Camino de Santiago tours & vacations

The Camino de Santiago, or “the Way of St James,” is one of Europe's oldest and most iconic pilgrimages.

Thousands of pilgrims walk to the Cathedral of Santiago Compostela in Galicia, Spain, every year, whether just a portion of it or the full 500 miles.

The cathedral is purportedly where the tomb of St James (one of Jesus’s 12 apostles) is located. It has been one of the most spiritually significant places for Christians since the 10th century.

Walking the Camino is a personally enriching experience, no matter your beliefs, as it uniquely brings people from diverse backgrounds together. 

Back in the Middle Ages, thousands of pilgrims walked to the holy site of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia from all over Europe and we have them to thank for the many Camino routes across Spain, Portugal and France today.

Each route is beautiful in its own way ranging from idyllic rural Spanish countryside to the wind-swept Portuguese coast.

The most popular Camino walking routes are:

• Camino Frances: 480 mi (772 km)

• Camino Portugues: 380 mi (610 km)

• Camino del Norte: 514 mi (827 km)

• Camino Primitivo: 199 mi (321 km)

• Camino Ingles: 74 mi (119 km)

• Camino Finisterre: 155 mi (90 km)

Most Camino routes are in mild oceanic or Mediterranean climate zones with warm summers and mild winters so that you can do it comfortably anytime.

The best time of year to walk the Camino depends on what you want to gain from the trip.

The summer months (June through September) are the busiest. While the weather is reliably warm and sunny, the routes are highly trafficked and might not be the best option if you want solitude.

If you don’t cope well in the heat, spring and autumn may be better options – it’s also quieter at this time of year.

December through February are the coolest and wettest months. Still, the routes are super quiet, peaceful and arguably more comfortable to hike without the summer sun beaming down on you.

You don't need to commit to that distance, though.

To get the Compostela (the official Certificate of completion for the Camino de Santiago), you only need to walk the last 62 miles (100km) to Santiago on any of the Camino trails.

On a guided Camino de Santiago walk, your main luggage will be transported to each place you stay, so the good news is you don't have to lug it around with you!

For clothing items, you'll need comfortable and lightweight activewear. This includes leggings, vests, t-shirts and shorts.

You should also bring a light jumper to pop on in the evening if the temperature drops and a wind-proof jacket if you're visiting in the cooler months.

You'll also need a comfy pair of hiking boots (make sure they've been broken in), several pairs of hiking socks, and a pole.

Lastly, remember to use a small day bag to carry essentials like a reusable water bottle, a change of clothes, ID and snacks.

Most of the Camino walking trails are well-signed, and it's easy and safe enough to walk without a guide.

Although you could book accommodation, organize luggage transfers and do the walk alone, you might not get to experience the benefits of connecting with other like-minded travelers like you do in a group setting. You'll also miss out on the guidance and inside knowledge of your local leader, who'll be by your side, sharing stories, history and banter along the way.

The journey is long and bound to challenge you – whether physically, mentally or emotionally – but if you do a guided walk, your leader and group will support you, and vice versa. Compared to a self-guided Camino walk, everything is taken care of, so you can focus on immersing yourself in the gorgeous scenery, eating delicious food, getting to know others, reconnecting with yourself, or whatever inspired you to embark on this journey. You can also access immediate assistance if you twist your ankle, get sick or experience any emergency.

We believe travel should be accessible to everyone. Although some destinations and itineraries may be more accessible than others, we'll do our best to accommodate your needs, make reasonable adjustments where possible or guide you toward the most suitable trips. Get in touch with our friendly adventure consultants to chat about your options.

Our Tailor-Made team can also help you plan a customized trip just for you.