The 5 Most Frequently Asked Questions About the Camino de Santiago

Whenever pilgrims decide to walk the Camino de Santiago, many questions arise. That is why we have gathered answers to the 5 most frequently asked questions about one of the world’s most travelled pilgrimage routes.

At Portugal Green Walks, we have a dedicated team that will support you throughout your entire Camino journey, ready to answer any questions that may arise. We want you to make the most of every step, experience the journey with peace of mind, and enjoy it to the fullest.

In the meantime, here is a little help to get you started:

1. What documents are required for the pilgrimage?

To walk the Camino de Santiago, you should bring your usual identification documents (passport or national ID card, depending on your country of origin).

However, there is one essential document for pilgrims: the Pilgrim Passport (Credencial del Peregrino).

The credential works as a “pilgrim’s passport” and must be stamped throughout the journey (at accommodation providers, churches, cafés, and other participating locations). It is this document that allows you to request the Compostela at the end of your pilgrimage — the official certificate issued by the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Remember: to receive the Compostela, you must:

• Walk at least the final 100 km of the Camino, or cycle at least the final 200 km;
• Collect the required stamps in your pilgrim credential;
• Declare a religious, spiritual, or personal motivation for completing the pilgrimage.

 
Whenever you book a programme with Portugal Green Walks, we will help you obtain your pilgrim credential and guide you through the process of collecting stamps along the route, making the entire experience simpler and more organised.

 

2. Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance?

Yes, regardless of the time of year or the route you choose, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended to secure the best options and enjoy a smoother, more comfortable Camino experience.

At Portugal Green Walks, we work with a carefully selected network of accommodation providers, ranging from charming local guesthouses to superior options, depending on the programme you choose.

It is worth noting that during the peak season (May, June, September and the first half of October), the Camino welcomes a large number of pilgrims. During these months, booking one of our programmes well in advance is strongly recommended — particularly for the final 100 km leading to Santiago.

During quieter periods (March, April, July, August and the second half of October), there is generally more flexibility when planning your pilgrimage.

When you travel with Portugal Green Walks, we take care of all accommodation bookings along your route, so you can simply focus on enjoying each day’s journey without worrying about finding somewhere to stay.

This is essential to ensure comfort, proper rest and a more enjoyable, relaxed pilgrimage experience.

 

3. Is it possible to do the Camino by bicycle?

Yes — and it is becoming increasingly popular!

The Camino de Santiago can be completed by bicycle (known as bicigrinos), and Portugal Green Walks offers dedicated programmes for those who wish to experience the journey on two wheels.

Cycling the Camino is an excellent option for those who want to:

• Cover longer distances each day;
• Explore the routes at a different pace;
• Experience the Camino from a different perspective while covering longer distances each day.

 
There are cycling-friendly routes and alternative sections specifically designed for cyclists, providing an experience that is just as rewarding and memorable.

However, it is important to:

• Have an appropriate level of fitness;
• Use suitable safety equipment.

 
Portugal Green Walks offers a range of services, including bicycle hire, luggage transfers, cycling-friendly itineraries and programme adaptations tailored to your comfort level and personal goals.

Mountain bikes are provided as standard on most cycling programmes, while electric bikes are available on selected programmes or as an optional upgrade, allowing each traveller to choose the option that best suits their experience, fitness level and riding style.

Every bicycle is carefully prepared and serviced before each trip, helping to ensure a safe, reliable and comfortable experience throughout the Camino.

You can also learn more about the bicycles we provide, available options and what’s included with every cycling holiday on our Our Bikes page.

 

4. What is a Holy Year and why is it important?

A Holy Year (or Holy Compostelan Year) takes place whenever 25 July — the Feast Day of St James — falls on a Sunday.

During a Holy Year, the Holy Door of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is opened, something that only happens during these special years.

Its significance is primarily spiritual and religious:

• Pilgrims may obtain a plenary indulgence;
• The number of visitors increases significantly;
• A special cultural and religious programme takes place in Santiago de Compostela.

 
If you wish, Portugal Green Walks can help you plan your pilgrimage to coincide with a Holy Year, respecting your pace and preferences while providing full organisational support and attention to the traditions and profound meaning of the Camino.

The next Holy Year will be in 2027, so now is the perfect time to start planning your Camino and make next year’s journey even more special.

 

5. Do I need to carry my backpack throughout the entire Camino?

No — and that is one of the great advantages of walking the Camino with Portugal Green Walks.

We offer a luggage transfer service between stages, which means you only need to carry a light daypack with your daily essentials (water, snacks, documents and a change of clothes). We take care of transporting your main luggage to your next accommodation.

Our goal is to make your experience more comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the Camino with greater ease and presence — without the physical burden of carrying a heavy backpack throughout the journey.

This makes the Camino:

• More accessible to people with different levels of fitness;
• Better suited to those who prefer to reduce the physical demands of the pilgrimage.

 
That said, many pilgrims choose to carry their own backpack as part of the traditional Camino experience. The choice is entirely yours.

 

When you choose a Portugal Green Walks programme, you benefit from personalised support, organised logistics, guaranteed accommodation, walking or cycling options, luggage transfers and all the assistance needed for a smooth and memorable experience.

Whatever route or style of pilgrimage you choose, we will be by your side to help ensure the best possible experience on this transformative journey.

 

WHETHER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A LIGHTER, MORE COMFORTABLE CAMINO OR A MORE TRADITIONAL PILGRIMAGE EXPERIENCE, WE OFFER A RANGE OF PROGRAMMES TAILORED TO YOUR PREFERENCES AND NEEDS.

 

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