Is the Camino de Santiago safe for solo female walkers?

#Collaborative post

If you’re feeling like the Camino de Santiago is calling you then, you’re not alone. Millions of people have walked this ancient pilgrimage before, and even now it welcomes people from all over the world. If you’re a woman, there’s a pretty good chance that a big question is playing on repeat in your mind: “Is the Camino de Santiago actually safe?”

And you’re not alone on that one either, the idea of setting off alone, across a foreign country, for days or even weeks on end can be scary. Well, I’m here to talk you down from that mountain of worry.

Let’s Talk About That Fear

First things first,  It’s completely normal to feel nervous. In fact, it would be weird if you weren’t a little worried! It’s safe! The issue comes when this worry and fear is excessive to the point where you don’t take actions, but it’s normal to feel a bit uneasy, after all this is a new experience, and as women, we’re often taught to be hyper-aware of our surroundings (which is not a bad thing, it’s a survival skill.).

A common misconception about the Camino is that it’s wild, lonely and dangerous but nothing is as far away from the truth than this. For the most popular routes, like the Camino Francés or Camino Portugues Coastal Route, you are often walking from one town to the next, on trails that are often used by locals and have been used for centuries.

So, is the Camino de Santiago safe for solo female walkers?

Yes, the Camino is usually safe for solo female walkers. It has been walked by women alone for centuries now. You will pass through villages, farmland, and well-marked paths. You will see other people. You are not isolated in the way you might be on other long-distance trails.

The Camino has been walked for over a thousand years. It’s a well-known path with an entire infrastructure built around helping and supporting people like you.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you will throw your caution away, but it does mean you can let go of the idea that you’re heading to a dangerous place all by yourself.

Your Camino Safety Toolkit

Now, while the Camino is usually safe it doesn’t mean it’s without issues, but It’s mainly about being smart, prepared, and trusting your instincts.

Every successful trip starts with a good plan, and the Camino is no different. Fortunately, specialized companies like Santiago Ways, makes this process of planning even easier by taking care of everything for you. From booking accommodation in advance to moving your luggage from one stage to another one, as well as giving you the necessary info about the trail to have an easy going trip.

So, remember that a safe journey begins long before you take your first step. Plan accordingly, choose the right route and bring only the necessary.

Conclusion

Walking the Camino de Santiago on your own as a woman is one of the most empowering experiences you can have. It’s a journey that shows you your own strength, resilience, and the amazing kindness of strangers.

You do need to prepare, you have to be aware, but still, don’t let fear take away this incredible adventure.

Remember to equip yourself with knowledge, trust your intuition, and be open to the community waiting for you on the path.