Walking the Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago

In the fall of 2022, I walked my first Camino. I started in the picturesque Pyrenees town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, walked for 42 days and 500 miles, ending at the windy, rocky shores of Fisterra. That journey changed my life, as it often does for those who walk it, putting so much into perspective and weaving together connections with fellow pilgrims that I still cherish today. Because one Camino often leads to many more, this page is a log of a journey with no end. Any Camino content that I ever write or share will land here for your easy access if and when I inspire you to walk yours.

Camino Content

  • Travelogue: My 173-Mile Walk on the Camino Portugues

    12 days of discovering (in hills and high water mind you) that perhaps my solo travel life is over and that a new more "people'd" part of my life is beginning.

  • 13 Tips for Walking the Camino de Santiago

    Walking the Camino is a journey that tests your body, mind, and spirit. To set you up for your best blister- and regret-free Camino de Santiago, here are a few tips I'd like to pass on.

  • What to Pack for the Camino de Santiago (PDF Checklist inside)

    Determining what to pack for the Camino de Santiago can be an overwhelming task if you’ve never walked a trail like it before. In this post, I share what I came to realize are the essentials for a well-supported Camino and a pack that won’t break your back.

  • My Camino Journey: 42 Days on the Camino Frances

    For 42 days, I told my Camino story as I was living it on Instagram, from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port all the way through Santiago de Compostela, Muxia, and finally Fisterra. When all was said and done I put it all together in this two-part Camino book.

Camino-Relevant Partners & Brands I Love

One of the ways I am able to continue populating this blog with useful content is via affiliate links. If you plan to shop any of the brands or sites listed below in the lead-up to your Camino, please consider shopping via the links below. In doing so, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you - thank you!

  • REI

    REI is a one-stop shop for all types of outdoor gear, shoes, and apparel. If namebrand at top dollar is beyond your budget, they also have REI Outlet where they sell all of the same gear for less.

  • Patagonia

    Patagonia is one of the most sustainable outdoor clorhing and gear brands in the business started by a band of climbers and surfers. Their products are built to last, come with their Ironclad Guarantee, and contribute towards their eco-activism and sustainability projects.

  • Gregory

    Gregory specializes in premium backpacks and outdoor gear, including hiking packs, daypacks, and travel bags - all with a Lifetime Guarantee. I love and use their Amber 44 hiking pack for my Camino walks and travel adventures.

  • Osprey

    Osprey specializes in high-quality backpacks, luggage, and outdoor gear, including hiking packs, travel bags, and daypacks. They're known for their durability, functionality, and ergonomic designs and All Mighty Guarantee.

  • KÜHL

    KÜHL specializes in high-performance outdoor clothing and gear, including jackets, pants, shirts, and base layers, designed for durability, comfort, and style in outdoor and adventure settings.

  • Amazon

    Amazon can be a Camino pilgrim's best friend. I used it continuously as I prepared for my first Camino, getting everything from my rain poncho to clothes pins to Dr. Bronner's multi-purpose soap and more.

  • BUFF

    BUFF sells multifunctional headwear and accessories, including neck gaiters, scarves, and hats, designed for versatility and protection in various outdoor activities and climates.

  • G Adventures

    Currently, G Adventures offers two small-group, escorted tours on the Camino de Santiago in Spain, plus one more on the Caminito del Rey near Sevilla. G Adventures is known for its affordable, authentic, and responsible tours in destinations all over the world.

I just finished walking the Camino Portugues from Porto to Santiago in October 2024.

Keep up with my future Camino walks at @nomapsamber on Instagram.