Camino FAQs Articles

When planning a trip as big as walking or cycling the Camino de Santiago, whether it’s for a week or a month, you’re likely going to have some questions. Odds are, if you have a question, someone else also has also had the same query in the past. We have compiled our most frequently asked questions here in our Camino FAQs section of the Blog. If you don’t see your question here, please don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll do our best to help you and answer any questions you may have. You never know, your question could end up being the next Camino FAQ!

How Many People to Expect on a Camino Journey?

How Many People Will Be on My Trip?

The number of people on your trip depends on the type of Camino experience you choose. If you’re doing a self-guided Camino, there is no set group size. You are free to walk solo or with friends and family. Self-guided tours offer complete flexibility. You can start any day of the year and from just one person. Whether you’re walking alone or as a group, we organise everything — ...

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Cycling the Camino: Do You Need to Bring Your Own Pedals?

If you’ve decided to cycle the Camino de Santiago and are now preparing your gear, you might be asking: “Do I need to bring my own bike pedals?” It’s a common question among cyclists, especially those using clip-in pedals or specific cycling shoes. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to long-distance cycling, knowing what to pack can make a big difference to your comfort and confidence on the trail. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to ...

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When is My Final Camino Payment Due? A Guide

Final Payment Schedule for Your Camino de Santiago Holiday

A frequently asked question by many of our clients is, ‘When is my final payment due?’ Understanding the importance of this query, we’ve prepared a detailed guide to help you effectively plan for your Camino de Santiago journey.

Due Date for Final Payment

The final payment for your Camino de Santiago trip is due two months before your departure date. This policy is in place to ...

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The Compostela Pilgrims Certificate

What Is The Compostela Pilgrims Certificate?

The Camino de Santiago has always held great spiritual and cultural significance. Pilgrims wanted a way to recognise their completed journey. In the early days, the scallop shell became a symbol of arrival at the tomb of Saint James the Apostle. This symbolic gesture eventually evolved into the official Compostela Pilgrim Certificate.

The Problem with Scallop Shells

Originally, pilgrims would pick up scallop shells to show they ...

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What Bike Gear Do I Need to Bring for a Camino Cycling Trip?

Essential Bike Gear for Cycling the Camino de Santiago

Are you planning to cycle the Camino de Santiago? One of the most common questions is: “What bike gear do I need to bring?” This guide will help you prepare by highlighting the essential items for a safe, smooth, and comfortable cycling journey.

Cycling the Camino is a unique experience. With the right preparation and proper gear, your trip will be more enjoyable and less stressful. Here’s a breakdown ...

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What is included in my Camino de Santiago trip?

Exploring the Essentials of Your Camino Trip

The Camino de Santiago offers more than just a journey—it delivers a meaningful experience filled with unique moments that make your pilgrimage unforgettable. To get the most from your Camino, take time to review what your trip includes before you set off.

Key Inclusions in Your Camino Trip

Luggage Transfer Service

Enjoy walking each day without the burden of carrying heavy bags. We securely transfer ...

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How to share your Camino Review

How to share your Camino Review after your trip

Thank you so much for choosing CaminoWays.com for your Camino de Santiago trip. Your feedback is extremely important for the CaminoWays.com team as it allows us to improve our services and keep pilgrims happy constantly! Share your Camino Review. There are various ways you can send us your feedback; here’s how you can share your Camino trip review:

Trustpilot

Every customer who travels with CaminoWays will receive a ...

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Level of Difficulty of the Camino de Santiago Routes

What is the level of difficulty of the Camino?

We offer a variety of walking and cycling holidays along the Camino de Santiago and the Via Francigena in Italy, suitable for all fitness levels. You’ll find the difficulty level of each Camino route clearly listed in the ‘Quick Facts’ box for every trip (see image), making it easier to choose the right trail. As a general rule, each traveller will find a challenge that suits them.

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How to Train for the Camino de Santiago: Tips for Walkers

A question we often hear is whether you really need to train for the Camino de Santiago, or if it’s possible to complete the walk without much preparation. While many people do manage without formal training, being prepared can make the journey far more enjoyable. To support you, our travel experts have created a list of straightforward tips to help you get started. If you’re planning your pilgrimage, you can also download our free 6-month fitness eBook ...

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What to Wear After Walking the Camino de Santiago?

What to Wear After Walking the Camino de Santiago

You’ve reached Santiago de Compostela. The scallop shell is tucked safely in your bag, your boots are dusted with miles of Spanish soil, and your final stamp has been inked. But now that the walking is over — what do you wear?

After weeks of repeating the same outfits, many pilgrims find themselves surprisingly unsure about what to wear once the Camino is finished. Should you dress for ...

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What to Wear in the Evenings on the Camino

What to Wear in the Evenings on the Camino

Clothing and Shoes for Post-Walk/Cycle For Camino Dinners.

After hours of walking or cycling the Camino de Santiago, the evening offers a precious window of rest. But what should you wear once the boots are off and the miles are behind you? Many guides focus on what to wear during the walk — yet what to wear in the evenings on the Camino is just as important ...

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Self-Guided vs Guided Camino: What’s the Difference?

You’ve made the life-changing decision to walk the Camino de Santiago—a journey rich in culture, challenge, and reflection. Deciding between a Camino Guided or Self-Guided Tour is a big part of planning your journey. This isn’t a small detail. Your choice will shape your entire Camino experience—from how you interact with fellow pilgrims to how flexible your days feel. It will influence your level of comfort, your sense of adventure, and even the personal growth you may experience along the way.

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When is the Best Time to Walk the Camino?

Best time to walk the Camino de Santiago

Choosing the best time to hike the Camino de Santiago can make or break your experience. Weather, crowds, and trail conditions all vary throughout the year, and knowing what to expect each season can help you avoid common mistakes. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of hiking the Camino during different times of the year so you can plan your journey wisely. Best time to walk the ...

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All You Need To Know About Our 24/7 Assistance Number

All our Camino de Santiago tours include access to a 24/7 assistance number provided as part of your Travel Documents. This assistance phone line is designed to give you peace of mind and provide assistance with possible issues that might arise during your trip.

The Assistance Phone Number will be provided 48 hours before departure.

This is the best way to contact the customer experience team if you need support while on your Camino trip (please note that ...

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Where Can I Get My Pilgrim Credential / pilgrim passport?

Before setting foot on the Camino de Santiago, there’s one document you’ll hear a lot about: the Pilgrim Credential. But what exactly is it—and do you really need one? Often called the pilgrim passport, this little booklet is more than just a keepsake. It’s an essential tool that records your journey and proves your pilgrim status. Without it, you won’t be able to collect the stamps (or sellos) required to receive the Compostela certificate at the end of your ...

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A Typical Day of Food on the Camino

A Typical Day of Food on the Camino

Food on the Camino – What to Expect

When you book with CaminoWays.com, your standard package includes half-board in smaller towns—breakfast and dinner, usually at your hotel. In bigger towns and cities, dinner isn’t included so you can explore local restaurants on your own.

Breakfast is light and European-style: coffee or tea, toast, jam, and sometimes ham or cheese.
Lunch is not included. Most pilgrims grab something from ...

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Camino Flights and Airport Transfers

Pilgrims often ask us “Which airport should I fly to for the Camino?”. Your ideal airport varies based on your chosen Camino route, your country of origin, and your start date. Considerations also include your departure location.

For walkers outside Europe, major Spanish city airports like Madrid (MAD) (Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas International Airport) and Barcelona (BCN) (Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport) are common choices, especially for those travelling from the ...

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What are Camino Casas Rurales?

What are Camino Casas Rurales?

At CaminoWays.com, you can book your accommodation in some sections of the Camino de Santiago in ‘Casas Rurales’, sometimes called ‘Country Cottages’.

Casas Rurales are unique boutique properties that have been lovingly restored by their owners, keeping some of the original features and homely traditional feel, combining them with all modern comforts.

Farmhouses, restored stone homes with granaries, centuries-old priest houses, and other lovely period buildings are the type of property you will ...

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Do Non-Europeans Need a Visa to Walk the Camino de Santiago?

Do I Need a Visa for the Camino de Santiago?

The Camino de Santiago, often referred to as the Way of St. James, is a network of pilgrimage routes leading to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. The journey attracts travellers, pilgrims, and adventure enthusiasts from across the globe. If you’re a non-European dreaming of embarking on this spiritually enriching trek, you’re probably wondering about the entry requirements for Europe. The good news ...

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