The Camino de Santiago, one of Europe’s most transformative experiences, is rapidly growing in popularity. In fact, last year attracted a record-breaking number of nearly half a million pilgrims. So, if you’re wondering what it is or how to do it, this guide will tell you everything you need to know.
What is the Camino de Santiago?
The Camino de Santiago is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes leading to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. Dating back over 1000 years, these paths historically connect at the cathedral that houses the remains of the Apostle St. James (Christianity’s patron saint of Spain).
UNESCO recognised the Camino as a World Heritage Site back in 1993, thanks to its historical and cultural significance across Europe. Today, however, the routes attract pilgrims not just for religious reasons, but also for adventure tourism or personal and spiritual growth. Travellers see it as a chance for physical and mental challenge, feeling part of a larger community with a sense of camaraderie.
Major Camino routes
There are more than 200 routes recognised as part of the Camino de Santiago network, but here are the major and most popular ones:
- Camino Francés: By far the most popular route, with its full length stretching nearly 800 kilometers from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France. However, the majority of first-time pilgrims choose to walk the final 100 kilometers from Sarria, taking around 7 days to complete. The route has excellent infrastructure throughout.
- Camino Portugués: There are two variants of the Portuguese Way – the coastal route from Porto (280km) and the traditional inland path from Lisbon (620km). Both of them showcase Portugal’s charm beautifully, before entering Spain.
- Camino del Norte: This route hugs Spain’s northern coast for 825 kilometers, but shorter sections (120-130 km) are also available. It is one of the more challenging options, rewarding hikers with stunning Atlantic views and fewer crowds.
- Camino Primitivo: Known as the original route, Camino Primitivo covers 320 mountainous kilometers from Oviedo. It demands excellent fitness and offers spectacular scenery for those who are willing to take on a challenge.
- Camino Inglés: Also referred to as the English Way, this trail provides a shorter 120-kilometer option from A Coruña or Ferrol, perfect for those who want to complete a full route, but have limited time.
- Via de la Plata: The longest and most fascinating of the Camino routes, Via de la Plata (Silver Way) spans 1000 kilometers from Seville through the best of Spain. It crosses diverse climates and terrains.
Preparing for your trip
There are a few key things to know when planning your Camino de Santiago adventure:
- Timing: The best times to go are considered Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). These times offer ideal weather conditions, avoiding the crowds and extreme heat of the summer months.
- Duration: Most pilgrims walk an average of 20-25 kilometers daily, completing popular sections within 5-35 days depending on your chosen route. Being realistic about your fitness level is key here, factoring in for rest days if needed.
- Physical preparation: Regardless of your chosen route, you should start building endurance and strength 2 to 3 months before your trip. You can do this through regular hiking, focusing on leg strength and cardiovascular fitness.
- Budget: This highly depends on your personal preferences. If you are looking for the most wallet-friendly experience, you can get away with a daily budget of around €25, with basic accommodation choices (hostels).
- Paperwork: You must prepare the necessary documentation well in advance, including a valid passport, travel insurance (or European Health Insurance Card for EU citizens) and a visa, if applicable.
Although it’s possible to plan this trip independently, your itinerary will require thoughtful considerations. If you prefer expert support, specialised agencies like Orbis Ways provide comprehensive services. This includes providing you with a detailed itinerary, handling hotel bookings, organising luggage transfers between hotels and providing 24/7 telephone support.
Packing guide
Packing for the Camino de Santiago is all about being as minimal as possible, especially if you’re planning on carrying your backpack with you. A good rule of thumb is to pack no more than 10% of your own body weight. The comfort of your backpack is crucial too – it should have proper back support and a hip belt.
Furthermore, your footwear and clothes are also of paramount importance. Wear hiking boots that provide good ankle support and durability. They should be well-broken-in to avoid premature blisters. As for the clothing, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics that are easy to layer in case of bad weather.
The rest should be any daily essentials, such as your toiletries, water, snacks, navigation tools (phone and charger or GPS), sun protection and a small first aid kit with any medications you need.
Lastly, don’t forget your pilgrim credential! It acts as your passport that you get stamped in different spots along the Camino. This will grant you access to pilgrim-only accommodations as well as qualify you for the Compostela certificate at the end of your trip.
Overcoming common challenges
Challenges are unavoidable on the Camino, but they are also the charm behind this trip. It’s exactly what makes you achieve profound personal growth and feel the rewards upon completion. Here are some of the things you can potentially expect:
- Physical challenges: Blisters usually develop despite the preparation, but you can prolong it as much as possible with good footwear and plasters. You’re also guaranteed to feel fatigue and muscle pain, so monitor your body and take rest stops when needed.
- Mental hurdles: Some pilgrims experience loneliness and homesickness on the route, while others struggle with motivation. Whatever hurdles you may experience, remember that they will make you stronger.
- Unexpected weather: If you’re walking in Spain during the hottest months, you’re unlikely to see a lot of rain. However, unexpected storms or heat waves can always happen.
- Navigation difficulties: Such routes as Camino Frances are very well-marked with the yellow arrows and scallop shell signs. However, if you don’t pay attention, you may accidentally miss one. That is why it’s a good idea to have a map or a GPS on you too.
- Language barriers: The Camino community is incredibly friendly, but not everyone speaks English. Learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you in case of any issues.
You’re ready!
There’s certainly a lot to learn and prepare for the Camino de Santiago. But, at the end of the day, it all comes down to simply putting one foot in front of the other. Buen Camino!
Featured Photo by form PxHere
