El Camino de Santiago 6-Day Route Options

The time it takes to walk the Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James, can vary depending on several factors, such as the starting point, the route taken, the daily distance covered, and the pace of the individual walker. The most popular route, the Camino Francés, is approximately 485 miles (780 kilometers) long. It starts in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, France and ends in Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Camino Francés: A Popular Choice

Most pilgrims take anywhere from four to six weeks to complete the Camino Francés, walking an average of 12-15 miles (20-25 kilometers) per day. However, some may choose to take longer or shorter routes depending on their schedule or physical ability. It’s important to keep in mind that the Camino de Santiago is not a race. Taking the time to appreciate the journey and surroundings is an essential part of the experience.

The main route, the Camino Frances, is approximately 500 miles long, so to complete it in just 6 days while walking no more than 15 miles (24 km) per day is not possible. However, there are shorter sections of the Camino Frances that you can walk in 6 days. This helps keep your daily mileage around 15 miles (24 km) which is a reasonable distance for many.

Exploring Route Choices

1. Sarria to Santiago de Compostela – This is the most popular section of the Camino Frances and covers 69 miles (111 km). You can complete this section in 6 days while walking an average of 12 miles (19 km) per day. This route has well-marked paths, good infrastructure, and plenty of accommodation options. During my camino journey, I started in Leon. After Sarria, the paths became much busier and there was a drastic shift in how many people were walking around you. If you are looking for a quieter experience, you may want to consider a path that is less busy. Additionally, this path allows you to still receive a certificate of completion in Santiago.

2. Burgos to Leon – This section of the Camino Frances covers 115 miles (185 km) and takes you through the Meseta region. I did not go through the Meseta, but the friends I made along the way said it was an incredible experience. It is definitely longer, but it allows you to reflect more and embrace your surroundings. You can complete this section in 6 days while walking an average of 15 miles (24 km) per day. This route is ideal if you want fewer pilgrims than the Sarria section. It’s also good if you are looking for vast, open landscapes.

3. Leon to Ponferrada – This section of the Camino Frances covers 65 miles (105 km) and takes you through the Bierzo region. You can complete this section in 6 days while walking an average of 11 miles (17.7 km) per day. This route has fewer pilgrims than the Sarria section and offers beautiful mountainous landscapes. I really enjoyed my journey during this section. I started in Leon so I had the energy of beginning my journey, but it allowed me to really immerse myself in the experience. If I had ended my camino in Ponferrada, it still would have been a very fulfilling walk.

Embrace the Journey

Remember, it’s important to take your time and enjoy the journey. The Camino is not a race, and it’s essential to listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. You will only experience your first camino once in your life. Thus, choosing the correct path for you is really important. Whatever you decide to do, it will be a wonderful, life-altering journey.

Enjoy your Camino journey!

-Buen Camino-

Not all those who wander are lost. -TTT

Are you thinking of doing the Camino de Santiago? Go to my Youtube for a glimpse of the views along the way, a packing list, and packing tips and tricks!