The Camino de Santiago as a family: 10 tips for walking with children
Walking the Camino de Santiago as a family is possible, and it can be one of the most beautiful experiences you share. However, walking with children or with people of different ages calls for attention to every detail.
So we have put together 10 practical tips, from choosing your route to keeping the little ones motivated. We also cover accommodation, safety, snacks and activities, so that the pilgrimage feels light, safe and fun for everyone.
How to choose your route for the Camino de Santiago as a family
In Portugal, three routes are especially popular with pilgrims. Each one has its own personality, so choose the one that suits your family best.
The most traditional and the busiest. It has good waymarking and more accommodation and services. In addition, it passes through historic towns and rural landscapes. It is ideal if you want safety and comfort.
It follows the Atlantic coast, with sea views and several beaches. It is quieter than the Central Way, but still well equipped. So you can stop for a swim or a picnic.
A variant of the Coastal Way that stays even closer to the sea. However, the waymarking is patchy on some stretches and there are fewer facilities. That is why it suits adventurous families.
Before you decide, think about the age and fitness of each person and the kind of experience you want. As a general rule, the coastal routes combine the beach with the Camino, while the Central Way offers more logistical support.
Physical preparation for the whole family
Before you set off, everyone needs to be ready. So go on regular walks and train with your backpacks, so your bodies adapt to the effort. You will find a complete plan in how to prepare for the Camino de Santiago.
Then plan short daily stages that you can adjust. Also, allow for frequent breaks to rest and eat.
The right backpack for the Camino de Santiago as a family
With children there is always more to carry. Even so, keep your luggage light and put the essentials first:
- Comfortable clothing suitable for walking
- Sun cream and hats
- A small first aid kit
- Games or activities to keep the children busy during breaks
You will find the complete list, item by item, in what to pack for the Camino de Santiago.
Where to sleep: accommodation for families
With children, book your accommodation a little in advance. After all, family hostels, guesthouses and hotels offer more comfort and privacy than traditional pilgrim albergues.
Before you book, check that they have what your family needs, such as private rooms and family meals.
How to keep children motivated
Keeping the little ones in good spirits is not always easy. So turn the Camino into an adventure. For example, challenge them to collect shells or stamps in their pilgrim credential.
In addition, games, stories and small activities along the way make every stage more fun.
Pilgrim’s tip: give each child their own credential. That way, every stamp becomes a small achievement.
Safety and health on the Camino de Santiago as a family
Safety comes first. So agree on meeting points with everyone and have a plan in case you get separated.
Keep a first aid kit to hand for small scrapes, blisters and other mishaps. Then drink water regularly and take breaks in the shade to avoid sunstroke.
Emergency contacts in Portugal
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| European emergency number (medical, police, fire) | 112 |
| SNS 24 (Portuguese National Health Service) | 808 24 24 24 |
| INEM, PSP, GNR and fire brigade | 112 |
Emergency contacts in Spain
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| European emergency number (medical, police, fire) | 112 |
| Urxencias Sanitarias de Galicia (health emergencies and medical advice) | 061 |
| Policía Nacional (National Police) | 091 |
| Guardia Civil | 062 |
| Policía Local (Local Police) | 092 |
| Bomberos (fire brigade) | 080 or 085, depending on the region |
Write these numbers down and keep them somewhere easy to find for the whole Camino.
Flexibility and patience
Travelling as a family calls for flexibility. So be ready to adjust the plan and respect each person’s pace and needs.
Patience matters a lot too, because there are always unexpected challenges. After all, everyone arriving safe and well is worth more than sticking to the plan to the letter.
Enjoying the Camino de Santiago as a family
The Camino is a rare chance to strengthen your bonds. So make the most of the hours on foot to talk, reflect and share stories.
In fact, meals and breaks are the best moments to be together and enjoy each other’s company. For inspiration, read about Andreia’s walk of gratitude with her family and Carlos’s six days walking with his children.
Learning along the way: history and culture
The Camino is a journey full of history and culture. So take the chance to explain to the children why this route matters so much.
Then visit churches, museums and other places of interest along the route. That way, the adventure also becomes an open-air lesson. To begin with, read the history of the Camino de Santiago with them.
Snacks for the Camino de Santiago as a family
Keeping your energy up is essential, especially for children. So pack healthy snacks that are easy to carry:
- Dried fruit, such as raisins, apricots and dates, rich in vitamins and minerals
- Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, chestnuts and pumpkin seeds, full of energy
- Cereal or granola bars, easy to carry and nutritious
- Sandwiches on wholemeal bread with cheese, turkey or peanut butter
- Fresh fruit, such as apples, bananas and grapes, which also helps with hydration
- Cheese cubes, with protein and calcium
- Wholemeal biscuits, light and easy to carry
- Yoghurt in individual pots, for a longer break
In short, with planning, team spirit and flexibility, the Camino adapts to every member of the family. And, step by step, it can become part of your family story for ever.
More than a trip, the Camino as a family is a chance to grow together.
Frequently asked questions about the Camino de Santiago as a family
Is it safe to walk the Camino de Santiago as a family?
Yes, with planning and preparation. Choose busier, well-waymarked routes and always keep an eye on the children’s needs.
What is the minimum age for a child to walk the Camino?
There is no minimum age. Even so, from the age of 7 or 8 children usually walk actively, depending on their fitness and pace.
How many kilometres a day should you walk with children?
Short stages, between 10 and 15 km a day, with several breaks. That way you avoid too much tiredness and keep the children motivated.
Can you walk the Camino with babies?
Yes. For children under 3, a baby carrier backpack or an all-terrain trekking pushchair can help. Make sure they are comfortable and suitable for long walks.
How can you keep children entertained on the Camino?
With games, stories, songs and nature activities. For example, challenge them to notice what is around them and to collect shells or stamps.
Is the Camino suitable for teenagers?
Yes. Teenagers usually adapt well to the pace, and they gain time for reflection, independence and contact with other cultures.
Do you need to carry food for every stage?
No. On the main routes there are cafés, restaurants and grocery shops. However, it is wise to carry healthy snacks and enough water for each stage.
Do children also receive the Compostela?
Yes. As long as they walk at least the last 100 km to Santiago and stamp their credential twice a day, everyone receives the Compostela, including children.
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