Cycle the Camino de Santiago

Ride one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in the world

The Camino de Santiago runs across northern Spain, originating in the Galicia region where the tomb of the apostle James the Great was discovered in the ninth century. Also known as the Way of Saint James, it is marked by a scallop shell symbol and the joining grooves are said to represent the many different routes pilgrims take to reach Santiago. The gothic cathedrals, medieval monasteries and miles of beautiful rural scenery make this section of the ancient route so popular.

Sustainability and Impact

At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.

As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.

• Learn more about our Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan, including our commitment to rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller

• Read about the work of the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation.

• Find out how you can travel more sustainably here.

Is this trip for you?

This trip is classified Road and Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

• Six days of cycling
• Average distance: 33mi (53km) per day
• Partial vehicle support
• Terrain and route: 70 percent on quiet minor roads and 30 percent on a mixture of cycle paths, non-technical tracks and a few off-road sections

Wearing a cycling helmet is compulsory on this trip. This tour can be cycled with an e-bike (additional charge applies). For those who are less confident with six days of self-powered cycling but are keen to experience this pilgrimage, we recommend an e-bike. Our guides are experienced in managing groups with both push bikes and e-bikes, and many of our clients enjoy the flexibility that an e-bike offers. Please speak to us if you would like to add this option to your booking.

As we are passing through rural communities the roads are quiet with very little traffic; however, you will be sharing the route with walkers and cyclists all on their way to Santiago de Compostela. There is one long but gradual climb on the second cycling day of the trip, but the support vehicle will be available if you prefer to opt out. Alternatively, there is the opportunity to walk along the hiking track. There are a few cobbled sections where you should take care, particularly in wet conditions. This trip is ideal for confident cyclists who exercise regularly and have a strong level of fitness.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Vaccinations and Health

Spain

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.

Visa

Spain

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Spain. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/spain
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements
• USA:  www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html

Food & Drink

All breakfasts are included.

Breakfasts will be continental style with cold cheese, meats and bread, plus pastries, tea and coffee.

Vegetarians: Please be aware that a meat and fish diet is the norm in northern Spain. Many vegetarians have not experienced any problems; however, please be prepared to be flexible. Please note, mealtimes in Spain are later than in many other countries; dinner is usually taken between 9pm and 9.30pm.

Weather

In April and October, expect temperatures between 5C-15C (41F-59F) with a high chance of rain showers. In the mornings, it is often cloudy and more temperate. Temperatures in May and September tend to be warmer than April and October. Expect a combination of sun, light showers and clouds. July and August are typically sunny and warm with temperatures of 15C-30C (59F-86F).