Why the choice matters
The Camino de Santiago is a wonderful adventure for families, but one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to walk or cycle. Both are safe, family-friendly, and unforgettable — yet the experiences are different. Walking offers a slower, traditional pace, while cycling brings more adventure and covers more ground in less time. Here’s how to decide which is best for your family.
Table of contents
Walking the Camino with children
Walking is the most traditional way to experience the Camino, just as pilgrims have done for centuries. For families, it offers time together at a gentle rhythm, with plenty of chances to stop, rest, or play along the way.
- Daily distance: 10–16km adapted for children.
- Trail time: Around 3–4 hours, leaving afternoons free.
- Highlights: Time for games, treasure hunts, and nature spotting.
- Best for: Younger children or first-time walkers.
Walking also makes the Camino an educational journey. Kids can learn about history, culture, and nature while enjoying safe, waymarked routes. For preparation tips, see our beginners’ guide to walking the Camino.
Cycling the Camino with children
Cycling is an exciting alternative for active families or older children. It combines the adventure of being outdoors with the fun of moving faster.
- Daily distance: 20–25km per day at a gentle pace.
- Trail time: Around 2–3 hours cycling.
- Highlights: Bikes, helmets, and child equipment provided; sense of freedom.
- Best for: Older kids or families used to cycling together.
Our family cycling packages are tested on child-friendly routes, with support services included so parents can relax knowing everything is taken care of.
Walking vs Cycling: Which is better for families?
It really depends on your family’s ages, interests, and travel style.
| Walking | Cycling | |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Distance | 10–16km | 20–25km |
| Time on Trail | ~3–4 hrs walking | ~2–3 hrs cycling |
| Best for | Younger children, relaxed pace, first-timers | Older kids, active families, cycling fans |
| Highlights | Traditional Camino experience | Adventure & sense of freedom |
| Equipment | Comfortable shoes, luggage transfers | Bikes, helmets, child seats, trailers |
If you’re still unsure, explore our Camino for Families holidays, which include both walking and cycling options.
Preparation tips
Whether walking or cycling, a little preparation helps make your Camino smoother:
- Try practice walks or 20km family cycles before travelling.
- Pack light — see our Camino packing list.
- Plan downtime in afternoons for rest or fun.
- Involve the kids — let them keep a Camino journal or take photos along the way.
Conclusion
Both walking and cycling give families a special Camino experience. The right choice depends on your children’s ages, your family’s pace, and how you want to spend your time. Whichever you choose, the Camino is an adventure you’ll treasure together.
👉 Start planning today with our Camino Planner or browse our full range of Camino for Families packages.
FAQs: Walking or Cycling the Camino with Kids
Q: Is the Camino safe for children?
A: Yes, the Camino routes are well-marked and family-friendly.
Q: How far do families walk or cycle each day?
A: Walking trips cover 10–16km per day; cycling trips average 20–25km.
Q: What age is best for kids to cycle the Camino?
A: Children from about age 8 can cycle shorter stages, while younger ones can use bike seats or trailers.
Q: Do we need to bring bikes?
A: No, bikes, helmets, and child-sized equipment are provided in our cycling the Camino packages.
Q: Can we combine walking and cycling on one trip?
A: Yes, our travel specialists can customise a mix of walking and cycling days for your family.