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How to visit the Cies Islands in Galicia – 3 steps guide

Cies Islands

cies islands

Visiting the Cíes: Step by Step Guide

1. Obtain Visit Authorization for the Cíes Islands

Since 2018, it’s essential to request permission from the Xunta de Galicia to access the Cíes Islands. This authorization must be arranged in advance, specifying the desired date for the visit. It’s a free process that requires filling out a form with the names, surnames, and identification numbers (ID) of the visitors.

Note: If you are staying at the campsite, the authorization will be processed automatically

2. Buy Boat Ticket

Once you have authorization, it is possible to purchase a ticket to travel to the Cíes Islands. This must be done through shipping companies authorized by the Xunta de Galicia.

3. Present the Authorization upon Arrival at the Cíes Islands

Authorization to Visit the Cíes Islands from the Xunta de Galicia

Before purchasing the boat ticket, it is necessary to obtain the corresponding authorization to enter the Cíes Islands. If planning to stay overnight at the campsite and travel by ferry, the authorization will be processed automatically when booking the spot.

The procedure is simple and is done on the official website of the Xunta de Galicia, selecting the date of visit and entering the visitors’ information to the National Park of the Atlantic Islands (Cíes Islands).

Steps to Obtain Authorization and Purchase Tickets to the Cíes Islands:

1. Authorization Request

  • Access the form on the Xunta de Galicia website
  • Fill out the form with the applicant’s and companions’ information, including names, surnames, and identification documents. A maximum of 10 visitors per applicant is allowed.
  • The system will send the official document in PDF format with the authorization to the provided email, which includes a QR code for each visitor.
    Upon arrival at the islands, visitors must show the QR codes of the permit to the surveillance personnel.
REQUEST FORM

2. Ticket purchase

The authorization allows you to access the islands, but it’s necessary to purchase a boat ticket from a authorized shipping company.

BUY TICKETS

The procedure varies depending on the date of visit:

Visit Until June 30:

  • Complete the authorization form on the Xunta website.
  • Receive authorization by email.
  • Afterwards, buy the ticket.
  • If you do not want to visit the island, you can cancel the authorization if you have not purchased the ticket.

Visit after June 30:

  • Complete the authorization form on the Xunta website.
  • Receive a provisional reservation code by email.
  • You must purchase the ticket within 2 hours from the authorization request. If you don’t buy the ticket within that timeframe, the reservation code will be canceled, and you’ll need to request another one.
  • Once you’ve purchased the ticket from the authorized shipping company, you’ll receive the final authorization via email or you can download it from the Xunta’s website.

3. Present the Authorization upon Arrival at the Cíes Islands

Keep the authorization document to show it to the island authorities upon arrival by boat. You can choose to display it from your mobile phone or print it on paper.

Important Tips:

  • Authorization can be obtained up to 30 days in advance.
  • Check the calendar on the website to see the days available and the places available.
  • Maximum 10 places per applicant.
  • The authorization is valid only for the selected day.
  • You must purchase the ticket from an authorized shipping company in addition to obtaining authorization.
  • Save the authorization document in PDF to view it from your mobile or print it.
  • If you are staying at the campsite, the authorization will be processed automatically when you reserve.
  • For more information, contact the Xunta de Galicia or the National Park offices.

Regular Transportation to the Cíes Islands

Transportation Organized Groups and Educational Visits

Transportation Organized Groups and Educational Visits

Regular Transportation to the Cíes Islands

Camping Islas Cíes

Camping Islas Cíes

Camping in the Cíes Islands: An Unforgettable Natural Experience

The Cíes Islands campsite is strategically located just 800 meters from the Rodas beach pier, at the beginning of the central island, also known as Monte del Faro island, next to the charming «Lago dos Nenos».

This cozy campsite, classified as second category, extends over more than 10,000 square meters of wooded land, divided into areas with space to pitch your own tent and other areas with rental tents. In addition, the campsite has accessible facilities for people with disabilities.

Services offered to campers include:

  • Rental of tents, single or double, equipped with beds
  • Free WIFI access
  • Free charging of mobile devices and batteries
  • Toilet and shower facilities
  • Supermarket and restaurant to satisfy your gastronomic needs
  • Snorkel and kayak equipment rental to explore the marine surroundings
  • Surveillance service to guarantee your safety
  • Social room with television and board games for entertainment
  • Reception to answer your questions and requests
  • Large green areas to enjoy nature

The Cíes campsite opens its doors during Holy Week and in the summer period, from June 1 to the third week of September.

Reservation and Information:

To reserve your place at the Cíes campsite or for more details, visit the campsite’s official website at:

www.campingislascies.com