Imagine walking through breathtaking landscapes, meeting fellow pilgrims, and feeling the empowerment of completing an ancient journey. Sounds easy enough, right? On the trail, surrounded by nature, and with only the sound of your footsteps and a bird in the distance to accompany you.
But is the Camino de Santiago really a safe and welcoming experience for women? Short answer: Absolutely!
Here’s everything you need to know if you are planning to do the Camino alone or with your girlfriends.
Women on the Camino: Facts & Statistics
Over the past decade, the number of women walking the Camino de Santiago has steadily increased. According to the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago de Compostela, the percentage of female pilgrims has risen significantly:
- 2010: 44% of pilgrims were women
- 2015: 48% of pilgrims were women
- 2022: More than 51% of pilgrims were women, making them the majority for the first time
- In 2024, the Camino de Santiago saw a record-breaking number of pilgrims, with women making up for almost 54% of all the pilgrims that requested their Compostela Certificate last year.
This data shows a growing trend of female participation and clearly reflects the Camino’s reputation as a safe and welcoming environment for women.
At Fresco Tours we can proudly say that 75% of the pilgrims that choose to walk with us are women.
Different Ways to Walk the Camino as a female pilgrim
There are different options for walking the Camino de Santiago. If peace of mind while walking is your main concern, and you are unsure about doing the Camino alone, here are some alternatives:
- Self-guided tours: A great option for those who value their independence but with the convenience of pre-arranged accommodation and luggage transfers. You will also be travelling in sync and staying at the same hotels as other pilgrims in the group. Familiar faces can be nice!
- Guided group tours: Perfect for those who want to meet fellow travelers and enjoy the insights of experienced guides while having all tour logistics taken care of.
- Private tours with family and friends: Enjoy the Camino experience with your loved ones while ensuring maximum comfort and safety.
At Fresco Tours, we provide options that cater to all these needs, ensuring a stress-free and enriching journey, no matter how you choose to walk the Camino.
The Camino de Santiago is Safe for Women
One of the biggest concerns for female travelers is safety, but the Camino de Santiago is considered one of the safest long-distance trails in the world; possibly, even the safest. Here’s why:
- Well-Marked Trails: The famous yellow arrows make it easy enough to stay on track.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: There are very few places without a phone signal, and these do not last long.
- Friendly Pilgrim Culture: Everyone on the Camino (walkers and locals) is there to support and encourage one another. We look out for each other. And there are always other pilgrims on the trail with you.
- Public Places: Although you are mostly walking in nature, you are never miles or hours away from some sort of civilization, such as towns and cafeterias. These provide friendly faces, respite and peace of mind.
- Low Crime Rate: Crime along the Camino is extremely rare and anecdotal. When it does happen, it is almost always petty theft. This is a fact and based on police stats. Furthermore, local police monitor the routes to keep pilgrims safe.
- Albergues & Accommodations: Many accommodations provide only female rooms, or private rooms.
Safety Tips for Women on the Camino
Many women on the Camino choose to walk solo, but it’s always good to be prepared:
- Stay in Camino accommodations: There are dozens of albergues (hostels with shared dorms) and hotels along the trail. All are reliable and most can be booked ahead of time.
- Walk during daylight hours: This one isn’t rocket science; and, anyway, who enjoys walking in the dark?
- Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, react. There will almost always be a place or a person nearby that can help.
- Walk in company when needed: The Camino community is friendly, and there will always be fellow pilgrims to walk with.
- Keep your belongings secure: Use a money belt or anti-theft backpack to store important items. It only takes one bad apple; and theft has happened since medieval times!
- Emergency Number and App: Dial 112 and ask for assistance in English. You can also download the Alertcops app, which is managed by the Spanish Police and is English user friendly.
Enjoy a Stress-Free Camino Experience
Planning a Camino can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Fresco Tours, we offer expertly guided tours that handle all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
- Two Guides and a Driver on the trail with you, for support and your peace of mind.
- An organized walking group, or an informal one on our self-guided tours, so that you do not have to walk alone.
- Small group sizes for a personal experience
- Comfortable accommodations
- Luggage transfers
Walking the Camino as a woman can be an empowering and life-changing experience. Whether you go solo or with a group, you’ll find a safe, supportive, and unforgettable adventure waiting for you on the Camino de Santiago.
👉 Book your Camino tour today and walk with confidence!
