Do the Camino de Santiago alone. Key aspects to keep in mind

Doing the Camino de Santiago alone may not be an adventure suitable for everyone, but if you have the idea in mind, it may be for you.

Each pilgrim starts the Camino to Santiago with a different motivation. Some live it as a spiritual and religious experience. Others are pushed to discover the cultural richness of the routes, or the desire to exchange experiences with other people and forge new friendships. There are also those who seek to disconnect from the routine, simply to enjoy unique natural landscapes.

Whatever the reason that moves you, taking the step of completing the Camino without more company than your thoughts, is something you will not regret. Because you will have an extraordinary opportunity to dedicate quality time, while connecting with other pilgrims and with the nature that surrounds you.

If this is your first solo getaway, you should know that it is very normal for you to have doubts or insecurities. To ask yourself questions such as: What if I get lost or something happens to me? Will there be dangerous stretches?, ... Combine them with planning, adequate information and some basic safety recommendations and tips.

Along the following lines you will find everything you need so that you can organize a safe and pleasant trip with total tranquility. Let's get started!

Benefits of doing the Camino de Santiago alone

If the Camino is a transformative experience, performing it in solitude will put you to the test like never before. It will be a journey of self-discovery and personal growthl in which you will get to know yourself more and leave your comfort zone.

You will be able to know what your adaptability is and your physical and mental strength in the face of the challenges you face, where your limits are, and how you face the challenges when you only depend on yourself and have no company.

Walking alone will also allow you to look inside and have time to connect with you in a deep and authentic way. Listen to your thoughts and reflect on your life, your desires and your personal goals slowly, in a relaxing and healing natural environment.

No one will set you on the path. It will be you, attending to your mind and your own body, who will decide at what pace to advance, when to stop to rest or to contemplate the landscape, or at what moment to resume the march. Not depending on anyone else, it will give you confidence and a very rewarding freedom of action and movement.

It is no coincidence that many veteran pilgrims recommend doing the Camino alone at least once in a lifetime.

First decisions when starting the planning of the Camino de Santiago in solitude

To arrive safely at the beginning of the adventure you must reduce to the maximum uncertainty and fear. Get it by informing yourself well, leaving nothing to chance and having some basic aspects under control.

The first thing you should focus on is to know what will be the most suitable route and the best time of year to walk. Secondly, plan each stage well and select and try to close where you will stay each day.

1. Choice of the route

Foto de Gaspar Zaldo

Before so much available route, which one to choose?. Our recommendation is that you choose one that is popular and that has good infrastructures.

The French Way, for example, is the most famous and traveled, with an incomparable pilgrim atmosphere. Feeling the presence of others walking nearby will make you forget a certain feeling of insecurity and enjoy every step quietly.

In addition, it is also very well signposted and is the most prepared, having a wide network of services (more hostels, restaurants,.).

Other roads, such as the Camino del Norte or the Portuguese Way, are also well known, but they pose a greater challenge. They offer fewer accommodation options and attract fewer people.

Choosing a less crowded route such as the Camino Primitivo, can give you a much more intimate experience and connected with nature. However, you need to be aware of the limitations and possible risks associated with it. You will have less facilities and services, and you will feel a greater feeling of isolation, with complicated stretches that require better physical preparation.

2. Best time of year to walk in solitude

The time of the year chosen will greatly influence the experience and it is important to know what you will face in each season.

The months of May to October are those that receive the greatest influx of pilgrims and pilgrims and you will have many more people around you. On the one hand, you will feel more cocky and you can easily socialize, but on the other hand, you will find it difficult to find tranquility and moments of calm, if that is what you have gone for. There will also be a further shortage of accommodation due to high demand.

For someone who wants to walk having the minimum interactions, it is better to opt for other months. Although in this case, you have to be prepared to have less services available, shorter days and more unstable time.

3. Daily planning of the stages

It is important that you plan the entire itinerary in advance. The distance to travel in each stage and the rest points. Our planner can be of great help to you.

An ideal average of kilometers per day is usually around 20-25, but the final figure must be realistic and depends on your previous experience and your physical preparation.  

4. Accommodation on the Camino

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto

 Know the accommodations and close the sleep reservations at the end of each day beforehand, will avoid the unpleasant surprise of being left without a place to spend the night.

The peace of mind of knowing that you arrive at the time you arrive will have a bed waiting for you, it is priceless.

Personal security keys during the route

Personal safety is the most important factor to consider when traveling alone. And feeling protected and safe will be vital to enjoy the journey in all its fullness. In this sense, there are a number of security keys that should be taken into account.

1. Share the travel plan and maintain communication

Before leaving for the Camino, share the travel plan with your family and friends. Inform them of the chosen route, the complete itinerary with the number of stages, and which one corresponds to you each day. Including the stops you plan to make. Also tell them the estimated time of crossing, and the approximate time in which you will arrive at the end of each day.

In this way, you will be aware of every step you take with your loved ones, for your tranquility and for theirs.

2. Avoid walking at night

It is better to start each day at dawn, walk during the daylight hours and make sure to arrive by day at the end of each stage. When you're leaving at night, it's easier to get disoriented and lost or stumble and fall.

It will also be beneficial to avoid isolated or less travelled areas.

3. Take precautions with other unknown pilgrims

Even if your desire is to do the Camino alone, it will be inevitable that you will interact with other people. At this time set clear limits, be cautious and keep certain reservations. Don't give sensitive information about yourself, to protect yourself and maintain your safety.

4. Select safe accommodations

Before making a reservation at a hostel, read reviews of other pilgrims and choose those who have good opinions and are known.

Find out what their experience is in the accommodation and if they are in a safe environment to rest without worries.

5. Use resources, tools, and find support in difficult situations

Photo by cottonbro studio

Always carry on and well charged the mobile, with apps and maps that do not need data, or wifi connection to work. In case any inconvenience arises, it will be your best ally to alert and to be located.

It’s essential that you have emergency phone numbers. Also the location of hospitals, health centers or safe shelters.

In addition, having a tracking device or personal locator can give you greater security.

6. Security for pilgrims

Safety on the Camino does not understand gender, but unfortunately reality prevails and in 2021 the campaign “No Caminas Sola” arose to reinforce the safety of pilgrims who undertake the Camino in solitude. This is a joint initiative of the Units against Gender Violence of the delegations of the Government of Spain, in some communities through which the most popular routes of the Camino transit. It also collaborates with municipalities, tourist offices, health centers, shelters, hotels and pharmacies, offering information on help and protection resources.

On the other hand, Alertcops is an app for mobiles with which you can ask for help in real time, and sharing the location, to the National Police or the Civil Guard, in case of emergency or danger situation. In addition, throughout the Camino de Santiago there are specific devices of both bodies ensuring the safety of all pilgrims.

Organize everything in detail, use common sense and get ready to enjoy your company to the fullest in a personal growth experience that will leave a mark on you. May your fears not stop an adventure as challenging as unforgettable. Dare to take the first step!