How to get to the Cíes Islands in winter

The Cíes Islands, belonging to the Atlantic Islands of Galicia Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, are a natural paradise situated in the Ría de Vigo estuary. They are known for their impressive beauty and natural biodiversity. Although most tourists visit these islands in summer, many people opt to explore this destination in winter and discover its paths and most special corners. In this article, we explain how to get to the Cíes Islands in autumn and winter and enjoy their peace and quiet and natural charm.

It’s worth highlighting that, during the low season (between September 15th and May 15th, with the exception of Easter), the authorisation required to visit the Cíes Islands is not acquired individually via the internet since it is not available for visitors at this time of year. Instead, ferry companies, like Mar de Ons, handle the authorisations directly. On , you will be able to check the ports and times available and book your tickets to the Cíes Islands, with a guided tour. Subsequently, in order for us to be able to obtain your authorisation to visit the Cíes Islands, you need to send your details to . If your trip to the Cíes Islands is a group visit (school trip, association outing, etc.), then you should send an email to to arrange this. 

Visiting the Cíes Islands in winter has several advantages. Firstly, the peace and quiet of its paths and beaches, where you can experience nature in all its splendour. Secondly, the temperatures and climate can be ideal for enjoying its wonderful paths and taking beautiful photographs from its viewpoints and cliffs. At this time of year, many avid photography visit the Cíes Islands to capture their essence and observe their native flora and fauna. 

The diversity of the and and on the Cíes Islands is impressive at any time of year, but winter allows you to observe species that can’t be seen in summer. Migratory birds, for example, find refuge on the islands during these colder months: wintering birds or migratory birds such as the Great Cormorant, gannet, Balearic shearwater, guillemot and Sandwich tern. In addition, the vegetation changes, offering a different and stunning landscape. It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy

In winter, there are more limited options for reaching the Cíes Islands than in summer, given that departures don’t take place daily like they do during the high season. You can catch the boat to the Cíes Islands from different ports (Cangas or Vigo) and at different times, which you can check at . Once you have purchased your tickets, which include a guided tour of the Cíes Islands, you should send your personal details to the email address so we can arrange your authorisation to visit the islands, since this is a National Park and the number of visitors allowed is limited. On significant dates, like public holidays or at weekends, make sure you book your tickets in advance, since they usually sell out quickly. 

Although water activities are less common in winter and sunbathing or swimming are unusual because of the weather, there are other ways to enjoy the Cíes Islands during the low season. 

The Cíes Islands have several hiking trails that offer impressive panoramic views. The paths are well signposted and vary in difficulty, so there are options to suit all levels. There are four trails on the Cíes Islands: the  Faro de Cíes (Cíes Lighthouse) trail, with a fantastic view of Rodas Beach, the Alto do Príncipe trail, with spectacular cliffs, the Faro da Porta (Porta Lighthouse) trail, which will enable you to see the Island of San Martiño and the Faro do Peito (Peito Lighthouse) trail, where you will be able to see wooded areas, an ancient settlement and an ornithological observatory. 

They are all suitable for both beginners and experts. Although the trails aren’t very long, it is worth taking time to enjoy them without rushing, so you can stop to observe every detail along the way or enjoy a rest. Additionally, you should wear suitable clothing for walking, warm clothing and everything you need for hiking: water, sun cream, hat, plasters, etc. 

As well as hiking, you simply must stop to admire the fauna and flora of the Cíes Islands since it is so unique and special. You will be able to observe migratory birds on the cliffs that can only be seen at this time of year. Bear in mind that this is a National Park and that you should preserve and look after the surroundings: you must not make noise, disturb or feed the animals, you should not drop litter, etc. To enjoy ornithology tourism, we recommend you take some binoculars with you.

The natural beauty of the Cíes Islands is a dream for photographers. The winter landscapes, with their soft lighting and more subtle colours, offer unique opportunities to capture spectacular images. Don’t forget to take your camera and ensure the battery is charged, since you will want to capture every corner of this paradise.

If you are looking for peace and quiet, winter is the perfect time to visit the Cíes Islands. Their sea breeze and the sound of the waves create the perfect setting for a relaxing day, in harmony with nature. Take a good book, warm clothing and relax while you listen to the sounds of the sea.

The climate on the Cíes Islands can be unpredictable, so it is essential that you take everything you need with you: warm clothing, suitable footwear for walking and a waterproof in case it rains. We also advise taking food and drink, since the services on the islands are limited in winter. 

Although the Cíes Islands are a safe place, it’s always good to take some precautions. Inform someone of your itinerary and make sure you have your mobile phone with you with a charged battery. Respect the rules of the National Park and don’t stray from the signposted paths. 

We take care of the safety on board our boats, since all our vessels are equipped with the latest technological advances in relation to safety and quality of the services on board. The safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority. 

The Cíes Islands are a protected space, so protecting the natural environment is essential. Don’t leave litter, don’t disturb the fauna and follow the instructions of the park authorities. Your behaviour must help to preserve this area for future generations.

Visiting the Cíes Islands in winter is a magical experience, even during the festive season, which is so famous in Vigo. With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy an unforgettable holiday in this Galician paradise. So don’t hesitate any longer and organise your trip to the Cíes Islands this winter with our Ferry Company, Mar de Ons.  Remember that during the low season we also offer departures to different destinations in the Rias Baixas, including the Island of Ons, the Island of Tambo and the Island of San Simón. Our will offer you a unique experience on these islands.