Why book this trip?
Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, walking the legendary Camino Frances (French Way) from Leon to Santiago de Compostela. Walk through beautiful scenery and historic towns along the best parts of the route to claim a pilgrim's certificate.
- Cruz de Ferro - The famous Iron Cross at the highest point of the Camino
- O Cebreiro - Charming mountain village with cobbled streets, round stone thatched houses and picturesque valley views
- Santiago De Compostela - Lively historic town, mix with other pilgrims and feel a real sense of comradery
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Included meals
Breakfast: 11
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Trip staff
Explore Tour Leader
Driver(s)
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Transport
Bus
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Accommodation
11 nights comfortable hotel
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Walking grade:
Moderate
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Group Size:
Trip maximum 16
Explore Average 11
Walking the Camino de Santiago
View Map
Itinerary
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.
cds-2023
- Day 1 - Join trip in Madrid
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Arrive in Madrid, the Capital of Spain home to elegant boulevards, manicured parks, cultural museums and fantastic markets.
For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 7pm for the welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Madrid at any time. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive at Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) which is around 20 minutes' drive from the hotel. Should you miss the meeting, your leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up.
If your flight arrives earlier in the day, perhaps you might choose to explore the city, wandering the back streets in search of tucked away tapas bars. There vast 19th century El Retiro Park is good place for a leisurely walk, past rose gardens and statues to the boating lake.
Accommodation:
Hotel Porcel Ganivet (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: None
- Day 2 - Walking tour of Leon
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We will travel together as a group to Leon, a three-and-a-half hour drive. Leon is a great city with a wonderful sense of history reflected in it architecture. It is also an important waypoint on the famous Camino de Santiago.
After settling into our hotel we'll have a walking tour of this interesting city. The city's main attractions are its beautiful Gothic cathedral with its unique stained glass windows and the Romanesque San Isidoro church. However there is lots more to discover, including the picturesque old quarter and the brass scallop shells set in the pavement that mark the route of the Camino de Santiago through the city.
Accommodation:
Hostal Albany (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 3 - Walk from Hospital de Orbigo to Astorga
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Today, after ensuring we have our Pilgrim Passports we drive to Hospital de Orbigo, famous for its 13th century bridge. We commence our trek from here, with a walk on the Meseta (the Castilian high plateau) to Astorga, home to the magnificent Bishop's Palace designed by Antoni Gaudi.
Our first walk covers 16 kilometres over approximately four hours. The terrain is gently undulating with a total ascent and descent of 200 metres.
Accommodation:
Hotel Gaudi (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 4 - Ascend to the Iron Cross (1,482 m); descend to Molinaseca
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We leave the high plateau of the Meseta behind us as we drive a short distance into the mountains to the near- abandoned village of Foncebadon. From here we walk, following the scallop shell markings, up to the famous Cruz de Ferro (Iron Cross), the highest point of the Camino at 1,482m. This is one of the most significant points on the route, for centuries pilgrims have left a stone brought from home, an offering they hope will give them protection for the rest of the pilgrimage. From here we can see the mountains of Galicia in the distance. The rest of our day is spent descending (steep in places) and we finally arrive in the small village of Molinaseca with its impressive Roman bridge. Here we meet our bus and transfer the short distance to our hotel in Villafranca del Bierzo. Villafranca del Bierzo was once an important medieval town and is home to some spectacular churches, including the Romanesque Church of Santiago.
Today's 19 kilometre walk is expected to take around five hours with 100 metres of ascent and 930 metres of descent. We ascend to 1,482 metres then gently descend along mountain trails.
Accommodation:
Hostal Casa Mendez (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 5 - Walk to the pretty mountain village of O Cebreiro
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After a short drive to the start of today's walk we continue along the Camino, following the course of the Valcarce River through the valley. This has been the route between Galicia and Castile since ancient times, passing through the small hamlets of Las Herrerias and Ruitelan to the border between Galicia and Leon. Here we come to one of the highlights of our walk, the unusual village of O Cebreiro, a tiny wind battered settlement of stone houses set high above a patchwork quilt of green valleys. The village is famous for its 'pallozas' - traditional circular, thatch-roofed houses. Once in O Cebreiro we have time to relax and explore the village before meeting our bus for the drive to Sarria. En route there is the option to visit Samos Monastery, still an active retreat, and a landmark of the Camino.
Today's nine kilometre walk is expected to take around three hours with 750 metres of ascent and descent. Walking on unmade mountain path gradually uphill for most of the day and far from road access.
Accommodation:
Hotel Duerming Villa Sarria (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 6 - Pass the famous 100 km landmark
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From Sarria we continue on foot through Galicia, traversing a terrain of rolling hills in the most verdant of Spain's regions. Passing the hamlet of Ferreiros we reach the famous 100km landmark, for so long a magical moment for weary pilgrims. It is here that they can re-gather their strength, knowing that it was now only another three or four days to go to Santiago. Nowadays this waypoint marks the limit from where one has to walk continuously to Santiago in order to get the 'Compostela', the official pilgrim's certificate. This afternoon we reach Portomarin, once a splendid medieval village, which was relocated by Franco to make way for a reservoir. Remnants of the town's more prosperous days can still be seen amongst its narrow streets, such as the attractive Romanesque San Pedro church.
Today's 22 kilometre walk is expected to take around five-and-a-half hours with 64o metres of ascent and 300 metres of descent. The terrain is mainly unmade paths through hilly countryside.
Accommodation:
Hotel Vistalegre (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 7 - Descend to Palas de Rei
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Today we start by crossing part of the reservoir on a disused railway bridge. Then the trail continues gradually uphill, passing the 80km mark near Castromaior village. In the vicinity is Casa Carneiro, in medieval times a night stop for 'VIP' pilgrims such as Charles V the emperor who stayed here in 1520 on his way to his coronation, and King Philipp II a few years later on his way to marry Mary Tudor in England. We reach our last high pass (722m) just before Ligonde, and continue on through undulating hills, Eucalyptus trees and Cruceiros (the stone crosses typical of Galicia), to gently descend to our night stop at Palas de Rei, an important pilgrim town.
Today's 22 kilometre walk is expected to take around six hours with 410 metres of ascent and 300 metres of descent. We ascend up to the pass (722 m) and then continuing on unmade paths through gently undulating hills.
Accommodation:
Hotel la Cabana (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
(Video) What it’s like to hike the Camino de Santiago 2022 (5 days on the Camino Frances)Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 8 - Hike through rural Galicia; cross the medieval bridge near Melide
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Leaving the town behind, the Camino now takes us through idyllic rural Galicia, passing farmland and beautiful countryside. We walk through an oak grove to A Coruna, and cross a medieval bridge with four arches to reach Melide. Today is a good day for trying some traditional Galician dishes, specifically the famous 'pulpo a la Gallega octopus' for which the village of Melide is renowned, and maybe some of the excellent local white wine from the Riberas Baixas region near Pontevedra.Tonight we stay in a typical Galician farmhouse, where dinner can be taken.
Today's 22.5 kilometre walk is expected to take around six hours with 350 metres of ascent and 450 metres of descent. The terrain is rural paths through farmland and gently undulating hillsides.
Accommodation:
Hotel Pazo de Sedor (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 9 - Walk through local villages en route to El Amenal
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Santiago is getting closer! Today you will pass many 'horreos', typical barns of the region that dot this beautiful countryside. We will also start to see more signs that we are nearing Santiago, including many pilgrim villages. Crossing the River Iso we arrive to Arzua where the Camino Frances (French Way) that we have been following, and Camino del Norte (North Way or Camino Primitivo) meet - Arzua is also known in the region for its local soft cheese. Today we pass many pilgrim sites including pilgrim Guillermo Watt's memorial; he died here whilst on the pilgrimage and his shoes can be found in the stone wall. We can also stop at Santa Irene chapel to see statues of Saint James. We arrive to the small village of El Amenal and our hotel for the night.
Today's 27.5 kilometre walk is expected to take around seven-and-a-half hours with 400 metres of ascent and 480 metres of descent.The terrain is rural paths and local village roads.
Accommodation:
Amenal Hotel (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 10 - Arrive in Santiago de Compostela
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Today we complete our pilgrimage. We pass through the village of Lavacolla, where traditionally pilgrims would wash and change into their best clothes for the final stretch of the walk. From here we ascend the final hill to Monte Gozo, from where we finally see Santiago Cathedral in the distance. We are now just five kilometres from Santiago's historic centre and the end of our pilgrimage. As we walk the last hour of the trail we share the emotions and sense of achievement of thousands of pilgrims, ancient and modern from all over the world, as we complete the trail and claim our 'Compostela', our pilgrim's certificate.
Our last walk covers 17.5 kilometres and is expected to take around five hours with 180 metres of ascent and 230 metres of descent. The terrain is unmade paths and roads.
Accommodation:
Rosa Rosae (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 11 - Morning guided walking tour of Santiago; free afternoon
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This morning we take a guided walking tour of Santiago including a visit to the magnificent cathedral. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is the final and most iconic stop of the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage. Reputed to be the resting place of Saint James the apostle, this religious site has attracted pilgrims since the early Middle Ages. Built in the Romanesque style with numerous Gothic, Baroque, Plateresque and Neoclassical add-on, The Cathedral is one of Spain's most visited tourist sites, and once you have visited this extraordinary historic site you will understand why. We also visit the important local squares, churches and buildings around the cathedral.
The afternoon is free to wander the city's narrow streets discovering some of the city's other architectural treasures, and enjoy the local food and wine. It is also possible to take an optional excursion to Cape Finisterre, however this is a full day excursion so you would have to miss the city tour.
Accommodation:
Rosa Rosae (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
Single room available
Meals Provided: Breakfast
- Day 12 - Trip ends in Santiago
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The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Santiago de Compostela.
There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Santiago at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you need to depart from Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ) which is around 15 minutes' drive from the hotel.
Meals Provided: Breakfast
Walking Information
Daily distances
| Day 3 4hrs | 16km |
| Day 4 5hrs | 19km |
| Day 5 3hrs | 9km |
| Day 6 5.5hrs | 22km |
| Day 7 6hrs | 22km |
| Day 8 6hrs | 22.5km |
| Day 9 7.5hrs | 27.5km |
| Day 10 5hrs | 17.5km |
Total distance : 155.5 kilometres
Key: Daily walk distances
Walking grade
Moderate
Trek details
8-day point-to-point trek walking, between 3 and 7.5 hours a day following the well-defined Camino Frances, reaching a maximum altitude of 1,482m. There are longer and shorter days, the gradient on the the longer days is gradual and gently undulating. There is the option to take a taxi (at own expense) if you wish to shorten the day or have a day of not walking.
Trip information
- Climate and country information
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Spain
Climate
Overall, spring, early summer and autumn are ideal times for a Spanish trip - though the weather varies enormously from region to region. The high central plains suffer from fierce extremes, stiflingly hot in summer, bitterly cold and swept by freezing winds in winter. The Atlantic coast, in contrast, has a tendency to damp and mist, and a relatively brief, humid summer. The Mediterranean south is warm virtually all year round. Spain's Islands the Canaries and Balaerics experience very mild winters and warm summers making them ideal year round destinations.
Time difference to GMT
+1
Plugs
2 Pin Round
Religion
Roman Catholic
Language
Castilian Spanish, Catalan, Galician, Basque
- Budgeting and packing
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Optional activities
The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations.Please note: These activities are booked and paid for direct with the supplier and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.
Sarria - Visit to Samos Monastery €10
Leon - Cathedral & San Isidoro entrance €11
Santiago - Individual Admission Pórtico de la Gloria €10, Individual Admission Combined Pórtico + Museum €12
Visit to Cape Finisterre €30 - 50Clothing
Bring light and comfortable clothing that can be layered according to the temperature. It can become cool, especially at night, so bring warmer layers. Tops made from wicking materials which keep you drier, a warmer fleece is recommended as a mid layer, and walking trousers are preferable to trousers of heavier material such as jeans.
-Breathable wind and waterproof jacket (you may also wish to bring waterproof trousers)
-T-shirts
-Long sleeved tops
-Sunhat
-Long trousers
-Shorts (if you prefer to walk in them)
-Swimwear and towel
-Midlayer Fleece/pullover
-Socks (liner and thicker pair)
-Insulated jacketFootwear
We recommend you bring walking boots with ankle support- leather or fabric are both fine. Make sure that your boots are worn-in and comfortable before the start of the trip. Also trainers or sandals for relaxing and general wear. We suggest that on international flights you either carry your walking boots in your hand luggage or wear them - should your luggage be lost or delayed, your own boots are the one thing that will be irreplaceable.
Luggage
20Kg
Luggage: On tour
Bring one main piece of luggage and a 20-30 litre day sack is recommended. You will need to carry what you need for the day which may include a raincoat, jumper, camera, sun-cream, water and picnic lunch. On hot days you will carry fewer clothes but more drinking water. Main baggage will be transported between nightstops.
Equipment
-Sunglasses
-Sun cream
-Small Torch (with spare batteries and bulb)
-Camera
-Walking poles (if you usually use them)
-Gaiters (if you usually use them)
-Personal toiletries
-Personal first aid kit - On each walk a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit, supply of plasters, aspirin and other essentials.
-Insect repellent
-Small waterproof dry bag (for items such as your mobile phone)
-Reusable water bottle (minimum 1 litre) - Get 15% discount on a Water-to-Go bottle www.explore.co.uk/about-us/responsible-travel/water-to-go-discount-with-explore
-Lunch bag/Tupperware (for packed lunches)
-Binoculars(Video) This is the Camino | (Camino de Santiago in 6 minutes)Tipping
Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may however, want to recognise a leader that has done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It is a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we would recommend £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline.
Local crew
Although voluntary, tipping is a recognised part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. Accordingly, you should allow approximately £20 of local c urrency for tipping. In order to make things easier for you, the Explore Leader may organise a group's tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the trip. 10% is recommended at meal times.
Spain
Food and drink
The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.
Lunch price
£8.00 - 12.00
Dinner price
£16.00 - 20.00
Beer price
£1.50 - 3.50 (depending on the region/area in Spain)
Water price
£1.4
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Euros
Recommended Currency For Exchange
We recommend you take the majority of your spending money in Euros cash.
Where To Exchange
We recommend that you change any currency into Euros prior to arrival. Bureau de Change are generally only found in major cities and large airports.
ATM Availability
In cities and most major towns.
Credit Card Acceptance
Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted in larger restaurants and some shops.
Travellers Cheques
Not recommended.
- Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink
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Transport Information
Bus
Accommodation notes
Accommodation and service levels in Spain are generally very good. On this trip we stay in smaller, family-run hotels and pensions that might not offer the same luxuries as larger chain-style hotels, but they do provide a warm welcome, a comfortable place to stay and the chance to gain a better understanding of local life. One thing to be aware of in Spain is that breakfast tends to be a smaller affair, often just fruit juice or coffee and a pastry. Dinners in the pensions and rural houses will be a typical set menu that includes wine, these range in price from €15 t0 €25.
Spain
Food and drink
Can you drink the water?
It is generally possible to drink the local tap water, therefore to reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles we recommend you bring a refillable water bottle with you. Your leader will advise you on refill points each day.
- Essential Information
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Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice.
Please refer to our COVID-19 entry requirements page for any country-specific conditions of entry. Whilst we strive to update this on a regular basis we recommend you also check the FCDO website for the latest advice on entry requirements in this fast-evolving situation. Information can change at any time.
Under 18 immigration guidance
Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
Visa and Passport Information
Spain: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian citizens. Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.
If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
Booking conditions
Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
Minimum age restrictions
For our group tours, the minimum age is16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information.
Your safety and enjoyment on tourWe want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities.This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Your Tour Leader
All tours aside from extensions and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.
Transfers
Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.
Booking a land only package with Explore
Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information.
You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.
Joining Tour AbroadCustomers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates.The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.
The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.
Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.
If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.
For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here
Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.Flight information
Explore offers a wide range of flexible flying options to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.
Flight InformationYou are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.
Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore
We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.
On our website we display a UK flight inclusive package guide price which is generally based on a London departure. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.
Spain
Vaccinations
Nothing compulsory but Tetanus is usually recommended as a precaution. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
- Additional Information
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Dates, prices and booking
📢 Prices may change - book now and today's trip price is guaranteed in our price promise
Tue 6 Jun 2023 - Sat 17 Jun 2023 Guaranteed departure
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- Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
- Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
- ATOL protected
- No surcharge guarantee
Tue 20 Jun 2023 - Sat 1 Jul 2023 Guaranteed departure
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- Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
- Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
- ATOL protected
- No surcharge guarantee
Tue 25 Jul 2023 - Sat 5 Aug 2023 Guaranteed departure
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- Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
- Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
- ATOL protected
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Tue 29 Aug 2023 - Sat 9 Sep 2023 Guaranteed departure
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- Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
- Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
- ATOL protected
- No surcharge guarantee
Tue 5 Sep 2023 - Sat 16 Sep 2023 Guaranteed departure
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- Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
- Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
- ATOL protected
- No surcharge guarantee
Tue 19 Sep 2023 - Sat 30 Sep 2023 Guaranteed departure
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- Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
- Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
- ATOL protected
- No surcharge guarantee
Tue 26 Sep 2023 - Sat 7 Oct 2023 Guaranteed departure
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- Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
- Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
- ATOL protected
- No surcharge guarantee
Tue 3 Oct 2023 - Sat 14 Oct 2023 Guaranteed departure
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- Full Explore refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
- Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
- ATOL protected
- No surcharge guarantee
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Contents
- Why Book This Trip?
- Itinerary
- Walking Information
- More Details
- Reviews
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FAQs
Walking on the Camino de Santiago? ›
For a prepared and experienced hiker, this route takes about 30 days start to finish, covering nearly 500 miles. Keep in mind that the Camino Francés receives the most foot traffic, meaning there's plenty of opportunity to meet other pilgrims, but also a fair share of crowds during much of the year.
How long does it take to walk the Camino Santiago? ›For a prepared and experienced hiker, this route takes about 30 days start to finish, covering nearly 500 miles. Keep in mind that the Camino Francés receives the most foot traffic, meaning there's plenty of opportunity to meet other pilgrims, but also a fair share of crowds during much of the year.
How many miles a day should you walk on the Camino de Santiago? ›How far do you walk on the Camino each day? In general, pilgrims on the Camino walk an average of 20 to 25kms, roughly 12 to 15 miles per day.
How fit do you need to be to walk the Camino de Santiago? ›If you intend to cycle the Camino, you should be comfortable cycling 100km per day. If you do not currently enjoy a reasonable level of fitness, it may take many months of training to reach a suitable level of fitness to enjoy the Camino. It is essential to start slowly and gradually increase your fitness.
How many miles do you walk per day on the Camino? ›Discover the unique and unforgettable experience of walking an ancient pilgrim route, the Unesco World Heritage Way of Saint James,'Camino de Santiago'. Average daily distance / climb:12 miles (20 km) / 976 ft (298 m).
Where do you sleep on the Camino? ›Accommodations are available on the Camino at a variety of budgets, from affordable dormitory beds to posh 5-star hotels. Pilgrim Albergues are the most convenient and economic choice, but bring your earplugs! Pensiones, Hostales, Casas Rurales and Hotels offer more privacy in a variety of prices ranges.
Is the Camino walk hard? ›How hard is it to walk the Camino? The Camino de Santiago is a challenging route, especially for first-timers who have never done a multi-day walk/trek before. It's physically demanding to walk on average 20-25 km daily even if you walk one of the shorter routes or do only the last 100 km to Santiago de Compostela.
Is the Camino safe to walk alone? ›The general consensus is that it's safe for pilgrims to walk the Camino alone. In fact, I learned so much on my first Camino that recommend anyone who is able to set off on their own solo pilgrimage! That being said, you might feel nervous, lonely, or worried about your gear being stolen from time to time.
What do I need to avoid on the Camino? ›- Mistake #1 – Packing too much weight.
- Mistake #2 – Don't start off too fast.
- Mistake #3 – Lack of time and no rest days.
- Mistake #4 – Walking to keep up with others.
- Mistake #5 – Racing for a bed.
- Mistake #6 – Incorrect clothing.
- Mistake #7 – Ill-equipped for rain.
Most common route
This is a beautiful walk, but one of the more challenging days. You may be tired/jet-lagged and this first day involved an ascent of 1250m carrying what you need for the day. Leaving St Jean Pied de Port, the sealed road switchbacks and climbs fairly steeply out of the valley on a quiet sealed road.
Where do you go to the bathroom on the Camino de Santiago? ›
Yes, there are bathrooms with toilets on Camino. They are located in: Your accommodations (hostel, albergue, hotel) At bars, cafes, restaurants along The Way (if they are open while you pass by)
How do I prepare my feet for the Camino? ›- Consider your Footwear Options. Footwear considerations should be at the top of your to-do list. ...
- Get Used to Walking. Start walking at least three to four months before departure. ...
- Look into Orthotics. ...
- Choose the Right Socks. ...
- Put Safety First. ...
- Invest in Some Walking Sticks.
How many hours a day do you walk on the Camino? Daily distances on the Camino de Santiago are between 20 km and 25 km. The average walking speed of an adult is 5 km/3 mi per hour. If you walk at that pace it'll take you 4 to 5 hours of walking per day.
Does it cost money to walk the Camino? ›Total Trip Costs
Most pilgrim budgets fall in the $30-60 (€25-50) per day range, meaning a 30-day walk would cost $900-1800 (€750-1500). If you don't already have hiking gear, new gear could easily cost $300-600 (€250-500) if you need to get new footwear, backpack and sleeping bag.
The simple fact of walking along the Camino de Santiago makes us lose weight almost always, and in a fairly easy way. Whether you're on foot or cycling, you'll most likely burn up more calories a day than those you eat.
Am I too old to walk the Camino? ›It's said that the oldest person to ever walk the Camino de Santiago was 93 years young (she walked it with her 60 year old daughter!). Thus proving you are never too old to walk the Camino! Having said that, there are some advantages of using a Camino tour company that will help seniors accomplish a Camino pilgrimage.
What is the hardest part of the Camino? ›The hardest day of the Camino is on the first day of the French Way, where you have to cross the great mountain range of the Pyrenees over the Napoleon Pass. You must hike 26km to get to the first stop, but you are awarded with a stay in the stunning monastery town of Roncesvalles and two days later Pamplona.
Can I wear shorts to El Camino? ›For the most part, people in Spain dress more formally than Americans. If you're going out to a café in Madrid for example, a t-shirt and shorts would be uncommon among locals, but on the Camino it's just fine. The casualness of the Camino is accepted in most places and the locals are accustomed to it.
What do you wear at night on Camino de Santiago? ›Clothes for sleeping
A pair of light cotton shorts and a T-shirt will work just fine. Flip-flops are a great thing to pack for the Camino. It's an amazing feeling when after a long day of walking you take off your hiking shoes and put on flip-flops.
I lost about 8kgs, around 18 lbs, over a four week period. So yes, I did lose a lot of weight on the Camino. However, losing weight was never one of my reasons for walking the Camino. I did not set out on the Camino to lose weight, and I must admit that it never entered my mind at any time while I was there.
What is the prettiest Camino walk? ›
Which Camino route is the most beautiful? The most beautiful Camino route is arguably Camino del Norte. It is a coastal Camino route that follows the coast of northern Spain. Camino del Norte goes from the Basque Country, across Cantabria and Asturias to Galicia.
Which Camino is best for beginner? ›I'd say one of the most popular Camino routes e.g. Camino Frances or Camino Portuguese from Porto is the best route for beginners. Why? Simply because these routes have a very good infrastructure which means it's easy to find accommodation, support, and help.
Do you need a tent on the Camino? ›Because of the many resources available along the camino, hikers are free to carry very minimal gear with them. You don't need to carry a tent or other camping gear. Even on the more remote routes, you can purchase food every day so don't need to weigh down your pack with food supplies.
Can you drink the water on the Camino? ›Yes, the water is drinkable all along the Camino, and with sections receiving runoff from the mountains above, it's also delicious spring water. In many towns and villages, they will have public fountains usually in the main square where walkers can fill their packs or bottles.
How much weight should you carry on the Camino? ›Aim to pack as light as possible for the Camino de Santiago, bringing only essential items. A suggested guide is to plan to carry no more than 10% of your body weight (so if you weight 150 lb, plan to carry no more than 15 lb).
How much water should you carry on the Camino? ›Two liters is probably plenty for anyone, unless the weather is unusually hot and/or you are going an unusually long way that day. Remember, a liter of water weighs a kilo (2.2 pounds,) so you don't want to carry any more than you need, but you don't want to run out.
Where do you fly to start the Camino? ›The Camino del Norte and the Camino Primitivo can be reached from the airports of Biarritz, Bilbao, Santander and San Sebastián. The Camino Finisterra and Camino Inglés can be reached from the Airport in Santiago de Compostela.
What is the shortest way on the Camino? ›The shortest Camino walk is the route known as the Camino Ingles, in Northern Galicia. The Camino Ingles has, in fact, two official starting points: the port-cities of A Coruña and Ferrol, located 75km and 113kms away from Santiago, respectively.
How do I prepare for the Camino de Santiago physically? ›Build up your stamina
Set yourself a target of walking an average of 2 hours per day for at least 2 months prior to your Camino. Once you are able to cope with full day walks, the next step is to try to fit in some multi-day walks to get your body used to the challenge.
Essential Gear to Pack
Water bottle(s) that can carry a minimum of 1.5 liters (1 half-gallon).
Is walk safe on Camino de Santiago? ›
It may be comforting for you to know that the locals have been supporting pilgrims on the Camino for 1,000 years. As I learned during my journey, they are very happy and proud to welcome walkers and keep them safe along the way. And there is another important fact to know: crimes along the Camino are extremely rare.
What is the longest Camino walk? ›Out of its six main routes, Camino del Norte is the longest at 827 km (514 mi), taking a little more than a month to finish. Camino Inglés, on the other hand, is the shortest at 119 km (74 mi) and takes about a week to complete.
How much is Camino passport? ›Pilgrim Passport: Available for a $2 donation in most churches, the pilgrim passport is the official record of your pilgrimage and required to stay in an albergue.
Where do you get your Camino passport? ›Where can you get your Camino pilgrim passport? The official Credencial is issued by the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and can be obtained from the Pilgrim Office, Associations of Friends of Saint James in Spain and abroad and from tourist offices along the different routes.
How many hours a day do you walk on the Camino? ›Overall expect to spend 6 – 7 hours on the Camino a day including breaks. Of course, there are people who can walk much faster than 5 km per hour as well as those who walk slower (especially considering that you walk with a backpack).
Can you walk the Camino in a week? ›You only have one week to do the Camino de Santiago and you wonder if 7 days is enough. The answer is YES. Seven days on the Camino de Santiago will allow you to obtain the Compostela, acquire the pilgrim's routine and feel the spectacular change that your body will notice after 4 days of travel.
Can you do the Camino in 5 days? ›Can you complete the Camino de Santiago in 5 days? Most people enjoy their annual holidays in short periods. Many of those who wish to dedicate part of these to a pilgrim route ask us if it is possible to complete the Camino de Santiago in five days. The answer is clear: Yes!
What is the shortest Camino walk? ›The shortest Camino walk is the route known as the Camino Ingles, in Northern Galicia. The Camino Ingles has, in fact, two official starting points: the port-cities of A Coruña and Ferrol, located 75km and 113kms away from Santiago, respectively.
Do you have to be fit to walk the Camino? ›That being said, you don't need a high degree of physical fitness, or years of walking experience, to have an enjoyable time on the trail. If you can do some sensible training in the weeks and months before you leave, and take care of yourself during the walk itself, then you should be fine.
Which Camino is best for first time? ›I'd say one of the most popular Camino routes e.g. Camino Frances or Camino Portuguese from Porto is the best route for beginners. Why? Simply because these routes have a very good infrastructure which means it's easy to find accommodation, support, and help.
How do I prepare for the Camino physically? ›
Build up your stamina
Set yourself a target of walking an average of 2 hours per day for at least 2 months prior to your Camino. Once you are able to cope with full day walks, the next step is to try to fit in some multi-day walks to get your body used to the challenge.
The Camino Inglese is the Camino de Santiago easiest route. It takes only 5 days to hike Camino Inglese. Camino Ingelse goes only across Galicia. It starts in the city of Ferrol on the northern coast of Galicia.
What is the best way to do the Camino? ›The main rule is to walk the Camino the way that suits you best. There is no right or wrong way. It's your Camino and only you can decide how to walk it. You can run it in a week or two or take your time and complete the route in two months.
Which Camino is the most challenging? ›The Camino del Norte is a great option for you and is considered the most difficult of the routes due to its multiple ascents and descents.
What is the most popular Camino Santiago route? ›1 – Camino Frances, the French Way
The majority of pilgrims choose the Camino Frances (over 68% of pilgrims arriving in Santiago), the most famous Camino route, featuring in films such as 'The Way' and many books.