Camino Ready: Everything You Need to Know Before You Walk 

If you’re craving a travel experience that combines sport, scenery, and serious personal achievement, then the Camino is your kind of challenge. This legendary pilgrimage trail isn’t just about clocking kilometres – it’s about mindset, moments, and meeting fellow travellers who are just as determined as you are to reach Santiago de Compostela. 

Whether you’re walking for fitness, faith, or a bit of both, Edusport is here to guide you every step of the way. We’ve put together essential tips for first-timers, along with insights into popular routes, physical demands, and how to make your Camino walk smooth, memorable, and meaningful. 

What is the Camino? 

The Camino de Santiago, often simply called “the Camino” or “el Camino,” refers to a network of pilgrimage routes that lead to the city of Santiago de Compostela in north-western Spain. It’s one of the most iconic walking journeys in the world, drawing thousands of travellers each year to experience its mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and physical challenge. 

The most popular route is the Camino Francés, which stretches about 780 kilometres from St. Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago. But there are other Camino trail routes as well, including the Portuguese Camino and the Camino del Norte, each offering unique scenery and experiences. 

Which Camino Trail Is Best for First-Time Travellers? 

For first-timers, the Camino Francés is often the best place to start. It’s well-marked, has great infrastructure, and offers a social atmosphere where you’ll meet plenty of fellow pilgrims. If you’re short on time, many walkers begin in the town of Sarria, completing the final 100 kilometres – just enough to earn the Compostela certificate. 

Another great option is the Portuguese Coastal Camino, which begins in Porto. It’s slightly less crowded and follows an incredible route along the Atlantic, making it a relaxed and scenic alternative. 

Can a 70-Year-Old Walk the Camino? 

Absolutely. We’ve seen plenty of determined and adventurous travellers in their 60s, 70s, and even older successfully complete the Camino trail. Age isn’t a barrier – preparation is. 

It’s important to: 

• Train in advance with regular walks on varied terrain 

• Choose a route that suits your ability and timeframe 

• Travel light or let us arrange luggage transfers 

• Allow for rest days if needed 

At Edusport, we can help tailor your Camino walk to your comfort level. 

How Much Money Do I Need for the Camino? 

The cost of walking the Camino depends on a few key factors – your choice of route, the level of accommodation, how long you walk, and how you like to travel. The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out alone. 

Ask us at Edusport about our wide range of Camino tour packages to suit your budget. We offer carefully designed options covering popular Camino routes in Spain and France, including flights, hotel upgrades, additional nights in major cities, and ticket upgrades for sightseeing once you’ve completed your walk. 

What’s the Hardest Part of Walking the Camino? 

For many, it’s not the hills or the distance – it’s the mental endurance. There will be days when your legs ache, the weather turns, or you question why you started. That’s all part of the experience. 

Physically, steep sections in the Pyrenees or Galicia can be challenging, but nothing that preparation and a good support system can’t help you overcome. The Camino teaches you to stay steady, keep moving, and focus on the bigger picture. 

What Should I Avoid on the Camino? 

To make your walk as enjoyable as possible, avoid these common pitfalls: 

• Wearing new shoes: break them in well before you go 
• Carrying too much: pack light and stick to the essentials
• Ignoring the weather: bring gear for sun, rain, and cooler mornings 
• Skipping training: build up your walking stamina gradually 
• Rushing: enjoy the journey and take it day by day 

Let us help you plan for success. Our Camino packages can include bag transfers, local support, and advice on what to pack and what to leave behind. 

How Far in Advance Should I Book? 

If you’re walking during peak months (May to September), we recommend booking your Camino tour at least six months in advance. Accommodation along the trail fills up quickly, especially in the popular sections, and booking early ensures you get the best selection and pricing. 

If you’re booking last-minute, get in touch with us at Edusport – we’ll do our best to secure a great route and help you get trail-ready. 

Where Do Most People Start Their Camino Walk? 

Most first-timers start from: 

• Sarria (the last 100km of the Camino Francés) 
• Porto or Lisbon (for the Portuguese routes) 
• St. Jean Pied de Port (for the full Camino Francés experience) 

Each starting point has its pros and cons, and the right one for you will depend on how much time you have and how far you want to walk. We can help you choose the best starting point and arrange everything from transfers to accommodation. 

Why Book with Edusport? 

At Edusport, we know sports travel – and the Camino is one of the most rewarding active travel experiences out there. When you book with us, you’re not just signing up for a tour. You’re joining a team that’s passionate about performance, preparation, and making every step count. 

Here’s what you can expect: 

• Carefully curated Camino tours from trusted suppliers 
• Flexible packages that could include flights, transfers, and extra nights 
• Upgrades available for hotels, support services, and sightseeing 
• A dedicated team with years of experience in sports and travel 
• Transparent, hands-on service from enquiry to arrival 

We offer tailored Camino packages specifically focused on the most popular and scenic routes through Spain and France, ensuring you experience the best these iconic trails have to offer. 

Ready to Start Walking? 

Whether you want to conquer the full Camino Francés or walk a scenic coastal route, Edusport will help you plan a Camino tour that fits your pace, budget, and goals. 

Speak to us today to get started. We’ll tailor your Camino walk to include everything you need – from flights and transfers to local guides and post-walk rewards. 

Adventure Travel is calling. The Camino is waiting. Let Edusport help you walk it with confidence.