01
Clear expectations
Before we set off, I explain the route, what we might encounter and what could change.
An insider’s Holbox
Discover the island with someone who calls it home.
I’m Edier Rosado, a local guide and captain. I’ll help you choose an authentic experience connected to the nature of Holbox, with safety at its heart.
Take your time.The sea sets the pace. We’ll be there to guide you.
The sea is not a show. It’s an encounter.
Wildlife in its natural habitat.
We can’t control where animals appear or how long they stay. Our job is to find them patiently and approach with respect.
Your guide on the island
Hi, I’m Edier Rosado.
I’ve built my life around the sea of Holbox. As a guide and captain, I want you to understand what you see, enjoy every moment and return with a story worth telling.
I know the routes, but I also know when the sea calls for a change of plan. That’s the experience I bring to every group.
+10years guiding local experiences
ES / ENbilingual guidance
A different way to explore
To understand the island, experience it.
Every trip depends on the sea, the weather and the wildlife. That uncertainty is part of the experience, and part of its beauty.
02
Safety first
The day’s conditions guide our decisions. We adapt the experience whenever wind, waves or visibility require it.
03
Respect for nature
We observe without touching, keep our distance and follow the protected area’s rules.
Choose your adventure
Experience Holbox your way.
Tell me what you’d like to see and how much time you have. I’ll recommend the right option for you.
May 15–September 17↓
Whale shark
A full-day marine safari. Swim in pairs with a guide, snorkel when conditions allow and stop for ceviche at Cabo Catoche.
2–3 hours↓
Classic tour
Yalahau, Isla Pasión and Punta Mosquito: a route through some of the island’s most memorable landscapes.
No motors↓
Mangrove kayaking
Paddle through peaceful channels, watching for birds and signs of life in the mangroves.
Night↓
Bioluminescence
A trip under the night sky to see glowing plankton when conditions allow.
4–6 hours↗
Cabo Catoche
Traditional handline fishing, snorkeling at Los Cuevones when visibility is good, and ceviche or guacamole at Santa Paula.
Fishing + lunch↓
Mini Pesca
A private trip with rod-and-reel or traditional handline fishing, followed by lunch at Punta Mosquito or Isla Pasión.
Marine safari · May to September
Whale shark tour from Holbox
A full-day expedition to look for the world’s largest fish in its natural habitat. We start early with breakfast and a briefing, then head offshore with a captain and certified guide.
When conditions and regulations allow, each guest can enter the water up to twice, swimming in pairs with the guide. The route may continue with snorkeling at Los Cuevones and a stop at Cabo Catoche for ceviche, guacamole and tostadas.
An encounter in the wildThe search, travel time and opportunity to swim depend on the sea, the weather and the animals’ natural presence.
SeasonMay 15–September 17
Meeting time6:30 a.m. at our office
Planned departureAround 7:00 a.m.
Estimated returnBetween 2:00 and 4:00 p.m.
Shared tourFrom $3,400 MXN per person
Price for your dateUp to $3,850 MXN depending on month and demand
Shared groupMinimum 5 people
Boats8–10 passengers per boat
Private tourBook by paying for all seats on the boat
Recommended ageAges 5 and up · same price
LanguagesSpanish and English
Group capacityUp to 50 people across several boats
The sea is not a show. It’s an encounter. Every trip is different, and sightings can never be guaranteed.
Part 01
Breakfast and preparation
We meet at the office at 6:30 a.m. for a light breakfast: freshly baked sweet bread, plain yogurt with homemade granola, banana, apple, coffee and tea. Before departure, the guide explains the route, the day’s conditions and safety rules.
All guests must come to the office. The final time is confirmed the day before, depending on the weather and Harbor Master authorization.
Part 02
Marine safari and search
The location changes throughout the season. We travel to the authorized area and begin a patient, respectful search. Depending on conditions, the boat journey can take several hours.
Authorization to sail does not mean the sea will be completely calm. Safety and Harbor Master instructions always take priority.
Part 03
The encounter in the water
If sightings and conditions allow, guests enter the water in pairs with the guide. Each guest may swim up to twice, always following the crew’s instructions and the area’s regulations.
01Life jacket required
02Keep a distance of 2–3 meters
03Do not touch or chase
04Swim at the surface
05No flash photography
06No sunscreen during the swim
Important: wetsuits are not permitted. Swimming, the number of entries and their duration may change for safety, regulations or animal behavior.
Part 04
Los Cuevones and Cabo Catoche
After the search, we may snorkel at Los Cuevones if visibility allows. We finish at Cabo Catoche with fish ceviche, a mango ceviche alternative, guacamole, tostadas, water, soft drinks and bottled juices.
This part of the trip may also change depending on time spent searching, waves and the day’s overall conditions.
Included
- Light breakfast
- Captain and certified bilingual guide
- Boat with shade canopy
- Life jacket, mask, snorkel and fins
- Up to two swims when possible
- Snorkeling depends on visibility
- Ceviche, guacamole, tostadas and drinks
- Protected-area taxes, permits and wristbands
What to bring
- Swimsuit and towel
- Cap and sunglasses
- Light clothing or a long-sleeved shirt
- Dry bag
- Biodegradable sunscreen for use before or after the swim
- Doctor-recommended precautions if you get seasick
Not included
- Taxi to the office
- Tips
- Photography or video service
- Wetsuit: not permitted
- Seasickness medication
- Onboard restroom
Health and restrictions
- Not suitable during pregnancy
- Not suitable for people with heart, neurological or nervous system conditions
- Not recommended for people with back or spinal problems
- Consult your doctor if you have any concerns
- Do not drink alcohol before departure
Booking and payment
- 50% deposit to book
- Full balance due 24 hours before the tour
- Cash, card or PayPal
- Children and adults pay the same price
- Tell us about allergies or dietary restrictions in advance
- Ask for the exact price for your date
Before departure
- Operation depends on weather and Harbor Master authorization
- The boat has a shade canopy but no restroom
- Sightings and swimming are not guaranteed
- Groups are assigned to boats carrying 8–10 passengers
- If the shared minimum is not met, we’ll contact you with alternatives
Changes and cancellations
More than 24 hours beforeWe can review rescheduling or a refund.
24 hours or less beforePayment is non-refundable.
Weather or official restrictionsIf the trip is canceled, you may reschedule or request a refund.
After departureNo refunds if we do not find whale sharks or swimming is not possible.
Three places, one experience
Holbox Classic Tour
Set off from Holbox to discover the Yalahau freshwater spring, walk along the sandbars of Isla Pasión and enjoy the clear waters of Punta Mosquito.
Explore some of the island’s signature landscapes on a shared or private tour with a captain and bilingual guide.
Yalahau → Isla Pasión → Punta MosquitoThe usual route is subject to weather and boating conditions.
Departures9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Check-in10 minutes early at our office
Duration2–3 hours
Shared$950 MXN per person · minimum 2
Private$5,700 MXN for up to 6 people
Additional guest$850 MXN per extra guest · 7–13 guests total
CapacityMaximum 13 passengers per boat
AgeRecommended from age 5 · babies welcome
LanguagesSpanish and English
SeasonYear-round, subject to availability
ChildrenSame price for children and adults
Meeting timeOur office in HolboxOpen location ↗
Stop 01
Yalahau
We travel about 15–20 minutes by boat from Holbox to this freshwater spring. During the stop, you can swim, climb the lookout tower and explore the trails.
Entering the water is optional. Always follow the guide’s instructions and local rules.
Stop 02
Isla Pasión
A small island surrounded by nature and birds. Walk slowly along its sandbar, enjoy the scenery and take in the views from the lookout tower.
Bird presence and numbers vary with the season and the day’s natural conditions.
Stop 03
Punta Mosquito
Considered one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, Punta Mosquito is known for its clear water, white sand and sweeping sandbars. Swim, walk through the shallows and enjoy the scenery.
Protected natural area: we respect buoys, restricted zones and distance from birds. Flamingo sightings depend on the season and are not guaranteed.
Route changes: if conditions prevent a visit to Punta Mosquito, we stop at Isla Pájaros instead. Departure times, stop durations and the route may change for weather and safety.
Included
- Water during the tour
- Captain and bilingual guide
- Life jackets
- Admission wristbands
- All taxes
What to bring
- Swimsuit and towel
- Cap or hat
- Sunglasses
- Light, comfortable clothing
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Camera or phone
Not included
- Food
- Tips
- Taxi to the meeting point
- Personal expenses
Boat
- Shade canopy
- No restroom
- Maximum 13 passengers
- Route adapted to the day’s conditions
Children and health
- Recommended age: 5 and up
- Babies welcome under supervision
- Same price for children and adults
- Pregnancy or medical condition: tell us before booking
- Each case is assessed; consult your doctor if unsure
Booking and payment
- 50% deposit to book
- Balance due 24 hours before the tour
- Cash, card or PayPal
- Departure subject to availability
Cancellations
In advanceWe can review a date change or refund depending on the time remaining.
24 hours or less beforePayment is non-refundable.
No-showTreated as a non-refundable cancellation.
Weather or safetyWe offer rescheduling or the applicable refund.
No motors, deep in the mangroves
Kayaking through Holbox’s mangroves
Discover a quieter, natural side of Holbox as you paddle through mangrove channels. Before setting out, we prepare the equipment and explain basic paddling techniques and safety.
No experience needed: we use double kayaks, and a certified guide accompanies the group throughout the activity to explain the plants, wildlife and protected ecosystem.
Double kayak · certified guideA peaceful shared experience without motors, subject to weather and water conditions.
Departures6:15 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
DurationApproximately 3 hours
Price$1,000 MXN per person
Tour typeShared · minimum 2 people
CapacityMaximum 10 people
EquipmentDouble kayaks
Minimum ageAge 6 · children with an adult
ChildrenSame price as adults
ExperienceNo paddling experience needed
PickupIncluded, arranged in advance
SeasonYear-round, weather permitting
ArrangementsContact us 24 hours before
Part 01
Preparation and departure
We arrange pickup at least 24 hours in advance. At the kayak area, we adjust the equipment, explain paddling techniques and review safety before entering the water.
Part 02
Entering the mangroves
We paddle about 15–20 minutes to the entrance. The water is usually calm and we adapt the pace to the group, always following the guide.
Part 03
Channels, wildlife and return
We usually spend 1–1.5 hours in the channels. The guide helps you identify birds, vegetation and signs of wildlife before we return along the same route.
Wildlife in the wild: you may see flamingos, crocodiles and other birds depending on the season, but no sighting is guaranteed.
Nature shapes the route: time in the mangroves varies with the group, weather, water level and sightings. The activity only runs when conditions are safe.
Included
- Pickup arranged in advance
- Double kayak and paddles
- Life jacket
- Certified guide
- Water and dry bag
- Protected-area taxes and wristbands
What to bring
- Light clothing or swimsuit
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses with a strap
- Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent
- Footwear that can get wet
- Towel and camera or phone
Not included
- Food
- Tips
- Personal expenses
Children and swimming
- Minimum age: 6
- Children share a kayak with an adult
- Swimming skills are not essential
- Life jackets are required throughout the activity
- Always follow the guide’s instructions
Health and safety
- Not suitable during pregnancy
- Not suitable for people with back problems
- Tell us in advance about any medical condition that could affect your safety
- Consult your doctor before booking if you have any concerns
Booking and payment
- 50% deposit to book
- Balance due 24 hours before the tour
- Cash, card or PayPal
- Departure subject to availability and weather
Cancellations
In advanceWe can review a date change or refund depending on the time remaining.
24 hours or less beforePayment is non-refundable.
No-showTreated as a non-refundable cancellation.
Weather or safetyWe offer rescheduling or the applicable refund.
When the sea lights up the night
Bioluminescence in Holbox
Leave the island’s lights behind to discover a natural phenomenon: tiny flashes appear in the water when movement activates the plankton. Choose a land-based visit to Punta Cocos or a kayak trip to a Punta Mosquito sandbar.
Departure time changes each night as we look for the best darkness. When skies are clear, the guide also shares information about stars and visible constellations.
Two ways to experience the nightA land-based visit to Punta Cocos or kayaking towards Punta Mosquito. Times are confirmed according to the moon.
ScheduleConfirmed for each date according to the moon
PickupIncluded from your hotel or Airbnb
LanguagesBilingual guide · Spanish and English
SeasonYear-round, weather permitting
Land-based$400 MXN per person
Land-based durationApproximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Land-based capacityUp to 4 people per vehicle
Land-based agesAll ages · same price
Kayak before midnight$900 MXN per person
Kayak after midnight$1,400 MXN per person
Kayak duration2–2.5 hours
Kayak group2–10 people per guide
Option 01
Land-based tour at Punta Cocos
We pick you up at your hotel or Airbnb and travel by taxi or 4×4 to Punta Cocos. There, we walk into shallow water to watch the flashes as the guide explains how this phenomenon happens.
When skies are clear, the experience includes extra information about stars and constellations. For larger groups, we arrange several vehicles.
Option 02
Kayaking under the stars
After pickup and a safety briefing, we paddle about 20 minutes to a Punta Mosquito sandbar. We leave the kayaks for 25–35 minutes to observe the water, then paddle back along the same route.
Each guide accompanies up to 5 double kayaks, or 10 people. Families and larger groups can be arranged with several guides, subject to availability.
A natural phenomenon: intensity varies with darkness, moon phase and moonrise, weather and water conditions. Visibility cannot be guaranteed, and departure may change for safety.
Included · land-based
- Pickup and return to your accommodation
- Taxi or 4×4 vehicle
- Bilingual guide
- Explanation of bioluminescence
- Information about constellations when skies allow
- Taxes included
Included · kayak
- Pickup and return to your accommodation
- Bilingual guide
- Double kayak and paddles
- Life jacket
- Water
- Taxes included
What to bring
- Comfortable clothing that can get wet
- Insect repellent
- Dry bag
- Towel
- Footwear suitable for entering the water
- Leave valuables behind
Not included
- Food
- Drinks on the land-based option
- Tips
- Personal expenses
Land-based · ages and health
- Suitable for all ages
- Adults, children and babies pay the same price
- No swimming skills needed
- Pregnant guests and people with back problems may participate if they can walk safely
- Tell us about any medical condition in advance
Kayak · safety
- Minimum age: 6
- Children accompanied by an adult
- No swimming skills needed
- Life jacket required during the activity
- Not suitable during pregnancy or for people with back problems
- Tell us about any medical condition
Booking and payment
- 50% deposit to book
- Balance due 24 hours before the tour
- Cash, card or PayPal
- Time confirmed according to the moon
- Departure subject to availability and weather
Cancellations
In advanceWe can review a date change or refund depending on the time remaining.
24 hours or less beforePayment is non-refundable.
No-showTreated as a non-refundable cancellation.
Weather or safetyWe offer rescheduling or the applicable refund.
From sea to table
Two routes, two ways to taste Holbox.
Both experiences include sharing ceviche when the catch allows. The difference lies in the route and the main activity.
Route 01
Cabo Catoche
An experience combining traditional fishing, snorkeling and the beach. We travel about 45 minutes to our first stop and finish with lunch by the sea at Santa Paula.
Check-in8:20 a.m. at our office
Departure8:30 a.m.
ReturnUsually between noon and 2:00 p.m.
Meeting timeOur office in HolboxOpen location in Google Maps ↗
DurationApproximately 4–6 hours
Shared tour$1,500 MXN per person · minimum 6
Private tour$8,500 MXN for up to 6 people
Additional guest$1,000 MXN per extra guest · maximum 10 guests total
Minimum ageAge 6 · children and adults pay the same price
LanguagesSpanish and English
SeasonYear-round, subject to availability
01
Traditional fishing
After about 45 minutes by boat, we try bottom fishing with handlines. We always aim to catch enough for ceviche, but fishing depends on nature.
02
Snorkeling at Los Cuevones
We head to the snorkeling area. Snorkeling only takes place when visibility and sea conditions are suitable; life jackets are mandatory for everyone.
03
Santa Paula beach
We finish at the beach to relax and share ceviche or guacamole with tostadas made by a local tortilla shop.
The sea decides: the route and snorkeling may change for visibility, waves and safety. Departure is subject to availability and weather. Please check availability before booking.
What to bring
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Shirt for snorkeling
- Cap
- Biodegradable sun protection
Included
- Water and soft drinks
- Ceviche, depending on the day’s catch
- Guacamole and locally made tostadas
- Fishing handlines
- Snorkeling equipment and life jackets
- Captain and guide
Not included
- Breakfast
- Tips
- Taxi to the meeting point
Booking and payment
- Book with a 50% deposit
- The balance must be paid no later than 24 hours before the tour
- Cash, card or PayPal
- The price covers the activity; only the listed exclusions apply
Children and safety
- Minimum age: 6
- Children and adults pay the same price
- For babies, we recommend a private tour and contacting us beforehand
- Non-swimmers may participate with a life jacket and guide assistance
- Life jackets are mandatory while snorkeling
- Pregnant guests cannot participate
Shared group
- A minimum of 6 people is required
- Departure is subject to availability
- If the group does not fill, we’ll let you know and offer to reschedule
Before departure
- The boat has a shade canopy but no restroom
- Tell us about any allergy or dietary restriction in advance
- If you get seasick, consult your doctor beforehand
- Tell us about any medical or mobility condition before booking
Cancellation policy
More than 24 hours beforeWe can review a date change or refund depending on the time remaining.
24 hours or less beforePayment is non-refundable.
Cancellation for weather or safetyYou may reschedule or request a full refund.
First stop
Traditional handline fishing
After about 45 minutes by boat, we try bottom fishing with handlines. The captain and guide explain the technique so everyone can join in, even without experience.
✦ Handlines and equipment included
✦ Captain and guide assistance
✦ The catch is used for the group’s ceviche
Nature sets the pace: the catch varies each day. If we don’t catch enough fish for ceviche, we share guacamole and tostadas instead.
Second stop
Snorkeling at Los Cuevones
An area of turquoise water where, when conditions allow, we pause to explore beneath the surface and enjoy another view of the Caribbean.
Equipment included
Life jacket required
Captain and guide
Activity subject to conditions: snorkeling only takes place if visibility, waves and safety conditions are suitable. The captain and guide decide on the day. Non-swimmers can participate with life jackets and guide assistance.
Final stop
Santa Paula beach
After fishing and snorkeling, we reach Santa Paula to relax by the sea and share ceviche, if the catch allows, or guacamole with locally made tostadas.
The beach and water colors change with the tide and the day’s conditions; every visit offers a different landscape.
From sea to table
The food we prepare at Cabo Catoche
We aim to prepare fresh ceviche from the day’s catch with lime, tomato, onion and cilantro. The catch is not guaranteed; if there is not enough fish, we serve guacamole. The meal comes with tostadas made by a local tortilla shop.
Private experience
Mini Pesca
We leave Holbox for fishing spots chosen according to your preferences, the captain’s advice and sea conditions. We try different spots with rod and reel or traditional handlines.
After fishing, we head to Punta Mosquito or Isla Pasión. While the group enjoys the beach, the captain prepares ceviche to share with guacamole and tostadas.
✦ Rod and reel or handline✦ Punta Mosquito or Isla Pasión✦ Ceviche, guacamole and tostadas
Nature decides: the catch is not guaranteed. If we don’t catch enough fish for ceviche, we serve guacamole and tostadas. The beach stop may change for weather, waves and safety.
DepartureBetween 8:30 and 9:00 a.m.
Check-in10 minutes early at our office
Duration3–4 hours
Tour typePrivate only
Base price$5,500 MXN for up to 4 people
Additional guest$750 MXN per extra guest · maximum 8 guests total
AvailabilityYear-round, weather permitting
Access feesTaxes and wristbands included
Included
- Rod, reel and handlines
- Hooks and bait
- Captain and bilingual guide
- Life jackets
- Water and soft drinks
- Ceviche, guacamole and tostadas
- Taxes and wristbands
What to bring
- Swimsuit and towel
- Cap or hat
- Sunglasses
- Light clothing or long sleeves
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Camera or phone
- Doctor-advised seasickness precautions
Not included
- Breakfast
- Tips
- Taxi to the meeting point
Boat
- Shade canopy
- No restroom
- Maximum 8 passengers
- This limit keeps fishing comfortable and helps prevent tangled lines
Age and safety
- No minimum age
- With small children or babies, consider seasickness and trip length
- Life jacket required while boating
- Pregnant guests cannot participate
- People with back problems cannot participate
Food and allergies
- Tell us about any allergies in advance
- Ceviche depends on the day’s catch
- Guacamole as a vegetarian alternative
- Tostadas served alongside
Booking and payment
- 50% deposit to book
- Full balance due 24 hours before the tour
- Cash, card or PayPal
- Departure subject to availability and weather
Cancellations
In advanceWe can review a date change or refund depending on the time remaining.
24 hours or less beforeNo refunds.
Weather or safetyIf the operator cancels, we offer a date change or refund.
Photography in Holbox
Your story, in the light of Holbox.
I’m Edier Rosado. Alongside helping you discover the island, I also experience it through my camera: a proposal, a couple’s trip or a session just for you.
We plan the location, style and light together, around what you like. I want you to feel at ease and for your photographs to take you back to that moment.
Couples and proposalsSpontaneous moments, proposals and shared memories.
Travel portraitsIndividual sessions, families or friends on the island.
Beach and swimwearNatural photographs with the sea and light of Holbox.
Editorial and intimate portraitsPrivate sessions for adults, with discretion and respect.
Your session, step by step
Everything clear before you book.
30–60 minutesApproximate session length. Outfit changes are welcome within this time.
10–15 photographsA carefully edited final selection. Unedited original files are not included.
Delivery in 3–5 daysEdited photographs delivered via WeTransfer.
Personal quoteBased on your idea, date and number of people.
Payment methodsCash, card, bank transfer and PayPal.
Book with a 50% depositThe deposit confirms and holds your date. The remaining 50% is due at the end of the session.
Where do we meet?
Please come directly to the agreed location. We choose the location or route around your preferences and confirm the exact meeting point and time before the session.
What if I cancel or the weather is bad?
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the session, the deposit is non-refundable. If weather prevents the session, you may reschedule or request a refund.
Will my photographs be published?
No photograph is published without your permission. Intimate sessions are exclusively for adults aged 18 and over and are arranged privately.
A glimpse of your story
Moments that stay with you.
An unexpected proposal, a shared trip or a moment for yourself. Photographs made in Holbox, with room to be you.
Let’s plan together
What would you like to experience in Holbox?
Prepare your request and send it directly to me on WhatsApp. I’ll confirm availability, times and price for your date and group size.
✓Personal recommendation
✓Clear expectations
✓Confirmation before booking
Before departure
Important questions.
No. We work with wildlife in its natural habitat, and conditions change every day. We’ll share the information available before departure and always put safety first.
It depends on visibility, waves and the crew’s assessment. If conditions are unsuitable, we adapt the route.
Not necessarily. You can enter with guide assistance, but life jackets are mandatory for everyone. The final decision always depends on sea conditions and safety.
Fishing depends on nature. We always try to catch enough for ceviche; if there isn’t enough fish, we share guacamole with tostadas made by a local tortilla shop.
The boat has a canopy for shade but no onboard restroom.
The shared tour requires at least six participants and is subject to availability. If the group doesn’t fill, we’ll let you know and offer to reschedule.
Sun-protective clothing, a cap, towel, swimsuit and a willingness to follow instructions. We’ll send a specific list for your activity.
We first check your date, group size and operating conditions. Then you’ll receive availability, pricing and confirmation details.