How to Prepare for a Winter Camino: Essential Gear and Safety Tips
Why Walk the Camino in Winter?
While most pilgrims choose to walk the Camino between April and October, there’s a special beauty to walking in the quieter, colder months.
Here’s why winter can be a magical time for your pilgrimage:
Solitude and reflection: With far fewer pilgrims on the trail, you’ll have space for deep thought and prayer.
Peaceful landscapes: Snow-dusted villages and misty forests create breathtaking scenery.
Cultural connection: You’ll have more authentic interactions with locals when the crowds are gone.
Lower costs: Some accommodations offer off-season pricing.
A greater sense of accomplishment: Overcoming winter conditions can be deeply rewarding.
That said, winter walking comes with real challenges, including colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and limited services. Being prepared is essential.
The winter on the trail is beautiful.
Winter Weather on the Camino
The Camino passes through varied terrain, from the Pyrenees Mountains to the plains of the Meseta and the misty hills of Galicia.
Here’s a general idea of what to expect from December through February:
Region Average Temps (°F/°C) Winter Conditions
Pyrenees Mountains 20–45°F / -6–7°C Snow, ice, strong winds, potential closures
La Rioja 30–50°F / -1–10°C Cold mornings, clear afternoons
Meseta (Castile y León) 25–45°F / -4–7°C Bitter cold, frost, strong winds
Galicia 35–50°F / 2–10°C Cold rain, fog, muddy trails
Essential Gear for a Winter Camino
Packing correctly is the most important step to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Unlike in summer, you’ll need extra gear for warmth, moisture management, and safety.
1. Clothing: Layer for Warmth and Flexibility
The key to staying warm is layering. You’ll be walking in cold, wet conditions, and your body will heat up as you move.
Here is a tried-and-true system:
Base Layer (Moisture-Wicking):
Long-sleeve thermal top and bottom made of merino wool or synthetic fabric.
Avoid cotton—it stays wet and makes you cold.
Mid Layer (Insulation):
Lightweight fleece or down sweater to trap body heat.
Outer Layer (Weather Protection):
Waterproof and windproof jacket with a hood.
Waterproof pants for rain or snow.
Other essentials:
Warm hat and gloves (water-resistant preferred)
Buff or neck gaiter
Warm socks (merino wool) — pack at least three pairs
Waterproof gaiters to keep snow and mud out of your boots
2. Footwear: Keep Feet Dry and Warm
Your feet are your most important asset on the Camino.
For winter walking, you’ll need:
Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.
Traction devices (like Yaktrax or microspikes) for icy sections, especially in the Pyrenees.
Extra insoles for warmth and comfort.
Blister prevention kit — read my guide: Camino Foot Care: Preventing Blisters and Injuries.
3. Backpack Essentials
A well-packed backpack will make all the difference in winter comfort.
Here’s what to include:
Lightweight sleeping bag rated for 30°F / -1°C or colder
Headlamp with extra batteries (daylight hours are short)
Waterproof pack cover
Dry sacks or heavy-duty plastic bags to keep clothes and electronics dry
Trekking poles for stability on snow and ice
First-aid kit with hand warmers
Emergency blanket (lightweight but lifesaving)
4. Navigation Tools
In winter, some trail markers may be covered by snow or fog.
Make sure you have:
A Camino guidebook or printed maps
Offline GPS app like Maps.me or Wise Pilgrim
Compass (optional but helpful in low visibility)
Related post:The Beauty of the Fall Camino: Why Autumn Is the Perfect Time to Walk
The Camino in winter would be bone chilling.
Get Your Gifts and Gear Here
Safety Tips for a Winter Camino
Winter walking comes with extra risks. Here’s how to stay safe:
1. Check Weather Forecasts Daily
Conditions can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
Use local weather apps or websites each morning before you set out.
If heavy snow or storms are predicted, delay your walk for safety.
2. Start Early, Finish Early
Daylight hours are short in winter—sometimes just 8 or 9 hours.
Begin walking at first light.
Aim to arrive at your destination by mid-afternoon to avoid walking in the dark.
3. Know Your Route
Some sections of the Camino, like the Napoleon Route over the Pyrenees, are closed in winter due to dangerous snow and ice.
Instead, take the Valcarlos Route, which is lower and safer.
Check in with the Pilgrim Office in St. Jean Pied de Port for up-to-date route advice.
4. Be Prepared for Limited Services
Many albergues, cafés, and restaurants close in the winter.
Carry extra snacks and water each day.
Call ahead to confirm accommodation availability.
In very quiet areas, consider booking private rooms in advance.
5. Walk With a Buddy
If possible, don’t walk completely alone in isolated winter conditions.
If you prefer solitude, at least tell someone your plan each day—including your route and expected arrival time.
Related post: Surviving the Summer Heat on the Camino de Santiago: Tips for Staying Cool and Safe
A hiker in Winter, along the Camino de Santiago.
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A Winter Camino Experience
One of your most memorable winter days could be walking through a snow-covered forest in Galicia. The air so still, the only sound, the crunch of my boots on the frozen path.
It will be breathtakingly beautiful, but also humbling. And not for the faint of heart.
bold these two paragraphs ******I definitely would not recommend it if you are not familiar and well trained for winter hiking. Preparation is extremely important, as you could easily underestimate the weather. Your boots need to be waterproof to prevent getting soaked and shivering by mid-morning.
Reminder: gear and safety planning are non-negotiable in winter. The Camino is stunning this time of year, but it demands respect.
Advantages of a Winter Camino
Despite the challenges, there are many reasons to love a winter walk:
Quiet, peaceful trails perfect for contemplation.
Unique photos and memories of snow-covered villages and misty mornings.
Stronger connections with locals, since there are fewer tourists.
Deep sense of accomplishment from overcoming the elements.
If you crave solitude and adventure, winter offers a completely different Camino experience than any other season.
Related post:Walking the Camino in Spring: Weather, Packing Guide, and Essential Tips
Winter on the Camino
Winter Camino Packing Checklist
Here’s a quick summary to help you pack smart:
Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
Fleece or insulated mid-layer
Waterproof, windproof jacket and pants
Waterproof hiking boots
Warm hat, gloves, buff
Waterproof gaiters
Sleeping bag rated for cold weather
Trekking poles
Headlamp
Dry bags or pack liner
Snacks and extra water
Emergency blanket and first-aid kit
Conclusion: A Camino for the Brave and Prepared
Walking the Camino de Santiago in winter isn’t for everyone.
It’s cold, sometimes wet, and requires careful planning.
But if you’re willing to embrace the challenge, it’s also one of the most rewarding and peaceful pilgrimages you can experience.
The stillness of the trail, the beauty of snow-dusted villages, and the deep sense of accomplishment will stay with you long after you’ve reached Santiago.
Prepare well, pack wisely, and walk with awareness.
Winter may be the Camino’s most challenging season, but it just might also be its most magical.
Next Steps
Read Essential Camino Gear You Shouldn’t Leave Home Without.
Discover Camino Foot Care: Preventing Blisters and Injuries.
Buen Camino, and stay warm out there!
Renae