Islas Cíes Campsite

F.A.Q

We answer the most common questions and doubts among our clients.

  • What do I need to do to camp on the Cíes Islands?

    First, you must make a reservation through the Reservations section on our website. Select your type of camping, the number of people, and fill in all the required information. Please note that to confirm your reservation, you will need to pay for the first night in advance. If your reservation includes more than one night, the remaining amount will be paid on the island at check-in.

    Once your reservation is complete, you will receive a confirmation email from the campsite with the details of your stay and your invoice. Additionally, your reservation includes the management of the authorization from the Xunta de Galicia, which you will receive automatically by email.

    With this pre-reservation document, you can purchase your boat tickets. The campsite reservation guarantees access to the island throughout the day, but we recommend booking your boat ticket in advance at:

  • When is the campsite open?

    Our campsite generally operates in two separate periods. First, during the Easter season, and second, from May 15th to September 15th. The reservation system opens on March 1st each year and only accepts bookings for the current year.

  • Do I need a permit for my stay on the island?

    To protect and preserve the environment, the capacity of the National Park is limited and regulated by the Xunta de Galicia. As a result, everyone traveling to the island must have a permit to visit the Cíes Islands.

    If you have a reservation with our campsite, we will handle your permit, so you do not need to take any additional steps beyond booking your stay.

  • How will I receive my permit?

    You will receive your permit from the email address nonresponder@xunta.gal. Initially, the document you receive will be called a "PRE-RESERVA DE VISITA" and is not yet the final authorization. This pre-reservation includes an alphanumeric code starting with ILLASR… and covers all the people listed in your reservation, although you will also receive an individual code for any person traveling at different dates or times.

    Once you purchase your tickets, you will receive a new email from the same address containing your final authorizations. These will include a QR code for each camper, which must be shown when boarding the boat or whenever requested by the Xunta staff. You do not need to print these, but you should have them accessible on your mobile device at all times.

  • When will I receive my permit?

    The Xunta does not allow pre-reservations more than 90 days in advance of the travel date. If you book earlier than this, you will need to wait until this period is met. This process is not immediate and may take a few days after reaching the mentioned date to receive your codes. If you book closer to the travel date, you will receive your permit almost immediately upon completing your reservation.

    Campers with reservations have guaranteed access to the island, as they are within the capacity reserved for camping guests. However, if you wish to travel on a specific boat (especially the early morning ones), we recommend booking a few weeks in advance.

  • Can I book multiple rental tents with one reservation?

    Unfortunately, it is not possible to make a single reservation for multiple rental tents, so you will need to book each tent separately. Generally, if you make all reservations consecutively, you will be assigned adjacent tents. If this is not the case, please contact us at info@campingislascies.com, and we will try to group you together, although changes are subject to availability. To streamline the process, we recommend using the same contact email for all reservations.

  • How do I handle changes or cancellations to my reservation?

    To cancel a reservation with a refund of the deposit, or to make any changes, you must notify us at least 7 days before your arrival date by sending an email to info@campingislascies.com. Please note that date changes are always subject to availability.

    Any changes or cancellations requested less than 7 days in advance will not be eligible for a refund of the first night's fee. In cases of force majeure, such as health issues, you can recover the first night's fee by providing an official document via email. Adverse weather conditions are not considered force majeure unless the ferry companies cancel trips to the island. In such cases, you will receive a refund for your payment.

  • Can I change my assigned tent?

    Tents are assigned in order of reservation, with those closest to the lake being assigned first. This ensures a fair system where customers who book early get the best views.

    If you wish to change your tent number, please note that we can only assign tents with a higher number than your current one, as the lower numbers will be occupied. If you have special circumstances, such as reduced mobility or the need for a CPAP machine, please email us at info@campingislascies.com, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

  • How are plots assigned if I bring my own tent?

    If you bring your own tent, you can choose your plot from those available. Just place the number given at reception on the outside of your tent so we can locate you if necessary.

  • What should we consider if coming with children?

    Camping with children on the Cíes Islands is an unforgettable adventure! Remember to bring warm clothing for the nights, high-factor sunscreen, and insect repellent. Each day, we organize fun activities for children, promoting values like respect for nature and teamwork. These activities are free and available in the morning and afternoon. Check our "Activities" section for more details.

  • Are there power outlets on the plots?

    Rental tents and plots for personal tents do not have access to electricity. If you need a CPAP machine, please email us at info@campingislascies.com, and we will assign you a tent or plot with power access. Note that the outlets are not for other devices and are active only between 10:00 PM and 9:00 AM.

  • Can we use camping gas or barbecues?

    The National Park regulations prohibit making fires, so barbecues and campfires are not allowed. However, you can use camping gas in our campsite, which must be used outside your tent. The ferry companies do not allow gas bottles on board, but you can rent or buy them at the campsite reception. Please bring all other necessary equipment.

  • Is there a place to leave luggage after checking out?

    For rental tent guests, we have a space to leave your luggage after checkout, which is before 12:00 PM. Guests with personal tents can use an outdoor area for tents and backpacks. These areas are not monitored, so we advise against leaving valuables, as the campsite is not responsible for any losses or thefts.

  • Are there hot showers?

    Our campsite has hot showers. Due to water scarcity on the island, showers are limited by tokens provided at check-in. You can add more time with 10 or 20-cent coins. We encourage responsible water use. The showers are available from 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM, and we recommend avoiding peak times from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

  • Can I pay with a card on the island?

    All island establishments accept card payments, except for activities, which must be paid in cash.

  • Is there a place to dispose of waste?

    Our campsite has two specific points to leave your waste. Please do not leave trash or food outside your tent, as seagulls can make a mess.

  • What is the weather like? What clothing is recommended?

    During summer, daytime temperatures range from 20 to 27 degrees Celsius. Nights can be cool, so bring warm clothing and a sleeping bag. Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, high SPF sunscreen, and mosquito repellent for the best experience.

  • Are pets allowed?

    Pets are not allowed on the island to preserve the natural environment.

  • Is there Wi-Fi at the campsite?
    This is the perfect place to disconnect from technology and connect with nature. We do not have Wi-Fi at the campsite. Enjoy outdoor activities and quality time with loved ones. The most important connection here is the one you will have with nature!
  • Are there lockers at the Maritime Station?
    At the Vigo Maritime Station, Vigo Lockers provides a 24-hour locker service where you can safely store your luggage and other items while you visit the Cíes Islands. For more information and reservations, visit: https://www.vigolockers.com/