“Camino de Santiago” refers to a collection of historic pilgrimage routes across parts of Europe. There are hundreds of Camino trails of varying length and difficulty, with the most popular routes covering parts of Spain, Portugal, or France. The term “Camino de Santiago” translates from Spanish to “Way of Saint James,” with medieval origins dating back to the discovery of Saint James’s tomb.
While each Camino route is unique in its own way, you’ll often see the iconic scallop shell, a well-known symbol of the Camino pilgrimage. The scallop shell, often accompanied by yellow arrows, was used in ancient times to indicate that pilgrims were on the right path, pointing them in the direction of their next destination. The shell itself is a metaphor for the Camino trails; each trail has different starting points that ultimately converge at the same final destination, similar to the lines on the scallop shell.
Each year, Arrangements Abroad operates several Camino trips, with expert guides leading guests across the most scenic and inspiring sections of the Way of Saint James in northern Spain. While our Camino trips are less strenuous than solo Camino trails, they’re just as inspiring.
“For those who are spiritual, [walking the Camino] can be very moving, and even for those who aren’t, it’s incredibly moving and just a really unique experience,” Lexi Ingram, Manager, Operations and Tour Director said.
Here are three things to know before embarking on your first Camino trip, according to our expert Tour Directors.
These trips are best suited for active, able-bodied travelers.
At Arrangements Abroad, each of our unique itineraries is assigned an Activity and Pace level indicator so that our guests can choose trips that are best suited for them. All of our Camino trips are walking tours listed at an “Adventurous” Activity Level and “Presto” pacing. Each day is packed with activities from start to finish, encountering diverse landscapes along the way. Guests should be prepared to be on their feet for three to four hours at a time, allowing them to get the most out of daily hikes and walking tours of museums and cultural sites.
“There’s some small inclines on a few of the hikes, but nothing too strenuous,” Ingram said. “And of course, we take breaks along the way and stuff as needed, and our tour directors are always aware of the pacing of the group.”
Bring a small backpack for daily walking tours, in addition to your luggage.
Our Camino trips allow travelers to experience the magic of the hiking trails without the added physical burdens of backpacking. Guests can pack for the trip with their preferred luggage, which will be transported along their journey by way of a coach bus. A backpack or large fannypack is highly recommended, allowing you to keep essential items handy throughout the day, while the rest of your belongings await your arrival at the next destination.
Guests are highly encouraged to carry water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and extra layers with them during daily activities.
Pack for diverse walking conditions, and prioritize comfort.
During daily walking tours, we want guests to remain cool and comfortable so that they can get the most out of their Camino experience. Pack athletic or athleisure attire that varies in length in case the weather changes. As for footwear, pack at least two pairs of reliable sneakers, as you may encounter diverse terrain throughout a single hike. Be sure you’re equipped with protective layers for the sun and rain, including a hat, sunglasses, and a light rain jacket.
Each year, thousands of people choose to traverse Camino pathways in a journey many travelers describe as “a transformative experience.” These journeys combine the exclusive access, carefully curated itineraries, and expert guides of Arrangements Abroad trips with the element of exercise and breathtaking natural landscapes, signature to the Camino trails, to create one unforgettable experience.
iStock & Lexi Ingram / Courtesy
