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Date Published: 15/07/2025

Camino de Santiago for beginners: Everything you need to know

This is what pilgrims and tourists need to know to walk the Camino de Santiago hiking trail in 2025/26

If you live in Spain, chances are, you’ve heard of Camino de Santiago, otherwise known as the Way of St. James. This ancient network of pilgrimage routes is becoming increasingly popular each year, attracting nearly half a million visitors from all walks of life. Some seek spiritual enlightenment while others crave a challenging adventure. If you, too, are interested in giving Camino a go, here’s everything you need to know!

Camino de Santiago routes

There are dozens of different paths in the network, most of which lead to Santiago de Compostela (the burial place of Saint James). Those who complete the whole journey, collecting stamps in their pilgrim passport along the way, receive the official Compostela certificate, signifying their achievement.

Now, the most popular routes, such as Camino Francés and Camino del Norte, are extremely long if you walk the original distances. The French Way starts at Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, spanning 780km, whereas The Northern Way starts in Irún, covering approximately 825km. Both of those would take well over a month to complete.

Although there certainly are pilgrims walking the full Camino, the majority choose to walk its shorter routes, such as Camino del Norte from Santander or Camino Francés from Sarria, making it a week-long holiday instead. Don’t worry – you can still receive a certificate, as long as you walk the final 100km to Santiago.

Itinerary and accommodation

One of the main worries beginner pilgrims have is planning the actual itinerary. Generally, you will be walking 20-25km a day, although this can be tailored to your preferences. You will complete each day in a different place, where you can stay either at a local hotel or an albergue (pilgrim hostel). Pre-booking your accommodation in advance is recommended, since they get busy on the popular routes.

While you can plan and book your trip by yourself, most beginner pilgrims prefer to use a Camino de Santiago travel agency. Companies that specialise in Camino trips, such as Santiago Ways, will provide you with a tailored itinerary, organise airport pick-up and drop-off, book your accommodation, provide luggage transfer services and offer 24/7 emergency support. Using them will give you the peace of mind, knowing that all is taken care of on your first time.

Packing tips

Packing lightly is highly important for a successful Camino. Unless you pay for luggage transfers between hotels, you will be carrying all of your belongings with you. If that’s the case, opt for a comfortable backpack with a supportive hip belt. Ideally, it should weigh around 10% of your own body weight, preventing it from being too heavy.

Minimalism will be your best friend here. Pack only essential items, such as your clothes, sun cream, wallet, water, snacks and a basic first-aid kit with any medication and blister care products you may need. When it comes to clothes, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics, particularly during the hottest months. Most significantly, choose your footwear carefully – make sure it’s well-worn and suitable for the terrain.

The journey is the destination

Last but not least, remember that Camino de Santiago is not about getting to the end point, but rather everything that you experience on the way there. It is a challenging journey, both physically and mentally, but the personal growth and sense of accomplishment you receive will be more than worth it!

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