When Should You Walk the Camino de Santiago?

[@brianmetzger7404]

My friends and I (in that 'mature' age category) started our Camino Frances in September, thinking there would be fewer pilgrims than the summer. But no. But it was beautiful and after the first three stages it thinned out and became much easier to find beds (most of the time). The biggest "shock" was Sarria - as you say, the pilgrim population exploded. And the morning we left Sarria, bus loads of school children unloaded - sounding like a rushing river - and it was like salmon trying to swim upriver together. But all those schoolchildren were very pleasant to walk with and they switched to English to ask us questions and learn about us, and then they were quickly by us at a speed we couldn't match. This was another fantastic video with excellent humor, information and insights. Looking to start my Le Puy Camino September '25, hopefully lava tree free.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thanks for sharing your experiences! 😍 Bon Chemin!

[@gertrudmerseburger-saeed8536]

I walked Camino del Norte in September/October 2023, only 3-4 rainy days within 5 weeks, and now I am planning to start Camino Primitivo in April, after Easter .

[@DaysWeSpend]

Sounds awesome! Buen Camino!

[@mikaelpettersson8371]

Thank you, I am looking to do a Camino Frances in early spring/ late winter 2025 and thi is very helpful. About laundry in cold times: fill two PET-bottles with very hot water (close them) and put your socks on the bottle. It will dry in minutes.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Woah!! That’s a great tip! Thanks.

[@steveclayton4249]

I started walking Tuesday 14th May at SJPDP and ended 20th June at Fisterre. Perfect weather, perfect time to go. Not massively busy no issues with albergues. We were told because we started mid month its quieter than starting at the start of the month.

[@musingwithreba9667]

@steveclayton4249 wow, you made good time all the way to Finesterre!

[@steveclayton4249]

@@musingwithreba9667 yeah had 2 days off. One in Leon and one in Santiago. Most days just did the usual 25km, did one 40km day on the Meseta. May have taken days off but would have lost my Camino family.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Glad to hear you had a wonderful experience!

[@ronaldc6564]

Those are my dates for 2025.

[@steveclayton4249]

@@ronaldc6564 Fantastic Ronald you will have a great time. I'll be walking the Portuguese at the same time reunion with the people I met on the Frances this year.

[@dbb96ac]

I’ve hiked three times during different seasons and my favourite time to hike is June. Sunny and warm, flowers and fresh fruit, festivals and a social environment. I also hiked late Sept to end of October and loved it. Not too busy, beautiful fall colours, warm and even hot days and we lucked out and only had rain 2 days on the entire journey. I agree with your advice-book your auberges from SJPDP to Pamplona and see how busy it is, then decide if you need to continue making reservations.

[@DaysWeSpend]

June is an awesome time. Glad you had wonderful experiences!

[@dreskej]

I am really considering june for my start next year. Would you recommend early june or even late may so I am on the way during june, or better to start later in june and arrive in july?

[@Jesper-bl2ns]

I have walked 9 caminos and have still not walked in June, July and August. The earliest in January and latest in November. But you never know what you get. In April 2016 I crossed the pyrenees from St jean in cold rain that turned into a snowstorm. When I arrived in Roncevalles I was number 6 that had arrived I was told that both routes over the pyrenees had be closed two hours earlier and emergency services were out now to pick up pilgrims. I moved on to Burguete and next morning woke up to a foot of snow everywhere. I chose to go all in and walked all the way to pamplona where I arrived late afternoon in 25 degrees celsius beautiful sunshine. No rain or snow on the rest of the camino.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Wow! That snowstorm sounds intense! How was the Camino in January?

[@jenniferlassen1005]

I just walked in May from Sarria. The crowds weren’t bad, only a couple times I felt like it was crowded. It rained EVERY DAY. I’m from the Pacific Northwest of the USA, so I was used to walking in the rain, but there were some downpours. Anytime it did downpour, I took it as a sign to take a break and have an Aquarius. It was challenging to get motivated to walk out the door when it was raining in the morning, but it’s not like you have a choice. I actually think that experience did change me and my relationship with rain. I would say the bigger challenge was getting my clothes dry each night. I prioritized staying places with washers and dryers. Starting the day with wet socks was not fun… Despite all of the rain in Galicia, I’m already planning a return trip in spring ‘25 to start walking the whole Camino Frances in stages (over many years). Thanks for your videos, I watched all of your Camino Francis videos before my trip and loved them.

[@DaysWeSpend]

We had a super rainy May this year. It's not always this wet, but Galicia just got dumped on this Spring. We're glad you had a wonderful experience!

[@nancycompagnie6500]

really enjoyed this one 🙂on a sunday morning, planning my little winter camino, sipping coffee...life is good 😁

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thanks so much!!!

[@benalba7192]

Have done CF and Portugues coast in April and May. Your experience doing the fall gave me insights also clarity. Would like to try fall next time.

[@DaysWeSpend]

We're glad we could help!

[@Michael-0000]

This was immensely useful for planning a Camino! Covers all the major and smaller points that would take a long time to find through reading Reddit and other blogs on the Camino. Thank-you so much!

[@DaysWeSpend]

That’s awesome to hear! We always try to give as much info as we can and hopefully it helps you make the decision that’s right for you.

[@musingwithreba9667]

Thank you for all this information, it'svery helpful! I'm planning to do the Primitivo and then the Frances in Fall after I retire. (2027) I was supposed to do the Primitivo a few years ago with a friend but then I couldn’t go, so he went alone. I'm a couple of months older than him, so I'm going to do the Primitivo up to where it meets the Frances, then go up to meet him in Saint Jean, after he retires, and we'll do the Frances together all the way to Santiago. And then I'll head back to North America (we're Canadian) to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2028 😁 And after that, perhaps retire to Spain for a few years to hike all the trails I can in Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc is definitely on the list! And all the other Caminos, of course.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Wow! These are awesome plans. 🥰

[@musingwithreba9667]

@@DaysWeSpend thanks 😊

[@AtiAnthony]

Thank you both for this lovely walkthrough (no pun intended 😅). You both seem very friendly and this video was very helpful!

[@DaysWeSpend]

Hahaha. Love the pun!

[@steveglennan]

Thanks for sharing this info, my wife and I would like to walk Portuguese route towards the end of September.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Buen Camino!

[@williamjoos2026]

I came upon this video today. It was excellent advice. I have been fortunate enough to do it 3 times in the Fall (mid-Sept start). The crowds are small and the weather is very nice. When are you guys going again? It would be fun to trek with you.............

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thanks so much. We don't have plans for our next one yet.

[@rossnairn6488]

I walked the Portuguese route twice. Once in March/April and once in September. March was MUCH quieter but more rainy. Walking the Baztan then the French way this September so who knows what it will be like then. Thanks again for the info.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thanks for sharing your Portuguese experience. We don’t have any first hand knowledge of that one. Buen camino!

[@harrykey2448]

In 2023 there were actually around 600,000 peregrinos walked the various routes. There were just over 446,000 people who claimed their compostelas from the pilgrim office in Santiago. There are many who complete the Camino without bothering with a compostela. On August 20th I will be starting walking the Frances from SJPDP. I Have walked eleven full Caminos at different times of year. I never book ahead and I never have a problem getting a bed.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Absolutely. Thanks for the specifics.

[@juliel7522]

How did u find the camino in dec?

[@softwelveone]

this is a crucial piece of information, thank you very much for sharing! a buddy of mine walked the Camino in 2013 and RAVED about it which inspired me to look into it! thanks!! : )

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thanks for watching. The Camino has changed a lot since 2013, so make sure to keep researching your trip. :)

[@jeremynachbar3205]

I’ve walked 2 Caminos during the winter, on the Camino Portuguese. Got some rain, but it wasn’t too bad. I chose to go during that time, because of life’s circumstances. It was still good, but you are right, not many people. Just finished the Invierno about a month ago. Interesting route. I walked with my oldest daughter (19) and some friends. Didn’t see many pilgrims. Taking the 14 year old on the Portuguese in about 10 days. I’ve already booked all of our rooms ahead of time.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Wow! You have so many great camino memories. Enjoy the Portuguese. Buen Camino!

[@Alex-yk1cn]

I walked from St Jean this year on 20 June, to Santiago - I arrived on the festival of St Jame’s (25 July). It rained the first 2 days … and no further rain the whole way!! (It tried to rain a couple times). I took a sleeping bag and posted it ahead after 5 days, and bought a sleeping bag liner because of the heat (but it was still cold a few nights, I had to wear all my clothes then). When I walked the Meseta, a heat wave came over Spain from Africa and it was VERY hot for about 5 days. BUT I loved the dry heat … walked the whole way in Keen Newport H2 sandals, very light long sleeve Australian UV block shirt, long pants, Australian Akubra hat. Only used sunblock twice, I come from New Zealand and the UV isn’t so fierce in Spain. I have booked flights to walk the same route at the same time of the year next year (2025) and my partner is coming with me. After hearing about my experiences, and seeing how it affected me, about 2 weeks after I got home she said she also wants to walk the Camino!! So look out for 2 “Kiwis” leaving St Jean Pied de Port on 18 June!!

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Buen Camino!

[@bethloomis8961]

When I started the Portuguese this past April after Easter, there gad been a DELUGE just about every day the previous week. It only really rained one day I was there, and it was a rest say for me. As the saying goes, your mileage may vary.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Wow! You got lucky!

[@Pellegrino809]

Very helpful and informative. Working on a schedule to take my fiancee on the Camino Frances starting September 27th. Tambien el español de los dos, es muy bueno. This video made the choice of the time to go much easier.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Glad it was helpful! Buen Camino!

[@Pellegrino809]

@@DaysWeSpend 🍻

[@traveller9292]

Decisions decisions, last year I walked in early August and it was fine. I am currently in Australia and was planning to find and book flights this weekend to return mid August and finish the journey but from Sarria sounds crazier than I ever seen it in Spring before. I did bypass one year by jumping up from Sarria to Lugo by buss and walk from there into Melide which was OK but like so many of the alternates trails there is way too much road walking

[@DaysWeSpend]

Agree. So many decisions. The Sarria crowds are not as bad if you sleep off stage. That’s how we deal with them.

[@pakabe8774]

I only did it in summer, early but late summer as well. I really like it then and even the heat can be a challenge, it also has benefits, like swimming or getting your handwashed stuff dry within hours.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Those are two perfect reasons we love summer Caminos! Also the long days!

[@pakabe8774]

@@DaysWeSpend Absolutely and a little siesta and you double the quality of your days :D

[@bbttresidder7224]

Super helpful, and fun too. You guys are great!

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thanks so much!

[@larswetterstrom7209]

I walked from april 17 the first time. The birds singing going down to Zubiri from Roncesvalles I will never forget. I also walked in October another year with my sister to Burgos. That was nice too. Alone I walked in the middle of summer another year. But protecting your head and neck it was OK. The talk of the dangerous heat I dont accept.

[@carolkarnib3753]

O really needed a vídeo like this! Thanks a lot guys!

[@DaysWeSpend]

You're welcome! Buen Camino.

[@danielle3988]

Love your videos. Thank you for all the work you put into them.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thank you so much. We try! And thanks so much for watching. We’re glad they’re helpful. 😁

[@yayo1532]

Thank you!! Very helpful ❤

[@DaysWeSpend]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Steve-qe2yo]

Hi guys. Great video and information. I'll be starting the Frances, again, on 4th March next year. There doesn't seem to be a lack of Albergues open then, but what about cafe's and shops? Did you have a problem getting supplies in the smaller towns and villages? It does seem that everything starts to reopen after 15th March or so. Cheers guys.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Most places will reopen around Semana Santa (Easter). You may need to plan ahead in some of the smaller villages. Larger town will have plenty open.

[@joeyvoss6808]

hi thank you for the video. if I am starting the camino in early October will I have beat the crowds from September ? how will it be

[@DaysWeSpend]

It depends where you are starting and which route. Sarria to SdC is very crowded. But starting in SJPP will have way fewer people.

[@vickiamaral6494]

You make me want go soon!,, great advice!

[@DaysWeSpend]

Yay! Glad we could help out.

[@elena_a-2023]

Thank you for this video. I am planning a walk in 2025 or 26. This information was great! Gracias!

[@DaysWeSpend]

Glad it was helpful. Buen Camino!

[@joerg64]

Thank you for another great video with tons of specific helpful information for everyone to make their own decision. While many people discourage walking the Frances in the summer months, you make good arguments. First Question: The heat is dry and therefore much more bearable than humid heat, even if that humid heat has a lower temperature (as at US East Coast etc), right? Your sunglasses with side protection seem to help against strong sunlight. Umbrellas seem to be popular as well against heat, glaring light and UV rays. Second Question: Are the municipal albergues more likely to provide extra accommodation if the regular space fills up at lunch time in summer months? (On the Portuguese Camino in March many years ago, in one city they opened a gym for pilgrims to meet extra demand. In another they send everyone to less affordable hotels. After that stage, I noticed that many pilgrims started their day earlier and aimed to arrive in the albergues by lunch time. That was even before the beginning of the last 100 km. Such stress hurts the camino expereience a bit IMHO.) Or is it fine to just keep walking because the days are long: If one albergue at 4 PM is full, then walk another three hours to the next one in the hope that they have space and are still open at 7 PM?

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thank you! The heat is dry except in Galicia and the first day going over the Pyrenees from SJPP. Municipal albergues sometimes provide extra space, but it depends on if the town has that or not. This is definitely more of an option on the Camino Frances but we wouldn't count on it all the time. If we're afraid of something being full, we call and ask how many beds are left. A little information goes a long way. :)

[@joerg64]

@@DaysWeSpend Thanks. I appreciate the advice.

[@RiversideWarrior]

You guys are cute and funny, thank you for those very helpful Camino tips on what to expect during different times of the year. I just retired a few weeks ago and so now I'm doing my due diligence on this topic which my wife expressed interest in doing and which seems pretty interesting. My wife will be retiring in 2025 and then we will likely do the Frances later in 2025 or 2026.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thank you! We’re glad we could help. Buen Camino!

[@toddnightingale8156]

Great video! Thank you. Question: For various reasons I'm planning to walk for about 15 days on the Frances starting around 25-28 March. I know that the pass from SJPP is closed until 1 April so I would start further along. Will I find auberges open? Small crowds? Any guidance?

[@DaysWeSpend]

Almost all albergues are open at this time. But we do suggest you call ahead (day before or day of) to check. Depending on when the Easter holidays (Semana Santa) falls, means you’ll have crowds or not. Bring some good rain gear for Spring!

[@debwilton89]

I have a bad physical flushing reaction to heat, normal temperature heat. I’m comfortable with 40-60 degree temperatures. Would fall be the best time for me?

[@DaysWeSpend]

Spring or Fall would be nice. But if you like to hike in the cold, Winter could be lovely.

[@debwilton89]

@ thank you! I’m hoping to go in 2026. I have a lot to do to prepare my body.🥰I’m Deborah, not Evan. That’s my son.

[@angelfire402]

This is helpful. I am making my reservations ib August 16, 2024 for my birthday. I want to avoid the Sirria people traffic. I have 2 weeks. Where else can I start to avoid the Sirria people traffic.

[@DaysWeSpend]

You can walk from Porto or Oviedo if you want to take alternative routes. Otherwise, you can walk 2 weeks of the Camino Frances that are in the beginning or middle of the route.

[@angelfire402]

@@DaysWeSpend Thank you for helpful information.

[@marliesk9920]

What do you think of starting the c. Sanabres 19th November this year? Will most albuerges be closed? Will there be fellow pilgrims, or would I be walking alone most of the time? And weather wise, probably cold?

[@DaysWeSpend]

Some private albergues may be closed but the municipal ones are usually open if you call them a day in advance. You might meet 2 or 3 pilgrims... or none! Expect some warm days and some cold days. And probably a lot of rain. Galicia is really unpredictable this time of year. We've had amazing weather the last few days, but it was very cold and rainy last week. Buen Camino!

[@marliesk9920]

@@DaysWeSpend thank you so much for this information!!! This helps me a lot! My concern was, that there would be no albuerges open, or hardly any, and only in too long distances apart. 2-3 pilgrims or none per day, I guess. I think I can live with that, re have to since I will walk on my own 😊

[@DaysWeSpend]

@@marliesk9920 Let us know how it goes!

[@rickhough]

Hi you cool couple!! How's mid September in general on the Primitivo or Portugal?

[@DaysWeSpend]

Probably a great time for either of them. 😄

[@JS-td8qf]

Nicely organized.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thank you!

[@marthalubars6015]

So not bad if i plan starting sarria to Finasterre 5/5/24 not bad?

[@DaysWeSpend]

That's probably a great time to go. No matter the date, expect a lot of people from Sarria.

[@whisnant23]

Great video

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thank you!

[@hazelstein32]

Most useful thanks

[@jq2639]

Do you ever lead groups?

[@DaysWeSpend]

At the moment we don’t. Please join our mailing list. If we ever lead a group, we’ll announce it there first. 😁

[@loz1467]

Portuguese Central October 2024, the rain is relentless!

[@DaysWeSpend]

It's been a very rare autumn. The storm Kirk is dumping way more rain on the whole northern Iberian peninsula than normal for this time of year.

[@shoshanafox727]

I was there! Just got back. I ended up being unprepared for the cold rain. I got an upper respiratory infection and spent the last 4 days in Portugal holed up in a hotel room. 😢😢😢 Portugal is still beautiful even when you're sick! I miss it.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Oh no! Hopefully you're feeling better now.

[@godscountryhomestead1177]

Thank you!

[@DaysWeSpend]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching.

[@Wiseamphibian87]

I would like to know ; what’s the Significance of doing this walk ?? Is it A spiritual journey?? Just curious 👀

[@DaysWeSpend]

For many people, it's a nice way to spend time outside and away from screens. Other people, it's spiritual or religious. It's a way to meet new people. We made an email about why we love the Camino: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5PWm6aOgpiYkNEsi=TNYBEkQENM4dH9U1

[@anxomillaraveiga9404]

very interesting notes

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thanks!

[@fr.jeffreyedmunds353]

Well done,

[@DaysWeSpend]

Thank you!

[@angelfire402]

I dance in Los Angeles enough. NO July or August. I would rather just walk in quietness. I will reserve for September 2025

[@DaysWeSpend]

Buen Camino!

[@TheRealSnakePlisken]

It is people like yourselves that make this event too crowded. Once is enough. It isn't Disney Land.

[@DaysWeSpend]

Oh man. Once you pop you can’t stop! One Camino is never enough!

[@maciej6517]

...too much talk

[@benalba7192]

Better than you. You don’t bring anything except your bitter melon.