The Camino de Santiago is one of the world's most famous pilgrimage routes, attracting over 300,000 walkers each year. Whether you're seeking spiritual reflection, physical challenge, or simply an adventure through beautiful Spanish landscapes, this guide will help you prepare for the journey of a lifetime.
Choosing Your Route
There are several Camino routes leading to Santiago de Compostela, each with its own character. The most popular include:
Camino Frances (French Way)
The most popular route, starting in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, France. It's 780 km long and takes about 30-35 days. Well-marked with excellent infrastructure, it's perfect for first-timers despite being the busiest.
Camino Portugues
Starting from Lisbon (610 km) or Porto (240 km), this route offers beautiful coastal scenery and is shorter than the French Way. The coastal variant is particularly scenic.
Camino del Norte (Northern Way)
Following Spain's northern coast, this 825 km route is more challenging with significant elevation changes but rewards with dramatic ocean views and fewer crowds.
Camino Primitivo
The original route taken by the first pilgrims. At 320 km from Oviedo, it's shorter but mountainous and less crowded than the French Way.
When to Go
The Camino can be walked year-round, but each season has its pros and cons:
- Spring (April-May): Mild weather, wildflowers, moderate crowds. Some mountain passes may have snow early in the season.
- Summer (June-August): Hot, especially in July-August. Very crowded, accommodation fills quickly. Consider starting very early each day.
- Fall (September-October): Perhaps the ideal time. Pleasant weather, smaller crowds, beautiful autumn colors.
- Winter (November-March): Cold and potentially wet. Many albergues closed. Best for experienced hikers seeking solitude.
Physical Preparation
You don't need to be an athlete, but preparation helps prevent injuries and makes the experience more enjoyable:
- Start training 2-3 months before departure
- Practice with your actual backpack and shoes
- Build up distance gradually to 20-25 km walks
- Include hills if your route has elevation changes
- Break in your hiking shoes completely before departure
Essential packing list
- Backpack (35-40 liters max, aim for 7-8 kg total weight)
- Two sets of walking clothes (quick-dry materials)
- One casual outfit for evenings
- Broken-in hiking shoes and sandals for rest
- Rain gear (poncho covers both you and backpack)
- Sleeping bag liner for albergues
- Basic first aid kit with blister care
- Credential (pilgrim passport) and ID
- Headlamp for early starts
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Accommodation Options
The Camino offers various lodging options for every budget:
Albergues (Pilgrim Hostels)
The traditional option, ranging from 6-15 euros per night. Municipal albergues are cheaper but operate on a first-come basis and have strict hours. Private albergues often allow reservations and offer more amenities.
Private Rooms
Hotels, hostels, and guesthouses are available in most towns. Useful when you need privacy or rest, typically 30-60 euros per night. Booking apps work well along the route.
Budget Considerations
A typical daily budget ranges from 25-50 euros, including:
- Albergue: 8-15 euros
- Food: 15-25 euros (breakfast, pilgrim menu lunch/dinner)
- Extras: 5-10 euros (coffee, snacks, occasional taxi for injured pilgrims)
The Credential and Compostela
The Credential is your pilgrim passport, stamped at albergues, churches, and cafes along the way. To receive the Compostela (certificate of completion) in Santiago, you must walk at least the final 100 km or cycle 200 km with stamps proving your journey.
Final Tips
- Start early: Most pilgrims begin walking at sunrise to avoid heat and secure beds
- Listen to your body: Take rest days when needed
- Pack light: Everything you bring, you carry
- Embrace the community: The people you meet are part of the experience
- Stay flexible: Plans change, and that's okay
Buen Camino!