How to do the Camino de Santiago with reduced mobility

Doing the Camino de Santiago with reduced mobility is a complicated challenge, but many pilgrims manage to complete it with good prior planning.

In this sense, knowing well the different conditions of the terrain at each stage, the accessibility of each route and the support and support resources, such as aid related to logistics or adapted accommodation, will be fundamental to organize the trip efficiently and safely.

take note of the most relevant keys and start organizing your path!

6 keys to do the Camino de Santiago with reduced mobility

When starting with the preparations, it is necessary to be clear about the challenges, needs and conditions in which to get to the beginning of the experience.

1 Physical condition, preparation and training

Photo by alexlhunt93

To face each stretch of the Camino in the best shape, it is necessary to have a good previous physical preparation. A task for which you can count on the help of a professional specialized in reduced mobility or a physiotherapist.

Resistance and strength are vital. Especially for people who have to travel in a wheelchair or on an adapted bicycle.

A few months earlier it is advisable to start working arms and the upper part of the trunk with strength exercises that include weights or elastic bands. Having strong arms will help to better handle and propel the assistive device.

It is equally important to train resistance to improve cardiovascular capacity. A good way to do this is by making exits on land or roads similar to those that will be found along the Camino. With gravel, on slope, etc. These walks must be shorter at the beginning, to gradually increase their duration. Thus the body will gradually become accustomed to what awaits it in the real experience.

In addition, so that the joints and muscles have sufficient flexibility and endure without risk of injury each stage, you need to control and perform exercises to stretch well.

2. Accessibility of the routes

Among all the routes that make up the Camino de Santiago, there are some that are better prepared for people with reduced mobility.

Among the highlights is the Camino Frances. Being one of the most traveled, over the years it has been improving its infrastructures and services to offer an adapted experience of higher quality.

The Portuguese Way and the Vía de la Plata are two other routes that deserve a special mention. Both have improved and more accessible sections along their route for people who need it.

The choice of the route must be made assessing three important considerations:

1. The state of the land and the accessibility of the trails.
2. The existence of accessible or adapted infrastructures.
3. A good signage to orient yourself without problems.

3. Best times of the year to do the Camino de Santiago

Photo by yorick77

As for the most suitable seasons, it is important to know that weather conditions can greatly influence the experience and comfort of people with reduced mobility.

The spring and autumn months are the most recommended.

On the one hand, they have a smaller influx of pilgrims. This is important to bear in mind because it is easier to access adapted services and accommodation. On the other hand, they have a more stable time, with medium temperatures, softer, and less precipitation that can complicate the accessibility of the routes and the transit through the trails.

Summer and winter are the seasons to avoid.

Summer is the season that accumulates greater number of pilgrims and hot temperatures that can complicate the stages when you have mobility problems. Winter on the Camino is the most unstable and demanding season due to the cold climate and the possibility of rain.

4. Suitable device and equipment

Wheelchair users need to prepare their mobility devices so that they are adapted and well equipped for the Camino.

The trails do not have the same asphalt conditions. In this sense, the first thing to know is whether the wheelchair will perform equally in different areas, whether it can be adapted, and whether it is able to endure the whole journey.

If this is not the case, there are solutions, such as opting for a specialized model or a handbike, which provides greater mobility. Handbikes are like bikes, but they’re three-wheeled bikes that run, propel and brake with their arms. They exist in three modalities, manual, electrical and hybrid.

Photo by Denis Silantiev

It is necessary to adjust the wheelchair to the needs of its owner to ensure comfort and reduce possible injuries. Adjust the height of the seat, handlebars, armrests, etc.

In addition, it is advisable to carry spare wheels and spare parts for brakes (with the regulatory tools).

The equipment also includes a rain protection system, a backpack with the appropriate support, support accessories for the feet and ergonomic cushions that guarantee comfort.

5. Logistics, support vehicles and human support

People with reduced mobility need certain services and additional help to facilitate their journey.

Logistics greatly simplifies the organization. For example, being able to have a support vehicle that moves luggage between accommodations makes it possible to enjoy the trails without additional charges and with greater comfort. One thing to keep in mind is that Correos has been offering a backpack transfer service for years called Pack Mochila de Correos.

Another function of support vehicles is the transport of people. Indicated when you suffer a lot of tiredness, there are difficult stretches or time changes and it makes it difficult to continue advancing in the normal conditions.

The assistance of a travel companion, who knows the needs of the pilgrim, is also something beneficial during the journey.

Finally, a well-organized support plan must be flexible and adaptable to reschedule the stages if necessary. It may happen that the weather conditions or physical condition at any given time are not ideal, and a plan B. must be available

6. Selection of adapted accommodation

This is one of the most important keys to enjoy the Camino without worries or setbacks.

When looking for accommodations it is essential to investigate whether they are suitable for people with reduced mobility.

It is necessary to know if the entrance to the building has no barriers and has access ramps and wide doors. If there is an elevator and the interior rooms have enough space to move with a wheelchair. And if the rooms are adapted correctly, with accessible bathrooms.

Another aspect to contemplate before making reservations, is the distance to which the accommodations are located with respect to the end of the stage, to avoid long, more cumbersome trips.

The Camino de Santiago is a unique adventure that allows you to share the journey with other travelers in an inclusive and diverse environment.

The Enki Foundation, a non-profit entity for inclusive sport, knows a lot about this, and organizes since 2020 “ENKI no Camiño”. An annual route of the Camino that serves to sensitize and give visibility to a collective that wants to enjoy life, nature, sport and leisure without barriers.

Dare to make some stretch of the Camino, overcoming fears and your own limitations. You will live an extraordinary experience of self-improvement and personal fulfillment.

Whether you have a disability or not, always remember that perseverance and the passion to face a challenge can help you fulfill a dream. go for it!