Visiting Tambo Island in a group: an unforgettable excursion

Located in the heart of the Pontevedra estuary, Tambo Island is an enclave that combines a rich history with a natural environment of great beauty. With a surface area of 28 hectares and a maximum height of 80 metres, this oval-shaped island with its lush vegetation is a place of great attraction. Now, with our shipping company Mar de Ons, it’s possible to visit this island in a group and enjoy a unique experience through a guided excursion. Just write an email to .

Since the island was handed over to the Council of Poio, access has been carefully regulated, allowing entry to small groups, always under the supervision of expert guides. As a result, our team of guides will be with you every step of the way during the excursion, uncovering all the island’s hidden secrets.

Planning a group excursion to Tambo Island involves more than just booking a ticket. As access to the island is restricted, it’s essential to obtain prior authorisation managed by the . This authorisation is compulsory and must be requested in advance and with a confirmed reservation with our ferry company. 

If you are looking for a group trip, our ferry company Mar de Ons will guide you through the entire process, so you don't have to worry about a thing. We will take care of the application for the authorisation to access Tambo Island, which will save you time and avoid possible complications. 

We will also manage the booking of for the boat trip, ensuring that all the details are organised efficiently. This way, you can focus solely on enjoying the experience, with the peace of mind that your group's access and transport are fully coordinated, along with discounted rates. We guarantee you a smooth and comfortable experience from the moment you contact us, by writing to  

Once you have your permit and ferry ticket, all that’s left is to enjoy the experience. The journey begins at the picturesque harbour of , a charming coastal village full of history and beauty. From there, we organise the boat transfers to Tambo Island, providing you and your group with a comfortable, safe and enjoyable experience from the very start.

The guided tour starts as soon as you arrive on the island. Our guides will take you through a meticulously planned tour, giving you detailed information about its history and natural environment. The itinerary is carefully designed to provide visitors with an enriching experience, while also safeguarding the island’s fragile ecosystem.

Tambo Island is a place that offers its visitors an experience that fuses history, nature and culture in a privileged environment. Both the boat trip and the island tour will make this group excursion a memorable experience. 

Although small in size, Tambo Island has a fascinating history dating back to time immemorial. The first signs of human settlement on Tambo date back to the Iron Age, as evidenced by the remains of a hillfort situated at its highest point. This hillfort is one of the island's most notable attractions and the only evidence of its habitation in prehistoric times. 

During the Middle Ages, the island was home to a Benedictine monastery founded by Saint Fructuosus, known as Santa Maria de Gracia. In 1589, the famous privateer Francis Drake destroyed the monastery and threw the statue of the Virgin that was venerated there into the sea. However, legend has it that local fishermen recovered the statue after finding it in their nets. After hiding it and bringing it ashore, they built a chapel in her honour, known as the Virgin of the Renda. Although the remains of the monastery have remained silent over time, the relics that are still preserved form part of the route you will take during the guided tour.

In the 19th century, a lazaretto was established on the island to isolate people with contagious diseases. This facility operated from 1865 until 1879 when it was closed due to protests from the local residents. Today, only its main structure remains, giving a sense of its former size. 

Later, in the 20th century, Tambo was used by the Spanish Navy as a military base until 2002, when it was decommissioned. During the guided tour with our team of professional guides, you can explore their old facilities, such as the underground powder magazine where ammunition was stored.

Tambo Island is not just history. Its natural beauty is also an undeniable attraction. The island has two stunning fine sandy beaches – Area da Illa and A Dreirá – surrounded by crystal clear waters and abundant vegetation, offering the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the scenery. During the guided tour, you won’t be able to access them for swimming, but you can visit them on your own to go for a stroll and enjoy the scenery. 

Tambo Island’s biodiversity is another of its great treasures. Recent studies have revealed a remarkable botanical richness, doubling the number of known plant species in the area. This wealth of vegetation makes Tambo a place of great interest for nature lovers and photographers.

 Along with its natural wealth, the island is home to a valuable feature: the Tenlo Chico lighthouse. It was inaugurated in 1922 and remains in operation. At 38 metres above sea level, this lighthouse is located on a natural promontory at the southern tip of the island. Situated in a prime location, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pontevedra estuary, making it an iconic landmark of the island’s landscape. 

As you can see, Tambo Island is a hidden treasure in the Rías Baixas that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From its fascinating history to its stunning natural surroundings, this place is perfect for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature. Organise your group excursion with Mar de Ons and uncover the secrets of this magical corner. Be sure to make your reservation in advance and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! 

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at comercial@mardeons.com.