How to Prepare to Walk the Camino de Santiago

Unsure how to prepare to walk the Camino de Santiago? We invited an expert to guide you along the way.

Many hold the lifetime dream of walking the Camino de Santiago in northern Spain. And many of those who have completed it, say that it’s one of the most spiritually enriching experiences you can have. But, and there’s no getting away from it, it’s a journey that requires proper preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly.

The Camino de Santiago is demanding in several ways: it’s a long path, far from easy, and requires a certain level of both physical and mental endurance.

But it’s worth every step because the final reward is fantastic. So, if you’re planning to walk the Camino de Santiago for the first time this year, the best thing you can do is keep reading, because we’re going to tell you everything you need to know.

Or in other words, how to prepare to walk the Camino de Santiago.

Sign for the Camino de Santiago in a field in Spain - Prepare to Walk the Camino de Santiago

Prepare to Walk the Camino de Santiago: Why Bother?

Before we get into the nitty gritty, let’s quickly recap why you’d want to walk the Camino de Santiago in the first place.

Every year, thousands upon thousands of people from all over the world make this pilgrimage. Why is the Camino de Santiago so special?

Here’s what we hear from people who have done it.

It’s a Spiritual Experience

The Camino de Santiago, besides being a physically challenging experience, is also emotionally powerful. While walking, you’ll have time to reflect and think, which makes it a great opportunity to connect with your spiritual side. Many describe their camino experience as so much more than a long-distance hike. It’s a real, rare chance to be alone with your thoughts.

It’s a Challenge

This is a long journey that can take longer than you imagine. You’ll need to push your body and mind to complete the route, scratching that challenge itch.

Three people walking St James Way on the Camino de Santiago - Prepare to Walk the Camino de Santiago

You Build a Sense of Community

As you walk, you’ll meet people of all ages, nationalities and life stories. This will allow you to connect with others, learn about different ways of living, and reflect on your own lifestyle.

It’s Beginner-Friendly

As we mentioned before, if this is your first time doing the Camino de Santiago, you won’t be the only one. Although it requires some physical preparation, it’s definitely suitable for beginners. That’s why today we’re going to give you some useful tips, but if you’d like more in-depth guidance, you can find very helpful recommendations at Viajes Camino de Santiago, specialists in this route.

What You Need to Know Before Setting Off

Before starting your journey, you need to prepare. Don’t overlook the following details.

Your Motivation

This might seem rather woolly but it’s hugely helpful to outline, if only to yourself, why you want to do this. Are you preparing to walk the Camino de Santiago for spiritual, physical or mental reasons? Whatever your motivation is, it’s valid, but make sure you define it clearly, as it will be the driving force that keeps you going.

Arch monument in Lisbon, Portugal - Prepare to Walk the Camino de Santiago — The Portuguese Way starts in Lisbon

Choose Your Route

Despite the name, there isn’t one single path that is the Camino de Santiago. Some routes are longer, others are more physically demanding, the one you choose will depend on your goals.

For example, if you take the French Way, you can expect it to take around 30 to 35 days. This is the most well-known route and starts, as the name suggests, in France. If you choose the Portuguese Way, on the other hand, you’ll start in Lisbon and have to cover at least 630 km. Here’s how to spend a few days in the Portuguese capital before you start walking.

There are also other options, like the Northern Way, which can take up to 40 days, or shorter options such as the English Way or the Primitive Way, which can be completed in 5 to 15 days depending on the route.

The advantages of choosing a popular route is that it’s tried and tested and you will meet many other people along the way. The downside, of course, is that you may need to be more organised as rooms fill up and you may prefer to follow a more flexible timetable.

Take a look at all of the main routes in detail. Take into account the daily distance, the number of rest days, the fitness level you will need and whether or not you have time to complete the right training schedule before you go.

In general, it’s best to plan your first walk at your own pace, so the most important thing to note involves examining the various routes in terms of what will work best for you.

Sort Out the Paperwork

At some point, you will need the Pilgrim Credentials, which allow you to stay in hostels and makes you an official pilgrim on the route. A good place to start is by contacting the Association of Friends of the Camino de Santiago. You can also ask at parish churches and specialist accommodation providers on the ground. This guide can help you find the right place.

With these credentials, you can obtain the Compostela – the certificate that proves you’ve completed the journey.

The Best Times of the Year to Walk the Camino de Santiago

In theory, you can walk the Camino de Santiago any time of year, but the best season will depend on your goals and needs.

Spring

In spring, temperatures range from 10 to 20°C, making it an ideal time for the journey as the weather is mild and the sun won’t make things too difficult.

Dusk in a field along the Camino de Santiago - Prepare to Walk the Camino de Santiago

Autumn

Autumn weather conditions are similar to spring. If you want a peaceful journey, then go between September and October.

Summer

For some, summer is the perfect time to walk the Camino de Santiago, which is why you’ll see a lot more people on the paths at that time. The atmosphere is amazing, but finding a hostel can be tricky as everything tends to be packed. Don’t worry, though, there are always options. As for the weather, it could reach 30°C or more, so make sure you bear that in mind (and bring hats and sunscreen.)

Winter

You can complete the Camino de Santiago in winter, but it’s not the most recommended option. During this time, temperatures can drop significantly, there are fewer hostels available, and there may be some hazards, so if it’s your first time, winter might not be the best choice. Find out more about visiting Spain in winter here.

Collage of images of Osprey Farpoint 36 — Having the right backpack is essential

How to Physically Prepare for The Camino de Santiago

When we say the Camino de Santiago is physically and mentally demanding, we’re not exaggerating. That’s why it’s important to prepare physically to face the journey.

For instance, we recommend doing some training at least three months in advance. Go for long walks of up to 10 kilometres, and carry a backpack that doesn’t weigh more than 10% of your body weight to get used to walking with weight. Check out my review of the Osprey Farpoint 36 here.

During your training, don’t just walk on flat surfaces. On the Camino, you’ll encounter all kinds of terrain, so practise on different surfaces to get ready. And when it comes to exercises, doing squats and improving your flexibility will be helpful, because if you don’t, the pain can be unbearable.

When putting together your camino training plan, bear in mind how much time you will have at your disposal for training. For most people, they need to fit their really long walks into the weekend and keep the weekday evenings for shorter, refresher walks.

Make sure you practise in the walking shoes or boots you plan on using and carry a water bottle with you. If you need to carry a sleeping bag, practise with that too. We’d also suggest carrying a small first aid kit for first-time pilgrims, plus some healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up.

Top Tip

Avoid injury by taking care of yourself.

To warm up the calves: place your hands against a wall and stand on tiptoe. Slowly lower your heels until your feet are flat on the ground, then repeat.
To prepare the knees: do some squats, keeping your back straight while bending and extending your knees.