Tour the Mangroves in Kayak by Isla Holbox

Holbox is known for its beaches and its unhurried atmosphere, but one of the island's better-kept secrets is its mangroves. This kayak tour takes you into them in a double kayak, with a bilingual, certified local guide, and heads for the less-visited corners of the island. The whole outing lasts 210 minutes, of which about 180 are spent on the water.

The route follows the channels of the mangrove system, where the water is calm and the scenery is a mix of canals and vegetation. Because you paddle through the rivers and not along the open coast, the pace is quiet, which makes it easier to notice what is around you.

Along the way you can watch for the wildlife of the area. The operator mentions birds, manta rays and crocodiles among the species that can be seen while navigating the mangrove waterways. As with any wildlife outing, what you actually see depends on the day, so treat the list as what the area offers, not as a checklist.

The tour suits people who like nature and are comfortable paddling for a few hours. Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness. It is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, for pregnant travelers, or for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel are part of the price, so the operator asks you to say in advance which hotel or Airbnb you are staying in, and your room number, so they can schedule the pick-up. The double kayak, oars and life vests are provided, as are bottled water and fruit, and the guide travels with you.

Public transportation options are available nearby, though with hotel transfers included you will likely not need them for this outing.