Current as of: December 5, 2023 - 04:34
Camino de Santiago Trek Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Spain
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 9 Days: Flight Inclusive
- 9 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: TSO
- Carbon Footprint: 105.9kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Walk the pilgrimage of St James
The Camino de Santiago de Compostela is one of the oldest pilgrim routes in the world; travellers have made their way across northern Spain to Santiago on the Way of St James for more than 1,000 years. The route is marked by the symbol of the scallop shell, typically found on the Galician shores, and a long-standing tradition is to obtain the Compostela, a certificate of accomplishment given to pilgrims upon completing the way; gained by walking at least 62mi (100km) of the route, which we will do on this trip.
Did you know you can travel by train to this trip? Find out more here
At a Glance
- Eight nights in pensions and two- to three-star hotels, all rooms en suite
- Six days point-to-point walking with luggage transferred
- Group normally 6 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
- Low altitude throughout
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Follow one of the oldest pilgrim routes in the world
- Explore Romanesque cathedrals, medieval monasteries and unspoiled rural scenery
- Collect stamps for your pilgrim's passport along the way
- Visit the historic Galician capital of Santiago de Compostela
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate).
The trip consists of six walking days and one free day. Your luggage is transferred between hotels, so you only need to take a day pack with you on the walks. The terrain and type of path will vary and include human-made paved tracks, forest trails and gravel. The walks are not technically difficult, although there are some steep ascents and descents, so a reasonable fitness level is required. Low altitude throughout.
The distances walked on some days are long and you are expected to walk six days in a row so there is a high chance of blisters. We recommend comfortable shoes are comfortable and bringing several types (boots, running shoes, strap sandals) as this will allow you to alternate.
Group
The tour leader will accompany the group on all activities from Day 1 to Day 7. They will provide suggestions on what to do on Day 8, your free day.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 6
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Samos
- End City: Santiago de Compostela
Land Only Itinerary
Fly to La Coruña; transfer to Samos
The group flight will arrive in La Coruña early in the evening then there is a group transfer to Samos. The main briefing will take place this evening.
Accommodation: Hotel A Veiga (or similar)
Start Samos
The trip will start tonight in our hotel in Samos. The main briefing will take place this evening, then there is free time for you to rest or explore Samos as you like.
Accommodation: Hotel A Veiga (or similar)
To Sarria walking through ancient oak forests and quaint villages
After breakfast, we start our first walk in one of the most unspoilt sections of the Camino. We walk through the Galician countryside, populated by several traditional agricultural villages, and visit the town of Samos. We will pass by one of the oldest monasteries in Spain and see a lovely ninth-century chapel. We then continue through ancient oak forests to the town of Sarria.
Accommodation: Hotel Duerming Villa de Sarria (or similar)
Walk through the rolling hills of the Galician countryside to Portomarin
We continue walking up and down the hills of Galicia to the town of Portomarin, which was rebuilt on a hilltop from its original location in the River Mino valley. This was done to escape flooding when a reservoir was constructed in 1962. The old church was moved, stone by stone, to its current location.
Accommodation: Hotel Villajardín (or similar)
Uphill to the village of Ventas de Naron and on to Palas de Rei
We start with a steady ascent to the village of Ventas de Naron, where the terrain levels out. The next stop is Palas de Rei, though there are plenty of cafes en route where we can enjoy a break. Palas de Rei marks the half-way point of our trek and we spend the night in a hotel, where we can really feel the Camino spirit, since many walkers stop here. Considering the length of the walk, a taxi can be arranged if you’d prefer to opt out of a section.
Accommodation: Hotel Alda Palas de Rei (or similar)
Walk to the town of Melide, renowned for its octopus with potatoes dish, and on to Arzua, known for its cheeses
We begin our longest day’s walking along a picturesque stretch of the Camino, as we cross several Roman bridges and walk past Medieval churches. For lunch, we stop in the small town of Melide, renowned for its delicious octopus with potatoes, and end our day in Arzua, well-known for its cheeses. Considering the length of the walk, a taxi can be arranged if you’d prefer to opt out of a section.
Accommodation: Hotel Arzua (or similar)
Meet many more pilgrims on the final section to Pedrouzo
Today’s walk to the village of Pedrouzo involves several short ascents and descents through woods, fruit fields and eucalyptus. As Santiago draws ever closer, more pilgrims will cross our path, adding to the anticipation of reaching our goal, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
Accommodation: Hotel Platas (or similar)
Walk to Santiago de Compostela
Our final day’s walk sees us climbing up to Monte do Gozo, where pilgrims traditionally first saw the towers of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. As part of the centuries-old tradition, we make our way through the city streets and crowds to Plaza del Obradoiro, which is dominated by the cathedral, where we can observe a mass service that may include the impressive Botafumeiro incense swinging, although it cannot be guaranteed.
Accommodation: Hotel Avenida (or similar)
Free day in Santiago de Compostela
Free day to explore the historic city of Santiago at your own pace. There are plenty of things to do; you can visit the spectacular cathedral and stroll around the narrow streets of the World Heritage-listed Old Town with its diverse architecture. Alternatively, visit the museum of Galician Life, home to interesting exhibits on Galician traditions and art. You can also join a day excursion to Cape Finisterre, which was believed to be the end of the known world in Ancient Roman times. The Cape is also the final destination for many pilgrims on the Camino.
Accommodation: Hotel Avenida (or similar)
End Santiago de Compostela
The trip ends this morning after breakfast. Say your final goodbyes and start your return journey home, one Compostela heavier.
Transfer to La Coruña; fly to London
Transfer to La Coruña; fly to London
Ascents, descents and distances
All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Hotels & Pensions
You will spend eight nights in two- and three-star standard hotels and pensions. All rooms feature en suite facilities and most offer free wifi. A limited number of single rooms are available for a supplement on request.
Due to the increased popularity of the Camino de Santiago and demand for accommodation, there may be some departures where groups are split between two hotels in some locations during the trip. All hotels used will be of a similar standard and quality throughout.
Single supplement from £ 280
Food & Drink
All breakfasts are included. A typical breakfast in Spain might consist of coffee with milk, toast with ham, olive oil, tomatoes, cheese and butter and jam. Bakery items, fruit and juice are also popular. During this trip you can expect different variations of breakfast at our chosen hotels and pensions, but they will all include at least some of the standard breakfast items popular in Spain.
Northern Spain produces a wide range of delicious food, from fish and seafood to quality meat, vegetables and fruit. Your leader will recommend good places to eat. Sometimes it will be tapas, sharing some raciones as a group, and sometimes you can choose from the menu.
On the Camino de Santiago, restaurants and bars offer a set menu called the Menu del Pergerino, which offers a choice of five starters, five mains and dessert, coffee and drink for about €12-€15. You can also try the delicacy pulpo a la feira, which is sliced octopus with paprika, olive oil and sea salt. Sometimes it is also served with grelos (boiled sliced potatoes).
Mealtimes in Spain are later than in many other countries; dinner is usually taken between 8pm and 9.30pm.
Please note, meat and fish are staple food in northern Spain. Vegetarians can be catered for, as can other dietary requirements, although there may not be the same choice or variety as you have at home. Please advise us upon booking.
Transport
Transfers to and from the airport will be by private vehicle (normally minibus).
Weather & Seasonality
In April and October, expect temperatures around 5C-15C (40F-60F) with a high chance of rain showers, though it could also be simply partly cloudy and more temperate. Temperatures in May and September tend to be warmer. Expect a combination of sun, showers and clouds.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel A Veiga, Avenida Compostela, 61, 27620 Samos, Lugo
Phone: +34 982 54 60 52
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: La Coruña (LCG)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 1hr 30min to two hours’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is complicated. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, a cab from the airport to the start hotel costs €180. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Samos
Location end: Santiago de Compostela
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Walking boots or shoes with sturdy soles that have been broken in
- Comfortable flip flops or strap walking sandals
- Daypack (20-25 litre)
- Large refillable water bottle
- Wind/waterproof jacket
- Wind/waterproof trousers
- Woolly hat and gloves
- Warm clothes/fleece
- Sunglasses, sunhat and high-factor sunscreen
Please note, tap water is safe to drink in the area which means all you need to do is bring a bottle to re-fill at the hotel. Please add this to your packing list as this will save on wasteful plastic bottles.
We ask you do not bring more than 44lb (20kg) of hold luggage with you to ensure the whole group’s luggage fits in the support vehicle and can be safely handled.
Optional Equipment
- Walking poles
- Camera
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Spain
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Spain. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/spain
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html
Vaccinations and Health
Spain
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Spain's time zone: Europe/Madrid (UTC +01:00)
Electricity
Spain's electricity: Plug type F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Spain's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
There are cash points available in most towns along the route and most places take major credit cards, even though cash is generally easier.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
In Santiago de Compostela, entrance to the cathedral is free, but if you want to visit the cathedral museum it will cost €12 (or €10 if you’re more than 65 years old).
Other museums in Santiago de Compostela:
- Museum of the Arte Sacro: €3
- Museum of the Galician People: €4
- Museum of Contemporary Arts: Free
The excursion to Cape Finisterre is bookable locally for approximately €45 including transport and a Spanish guide.
Tipping
Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline we recommend a contribution between €20 and €25 per client per week.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
- This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible.
- Read more about our other initiatives here.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- By travelling in a small group we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for re–usable bottles.
- We rewild 100 square metres per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
- This trip travels through Galicia which is the second region that generated the most renewable energy in Spain. It is also the region with the second highest wind power production.
- Our local partner is a member of the Climate Action Leaders in Travel Community and have made the Climate Action Leaders in Travel Pledge
- Walking trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: we do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
- Plastic waste reduction: please bring a re–usable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.