Traveling to Spain Amid Wildfires: The Latest Travel Advice and What Tourists Need to Know

Published on August 20, 2025

Spain is grappling with one of the most intense wildfire seasons in recent history, driven by soaring temperatures that have reached up to 45°C (113°F). As wildfires continue to ravage parts of the country, particularly in the Galicia and Extremadura regions, tourists planning to visit Spain must be aware of the increasing risks and updated travel advisories.

The British Foreign Office recently updated its travel advice for Spain, warning of “very high or extreme” fire risks in many regions. Despite the ongoing threat, Spain remains open to visitors, and major UK airports continue to operate flights to popular destinations like Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga. However, travelers are advised to exercise caution, especially in areas prone to wildfires.

Key Tourist Areas Affected by Wildfires

The wildfire threat is most pronounced in the northwestern regions of Galicia and Extremadura, both of which have experienced intense fires over the past few days. Local authorities, including firefighters and soldiers, are working tirelessly to control the blazes, but the situation remains dire. Small towns, particularly in rural areas, have been hardest hit, and evacuation efforts are ongoing.

While the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca, popular with British tourists, have not been significantly impacted by the fires, visitors to rural Spain should remain vigilant. The Foreign Office highlights that the risk of wildfires is especially high in forested and woodland areas, particularly during the summer months, which can affect both local populations and tourists.

Heatwave and Fire Danger Remains

Although the extreme heat is expected to subside in the coming days, the risk of wildfires persists. According to Spain’s National Weather Agency (AEMET), the regions of Galicia, Extremadura, and parts of Andalusia remain on high alert due to ongoing heat and drought conditions. Tourists are urged to be cautious of their surroundings, particularly when visiting forested or rural areas.

The current fire season has already burned more than 382,000 hectares of land in Spain, which is more than six times the average for the same period between 2006 and 2024. While the fires continue to affect parts of northern Spain, the ongoing crisis also poses significant risks for tourists exploring Spain’s natural landscapes and popular destinations.

Safety Guidelines for Tourists

For those planning to travel to Spain, it is essential to follow these safety guidelines:

• Stay informed: Keep updated on fire alerts and weather conditions. Regularly check AEMET (Spanish Meteorological Agency) for the latest forecasts and warnings.
• Avoid high-risk areas: If possible, avoid traveling to rural or woodland areas during high fire-risk periods. Pay attention to local authorities’ advice on safe routes.
• Report any sightings: If you notice any fire or smoke, report it immediately to emergency services at the number 112.
• Take extra precautions: Avoid lighting barbecues in forested areas and ensure that cigarette butts and other materials are properly extinguished.
• Follow local regulations: Be aware of local fire safety laws, which include strict fines for those caught lighting fires or barbecues in forest areas.

Quick Tips for Tourists:

• Plan your travel itinerary around high-risk areas and avoid rural, forested regions if possible.
• Consider indoor activities or coastal tourism instead of venturing into fire-prone areas.
• If traveling to popular destinations like Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca, ensure you’re aware of any local safety advice.
• Always have an emergency plan and keep a charged mobile phone for any unexpected situations.

Impact on Spain’s Tourism Industry

The ongoing wildfires, coupled with the heatwave, have created challenges for Spain’s tourism industry. While major tourist hubs like Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca remain unaffected, areas in the north and rural Spain have seen a significant decline in visitors, as safety concerns dominate.

Despite the crisis, Spain remains one of the most visited destinations for British tourists, with over 18 million visits recorded last year. While the updated Foreign Office advice has not deterred flights, potential tourists are being more cautious, especially those visiting areas prone to wildfires.

Local businesses in the affected regions face disruptions due to the evacuations and ongoing fires. Tourism-related businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators may see cancellations, especially as international media coverage heightens concerns about safety.

Official Government Guidance for Travelers

The Spanish government continues to provide support to the affected regions, deploying additional firefighting units and even accepting assistance from neighboring countries. The military and emergency services have been working around the clock to contain the fires and assist in evacuations.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has spoken out about the role of climate change in exacerbating the fire risks, noting the growing frequency of such extreme weather events. His statements echo the warnings of scientists who emphasize the link between climate change and the increased intensity of wildfires in Southern Europe.

Conclusion

As Spain continues to battle the devastating wildfires, travelers must remain aware of the risks and exercise caution when visiting the country. While Spain’s popular tourist spots like Costa del Sol remain unaffected, those planning to visit rural regions or areas in the north should monitor fire risks closely. By following official safety guidelines and staying informed, tourists can minimize risks while enjoying their vacations in Spain.

For more information, tourists should regularly check updates from the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and the British Foreign Office for the latest advisories.

Additional Information for Tourists:

• Wildfire Risk Information: Always check the AEMET website for real-time fire alerts and weather conditions.
• Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers wildfire-related disruptions or evacuations.

This article follows updated travel advice from reliable sources, including government sites, ensuring tourists receive accurate and helpful information.