How long does it take to walk the Camino de Santiago?
One of the first question that pop in people's mind when they feel like doing the Camino de Santiago is “How long does it takes?”, and while there are routes like the Camino Frances or Via de la Plata that can last up to a month or even more, there are other routes that are shorter like Coastal Camino Portugues that takes a week or more.
Whether it’s the route, each of them presents its unique challenges and rewards that can alter the total time it takes to complete. On top of that, the pilgrim's fitness level and pace play a huge role. So, the answer varies depending on the route you choose, your pace, and even the weather.
The Most Iconic Routes and Their Duration
Many people say that the Camino experience starts at home, and they are right, the first thing you need to do is choose the right route, and plan the trip, but if specialized agencies like Santiago Ways can help you organize everything. They take care of all the logistics for you: itinerary, accommodation, luggage transfers, and 24/7 assistance, so that you can just focus on the trail.
While they can help you choose the right route based on your fitness level and time available, many people prefer to pick the Camino themselves, and if you’re one of those the first thing you need to know is that the Camino de Santiago is not just one route, but a network of routes that spawn all over Europe. Each of them has its own pros and cons.
The Camino Frances or French Way is by far the most famous; it covers about 780 kilometers from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and usually takes between 30 and 35 days if you walk around 20 or 25 kilometers per day. This route is perfect for those who are looking for the traditional essence of the Camino. You will find medieval villages and great camaraderie along the way, but keep in mind that it can get crowded.
On the other hand, if you prefer something shorter but still as impressive, the Portuguese Way from Porto covers around 240 kilometers and can be completed in 10 or 12 days, depending on your pace. This makes it ideal for people who want to experience the Camino but don’t have a lot of time available. It’s packed with green landscapes and charming coastal towns.
Factors That Can Change Your Itinerary
Many factors can alter a Camino itinerary, and the main one is the fact that not everyone walks at the same pace, and that's okay. Each pilgrim is different, and your physical condition plays a crucial role, so if you’re not used to long walks, I highly recommend that you start to train before the trip until you feel comfortable walking long distances. Another big player is the weather; in summer, the days are longer and warmer, but there are also more people. In winter, some hostels are closed, and rain can make the Camino slower.
But it’s all about walking and the weather. Many people take time to explore towns, small detours, visit historic places or attractions, or just relax in a small town. If you want to enjoy these small pleasures, add a couple of extra days to your plan, and remember that the important thing is not to rush but to let the Camino set the pace.
Can You Shorten the Camino?
Of course! You don't have to walk it all in one go. In recent years, many people have opted to do the Camino from Sarria. It takes up to 7 days and covers around 100 kilometers, which is the minimum distance required to get the Compostela certificate. This option is perfect if you only have a week.
Another practice that’s gaining traction is splitting the Camino into different trips: you can divide the Camino into several stages and complete it on different trips. In the end, it's the experience that counts, not the distance.
Conclusion
The Camino de Santiago is an adaptation experience; it’s tailored differently for each of us. You can do it in a month or a week, running or slowly, alone or in company. The only thing that doesn't change is the magic you feel when you arrive at the Plaza del Obradoiro, in front of the Cathedral of Santiago, after days or weeks of effort.