Walking the Camino de Santiago is an unforgettable experience. This ancient pilgrimage route through Spain and Portugal is more than just a hike — it’s a journey filled with history, adventure, and personal growth. Many people think the Camino is only for adults, but families can also enjoy it! With the right route and preparation, kids can have a great experience, making memories that will last a lifetime.
If you dream of walking the Camino de Santiago with your family, here’s everything you need to know to make it fun, safe, and exciting for everyone.
Camino de Santiago: The Best Family-Friendly Routes
Not all Camino routes are the same. Some are long and challenging, while others are shorter and easier. If you’re traveling with kids, here are two great options:
The Last 100 km of the Camino Francés
- Starts in Sarria and ends in Santiago de Compostela
- Takes about five to seven days to walk
- Mostly flat paths with plenty of small towns to rest
This is the most popular section of the Camino. It’s just the right length for families, and kids will love collecting stamps in their Credencial del Peregrino (Pilgrim’s Passport).
The Camino Portugués (Coastal Route)
- Starts in Baiona, Spain, and ends in Santiago
- Takes around seven days
- Offers beautiful ocean views and fresh sea air
This route is peaceful, with lots of places to stop, enjoy the scenery, and rest. If your kids love nature, they’ll enjoy walking by the coast and spotting birds, boats, and seashells along the way.
Camino de Santiago / Photo by Burkard Meyendriesch on Unsplash
Camino de Santiago: Essential Tips for Parents
A little planning goes a long way when walking the Camino with kids. Here are some tips to keep everyone happy and comfortable:
Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation
Look for albergues (pilgrim hostels) or small hotels that have private rooms. Some places even offer family-friendly meals and play areas for children.
Walk at a Child’s Pace
Kids get tired faster than adults. Plan for shorter walking days (10 to 15 km, or about 6 to 9 miles, per day) and take lots of breaks for snacks, rest, and fun.
Pack Smart
Keep things light, but don’t forget:
- Comfortable shoes – Kids will be walking a lot!
- Snacks and water – Keep energy levels up.
- Rain jackets – The weather can change quickly.
- A small backpack – Let kids carry their little bag with a toy or notebook.
Keeping Kids Engaged
Walking all day can be tiring for little ones, so make the journey exciting!
Stamp Collecting
Every pilgrim gets a credencial (passport) where they collect stamps from churches, cafes, and hostels along the way. Kids love this activity, and it helps them feel like real adventurers!
Nature Exploration
Encourage kids to look for different birds, flowers, and shells along the path. Bring a small notebook so they can draw or write about what they see.
Local Legends & Stories
The Camino is full of old legends about saints, miracles, and even dragons! Read some fun stories before bedtime or ask locals to share tales from their villages.
Camino de Santiago / Photo by Damien Dufour on Unsplash
Making Memories Together
Walking the Camino de Santiago as a family is a special experience. It teaches kids about perseverance, adventure, and culture. With the right route, a relaxed pace, and fun activities, your family can enjoy every step of the journey.
So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!
