EXPERIENCE THE CAMINO

After you register, you’ll get access to everything you need: training plan, packing list, travel tips, logistics, food guidance, Camino history, and more. You’ll also be invited to join the group WhatsApp chat for updates and community connection. If you have questions, Piper is happy to hop on a call—can’t wait to have you join us!

The trip begins on the morning of Friday, May 16 in Madrid at Hotel Madrid Chamartín, Affiliated by Meliá. From there, you'll travel with the group by train to Sarria—this train ride is included in your registration. The journey ends in Santiago de Compostela, where most participants either fly out (airport code: SCQ) or take a high-speed train back to Madrid.

We will be hiking between 21 - 24 minutes per mile depending on terrain and elevation, but you can go faster or slower at your own pace. We will hike between 5 and 8 hours a day, taking some breaks along the way at cafes, for historical sites, lunch and restroom stops. There's no rush and if we want to go faster or need to go slower, we can! It's all about enjoying the Camino experience. 

If you're unable to walk the full distance one day, our guides will help assess the situation and arrange a taxi to the next town (note: taxis are not included in the registration fee). There’s no pressure to hike fast—one of our guides always stays at the back to support the slowest walker, and there’s absolutely no shame in that. We do recommend training beforehand to make the experience as enjoyable as possible, and you're welcome to book a free call with Piper to talk through any concerns.

If you have a dietary restriction, let Piper know when you register and she will work with you to develop a plan that meets your needs. While this region of Spain can be somewhat rigid with meals and substitutions are uncommon, Piper’s guidance and planning will help you navigate options—even with vegan or more restrictive diets. Just note that the food tends to be simple and mild in flavor. If you have questions before booking, you can schedule a free chat to discuss your situation. 

We  will depart by 8am each morning. You can leave earlier or later if you like but it's more fun to stick together! All transported luggage needs to be ready by 7:45am each morning at the latest, if you choose to depart after the group.

Each accommodation is unique. Some are hotel rooms, some are pensiones with private rooms for 2 occupants with a shared bathroom, some are in apartments, we stay in a glamping tent one night and our last night is in a hotel near the Cathedral in downtown Santiago de Compostela! The accommodations are of Spanish style so you will get quite a memorable experience each night, giving you a well-rounded Camino experience! You can click on the hotels linked above in the itinerary to see where we are staying.

You can travel with someone else and let us know when you register you want to room together. If you are a solo traveler, you roommate will be someone of the same gender. You will receive an email with your roommate's information before the trip. If you are traveling with another person and would like to room together, you can let us know upon registering or via email. You'll make great friends with your fellow travelers and enjoy the authentic Camino experience this way.

You will either be given a sack lunch or we will eat at a cafe, depending on the day. Sack lunches usually consist of a baguette sandwich with jamon and cheese, fruit and a salty snack.  Piper will let you know the plan each day.

Just a light daypack with essentials like water, snacks, your sack lunch, and an extra layer. Your luggage will be transported daily to the next stop.

After a fun day of hiking, we'll check into our accommodations for the evening. You can hang out at a local cafe, journal, nap, meet other travelers, explore the town we're staying in and get an authentic Camino experience washing your hiking clothes by hand and hang them to dry in the evening. We will show you proper hand washing techniques. If you prefer not to wash clothes at night, you can bring enough clean hiking clothes for the whole week and keep them in your checked bag.

Most people fly into Madrid (airport code MAD) and we will take a train to Sarria together. After the trip, taking a fast train or flight from Santiago de Compostela (airport code SCQ) to Madrid is common. You will receive travel tips from us after registering. Need advice now? Book a free Q&A chat.

You'll be accompanied by Piper and another experienced guide throughout your journey. Both are Spanish speakers and trained in wilderness first aid, ensuring your safety and comfort on the trail. One guide will walk at the front of  the group, while the other will stay at the back to support slower hikers. Whether you’re walking or running, you’ll always have expert support nearby!

There will be 2 guides and 10 hikers! 

Snoring is common on the Camino! Many travelers use mouth tape to reduce snoring. You can also try sleeping on your side, using nasal strips, or managing allergies. For those with CPAP machines, accommodations  have outlets, and it’s a good idea to bring a travel adapter. If you’re concerned about snoring, bring earplugs and consider noise-canceling headphones to ensure a peaceful night for all.

The trip is $3,200 which can be paid in full through this link.

We understand that plans can change, and we want to ensure clarity regarding our cancellation and refund policy. Please read the following guidelines carefully:

Cancellation Policy

Trip Confirmation: The trip will proceed as published unless an act of God, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances occur. In such cases, we reserve the right to adjust or change the details of the itinerary, including accommodations and activities, while maintaining the integrity of the experience.

Cancellation Notification: To cancel your trip, you must notify us in writing via email. If you intend not to attend, it is crucial that you email us as soon as possible to inform us of your cancellation. Please note that no refunds will be provided under any circumstances, so we recommend travel insurance. 

Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected events that may affect your travel plans. This insurance can cover costs associated with trip cancellations, interruptions, or emergencies.

Refunds

Non-Refundable Trip: The trip is non-refundable once booked. This policy is strict and applies to all participants without exception.

No Partial Refunds: There will be no partial refunds for missed days, early departures, choosing not to participate in aspects of the trip, or no-shows.

Trip Cancellation Policy

If we must cancel the trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as an act of God or severe weather, we will offer alternative dates for you to join a future trip. While no refunds will be provided, you will have the option to reschedule your participation at no additional cost. We recommend securing travel insurance to cover any additional costs or changes to your travel plans.

Deferrals

Deferrals Not Allowed: Deferrals to a future trip or postponement of your participation for any reason are not permitted. We encourage participants to plan accordingly and consider the commitment involved in joining this adventure.

Transfer to Another Person

Transfer Option: You may transfer your trip to another person, provided you notify us in writing at least 30 days before the trip. The person taking your place must agree to the same terms and conditions, including accommodations and meal arrangements as initially booked.

Transfer Fees: A transfer fee of $50 will apply to process the transfer. All requests for transfers will be subject to availability and must comply with our registration guidelines.

Health & Safety

Medical Needs: All participants are responsible for their own medical needs, including any necessary prescriptions. We advise you to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on the journey, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.

Changes to Itinerary

We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the itinerary, including but not limited to accommodations, meals, and scheduled activities, as needed to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the group.

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding this policy or to notify us of a cancellation or transfer, please contact:

Piper Ruiz - Email: Hello@PiperRuiz.com