For a Sustainable and Responsible Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago is a life-changing experience that connects us with nature and local communities. Every pilgrim can help protect this cultural and natural heritage through small everyday actions. Because sustainability on the Camino de Santiago is everyone’s responsibility, and with care and respect, we can all keep the magic of the Camino alive for future generations.

That’s why below we present a series of positive, practical and easy-to-apply tips to reduce the environmental and social impact along the Camino de Santiago (also useful for hikers and nature travelers), and thus, with awareness, make the Camino de Santiago a sustainable environment for all.

The Camino de Santiago is a natural space for everyone

Environmental best practices on the Camino

The natural environment of all Jacobean routes is fragile and valuable. By following a few simple ecological practices, we can minimize our environmental footprint and preserve the beauty of the route for all. Here are some key environmental recommendations:

Reducing waste and plastics

Always carry a reusable bag for your waste. Do not throw any trash on the trails; if there are no bins available in natural areas, keep your waste with you until you reach the next town and dispose of it properly. Littering along the Camino only pollutes and deteriorates the environment. This includes common waste (bottles, cans, paper, etc.) as well as less obvious items: don’t leave behind boots, clothes, or personal items hoping they’ll “become part” of the Camino; there is no such tradition, and leaving them only creates pollution. Also, along the Camino (in hostels, bars, etc.) you can find yellow recycling bags from the Ecoembes initiative, which aims for a waste-free Camino. Grab one, and follow these tips:

• Avoid single-use plastics: carry a refillable water bottle to fill at Camino fountains, and use reusable containers and cutlery. This reduces disposable bottles, bags, and utensils.
• Don’t leave wipes or cigarette butts behind: store them in a bag until you find a proper bin. Wipes and butts are highly polluting and can cause fires.
• Pick up litter if you can: if you see trash on the trail, feel free to pick it up. Small acts like this help keep the route clean and well-maintained for everyone.

Respect nature and the Camino, and dispose of your waste in appropriate places

Respect for Flora and Fauna

Nature is the best companion on the Camino, so treat it with respect. Always stay on the marked trails and don’t stray off the designated path; creating shortcuts or walking across open fields damages fragile soils, disturbs wildlife, and erodes the landscape. Moreover, the vegetation and animals are part of the magic of the Camino—don’t harm them. We, along with the local communities, ask that you:

• Do not pick flowers or take natural elements: as tempting as it may be to grab a stone or a flower, it’s best to leave them where they are. Imagine the impact if every pilgrim did the same. Better to take a photo and keep the memory without damaging the environment.
• Do not feed animals: whether wild or domestic, unless permitted. Human food can affect their health and behavior. Observe them respectfully and from a distance.
• Respect the silence and calm of the environment: avoid shouting or playing music (if you want to listen to music, use headphones!). The Camino is also enjoyed in silence, listening to nature and respecting fellow pilgrims and local wildlife.
• Don’t let local dogs follow you: sometimes local dogs grow fond of pilgrims, follow them, and then get lost. If you see one, call 092, 112, 062, or APACA.

Sign showing what to do if you find a lost animal on the Camino

Responsible Use of Water and Other Resources

Water and energy are limited resources, even in areas with plenty of rivers. Take care with water at all times: in some sections it may be scarce, especially during dry months. Don’t waste it and don’t contaminate natural sources by throwing soaps, shampoos, or other chemicals into rivers or fountains. And if you need to wash in nature, use biodegradable products away from water sources, or better yet, wait until you reach a hostel with showers. Therefore:

• Save water in hostels and showers: take short showers, turn off the tap while soaping up or brushing your teeth, and if washing clothes, use a container instead of letting the water run.
• Avoid wasting energy: turn off lights when leaving a room, use only necessary lighting, and use a small flashlight at night to avoid disturbing others. Many hostels promote these habits with simple, effective messages.
• Limit use of air conditioning or heating: before turning them on, consider if you really need them. Use reasonable temperatures and consider alternatives like opening a window or wearing an extra layer.

Enjoy the Camino’s rivers and beaches, but responsibly

Transport and Sustainable Mobility for Pilgrims

How you travel also affects your ecological footprint. Fortunately, the Camino de Santiago itself is a journey of sustainable mobility: it is done on foot or by bike—methods with virtually no environmental impact. Still, there are things to consider before, during, and after your pilgrimage:

• Plan your travel in an eco-friendly way: whenever possible, choose public transport to reach the start of the Camino and to return home. Trains or buses have a smaller carbon footprint than private cars or planes. If you’re traveling in a group, share a vehicle to make the most of each trip.
• Walk or cycle respectfully: if you’re doing the Camino by bike, respect walkers, alert them when passing (use a bell), and dismount in crowded areas. Stay on the trail and avoid cycling on muddy paths. Your effort helps protect the trails. And if you’re going to do the Camino with your dog, keep them on a leash when near pilgrims, locals, or other animals.
• Use support services responsibly: if you send your backpack ahead or use transport to skip stages, choose shared and efficient options. Sharing taxis or luggage transport reduces emissions. And if you must use a vehicle, offset the impact by walking an extra section or supporting environmental initiatives.

Pilgrims sharing a vehicle

Fire Prevention and Care for the Environment

Forest fires are a serious risk in many regions of the Camino, especially during summer and in wooded areas of Galicia, Castilla y León, or Portugal. Even a small oversight can cause a natural disaster, so extreme caution with fire is essential:

• Do not light fires outdoors: making campfires, barbecues, or cooking with flames is prohibited unless in designated areas. A small mistake can cause a serious fire. Respect warnings and protect the forests.
• Be careful with cigarette butts and glass bottles: do not throw cigarette butts or leave glass behind, as they can cause fires. If you see any along the path, pick them up. Small actions can prevent big disasters.
• Do not burn clothes or trash: although some people burn their boots or clothes in Finisterre at the end of the Camino, this is not an authentic tradition and is strictly forbidden. Choose symbolic and respectful ways to celebrate the end of your journey, like watching the sunset or leaving a stone.

In Finisterre, take a photo of your boots in this iconic spot, then take them home—who knows, they might make a great flower pot!

Good Social Practices on the Camino

The Camino de Santiago does not only run through natural landscapes, but also through towns and communities that welcome it, and it is shared with many other pilgrims from diverse backgrounds. Therefore, the social and cultural aspect is very important. Being a responsible pilgrim means behaving with respect towards local people, other walkers, and the cultural heritage of the route. The following tips will help you foster harmony and create a positive social impact.

Respect for Local Communities

When you pass through villages, towns, or cities along the Camino, you are stepping into the daily lives of their inhabitants. It is essential to show respect to local communities who so generously offer hospitality to pilgrims. Keep in mind that, for them, the Camino is not just a tourist attraction—it is their home. Therefore:

• Greet and be kind: a “buen camino,” a “buenos días” (or “bo dia” in Galician), or a smile can go a long way. Treat locals with respect and warmth, even when you’re tired. Kindness is part of the spirit of the Camino.
• Respect local traditions: learn about the customs of each place and adapt with respect. Avoid attitudes that could be offensive. Participating with humility enriches your experience.
• Take care of both rural and urban environments: do not litter, damage property, or enter private land without permission. If passing through fields or farms, follow signs and treat the area as if it were your own home.
• Maintain silence and consideration: especially at night, avoid noise, loud music, or celebrations that might disturb residents. Enjoy with joy, but with respect for those who live along the Camino.

Always remember: Santiago de Compostela, and the entire Camino, are fragile—you must take care of them. When you arrive at each village, town, or city, be civic-minded. And in Santiago de Compostela, even though we understand the excitement of reaching the Apostle’s city, think of the local people who live there and respect their daily lives and their World Heritage city.

Poster of the “Santiago is fragile” Campaign

Fellowship and Conduct Among Pilgrims

Pilgrim camaraderie is one of the Camino’s greatest treasures. People from different countries, ages, and beliefs share paths, hostels, and experiences. To maintain a pleasant and safe atmosphere for all, keep these guidelines in mind:

• Help fellow pilgrims: if you see someone struggling, offer help if you can. A small gesture, like sharing water or a bandage, can make a big difference. The spirit of the Camino is based on solidarity.
• Respect rest and shared spaces: in shared hostels, be mindful of noise at night or early in the morning. Prepare your things in advance, use headphones, and respect others’ space. Good coexistence is part of the journey.
• Be patient and understanding: every pilgrim is different. Practice tolerance if something bothers you and address it kindly. Small acts like offering earplugs if you snore show great consideration.
• Follow shared rules: respect schedules and the shared use of spaces like bathrooms, kitchens, or rest areas. Leave everything clean and tidy for those who come after you.
• Respect the diversity of motivations: each person walks the Camino for a different reason. Don’t impose your pace or way of experiencing it. Walking together also means giving space and accepting different ways of pilgrimage.

If needed, help fellow pilgrims… tomorrow you might need help too!

Local Consumption and Ethical Tourism

Every euro you spend during your pilgrimage has an impact. Choosing responsible consumption can benefit local economies and reduce negative impacts associated with mass tourism. These tips will help you support the communities that host you and be a more ethical traveler:

• Buy and consume local products: support local businesses along the route. Try their cuisine, shop at markets, and choose souvenirs made by local artisans. It’s a great way to enrich your experience and support the rural economy.
• Choose options with a positive impact: whenever possible, opt for sustainable hostels, organic farms, or cafés with local or zero-kilometre products. You can also support community initiatives offering homemade meals or authentic experiences.
• Avoid disrespectful tourism: do not participate in activities that exploit animals or disrespect local culture. Treat people with dignity, leave fair tips, and contribute positively wherever you go. And if you need to use a bar’s restroom, buy something or leave a small donation.
• Get informed and raise awareness: learn about the regions you pass through to understand their history and traditions. If you see inappropriate behavior, kindly correct it. Being a pilgrim also means setting an example.

Sustainability on the Camino largely depends on the attitude and behavior of pilgrims

Sustainable Accommodations on the Camino

Along the Camino de Santiago, you’ll find many types of accommodation: public and private hostels, inns, guesthouses, rural homes, etc. Increasingly, many of these places are adopting sustainable practices and rely on pilgrims’ cooperation to reduce environmental impact. Here are some tips for choosing and behaving responsibly in your accommodation:

• Choose eco-conscious accommodations: look for hostels that promote sustainability, such as recycling, renewable energy use, or reducing plastic. Supporting them is a direct way to encourage sustainability on the Camino.
• Recycle properly in the hostel: use the recycling bins provided and separate waste correctly. Follow signs about saving water, energy, or responsible behavior.
• Save resources within the accommodation: take short showers, share the washing machine if possible, avoid using the dryer unless essential, and cook efficiently. Report leaks or faults to prevent waste.
• Respect staff and hostel rules: maintain a positive and grateful attitude. If the hostel runs on donations, contribute what you can. Asking about their eco-measures can be a great way to learn and connect.
• If you do the Camino with a tent, do so with extreme care: only camp in permitted areas and follow Leave No Trace principles. Set up at dusk, take down at dawn, leave no trash, and respect nature. Poor practices can give pilgrims a bad name.

Remember: camping is only allowed in designated areas

Responsible Eating on the Camino

Food is a key part of the pilgrim’s journey: it fuels your steps and connects you with local culture. Applying sustainability principles to your diet on the Camino helps you care for the environment, support local producers, and eat in a healthy and ethical way. Here’s how:

• Try local and seasonal cuisine: enjoy the culinary richness of each region and shop at local markets or stores. This supports the local economy, reduces your footprint, and offers authentic flavors.
• Minimize packaging and waste: bring bulk snacks in reusable bags, use your own container and utensils, and avoid unnecessary plastics like straws or napkins. If you picnic, leave everything clean.
• Avoid food waste: buy only what you need. If you have extra food in good condition, share it with other pilgrims or leave it in the hostel’s communal kitchen. Better to buy small amounts frequently than to overstock.
• Include more plant-based options: alternate traditional dishes with meals based on vegetables, legumes, or local fish. Eating more plant-based meals is more sustainable and opens the door to new flavors.
• Stay hydrated sustainably: always carry your canteen and refill it at fountains or bars. Avoid buying small plastic bottles and use reusable cups, or ask for a glass if stopping at a bar.
• Respect shared food spaces: leave the hostel kitchen clean, recycle containers, and share utensils. If you join communal dinners, do so with an open and grateful attitude. Eating is also a social act.

Pilgrims trying local cuisine

Walking the Camino de Santiago with environmental and social responsibility multiplies its rewards. It’s not about overwhelming yourself with rules, but about adopting small habits: disposing of waste properly, greeting and showing gratitude, consuming mindfully… These actions soon become second nature, and many pilgrims continue them in their daily lives after the journey.

The Camino teaches us simplicity, respect, solidarity, and love for the Earth. If every pilgrim does their part—or better said, takes their pebble with them instead of leaving it behind—we’ll keep the Camino welcoming, clean, and authentic. As the Santiago ethical code says: we have the right to enjoy this heritage, but the duty to care for it. Remember: the Camino leaves a mark on you, but you shouldn’t leave a mark on the Camino.

May your journey be inspiring and mindful! Have a sustainable Buen Camino, pilgrim. Every step you take with respect ensures many more can follow your footprints (and only your footprints) in the future. ¡Ultreia!