Is the Camino safe?


Hiking the Camino de Santiago is a wonderful and highly recommended experience, but have you ever wondered if it’s safe?

Are all the routes well marked? What happens if you have an accident while on the Camino Way ? Could wild animals attack you? Can you be robbed? All of these questions are perfectly normal; it’s very natural to have doubts. Embarking in a new adventure can be difficult especially when it involves a physical effort. Walking for several hours in consecutive days can definitely be a challenge. On the contrary, this route is nowadays one of the safest destinations we can find.

Let’s review some of the things you must keep in mind in order to avoid difficult situations during your adventure:



The Camino is well marked; thus, it is crucial to recognize the different types of signals you will encounter during your journey. Among the signals you will find, Yellow Arrows, Scallop Shells, mounds of stones, etc. Check out this related post for further information: 

What to do in case of getting lost or having an accident. If despite of being very cautious you have a small accident or get lost, don’t worry, the best option is to keep calm, always. When you are calm, make an emergency call (112) and wait until you see a fellow pilgrim who might help you.
Although the entire route to Santiago runs along paths and trails in the middle of nature, there are also stretches of road. When you reach the road, use your common sense, it is essential that you put your mind on the road and bear in mind some tips:
  • Try to wear flashy clothes with good visibility for vehicles on the road. You can use a reflective vest.
  • Walk on the left side of the road when possible. This way you will see the cars in front of you instead of behind you. In case the left side is too dangerous, walk on the right side but keep very alert of everything that happens behind you.
  • Never cross the road when you are in a curve or have low visibility. If you have no choice, do it quickly and make sure no vehicles are coming.
Wild animal attacks. This is extremely unusual and the only known cases of attacks have been dogs that have mildly scared pilgrims. Otherwise there is nothing else to fear.

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