One of the best things about the Camino de Santiago is how easy it is to get around. You don’t need technical skills, a GPS device, or even a map in your hand to hike this trail. For hundreds of years, these paths have led pilgrims to their destinations. The waymarking system is simple to use if you know what to look for.
There are yellow arrows on trees, walls, stones, lampposts, and even trash cans. You will also see stylised scallop shells on tiles, plaques, or posts; metal markers set into pavements in bigger towns; modern traffic signs; or wooden posts on country roads, usually with arrows or shells. Tip: If you’re not sure, take a break. Don’t walk for ten minutes waiting for the next arrow to show up. If you haven’t seen a sign in a while, go back a little bit until you find the last one. The yellow arrow will show you the right way at many intersections, and the X will show you the wrong way.
It’s easiest to lose the path in big cities like Porto, Burgos, León, Pamplona, and even Santiago itself. The arrows may not be as clear when there are many people, cars parked, and construction going on. You can often see the signs on the ground in cities, on the base of streetlamps, low on walls or building corners or on posts near pedestrian crossings. City arrows are usually small or at ankle height, so don’t rush. Once you’re out of town, it’s simple to find your way again.
Some parts of the Camino go along quiet country roads or short stretches of busier roads. Always walk on the left side of the road when you’re outside of residential areas, facing oncoming traffic. This lets you see cars coming and move out of the way if someone misjudges how close they are. Tip: If you’re walking in the dark, make sure your backpack has something on it that can be seen. Many pilgrims use a reflective strip or the rain cover of their bag, but it’s better to use a small red torch like runners and cyclists do.
Some people use navigation apps like Gronze, Camino Ninja, Wise Pilgrim, or My Ways. You can use these to check how far away the next village is or to make sure you’re in the right place if you’re not sure. They are helpful for finding albergues, cafés or stores, as well. However, always having your phone in your hand while walking can make the Camino less joyful. I like to stay offline for a while when walking the Camino. Tip: It’s better to only check the app when you stop walking. Check how far away the next rest stop is with it, then put away your phone and follow the arrows again. This helps you stay focused on the path and the experience instead of your screen.
On many Camino paths, you can choose to take different routes or optional detours. These are usually clearly marked and can take you through more beautiful countryside, away from busy roads, or to a monastery, church, or viewpoint. These routes usually rejoin the main path a few kilometres later, and they don’t cause any problems. But some variant routes take you along a completely different Camino pathway, which can add a lot of kilometres to your day. These things don’t happen very often, but it’s beneficial to be aware of them. Tip: If you’re not sure which alternative route to take, carefully read the sign or quickly look it up in your app. Keep in mind that all Camino routes lead to Santiago de Compostela, regardless of which one you choose. You can’t really get lost. Enjoy the freedom of a journey that takes care of you as much as you take care of it.
Buen Camino, and trust that the path will always be clear!
Tips:
1. Follow the yellow arrows and scallops.
2. When you need to walk along a busy road, always take the left-hand side, facing oncoming traffic.
3. Make sure you are visible in low lights, like before dawn or after dusk.
4. Don’t walk constantly with your mobile in your hand. It’s enough to verify your location when you stop for resting.
5. Check the length of the variant routes before leaving the main route.