Walking the Camino de Santiago with children? Surely all adventurous moms and dads who love nature have wondered at some point if it would be possible. The answer is a resounding yes! Doing the Camino de Santiago with the little ones at home has many benefits for everyone, from the youngest in the family to even the grandparents.
In the following lines, we will tell you everything you need to consider to make this adventure one of the most memorable experiences of their lives. Take note, moms and dads!
An Enriching Experience for the Little Ones
Doing the Camino de Santiago with children is an enriching experience for everyone. But undoubtedly, the ones who benefit the most from the adventure are the little ones. Although there is no minimum age to do the Camino, if the children are 3 years old or older, all the better!
The reasons? They will be more aware of their surroundings and will enjoy the experience much more. Besides, at that age, children are in a phase of discovery and interaction with their surroundings. Consequently, activities that allow them to expand their contacts with the world are very positive for their personal development.
Walking together will encourage interaction and strengthen family bonds. We are all aware that in our daily lives, due to work and many obligations, we don’t always spend as much time with our children as we would like.
Precisely for this reason, experiences like the Camino are very positive for the family. This adventure will allow you to reconnect with the children and be an active part of their learning.
Two children walking the Camino de Santiago with their walking sticks.
Learning while Having Fun
Experiences like the Camino teach children many things. In addition to theoretical and practical knowledge about history, heritage, nature, and the environment, the little ones learn values such as solidarity, respect, coexistence, effort, and fairness.
This moral education within the family is very important for their development and personal formation.
Interaction with Others
Another potential of the Camino is that it allows children to interact with others and make friends to walk and play with. If for adults, the personal relationships that develop during the Camino are incredible and intense, imagine what they are like for the children!
How to Plan the Camino with Children? We Answer Your Most Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering walking the Camino de Santiago organizated with children, it is very likely that various questions will arise in your mind. In the following paragraphs, we have compiled some of the most common ones. Take note!
A child with a compass and a map of the Camino de Santiago.
Which Route to Choose and How Many Stages?
When planning the Camino with children, one of the things to consider is which route to choose. Always choose a route with short stages and more available services along the way.
Furthermore, consider routes that are easier, with more favorable terrain. Good options are the French Way from Sarria in six stages or the Portuguese Way from Tui.
Is it necessary for children to prepare physically before starting the Camino?
Just like adults, before embarking on the Camino de Santiago, children should also train for it. So, you should ensure they wear comfortable shoes that are not new and take walks with them to prepare.
It is important to motivate them daily and present each stage as a challenge. To keep them motivated, you can assign them responsibilities, such as being in charge of guiding everyone to the end of each stage without getting lost. They will surely be very focused following the yellow arrows!
How to Prepare Children before Starting Each Stage?
Children should be comfortable and feel light on their feet at all times. You can prepare a small backpack for them with water and a piece of fruit for the journey. Remember that it is important not to burden them with weight.
Since you will be carrying most of the weight during the stage, it is advisable to choose the option of luggage transport.
If you are going to do the Camino with a very young child or a baby, you should bring a special mountain stroller in case they get tired or if the route becomes challenging at a certain point. It is also recommended to have a baby carrier backpack to alternate with the stroller.
Where to Stay with Children?
When doing the Camino with children, it is recommended to stay in hostels or hotels. These are peaceful locations where you can have privacy and access to facilities such as bathrooms, dining areas, or even gardens.
Walking the Camino de Santiago: An Adventure the Little Ones Will Always Remember
The Camino de Santiago with children is an experience that will always remain in your memory. Personal recommendations? Take many photos and videos and collect in your pilgrim’s diary the anecdotes that move you the most and make you laugh.
In our travel agency specializing in the Camino de Santiago, we plan travel packages for families and schools along the Jacobean route. Need more information about everything we can offer? Request a quote. We will send it to you with no obligation whatsoever.
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