Spain El Camino de Santiago Hiking Tour
A Bucket-List Pilgrimage Across Northern Spain
- Available: April, May, June, August, September, October, November
- Activity: Level 4
- Accommodations: Comfortable Hotels, Luxury Hotels
Highlights
- Embark across northern Spain on one of the world's most epic hiking pilgrimages
- Tour the bustling town of Pamplona, famous for its annual Running of the Bulls spectacle
- Marvel at the fascinating historic sites of Santiago de Compostela
Itinerary
Meet in Bilbao & Transfer to Saint Jean-Pied de Port
Day 1
Arrive in Bilbao this morning. Meet your guide and the rest of the group at 11am for a brief orientation, and then transfer to San Sebastian. Enjoy lunch and a short visit of this beautiful city along the Bay of Biscay before continuing on to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a small market town on the French side of the Basque Pyrenees. After checking into the hotel, take a brief walking tour and end the day with a welcome dinner.Accommodation: Hotel des Pyrenees
Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Begin the First Stage of El Camino
Day 2
Transfer from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Biakorri, where a statue of the Virgin Mary watches over travelers from atop a rocky ridge. Begin the first stage of El Camino, crossing from France into Spain along the historical Pass of Roncesvalles, where the hero of the Charlemagne Army, Roland, battled against the Basques. Hike in the mid-altitude meadows of the Pyrenees, with a very gradual climb to the cols of Bentarte and Leopeder, eventually descending through beech tree forests to Roncesvalles. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Roncesvalles' historic sites.Accommodation: Hotel Roncesvalles
Activity: 6 hours/9.5 miles hiking with 1,656' elevation gain & 2,114' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Zubiri & Transfer to Pamplona
Day 3
After breakfast, hike through meadows and forests, passing villages on the way toward the charming old town of Zubiri in the valley of Esteribar. Cross the Erro valley through oak and beech tree forests, typical for the southern slopes of the Pyrenees. In Zubiri, board the bus and transfer to Pamplona. Founded by the Roman General Pompeius, Pamplona is the first big city that the pilgrims discovered when they arrived in Spain. Take a walk through the old city, including the streets where the famous "running of the bulls" takes place.Accommodation: Hotel Tres Reyes
Activity: 6 hours/14 miles hiking with 1,428' elevation gain & 2,853' elevation loss
Transportation: 40-minute private bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Meseta & Arrive at Burgos
Day 4
After transferring 2 hours from Pamplona to Ages, begin one of the main stages of El Camino: the high plains of central Spain, known as the Meseta. After a short 500-ft ascent to Matagrande, the journey follows a very flat route, passing through several villages. In the afternoon, arrive at the 9th-century city of Burgos on the Rio Arlanzon, home town of El Cid, whose statue guards the Puente de San Pablo. Check in to the hotel and enjoy a guided tour of the Gothic-style cathedral and the old town before dinner.Accommodation: NH Collection Palacio de Burgos
Activity: 6 hours/12.5 miles hiking with 1,000' elevation gain & 1,500' elevation loss
Transportation: 2-hour private bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cross the Tierra de Campos & Reach Carrion de los Condes
Day 5
Today enjoy another full day on the high plains of central Spain, while crossing through the Tierra de Campos (or Campos Goticos). Today known as Castilla, this region is filled with the history of La Reconquista, a period lasting nearly 800 years in the Middle Ages. Pass green and golden grasslands and fields of sunflowers on the way to the medieval town of Carrion de los Condes. Take a guided tour of the old town, then settle into the hotel, impressively located within a restored medieval monastery.Accommodation: Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoilo
Activity: 7 hours/16.5 miles hiking with 891' elevation gain & 865' elevation loss
Transportation: 1-hour private bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike through El Burgo Ranero & Transfer to Leon
Day 6
Today hike through the small town of El Burgo Ranero and through vast fields of crops and grasslands on very flat terrain. By lunchtime, reach the medieval market city of Mansilla de las Mulas, a crossroads in this area of El Camino. After lunch, take a short transfer to the capital of Christian Spain: the city of Leon, also known as El Reino de Leon. Take a historical tour of the city and its early Gothic-style cathedral, one of the most famous in Spain.Accommodation: Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro
Activity: 6 hours/12 miles hiking with 464' elevation gain & 1,090' elevation loss
Transportation: 1.25-hour private bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike from Hospital de Orbigo to the Roman City of Astorga
Day 7
Begin today's hike in Hospital de Orbigo, with its picturesque old Roman bridge, and continue along country roads through vineyards and rolling hills. En route pass through the small villages of Santibañez and Valdeiglesias, and reach El Crucero de Santo Toribio, the religious cross that has marked this trail for centuries. Continue on to the small Roman city of Astorga, founded in 14 B.C. and today known for its fascinating, eclectic architecture. Then transfer to Villafranca del Bierzo, home for the night.Accommodation: Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo
Activity: 6 hours/11 miles hiking with 800' elevation gain & 834' elevation loss
Transportation: 1.75-hour private bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike from Las Herrerias to the Celtic Village of O Cebreiro
Day 8
Leave behind the high plains of Castilla y Leon and enter the northwestern region of Galicia. Begin the hike in Las Herrerias and reach the first significant ascent in many days. Climb over 2,000' in the last five miles to reach the old Celtic village of O Cebreiro by way of the Pedrafita Pass, where custom has it the pilgrim must throw one stone in the Cruceiro for good luck. Spend the night in the ancient city of Monforte de Lemos.Accommodation: Parador de Monforte de Lemos
Activity: 4 hours/6 miles hiking with 2,416' elevation gain & 394' elevation loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour private bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Reach Santiago de Compostela
Day 9
After breakfast, a 2-hour transfer leads to the town of Pedrouzo, where you start the last stage of the trek along El Camino de Santiago. Today reach the official destination for the journey — Santiago de Compostela and the cathedral that is the reputed burial place of St. James. The Cathedral sits on the Plaza del Obradoiro, as does the hotel, a five-star Parador located within a spectacular 16th-century building.Accommodation: Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Activity: 6 hours/14 miles hiking with 1,534' elevation gain & 1,600' elevation loss
Transportation: 2.25-hour private bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Trip to Finisterre & Tour Santiago de Compostela
Day 10
Today enjoy a guided excursion to the coastal village of Finisterre ("the end of the Earth"), 51 miles from Santiago de Compostela. It is a tradition for pilgrims to end their journey by burning their clothes or boots here at the westernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. In the afternoon, return to Santiago for a guided historical tour of the old city and the cathedral, then rest up for a special farewell dinner.Accommodation: Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Transportation: 2.5-hours private bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart from Santiago de Compostela
Day 11
Today say adios to Spain. After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Santiago de Compostela for departures home.Meals: Breakfast
Why Travel With Us?
MT Sobek has been leading journeys in Europe for more than 50 years and has decades of experience on this famous pilgrimage route across northern Spain.
This 11-day adventure has been perfected to blend hiking and history, plus delicious cuisine and elegant accommodations. And, back-up coach support for those who need it.
Guided by a top-notch team of local experts, hikers enjoy historical and cultural tours in ancient towns on the way to Santiago de Compostela.
Dates & Prices
- 2025
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
2025
Scheduled Dates
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
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Go Private
Go Private
Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.
Call or email us to get the ball rolling.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Looking for a private family adventure?
This trip can accommodate guests with a
minimum age of 18.
Private Trip Pricing: 2024
9 guests from $7,395 per person double occupancy
6 to 8 guests from $7,795 per person double occupancy
4 to 5 guests from $7,995 per person double occupancy
Private Trip Pricing: 2025
4 to 5 guests from $8,295 per person double occupancy
6 to 8 guests from $8,095 per person double occupancy
9 guests from $7,695 per person double occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Take Over One of These Dates
- Jun 01 - 11, 2025
- Jun 15 - 25, 2025
- Nov 02 - 12, 2025
Make Your Own Dates in These Months
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April, May, June, August, September, October, November
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
Start PlanningInclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Snacks and water between meals
- Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
- Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
- Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Erik P.
Erik was born and raised in the Asturias region of northern Spain and has been leading MT Sobek globally since 1989. Erik holds the coveted IFMGA/UIAGM certification, which is the highest professional award attainable in mountaineering, and has written two guidebooks on hikes and climbs in the Picos de Europa. Erik studied Humanities at the University of Oviedo-the capital city of Asturias-and received an MA in History. He is passionate about sharing the landscapes and rich cultures of northern Spain with MT Sobek travelers.
Leo S.
Leo was born in the mountains of Spain’s Basque Country and made his home in Jaca, in the heart of the Pyrenees, where he spends his winters on backcountry skis. He has been guiding in the Pyrenees for many years, as well as in Nepal, Morocco, Tanzania, Peru, Chile, Venezuela, Pakistan, India, and the French Alps. He has also taught skiing in Colorado. He is an International Certified Mountain Guide (UIAGM) and a professional ski instructor (ISIA). Leo is fluent in English, French, and Basque.
Fernando G.
Fernando is a IFMGA Mountain Guide with an extensive backgrouond in mountaneering and guiding. He has hiked the Great Himlayan Trail from India, Sikkim, Buthan, Nepal and Pakistán over a period of 6 months. Fernando was the first man to ever climb to the peak of Cho Oyu (26,906') solo and in Winter. He holds the world record of permanence in altitude, remaining at the summit of Aconcagua (22,841') for 66 days; and he has climbed Aconcagua 40 times. Fernando has been guiding in the Alpes, Andes, Himalaya and Pyrenees and other Mountains in Spain for more than 40 years.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. This is a strenuous hiking trip with average hikes of 10 miles per day. There is only significant elevation gain on two days (Day 2 & 8). The terrain and trails are in good condition with some sections of paved roads as we cross through villages from time to time. You need to be in good condition to be comfortable on this trip.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
6 hours/9.5 miles hiking with 1,656' elevation gain & 2,114' elevation loss
Day 3
6 hours/14 miles hiking with 1,428' elevation gain & 2,853' elevation loss
Day 4
6 hours/12.5 miles hiking with 1,000' elevation gain & 1,500' elevation loss
Day 5
7 hours/16.5 miles hiking with 891' elevation gain & 865' elevation loss
Day 6
6 hours/12 miles hiking with 464' elevation gain & 1,090' elevation loss
Day 7
6 hours/11 miles hiking with 800' elevation gain & 834' elevation loss
Day 8
4 hours/6 miles hiking with 2,416' elevation gain & 394' elevation loss
Day 9
6 hours/14 miles hiking with 1,534' elevation gain & 1,600' elevation loss
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Revamped medieval monasteries and historic buildings offer standard to high-class amenities, comfort, and warm hospitality.
Weather
Spring and fall mornings are cool but warm up to 75°F at midday, cooling back down to about 55°F in late afternoon.
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival at the Bilbao airport on Day 1?
If you are flying into Bilbao the morning of Day 1, your guide will meet you directly after you exit customs and transfer you to the meeting point in Bilbao city center.
Do I have to do all of the hikes each day?
No. Each day, there are several opportunities to shorten your hike by getting a lift from our support vehicle.
Can I wear walking/running shoes instead of hiking boots on this trip?
Yes. In fact, for this trip, shoes are recommended over boots as boots are too heavy for this terrain.
Do I need hiking/trekking poles for this trip?
No. This trip is easily done without hiking poles. The paths and roads are in excellent condition.
What's the best way to train for this trip?
Hiking is the best way to train for this trip. The most important aspect of your training should be time spent hiking versus elevation gain. This trip is very flat, so focus on distance.
Do I have to carry my own water on this trip?
Yes, but there are several opportunities each day to refill your water bottles. A good day pack is a must for carrying water, snacks and extra layers on this trip.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
How hard is it to walk the Camino de Santiago?
What is the best month to walk the Camino de Santiago?
Where do you sleep on the Camino de Santiago?
Is wine included on this trip?
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Guest Reviews
"After 35 years of overseas travel, I would rate MT Sobek's Camino trip as one of the best we have ever had"
Larry A.
MT Sobek Guest, Spain El Camino de Santiago Hiking