The Camino de Santiago can be done at any time of year, but not all months are the same. The Galician weather, the number of pilgrims and accommodation prices vary greatly depending on the season. This guide helps you choose the best time based on your priorities. If you are thinking of doing the Camino from Sarria, choosing your dates well can make the difference between a smooth experience and a far more crowded route.
The Camino weather: what nobody tells you
The Camino de Santiago passes through Galicia in its final stretch, one of the rainiest regions of Spain. That means rain is possible at any time of year, including August. A rain jacket is always essential.
Routes that spend more time crossing the Castilian plateau (French Way) have very hot summers (35–40°C) and cold winters. Coastal routes like the Coastal Portuguese Way or the Northern Way have milder temperatures year-round but more rainfall.
Month by month: complete guide
January – February
Very few people, cold and frequent rain. Only for experienced pilgrims. Many hostels close.
March
Weather starts to improve. Few pilgrims, low prices, peaceful atmosphere. There may be rainy days.
April
Spring, green countryside, mild temperatures. Easter Week causes occasional spikes in pilgrim numbers.
May
The best month of the year. Perfect weather, countryside in bloom, no crowds or heat. Highly recommended.
June
Long days, good weather, lively atmosphere. Growing numbers but still manageable. Top 3 months.
July
Peak pilgrim numbers. Intense heat on the plateau (35–40°C). Hostels full. Book well in advance.
August
The busiest month of the year. Heat, queues at hostels, festive atmosphere but little intimacy.
September
The favourite of many pilgrims. Moderate warmth, great light, fewer people than in summer. Top pick.
October
Autumn with spectacular colours. Pleasant temperature. Rain possible in Galicia. Few people.
November
Cold and frequent rain. Some hostels close. Very intimate atmosphere for those who enjoy solitude.
December
The least recommended month except during Holy Year dates. Cold, rain and many hostels closed.
Season comparison
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowds | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | July – August | Hot | Very high | Peak |
| Mid-high | May – June / Sept | Excellent | Mid-high | Mid-range |
| Mid | April / October | Variable | Moderate | Mid-range |
| Low | Nov – Mar | Cold and rain | Low | Minimum |
What's the best time for your profile?
If it's your first time and you want to enjoy it fully
May or September. Pleasant weather, not too many people but not too quiet either, reasonable prices. It's the perfect combination for those who want to experience the Camino without stress. If you're looking for a comfortable and well-organised first experience, the Camino from Sarria fits especially well in those months.
If you're going with family or children
June or September. The days are long, the weather is stable and children won't suffer the extreme heat of August. The Camino from Sarria in June is ideal for families.
If you're looking for solitude and low prices
November or March. Few people, minimum prices and a much more intimate experience. You'll need more layers and to accept the occasional rainy day, but those who go at this time of year tend to come back.
If you can only go in summer
Set off before 7:00. In July and August, setting off very early (before dawn) is the key to avoiding the heat on the plateau and arriving at your accommodation before it fills up. Carry plenty of water — at least 2 litres per stage.
Does the time of year affect which route I choose?
Yes. Some routes are more sensitive to the season:
- Primitive Way: avoid November–March. The mountain passes can be snowy and the paths become pure mud.
- Northern Way: coastal routes are rainier in winter but very pleasant in summer thanks to the Atlantic breeze.
- English Way: suitable almost all year round as it is short (6 stages). A great option for those who only have a week free in autumn or spring.
- Last 100 km from Sarria: can be done in any month thanks to the abundance of accommodation and services. Winter is perfectly doable.
Do you already know when you want to go?
Tell us the approximate date and the route you're interested in. We'll help you organise everything so that moment is perfect.
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