare Your Home for Absence.

Arrange mail, pets, or house-sitting.

Important Bookings

Secure these items in advance for a relaxed trip.

Reservations

International flights to Cancun (CUN).
Accommodation on Isla Holbox.
Airport transfer from CUN to Chiquilá.
Whale shark tour (if seasonal priority).

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights before you go to enrich your visit.

Knowledge for Your Journey

Mexican culture and basic Spanish phrases.
Local currency (Mexican Peso) and tipping norms.
Safety guidelines and emergency contacts.
Natural disaster protocols (hurricane season).

Home Preparation

Ensure your home is secure and managed while you are away.

Security

Lock all doors and windows securely.
Set home alarms if applicable.
Inform trusted neighbors of your travel dates.
Use timed lights for security presence.

Finances

Pay or schedule all recurring bills.
Notify your bank of your travel dates.
Set a budget for your trip expenses.
Ensure access to emergency funds.

Logistics

Arrange mail holding or collection.
Secure reliable care for pets.
Arrange house-sitting if needed.
Turn off unnecessary utilities.

A well-planned trip begins at home, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.

Attention to these details allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Holbox experience without worries.

Arrival Checklist

The initial steps upon arriving at your destination.

First Steps at Cancun Airport

Clear immigration and customs at CUN.
Keep your FMM form portion stamped and secure.
Locate your pre-arranged airport transfer.
Proceed to Chiquilá for the ferry.
Purchase ferry tickets to Holbox at Chiquilá.
Ferries depart frequently for the island.

Holbox Orientation

Take a golf cart taxi to your accommodation.
Golf carts are the main transport on Holbox.
Acquire a local map of Holbox.
Available at hotels or the ferry terminal.
Ask hotel staff for local recommendations.
They are a good source of current information.

Initial Purchases & Connections

Currency Exchange

Withdraw Mexican Pesos from ATMs at Cancun Airport.

Get cash for ferry and golf cart taxi upon arrival.

Essential Supplies

Purchase bottled water immediately.

Tap water is not for drinking.

Local Connectivity

Consider buying a local SIM card (Telcel) if needed.

Reliable data improves navigation and communication.

Immediate steps upon arrival lead to a relaxed start to your island getaway.

Having cash for local transport and rehydrating are among your first priorities.

Departure Preparation

Organizing your return trip and final tasks on the island.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs well before departure day.
Inquire about shipping services from the mainland for large items.
Holbox has limited shipping options directly from the island.
Plan for courier services if you have special items.

Travel Documents

Keep your stamped FMM card with your passport.
You must surrender the FMM card upon departure.
Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible.
Reconfirm return flight details 24-48 hours prior.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for the journey from Holbox to Cancun Airport.

Travel Time Breakdown

Ferry from Holbox to Chiquilá:25 minutes
Land transfer to Cancun Airport:2-2.5 hours
Airport arrival before international flight:3 hours
Total recommended departure time from Holbox:5-6 hours before flight

Airport Procedures

Mexico offers VAT (IVA) refunds for tourists on purchases.
Keep original receipts and your stamped FMM form.
Pack luggage according to airline rules (weight, size).
Allow extra time at CUN for security and refund processes.

A relaxed departure begins with proper timing and document organization.

Confirm all details and gather necessary papers well in advance.

This avoids last-minute stress and ensures a smooth journey home.

Pre-Trip Checklist