What’s included greatly depends on the itinerary you choose. You can see a detailed breakdown under each Itinerary. Here is a general overview of what you can expect: What you usually get on this adventure: An experienced hiking guide OR Walking notes, voucher and maps Most breakfasts and dinners Accommodation (specially chosen 2-3* hotels or equivalent) Pilgrim Pack — pilgrim passport, luggage tag and route notes Luggage transfers 24/7 Customer Service What’s usually not included: Transportation to and from the starting/end point Lunch and drinks Insurance Premium accommodation — available upon request Airport pickup — available upon request Additional nights — available upon request Additional luggage — available upon request Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

The most important thing about walking the Camino Frances is that you enjoy the journey at your own pace. Whether you’re a very fast or a slow walker, we encourage you to enjoy the trail. Having said that, being in good walking shape is still required. The trails have plenty of opportunities to rest and recover , and on guided tours, you’ll also be accompanied by a support vehicle that can help you shorten or lengthen the walking stages if needed. You’ll be doing 11 to 28 km (7 to 17 miles) a day , carrying a daypack or backpack of things you might need on the trail. All itineraries include luggage transfers up to 15 kg/33 lbs, and if you have more luggage than that, your guide can transfer it for an additional fee.

How should I prepare for this hike?

You should train so that your body is prepared to handle not just one 20 km (12.5 miles) day, but day after day of hiking. You may want to try walking an hour or more several times during the week with a longer walk on the weekend. We recommend you gradually increase your distances, doing long walks at least a few times a week. Make some trial runs with your full daypack or backpack, depending on how you plan to walk the Camino. This will help you get your core and shoulders acclimated to the weight.

What does a self-guided tour entail?

By going on a self-guided tour, you’re able to walk at your own pace and enjoy the journey without worrying about the logistics of it all. Apart from not having to adjust to the group, you’ll have the accommodation, breakfasts, luggage transfers and route instructions sorted . You’ll be staying in carefully-selected 2-3* hotels and guesthouses and there’s no need to print out anything upon checking-in—your guides booked and arranged everything for you, all you have to do is show your ID. This is a hassle-free trip so if you want to focus on enjoying your pilgrimage in the Spanish bucolic countryside, these self-guided tours are the perfect match.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of clothing we recommend bringing: Clothes made from quick-drying fabrics (avoid cotton) Leisure clothing and footwear for the evenings Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Fleece pullover or jacket Quick-dry short-sleeved and long-sleeved tops Quick–dry walking pants (consider the ones that zip off to make shorts) Waterproof pants — optional (unless it’s very cold, it’s usually best to hike in shorts, but feel free to bring these pants if you’d feel more comfortable) Hiking boots or shoes Hiking socks Sunhat Gloves Here’s a list of other equipment we suggest you bring: Daypack or backpack large enough to carry everything you might need Duffle bag for all your belongings if you decide to have your luggage transferred Hydration bladder or a water bottle Sunglasses Hiking poles — optional Earplugs — optional Basic first aid essentials, such as blister protection Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, etc.) Camera — optional (but recommended) We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. This packing list works best for the May-October season. If you’ll be walking in cooler months, consider adding a warmer base layer, mittens, rain pants and sturdier, waterproof Gore-tex shoes/boots.

Do I need to carry all my equipment all the way?

You can choose what works best for you. Most hikers carry a daypack and have their main luggage transferred between hotels , or bring a backpack with enough clothing for the trail, some trail food and basic hiking equipment (30L – 42L). This means that you don’t have to carry any tents, sleeping bags, etc. which would make your pack heavy. Your guides can take care of all luggage transfers for you. This means that you’ll leave your bags with your guide in the morning, and they’ll handle the details of getting them into the next hotel room.

How do luggage transfers work?

Luggage transfer is included in each itinerary and limited to 1 bag per person with a maximum weight of 15 kg/ 33 lbs per bag , it does not matter the size of the bag. Additional bags can be transferred for an extra €10 per bag per transfer. Please note that boots or smaller bags attached to the main bag count as an extra bag and will be charged accordingly. Luggage is transferred on the days that you are walking to a different hotel. We ask you to have it ready at reception by 8 AM so as to make sure we can deliver your luggage and others as early as possible in the afternoon.

What’s the accommodation like?

Accommodation for the duration of your tour is based on a number of criteria, including location, comfort, services, price, and character. Though accommodation on the Camino is limited, your guides will always try to book something that is near the Camino as well as the historical center of the city. Expect hotels of a 3* standard in larger cities, while for the smaller villages and towns, your guide choose hotels or guesthouses of a 2* standard . Exceptions may be made.

What’s the food like on the trail?

Your guides are determined to provide you with the best available on the Camino . Each night, you can expect traditional meals or tapas prepared with fresh and local products. A table will always be reserved for your group at the end of the day in one of your guides’ favorite restaurants along the trail. Any special dietary requirements or allergies can be accommodated, just let us know in time so they can be taken into consideration.

Group sizes and age restrictions

Self-guided tours It’s possible to arrange self-guided tours both for solo travelers as well as large groups. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. If the minimum number of clients for the date is not reached up to 30 days before the tour start date, the tour will be conducted as a self-guided trip. If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Guided tours Guided tours require a minimum of 7 people for the tour to run. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Can I take my dog with me?

Yes! Dogs are allowed on the trail, just consider your dog’s fitness and whether they’re willing to go with you on tour. Keep in mind that extra fees might occur in accommodations , especially depending on your dog’s size.

Getting there and meeting locations

The start of your Camino Frances tour depends on your chosen itinerary. If you are hiking the full Camino Frances , your tour begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Most people fly into Madrid and then to Biarritz (BIQ), France, which is 50 km away from Saint-Jean-Pied. It’s best to combine a bus and train ride to reach the trailhead, which is about 2 hours away. If you are hiking the final 100 km , your tour begins in Sarria. To reach Sarria, most people fly into Santiago–Rosalía de Castro Airport (SCQ), 2-3 hours away —depending on whether you rent a car or take the bus. Your guides can either arrange airport transfers to the meeting point for an additional fee.

What if I get lost or sick on the Camino?

All of the major Camino routes are very well signposted, so it is highly unlikely you would get lost. If you set out in the early morning dark or aren’t paying attention and suddenly can’t find your way, you always have a map by your side, as well as a 24/7 customer service. In case you get sick on the trail, there are health centers in most larger towns . You can find a pharmacy in smaller towns, which are designated by the green cross sign. Both pharmacies and clinics are familiar with pilgrim ailments including blisters, shin splints, tendonitis and knee issues. Make sure you have medical insurance.

Packing In case you decide to carry your own backpack all the way, make sure you pack efficiently. First, look for a pack that weight 3 pounds or less (1.5 kg), as heavy packs with a lot of padding and stiff stays are not necessary for the Camino. An internal frame pack that sets most of the weight on your hips and not your shoulders is also a good choice. Don’t forget that your guide can also handle all of the luggage transfers — included in the price of the tour! You aren’t doing a wilderness hike so you won’t need to pack for every contingency . You’ll be sleeping in actual beds and you’ll be walking past cafes, stores and pharmacies. Keep your pack light and pick up things as needed along the Way. Here are some things you will not need: full-size bottles of toiletries, jeans or cotton cargo pants (heavy and take a long time to dry), a large supply of food or snacks (buy them along the way), too much clothing, etc. Shoes The Camino is not a technical hiking trail so many people choose to wear trail runners or light hiking shoes, while others choose to wear heavier hiking boots. This varies mostly on your foot care needs. When you are fitted for shoes, consider sizing up 1/2 size. Break them in properly by trail-testing them with multiple back-to-back hikes, but don’t wear them out before you get to Spain. Your shoes should be waterproof if you are coming in the more rainy season, but Spain is mostly dry so most non-waterproofed shoes will be OK. They are likely to dry out overnight (especially when stuffed with newspaper) and they breathe more easily. Socks Socks also matter for avoiding blisters. Most people use either a liner with a wool outer sock, a padded CoolMax sock, a double-layer sock or toe socks. Money on trail In rural Spain, other than higher-end accommodations and grocery stores, there are few places that accept credit cards. While Spain is a modern country, rural Spain’s economy is more cash-based . Most towns have an ATM. Most pilgrims carry enough cash for several days. Be sure to bring two bank cards or an extra credit card with you in case one fails. Internet access Since most of the trail connects smaller and bigger towns, you will have mobile signal most of the time. Many bars and hotels offer free wifi . Check with your cellular service provider about options you have when traveling. If your phone is paid off (ie: unlocked), you can purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in major cities. When in doubt, keep your phone in airplane mode to avoid surprise mobile phone bills when you get home. You can use WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or Facetime to make voice and video calls to family and friends at home. Electronics Remember that Europe runs on 220 volt electric and have a different plug than North American and UK/Ireland plugs, so you will need a plug adapter.

A non-refundable 30% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 2 months (60 days) prior to departure.

In case you wish to cancel your trip, the following charges will be made: For cancellations prior to sixty (60) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a full refund minus the deposit. For cancellations fifteen (15) to fifty-nine (59) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking. For cancellations zero (0) to fifteen (15) calendar days in advance, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.

We highly recommended that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more. As we’ve recently seen, travel plans can be abruptly halted, so it’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance that covers cancelled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans. For peace of mind, we suggest you consider both options of insurance. If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Pilgrims walking along on the Way of St. James, Muxia-Fisterra, Galicia, Spain

Walk the Legendary Camino Francés

Steeped in legend and surrounded by soul-stirring landscapes, the Camino Francés route is one of the most popular European thru-hikes. Spanning almost 800 kilometers (500 miles) through the pastoral Spanish countryside, this millennium-old trail pulls in thousands of people yearly.

This segment of the revered Camino de Santiago pilgrimage is a timeless spiritual odyssey fused with cultural riches. No matter how long you stay on the trail, you are sure to be rewarded with charming villages, Roman remains, lush forests — and a lifetime’s quantity of Spanish delicacies.

All roads lead to Santiago

The Camino Francés is just one of the many walking routes in the area. A network of 8 main trails and a dozen smaller ones once served as trade routes through western Europe, all merging in Santiago de Compostela — the burial site of the Biblical apostle St. James.

Today, the trail is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular pilgrimages in Europe — but only one third of visitors walk the path for religious reasons.

Some enjoy the history, others seek solitude; some come for the challenge and stay for the wine. It is more than a mere physical journey; it is a journey of personal discovery and human connection.

764 km of trails
1000 years of history
5 to 36 days of hiking
Comfy accommodations
Luggage transfers
Local delicacies

A timeless journey

Feel the Spanish hospitality

Each portion of the pilgrimage traverses picture-perfect landscapes and villages, but you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to reach your goal.

Camino Francés offers cozy stays, breakfast delights, luggage transfers, 24/7 support, and the promise of reaching a new town each night — where you’ll find local delicacies, friendly locals, and a rest for your tired legs.

Embrace the sacredness

Trace the footsteps of medieval pilgrims or pause to reflect in the quiet of centuries-old chapels. Every footstep becomes a meditation, and every interaction is a chance to learn.

Amidst the rugged beauty of the Spanish countryside, hikers are invited to slow their pace and feel the whispers of history and spirituality that permeate the path.

Pilgrims walk across the Meseta (central plateau) towards Hornillos del Camino - Castile and Leon, Spain

Cross the north of the Iberian Peninsula

The route begins in the steep French Pyrenees and winds its way through the beautiful Basque Country, celebrated for its marvelous cuisine.

Traverse the verdant wine region of La Rioja, savoring the charm of its capital, Logroño, and delight in the Renaissance splenor of Castilla y León.

As you approach the Galician coast, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking beauty of golden beaches, quaint coastal towns, and idyllic mountain villages like O Cebreiro.

Pilgrim on the road to Santiago de Compostela in Burgos

The last 100 km

Hiking the entirety of this route takes a lot of time. So why not hike just a section that you prefer the most?

The final 100 km of the Camino Francés, starting from Sarria and leading to Santiago de Compostela, are renowned for the social atmosphere, making this section ideal for newcomers seeking camaraderie.

It is also the least you’ll have to walk to earn your Compostela certification — one of the most valuable mementos from your adventure.

Share this trailer with your friends and get them stoked to join you on this adventure.

Schedule a call with our adventure experts and let us help planning your dream adventure.

Disconnect from the everyday, reconnect with yourself

You’ll never walk alone…

On Camino, solitude often meets companionship of fellow travelers and friendly locals.

Whether led by seasoned guides or navigating the path independently, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a diverse mix of locals and fellow pilgrims, forming bonds that can last a lifetime.

From swapping stories with seasoned travelers to sharing a meal with newfound friends, every step along the way is an opportunity for connection.

Group of young hikers walks in mountains at sunset time

…under the Field of Stars

Derived from “campus stellae,” Compostela can be translated as the Field of Stars. According to legend, the trail is based on the stars of the Milky Way, outlined by St. James and followed by pilgrims to this day.

Compostela is also the name of the document that certifies the completion of the Camino de Santiago, awarded by the Church since the 9th century. Walk the last 100 km and share in the triumph felt by countless pilgrims who’ve journeyed before you.

Find the perfect hike and start your journey

Pilgrim in front of the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

The Full Camino Frances

Embark on a month-long journey across the breadth of Northern Spain. Instead of focusing on the organization of it all, focus on your own enjoyment along the Camino, experience the camaraderie of the pilgrimage, and see what you’re made of over the course of 36 days. One step at a time and you’ll soon be in the historic Santiago de Compostela.

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The Final 100 km

Don’t have the time to spend over a month walking the Camino? This 7-day self-guided tour of the final 100 km (60 miles) of Camino Frances is the perfect choice for you! Departing from the charming town of Sarria, you’ll follow the path meandering through Spanish villages, market towns, and lush forests, and as the night falls, you’ll retreat to an authentic accommodation.Make sure not to miss out on the delicious food and wine along the way!

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The Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos, Burgos, Castille and Leon, Spain. An UNESCO World heritage landmark along the Way of St. James

From Logrono to Burgos

The third section of the Camino Frances starts from Logrono in the heart of the famous Rioja region and finishes in medieval Burgos. This 7-day section hike is slightly flatter than the previous; it crosses the hilly province of Burgos, passing typical villages, vineyards and ruined castles. As with all the tours, you’ll be treated to the very best local gastronomy, and stay in comfortable hotels and traditional guesthouses.

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Hiking the Camino de Santiago along the Frances Route

From Léon to Ponferrada

This 6-day section hike begins in Léon, one of the greatest cities in Spain and finishes in Ponferrada, built by the Templars in the 12th century. The Camino de Santiago, or Way of Saint James, starts on the central high plateau and traverses the untouched Leon Mountains. As with all the tours, you’ll be treated to the very best local gastronomy, and stay in comfortable hotels and traditional guesthouses.

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Hiker along the Camino de Santiago, the French Way

Guided Hike of the Final 100 km

Join this tour to hike the last portion of it—with a guide! Starting from the city of Sarria, the trail takes you through the delightful Spanish countryside and villages, with each of them offering mouth drooling local dishes. The path’s endpoint is in the historic Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, whose monumental cathedral reputedly safeguards the remains of St. James, the apostle.

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To be or not to be guided?

These tours are organized by Follow the Camino, a guiding company leading the way since 2007. They’ve been making the Camino more accessible, enjoyable, and achievable for thousands of travelers from all around the world.

In case you decide to join a guided tour, you will most likely hike with Paloma, Silvia or Francisco. They are all locals who love the outdoors—each of them hiked the Camino at least once!

The Camino Frances is a fairly manicured and, at times, even urban experience, which makes it very accessible for travelers looking to do this on their own. Your certified guides will provide you with 24/7 support, maps, luggage transfers, settled accommodation and meals, so you can enjoy the trail without worrying about the logistics.

If you are not sure whether to go alone or join a guided group of like-minded hikers, feel free to contact us and we will help you find the perfect tour!

Paloma, one of the guides, hiking the Camino

I am just back from a truly memorable and incredible 7 day experience which was made so good by the attention to detail and going beyond my needs in relation to a holiday package from the people in “Follow the Camino “ from the pick up drivers to hotel staff to the quality of service I cannot fault one bit. My bag was taking daily and dropped off at the next destination. Breakfast was had daily.
The quality of the hotels was comfortable and clean & tidy. I individual reviewed them all .
This is not my first trip with “follow the Camino” and certainly won’t be my last.. well done – Gold star.

My first time doing the Camino and the professional way FOLLOW THE CAMINO handled our trip from start to finish was second to none. The communication made it so easy to understand what we needed to do to prepare and gave us plenty of hints and tips to make the walks more enjoyable and make the most of the stunning scenery along the way. They also supplied a luggage transfer to our next hotel and the hotels were very clean, great food and excellent prices. We were given a kit with Camino Passport, Camino shell and a bandana which came in handy protecting from the sun. Over all FOLLOW THE CAMINO made this an experience we will never forget and would highly recommend them to groups or solo for a life time of memories.

Our group had a fabulous time on our Camino Way walk. The support, guidance and pre-trip information were excellent. The roadbook with maps was a great help although there were plenty of markers and hundreds of fellow travellers to keep us on the right track. The most welcome surprise was the accommodation which, in each case, was very good and, in some cases, outstanding!

Walk the Legendary Camino Francés

All roads lead to Santiago