If you decide to walk the Camino de Santiago, you may be wondering if you should join a guided tour or go it on your own. The truth is, while you can get to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral on your own, you might miss out.
Everyone has their own reasons for walking the Camino. It could be for spiritual reasons, a physical challenge, reconnecting with nature, or simply getting away from it all. Whatever you're looking for, walking the Camino promises to be an unforgettable adventure. It's a chance to get out of your comfort zone, connect with like-minded travelers and discover some of Galicia's most charming countryside and delicious food along the way. But should you take a self-guided trip or go as part of a tour?
If you are thinking of walking the Camino, cross the Sun EuropeOlder pilgrimages off your list, here are six reasons why you should take a guided hike instead of going on your own.
1. Meet like-minded travelers
There is something very special about setting out on an epic adventure with like-minded travelers. When you meet new people on the road, it's often a deeper connection that's hard to find in "normal" life. On a guided Camino tour, you'll have the chance to meet travelers from all walks of life—people you might never have crossed paths with. Everyone will be there for their own reasons, but you will be sharing the journey, the laughter, the emotions, and the challenges that come with it. Who knows, your new walking buddies could become friends for life.
Read more: What I learned about myself on a short walking tour
2. Benefit from the guidance of the local leader
The Camino is well signposted so getting lost isn't usually a problem. But if you take a self-guided hike, you won't benefit from your local leader's incredible knowledge. Whether it's the history of famous sites and landmarks along the way, recommendations for local Galician delicacies and restaurants, funny anecdotes or poignant stories, your guide will be there to support you and help you make the most of your trip. Don't compare having to rely on your travel guide (or Google) to having an expert guide by your side.
3. Take the load off (literally)
Forget about carrying your purse or backpack with you. On the guided tours, luggage transfers are arranged for you and your suitcase will be taken to your accommodation each day. All you have to do is bring a small day bag large enough to hold your essentials (camera, water bottle, money bag, etc.). When you walk these many kilometers every day, your feet will thank you for the lighter load.
Read more: Why you should take a guided walking tour of Europe (something I learned the hard way)
4. Get a good night's sleep
After walking up to 29 kilometers each day, you'll likely fall asleep as soon as your head hits the pillow (especially after a glass or two of wine). But if you're a light sleeper, or would rather not risk losing a precious night's sleep at a noisy lodge (or "haven," as it's called on the Camino), guided tours are the way to go. Accommodation will be organized for you each night in private hotels or guesthouses, so you are more likely to get a good night's sleep. Accommodations on the Camino Trail also get booked up quickly, especially in the peak summer months, so you don't have to worry about securing rooms in time.
Walking the Camino de Santiago
5. Eat the best local foods
Torricado, tapas and tempranillo. Need we say more? Spain And the Portugal Know how to eat, and the Camino tour is as much a journey for your taste buds as it is for your feet. There will be plenty of opportunities to sample local fare along the way. But the best part? Thanks to your local guide, you'll be fed and watered at the best local joints without having to cross the streets multiple times trying to locate where to eat (we've all been there). Tuck into Galician specialties such as Pulpo Vieira (Market-style octopus tossed in olive oil and sprinkled with smoked paprika), creamy Ulloa rice Cheese or crunchy Pimentos de Padron Padron pepper sprinkled with sea salt.
Read more: A culinary journey through northern Spain
6. Delegate details
On the guided tour, everything from the airport and luggage transfer to accommodation and cultural activities is taken care of. Some people like to plan a trip and organize all the little details, but if you do enough of that in everyday life and prefer to switch off, pack your bag, and hit the trails, you might enjoy a guided tour more. Plus, you can use the time you normally spend planning to get excited about what you can eat and drink, or maybe even learn a few Spanish or Galician phrases. The same applies once you get there - your guide will take care of all the logistics, housekeeping and any potential hiccups so you can fully immerse yourself in the Camino experience.
Are you ready to cruise the Camino and experience all it has to offer? Verify Camino de Santiago Tours.
Source link
0 Comments