The Camino de Santiago, or just “the Camino,” is a network of ancient pilgrim routes winding across Spain, France and Portugal, leading to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain.
For centuries, it’s been more than just a walk. It’s been a profound spiritual and cultural journey. Today, walking the Camino is a bucket list adventure for people from all backgrounds, and there are plenty of reasons why it should be on yours, too.
We share everything you need to know to prepare for this transformative pilgrimage, from setting intentions to packing smart, with insights from travel coach Sonia Cruz Oro.
There’s something almost magical about pilgrim walks. Whether it’s Cheryl Strayed finding herself along the Pacific Crest Trail in Wild, Robyn Davidson trekking across the Australian Outback with camels in Tracks or Peter Jenkins discovering the soul of America in A Walk Across America, these journeys are about more than just putting one foot in front of the other.
These walks are the kind of experience that sticks with you. Walking (and finishing) a Camino is about finding meaning, stripping life down to the basics and reconnecting with something bigger than yourself.
One of the most famous pilgrimages is the Camino de Santiago. This ancient route winds its way through Spain, leading to the shrine of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela.
For centuries, people have walked this path in search of clarity, spiritual growth and a fresh start. There’s something undeniably transformative about walking for days on end with nothing but a backpack and your thoughts.
Meet Sonia Cruz Oro
Raised in Spain, Sonia Cruz Oro followed her father’s path climbing the corporate ladder. But despite her achievements, she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. So, she took a leap of faith and decided to pursue her true passion: travel.
Fast forward to today and Sonia is now a psychologist, certified transformational travel coach and the founder of Travel Awakens. Driven by a passion for helping people find purpose and clarity, she uses travel as a powerful tool for transformation—with the Camino de Santiago being one of her favorite pathways to self-discovery.
Sonia is dedicated to helping others experience the profound transformation she herself has undergone, empowering them to embark on their own life-changing journeys.
Why Do People Walk the Camino?
Why then do people lace up their hiking boots and head to the Camino? It’s not just about the physical challenge. The Camino, an ancient pilgrimage dating back to the time of Saint James, has evolved over the centuries. Today, it’s less about religious devotion and more about connecting with nature, finding clarity and figuring out what’s next in life.
Sonia explains that many who embark on the Camino are at a crossroads. They’re looking for an escape from the daily grind, a break from technology and a chance to connect with new people along the way.
She describes the Camino’s energy as palpable: “Thousands of people have walked this path with good intentions, leaving behind a nearly sacred atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.”
You don’t have to be a seasoned hiker or spiritual seeker to walk the Camino. It’s really for anyone who needs to hit pause on life and get back to basics. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed or need serious soul-searching, walking the Camino could just be the adventure you need.
Sonia recommends working with a coach, especially for those who want to dive deep and maximize their Camino experience. As a coach, Sonia provides support during the hike and helps you maintain and apply the insights you gain once you return home. She describes it as having a travel buddy and a life coach all rolled into one.
Can Walking the Camino Change Your Life?
“One of the most beautiful things about the Camino is how it simplifies life. Your only job is to walk, eat, sleep and repeat,” says Sonia. “Without the usual distractions, your mind starts to clear and you find yourself reflecting on what really matters.” Many people return from the Camino with a whole new perspective on life: what’s important, what they want to achieve and how they want to live.
The mindfulness aspect of the Camino is key. You’re immersed in nature, observing wildlife, chatting with locals and having deep conversations with fellow hikers on their own journeys of transformation. Plus, the physical challenge of the Camino is a serious confidence booster. Pushing through and finishing the hike—especially when you think you can’t take another step—is a huge accomplishment. It’s the kind of experience that makes you realize just how strong you are.
And let’s not forget the creative boost. Sonia says, “The combination of physical activity, nature and the energy of the place makes it the perfect environment to connect with your creative side.” Ideas flow and you come back feeling inspired and ready to take on whatever life throws your way.
Four Ways to Prepare for the Camino
Preparing for the Camino involves more than just physical training (though that’s important, too!). It’s essential to set your intentions for the journey. Why are you undertaking this hike? What do you hope to gain?
It’s also helpful to consider practical aspects like what to pack, how to prepare physically and learning about the history of the Camino and pilgrimages in general. Whether you’re joining a guided program or walking solo, here’s how to make sure you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead:
1. Set Your Intentions
Before you even start lacing up those hiking boots, take some time to reflect on why you’re feeling called to do a pilgrimage. Are you seeking spiritual growth, clarity in life or an escape from day-to-day bs? Understanding your “why” will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the journey.
2. Physical Preparation
The Camino isn’t a walk in the park—it’s a long, often strenuous hike that can take a toll on your body if not prepared. Building up your stamina is super important beforehand. Get started with these suggestions:
- Start Walking Regularly. Start with shorter walks and gradually increase your distance. Shoot for several miles per day, several times a week, to build your endurance. Practice walking with the backpack you plan to carry on the Camino, gradually increasing the weight until you’re comfortable with the full load. Also, try to walk on varied terrain like hills and uneven surfaces, to simulate the conditions you’ll likely encounter on the Camino.
- Incorporate Strength Training. Don’t neglect strength training! Focus on exercises that strengthen your legs, core and back, as these muscles will be put to work during your hike. Lunges, squats and core exercises can help build the necessary strength.
- Stretch and Stay Flexible: Add stretching into your routine to keep your muscles flexible and reduce the risk of injury. Yoga is also a great way to improve your flexibility and mindfulness!
3. Gear & Packing
Packing for the Camino is about finding that sweet spot between carrying the essentials and keeping your load light. You’ll need the following:
- Footwear. Your shoes are perhaps the most important item you’ll bring with you. Invest in a good pair of (broken-in!!) hiking boots or trail shoes that offer support and comfort. It’s also a good idea to bring a second pair of lighter shoes or sandals for the evenings.
- Backpack. Choose a lightweight backpack with a capacity of 30-40 liters. It should be comfortable and well-fitted to your body, with padded straps and a waist belt to distribute the weight.
- Clothing. Pack light, moisture-wicking clothing that can be layered. A few quick-dry shirts, a warm fleece or jacket, and a rain poncho or jacket are good. You should also invest in a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Sleeping Gear. If you’re staying in albergues (pilgrim hostels), you’ll need a lightweight sleeping bag or liner. Earplugs are also a good idea, as sometimes these communal spaces can get noisy.
- Essentials. Include a refillable water bottle, a first-aid kit, blister care (moleskin, bandages), sunscreen, a multi-tool and a small toiletry kit. Consider a lightweight trekking pole for added support on rough terrain.
- Cultural Preparation. The Camino is steeped in history and tradition, so take time to learn about its significance. Understanding the cultural and spiritual background of the Camino will only enrich your experience. Consider reading up on the history of the pilgrimage and its various routes.
4. Mental & Emotional Preparation
Walking the Camino is as much a mental and emotional journey as a physical one. Preparing your mind will help to embrace the experience:
- Practice Mindfulness. Incorporate mindfulness or meditation into your daily routine. This will help you stay present during the walk and better appreciate the journey, the people you meet and all the beauty around you.
- Visualize the Journey. Spend some time visualizing the walk—picture yourself on the trail, imagine the challenges you might face and see yourself overcoming them. This mental rehearsal can help reduce anxiety and build confidence.
- Stay Flexible. The Camino will likely throw some surprises your way—be it bad weather, blisters or unexpected detours. Adopting a flexible mindset will help you adapt and keep a positive attitude.
Other Popular Pilgrim Walks
If the Camino has sparked your interest, you might want to put these pilgrim walks on your bucket list:
- Via Francigena in Italy. This historic route runs from Canterbury in England to Rome, passing through some of Italy’s most beautiful countryside and charming medieval towns.
- Shikoku Pilgrimage in Japan. A spiritual journey taking you to 88 temples on the island of Shikoku.
- Mount Kailash Pilgrimage in Tibet. A challenging trek around the sacred Mount Kailash believed to purify the soul and bring spiritual enlightenment.
- Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. This trek around the Annapurna massif is one of the most famous in the world—passing through remote villages and sacred sites in the Himalayas.
- Appalachian Trail in the United States. Stretching over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, this iconic trail offers a physical and mental challenge, with breathtaking views and a strong sense of community among hikers.
- The Pacific Crest Trail in the United States. Known for its diverse landscapes, this trail runs from the Mexican border to Canada, covering 2,650 miles through California, Oregon and Washington.
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