Walking the Camino in Summer: Advantages and Disadvantages

Summer holidays, that long-awaited time of year for everyone… A moment to relax, disconnect, enjoy the good weather with your loved ones, and take that trip you’ve been dreaming about for months. As with most tourist destinations in our country, the Camino de Santiago in summer also sees a considerable influx of visitors. Despite this, it remains a perfect journey for your holidays, an ideal alternative to the stress of crowded beaches and cities. In this article, we’ll tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of doing the Camino de Santiago in summer.

Why is doing the Camino de Santiago in summer such a great idea?

Doing the Camino de Santiago in summer is a different way to spend your holidays. The reasons to walk the Camino can vary: enjoying nature, meeting new people, exploring cultures, finding yourself… All of this during one of the best times of the year to walk a Jacobean route.

Advantages of doing the Camino in summer

As you’ll see below, we’re not exaggerating when we say that doing the Camino in summer has more pros than cons.

Longer days

Unlike in winter, during summer you’ll have many more daylight hours to walk, so you can start your stages very early. You could even walk much longer stages without worrying about nightfall catching up with you.

Walk more calmly

With more daylight hours, you’ll be able to walk without rushing, taking breaks and stopping as often as you like, enjoying every step.

More services

It’s true that in high season there are more pilgrims, but also more services. Unlike low season, all establishments remain open. Bars and restaurants open their terraces and set up tables outside, and you’ll find places to rest and recharge every few kilometres.

You’ll meet lots of people

As we often say, the Camino de Santiago’s power to bring people together is simply magical. As you progress through the stages, you’ll cross paths with many people, and we’re sure you’ll meet kindred spirits with whom to share trails, conversations, stories, hugs and emotions. You’ll make friends for life!

Local festivals

As in many parts of Spain, summer means local fairs, patron saint festivals, food events, cultural celebrations… We’re sure it’ll be a pleasant surprise to finish a stage and find an entire village celebrating.

Beaches, rivers, and public pools

All Jacobean routes converge in Galicia, and many of them offer beaches and rivers where you can cool off. Moreover, almost every village along the Camino has public swimming pools open from July to September. Don’t forget your swimsuit!

Less chance of rain

Summer is also the time of year with the lowest chance of rain. This means you can walk the Camino more comfortably, without being exposed to storms, rain, or wind.

The weight of your backpack

Since you’ll be wearing lighter clothing, your backpack will be much lighter, and your back will thank you. If you’re wondering what to pack for the Camino in summer, the answer lies in “less is more”.

Disadvantages of doing the Camino during summer

As we all know, every rose has its thorns, and doing the Camino de Santiago in summer also has its downsides – though only a few.

Crowds

This is the main disadvantage. As mentioned before, all tourist destinations become crowded in summer – and so does the Camino de Santiago. Some popular starting points and trails get packed with people, and accommodations can reach full capacity.
That’s why, as a travel agency specialized in the Camino de Santiago, we always recommend planning your route and booking your accommodation in advance. That way, you’ll enjoy your Camino holidays without stress or last-minute surprises.

The heat

High temperatures can sometimes be challenging, so we recommend staying hydrated and protecting your skin with sunscreen.

Get inspired and walk the Camino this summer

If what you’re looking for is a different kind of holiday – one that will leave a lasting impression – you’re in the right place. There are many routes to explore, and if it’s your first time, we recommend doing the last 100 km of the French Way from Sarria in a group. But if you’re already experienced and want to discover other routes, we have many other trails you can walk independently. Doing the Camino de Santiago in summer is a great way to spend your holidays in Galicia with fellow pilgrims like you. Contact us and enjoy the Camino with us!