Camino in group: why do so many pilgrims walk together?

A Camino in group is one of the best ways to experience this exciting adventure together with like-minded people. Want to know why? Then read on!

Please note: our guided group tours are currently only available in Dutch.

3 reasons to walk the Camino in a group

“More is better” is one of those assumptions that doesn’t always hold true. But on the Camino de Santiago, it does. Sharing these unforgettable experiences with others makes your journey more complete. That’s why a Camino in group has been part of our offering for our Dutch speaking clients for several years now. In fact, we add new group trips every year — maybe soon in English as well?

Either way, a Camino in group comes with many benefits — and in this blog we explain why.

Do you dream of reaching Santiago de Compostela or walking part of a Camino, but feel nervous about going alone? Or are you wondering how to organize it all? Are you at a point in life where you need peace or reflection? Or do you simply want to hike worry-free and enjoy beautiful nature together with a group of like-minded people?

Who can join a Camino in group?

Actually, doing a Camino in group is quite common… even if it’s not your original plan. Why? Because even if you start alone in a random town, chances are you’ll end up seeing the same people at the end of each stage day after day. Everyone walks at their own pace and covers roughly the same distances, but in practice, most people end up walking the same stages and staying in the same places.

Camino in group naturally creates small walking groups that last as long as the pilgrimage itself. Lifelong friendships are formed — friendships that continue even after the Camino ends. What begins as a solitary journey can easily become a shared group experience.

Some people choose from the start to walk the Camino de Santiago in a group. Either because they want to do it with family or friends, or because they don’t want to go alone and prefer the company of other pilgrims. This second type often includes first-time pilgrims walking their first Camino, or people who simply enjoy traveling with like-minded companions.

A Camino in group is perfect for those who feel unsure of themselves or nervous about going solo.

Benefits of a Camino in group

1. A Camino guide at your side

For many, the first and most important benefit of an organized Camino in group is having a guide to make sure everything runs smoothly. The guide’s role isn’t to march at the front to prevent people from getting lost — after all, getting lost on the Camino de Santiago is quite difficult. The route is very well marked.

The guide’s main task is to keep an eye on the group dynamic and tend to important details. Their knowledge of the terrain allows them to schedule necessary rest breaks and assist group members with small problems or difficulties that come with walking the Camino de Santiago.

In addition, the guide is always present and is the go-to person for clearing up doubts, sharing hidden details about the Camino, explaining the history of the regions you pass through, offering lunch and dinner tips, and more. In short, with an experienced guide in your group, the only thing you have to focus on is yourself.

2. From strangers to friends

We already mentioned it: a Camino in group turns strangers into friends. After years of walking the Camino de Santiago with groups, our experience shows that those who sign up for these trips do so deliberately — for the social aspect, the shared experience, and the joy of being on the road together.

It’s beautiful to witness: participants who barely know each other on day one, exchanging curious glances, end up in Santiago (or another final destination) hugging each other, crying on each other’s shoulders, deeply moved. Goosebumps.

3. Everything arranged in advance

Another advantage of a Camino in group organized by a specialized travel agency is that every detail is arranged beforehand. On the group walks we organize at WAW.travel, we don’t just book accommodations: we choose hotels, historic pensions, or charming casa rurals that truly elevate the experience.

What’s more, these trips include luggage transport between accommodations, so you won’t have to carry a heavy backpack that could hinder your enjoyment, or make you any more of a pilgrim. Plus, we know where to find the best coffee stops, the coziest bars for a tortilla, and a great dinner spot to unwind at the end of the day.

How does a Camino in group work?

Although every Camino is unique, all group walks work more or less the same. About a month before departure, we hold an online introduction meeting. During this session, participants get to know each other, we go over the program, talk about what to bring (and what not to), and there’s time to ask any questions you may have.

The day before the Camino in group starts, we fly to our destination. To coordinate group transfers, most participants take the same outbound and return flights. We meet at the airport, so no one has to start the journey alone. Upon arrival, a taxi will be waiting if needed to take us to the starting point of the pilgrimage.

Each morning, after dropping off our main luggage at reception for transfer to the next accommodation, we start the day with the guidance of the Camino guide at a gradual pace to avoid overexertion and injuries. These are hiking holidays, so the average daily distance is about 20 km. After the first few kilometers, everyone walks at their own pace to prevent physical issues. No hand-in-hand walking like on a school trip. Everyone walks their own Camino! The guide ensures group dynamics and cohesion.

Generally, the stage ends around noon or early afternoon when we reach the planned endpoint. Since all accommodations are pre-booked, you don’t have to rush during a Camino in group. You can take your time and enjoy the journey step by step, because walking the Camino is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

When you arrive, your luggage will already be waiting at the accommodation, and your free time begins. You can get something to eat, rest, explore the village, or simply relax. One of the many benefits of a Camino in group!

In the evening, dinner is organized for the group at a nearby restaurant. The idea is to share this special moment together, to sit around the table and hear the stories of fellow participants and other pilgrims we’ll surely meet along the way.

The arrival in Santiago (or another endpoint) after the final stage is of course a key moment. It’s when we share the joy and the sorrow of knowing this special experience is coming to an end. These are often the most emotional moments of a Camino in group. In the evening, we enjoy a well-deserved celebratory dinner. The program ends the next day after breakfast and one last overnight stay.

How do I register for a Camino in group?

Once again, please note: our guided group tours are currently only available in Dutch.

Each year we organize several groups on different dates for the French and Portuguese routes, as well as the pilgrimage to Finisterre and Muxia. If you’d like to join one of the groups, simply choose your preferred route and travel dates. Places are limited (maximum 10 people), so the sooner you book, the better.

Your spot is confirmed with a deposit of 30% of the total price. The remaining balance is due one month before departure. As soon as there are 6 participants, we’ll notify you so you can book your flights.

You can also choose your own travel dates if you’re forming your own group. In that case, get in touch with us and we’ll help you arrange everything for your preferred dates!