This Mexican island is located in the state of Quintana Roo, in the east of the country. Therefore, the coast is bathed by the Caribbean Sea, its endless beaches with fine white sand and crystalline water. It is located 20 minutes by ferry from Chiquilá, the closest town to the island from the mainland.
Holbox is very special and unique. There are no cars on its streets, you will only find golf cars, which are the main transportation on the island. In any case, it is not very large, therefore, you can walk to many places. It is 34 km long and 2 km wide, although in a large part there are only trees and vegetation. Keep reading to find out all the curiosities of this island to visit during your international volunteering.
Discovering the interior of this Mexican island
Its streets are made of white sand. The houses are small and many of them are painted with bright colors and graffiti of animals that live in the area or of children playing. In addition, you can walk through the center to see the little shops, restaurants and bars that are on this beautiful island.
There is a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for resting and lying on the beach and appreciating the incredible beaches and vegetation of the island. You can also walk through the water, since near the shore on some beaches the water does not cover above your ankles. This is due to the large sandbanks there are. The sunsets are incredible; Sunlight reflects on the water and transforms it into a yellowish-orange color. In addition, the protruding sandbanks create spectacular views. It will surely be one of the strong points of your volunteering in America.
The climate on this island is warm and it is hot during most months of the year, the average temperature is 26.4ºC. The low season coincides with the period of rain and hurricanes, which is during the months of July to October, and on some occasions the island can close due to rainfall.
What activities can you do on this island as an international volunteer?
Observe the whale shark
One of the activities that can be done from July to September is to see and swim with the whale shark. This fish is the largest in the world and measures approximately 12 meters. It is completely harmless to humans, since it is not aggressive and feeds on phytoplankton, algae, squid larvae and small sardines. Swimming next to this gigantic animal is an unforgettable and very impressive experience.
Experience the phenomenon of marine bioluminescence
The phenomenon of bioluminescence occurs due to the luciferase enzyme produced by organisms. When this enzyme reacts with oxygen, it emits energy in the form of light. In order to see this light energy it must be done in a dark place, for this reason it is done at night. To see it you must shake the water, since this movement activates the reaction that gives rise to this phenomenon. You can see how a light appears in the water that contrasts with the darkness of the night. It seems magical, since it lights up just by moving the water.
Visit nearby islands and beaches
If you want to take an excursion to see more beaches, but your goal is to relax, lie on the sand and observe the immensity of the Caribbean Sea, a great option is Isla Pasión, which is very close to Holbox.
On the other hand, if you want to see the birds that live in the area, on the bird island you will find herons, pelicans, ducks, seagulls and beautiful pink flamingos, these animals are in total freedom. Therefore, in order not to alter their habitat, they can only be observed from the enabled viewpoints. More than 150 different species of birds can be seen throughout the year, they usually hide among mangroves, which is their natural habitat.
Do activities on the island
We also found many activities to do on the island. You can rent a bike and explore the island, discover the wonderful beaches of Holbox and enjoy the ride. There are also raccoons and flamingos on the same island, so you may come across some animals during your stay.
In addition, you can relax in Holbox’s characteristic hammocks, which are located on the seashore. On these hammocks you will find the name of the island written in happy and striking colors.
You can’t leave without having tried the delicious lobster pizza, it is very characteristic of the island. At first it was only found in one restaurant, but now you can find this pizza in most establishments.
Don’t hesitate and discover this Caribbean paradise during your volunteering in Mexico!