Reaching the Nations one step at a time

Each year, pilgrims from more than 120 countries travel to Northern Spain to walk the Camino de Santiago. When we walk the Camino, we are going to the nations, while the nations are also coming to us. This unique convergence creates an unparalleled opportunity to share the Gospel with people from around the world.

The Camino’s rhythm of long walks and shared meals creates natural space for meaningful conversation and reflection. Hours spent walking together often lead to deep discussions, while pilgrim dinners at hostels provide opportunities to break bread with others, following the example of Jesus. In these unhurried and relational settings, many are open to hearing the Gospel.

English often serves as the common language on the Camino, allowing meaningful conversations with pilgrims from many different nations. This shared language makes it possible to connect deeply and discuss faith with people from across the world in your own tongue. While proficiency in Spanish or French is certainly helpful, it is not required to build relationships and share the Gospel along the way.

El Camino de Santiago was first walked by early Christians journeying to what was believed to be the burial site of St. James in Santiago de Compostela. For centuries, it has remained a spiritual pilgrimage, drawing people from around the world in search of meaning and purpose. Because of this rich history, many who walk the Camino are already open to spiritual conversations, making it a uniquely receptive setting for sharing the Gospel.

The Camino de Santiago is widely regarded as one of the safest long-distance walking routes in the world. Of the more than 500,000 pilgrims who complete the Camino each year, only a small fraction report any form of crime. Our teams receive clear guidance on wise safety practices, and with basic common sense, most participants find the journey to be both safe and worry-free.

Walking the Camino de Santiago is one of the most cost-effective mission opportunities available. Flights to Spain are often affordable, and accommodations along the route average around $12 per night in pilgrim hostels. Daily expenses are minimal, with inexpensive breakfasts, simple lunches, and communal pilgrim dinners where costs are shared. Along the way, small shops provide easy access to snacks and essentials, making the journey both accessible and budget-friendly.

While walking the Camino, you will experience the natural beauty of Northern Spain—from open fields and rising mountains to historic towns where the sun casts a golden glow across sandstone buildings. Along the route, even the smallest villages are home to remarkable Spanish cathedrals, showcasing centuries of craftsmanship, intricate stonework, and gold. The journey offers not only rich spiritual opportunity, but also a vivid encounter with history, art, and creation.

In preparation for the Camino, you will participate in practice hikes with the missions group and group leaders. On the Camino itself, you will walk 5–15 miles each day to reach the next town and your hostel. For many people from the U.S., where daily life often involves sitting in cars or at home, building the habit of walking several miles a few times a week can be a transformative experience for both physical health and mental well-being.