Planning to plunge deep
into the sea and meet whale sharks on your next holidays? Diving around the
island paradise of Holbox ("black hole" in Yucatan Maya) provides a
great experience for those interested in this extraordinary activity. Situated
in the state of Quintana Roo, close to Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Holbox is a
charming and picturesque island, a small hidden paradise with spectacular white
sand beaches and soft waves of crystal clear water. The island is approximately
12 kilometers long and 1.5 kilometers wide, and it is detached from the land by
a surface lagoon that is home to flamingos, pelicans and other rich birdlife. Holbox
is an enchanted place where unique landscapes full of exotic species blend with
unpaved streets of white sand surrounded by charming Caribbean houses. Apart
from its beaches and the landscape, Holbox offers amazing diving sites to
snorkel with whale sharks, an experience that will make your stay
unforgettable.
To access the island, you
can use the ferry that departs from the small city of Chiquila, or the airline
that flies from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Holbox has virtually no cars,
indeed most residents and tourists use the golf cart or just walk. The island
is currently developing an increasing tourist industry, deriving mainly from viewing
or snorkeling with whale sharks. Visitors can see the whale shark from a pretty
close distance and the bolder ones can enjoy swimming with this docile species
in the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean, surrounded by their natural environment.
These huge sea creatures are found near the coast. Once there, the experience
is just invaluable! You float quietly; until the whales fell you are there and
slowly swim towards you. Or maybe you are just snorkeling and suddenly a whale
shark rises from below to see you. These sharks have slow movements, very close
to the surface, which allows swimmers to interact with this beautiful species
up close in safety. Either way, it's an experience to cherish and remember.
The island features
different tour operators that provide this service during an unforgettable tour
available on the island. During the tour, visitors can watch, swim and snorkel
with the whale shark, a species that visits the island every year from May to
the first days of September. Depending on the travel agency, prices to enjoy
this great experience start approximately at $160 US$, and generally include
boat transportation, water, soft drinks, beer, sun glasses and towel,
sandwiches and ceviche, photographer on board, and the necessary snorkel
equipment. You shouldn’t forget to take
your sunblock and a cap or hat to protect yourself from the sun!
The scuba diving and snorkeling around Holbox is unforgettable. No matter if you are a new or an
adventurous diver, you can
snorkel in warm waters, surrounded by a charming scene with all kinds of
tropical fish. You can just watch the amazing whale sharks or have an
unforgettable snorkeling experience with them. Whatever your option is,
you will find vibrant colorful coral, marine life and the immaculate turquoise
water that the Caribbean is well known for. You won't forget the
experience!
Verónica Torres
