A Family Adventure On The Camino de Santiago: How To Make It Fun And Safe For Kids

The Camino de Santiago is much more than just a tourist journey or a pilgrimage route; it is a life-changing experience that can bring families together in a unique and unforgettable way. By walking the Camino de Santiago, your family will not only discover Spain’s breathtaking natural landscapes but also learn about its rich cultural and religious heritage. 

If you are considering embarking on this adventure with your children, this article provides some practical tips to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trip. Let’s get started!

Choosing the right route along the Camino de Santiago

One of the most important aspects of planning your family adventure on the Camino de Santiago is selecting the most suitable route. There are several possible routes, but some are more child-friendly than others.

The best routes for children 

In this regard, we recommend:

• The French Way: This is the most popular and well-known route, where you will encounter other families with children. It has excellent infrastructure, services, and hostels. You can opt to walk from Sarria to Santiago, a journey of approximately 68.4 miles (114 kilometers), with daily distances not exceeding 12 miles (20 kilometers).
• The Portuguese Way: This route begins in Tui and is slightly less crowded. The total distance is around 118 kilometers, but the walking stages are shorter and feature fewer elevation changes, making it ideal for children. Additionally, it is surrounded by stunning scenery.
• The English Way: Starting from Ferrol or A Coruña, this is one of the shortest Camino routes. Although it is less crowded, it is well-marked and has a good range of accommodations. It is relatively flat, making it an easy option for children.

Recommended daily distances

For children, it is best to walk between 6 and 9 miles (10 and 15 kilometers) per day. This allows them to enjoy the scenery and rest adequately. Keep in mind that each child has their own pace, so it is best to adjust distances as necessary.

Camino packing essentials

Preparation is key for this type of trip. To ensure a comfortable and safe adventure on the Camino de Santiago, pay attention to the following list of essential items:

• Appropriate footwear: Make sure each family member has comfortable, well-fitted hiking boots. Good footwear helps prevent injuries and blisters.
• Suitable clothing: Bring lightweight, comfortable, and breathable clothing, along with extra layers for cooler nights. Do not forget to pack a rain jacket for everyone.
• Light backpacks: Choose backpacks that are appropriately sized for children so they can carry their essential belongings.
• Basic First Aid Kit: Include a small first aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, insect repellent, and any necessary medications for your children.
• Food and snacks: Bring a supply of fruit, nuts, and energy bars to keep your children energized throughout the journey.

Making hiking fun for kids

Walking the Camino de Santiago as a family can be an educational and enriching experience for children. Here are some ideas to make it enjoyable:

• Observation games: Encourage your children to carefully observe the flora and fauna along the route. Ask them to create a list of things to spot, such as different types of plants or animals. The first to complete their list wins!
• Storytelling: Each evening, after a day of walking, share a story related to the places visited or one of the legends surrounding the Camino de Santiago. This will keep them engaged and help them connect with the history of the route. One popular young adult adventure book is “Walk: James Bacon’s Secret Mission on the Camino de Santiago.” Amazon carries several other titles suitable for different ages.
• Cultural participation: Visit small museums, cathedrals, and cultural landmarks. Your children could also take part in local activities, such as craft workshops or cooking classes, allowing them to learn about Galician culture and enrich their experience.
• Excursions: Plan additional activities such as canoeing trips, exploring nearby villages, or incorporating short hiking trails into the route.

Where to Stay along the Camino de Santiago

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for ensuring a successful family adventure. Here are some ideal accommodation options for families:

• Family-Friendly hostels: Many hostels along the Camino offer private rooms for families, making them a convenient option.
• Hotels and guesthouses: You may prefer to stay in hotels that offer family rooms and child-friendly services. Some even have play areas.
• Camping: If your family enjoys adventure and nature, camping could be a great choice. However, bear in mind that camping is only permitted in designated areas authorized by local councils. You must book camp spots in advance. Also, ensure your children are prepared for this experience.

Safety and health considerations

As expected, safety and health are top priorities when traveling with children. Here are some tips to prevent fatigue, injuries, and handle emergencies.

• Stay hydrated: Ensure everyone drinks plenty of water throughout the day. Carry reusable water bottles and encourage regular hydration. 
• Take frequent breaks: Plan regular rest stops where children can recharge. Look for shaded areas or parks.
• Watch for signs of fatigue: Pay close attention to your children. If they show signs of heatstroke or exhaustion, adjust the itinerary as needed. Remember, it is more important to enjoy the journey than to push through discomfort.
• Know the route: Always have a map or navigation app on hand. Familiarize yourself with the route, possible exit points in case of emergencies, and the locations of the nearest health centers.

If you decide to walk the Camino de Santiago with your family, know that it is a rewarding experience that will strengthen family bonds and create unforgettable memories. 

However, it requires planning, preparation, and some flexibility to ensure everyone, especially the little ones, enjoys the journey. Involve your children in the trip preparations and encourage them to explore, learn, and enjoy every step of the way. 

Don’t hesitate any longer: start planning your next family adventure on the Camino de Santiago.

Laura Garcia, an avid hiker based in Spain, shares her advice for families interested walking in the legendary Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail on behalf of sponsor Viajescaminodesantiago.com.