Walking the Camino in Spring: Weather, Packing Guide, and Essential Tips
Walking the Camino in Spring: Weather, Packing, and Tips
There’s something magical about walking the Camino de Santiago in spring.
The fields are lush and green, wildflowers bloom along the trails, and the villages come alive after the quiet winter months.
When walking the Camino in early spring, you will be struck by the beauty—and also by how quickly the weather could change. One minute, you will be walking under warm sunshine, and the next, you will be pulling out your rain poncho as dark clouds roll in.
Spring is a wonderful time for a Camino pilgrimage, but it requires good preparation. In this post, I’ll share my best tips for navigating spring weather, what to pack, and how to make the most of your journey.
Why Spring Is a Great Time to Walk the Camino
While many pilgrims choose summer for their Camino adventure, spring is a hidden gem.
Here’s why walking in spring is so special:
Mild temperatures: You’ll avoid the intense summer heat of July and August.
Fewer crowds: The trails and albergues aren’t as crowded as peak season.
Stunning landscapes: Fields, vineyards, and forests are vibrant with fresh growth and wildflowers.
Local festivals: Spring brings lively cultural celebrations in towns along the route.
Easier on the body: Cooler weather makes long-distance walking more comfortable.
The trade-off? The weather can be unpredictable, with chilly mornings, sudden rain showers, and even occasional snow in higher elevations early in the season.
Foggy and rainy day.
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Spring Weather on the Camino
Spring weather varies depending on your route and the month you start. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
Month Average Temps (°F/°C) Weather Notes
March 40–60°F / 4–15°C Cold mornings, chance of snow in mountains
April 45–65°F / 7–18°C Rain showers, mild afternoons
May 50–70°F / 10–21°C Pleasant days, occasional thunderstorms
Key takeaway:
Prepare for layers and rain gear. You might start the morning in a fleece jacket, switch to a T-shirt by noon, and need a rain poncho by evening.
When crossing the Pyrenees at the start of the Camino Francés, expect colder temperatures and possibly even snow in early spring. By the time you reach Galicia, be ready for misty mornings and gentle rain.
The Pyrenees Mountains
What to Pack for a Spring Camino
Packing for the Camino is always a balance between being prepared and staying lightweight. In spring, you’ll need to pack for variable weather without overloading your backpack.
Here’s my spring Camino packing list:
Clothing Essentials
Moisture-wicking base layers – lightweight shirts for warm days
Mid-layer fleece or lightweight sweater – for chilly mornings and evenings
Lightweight down or synthetic jacket – packable warmth without bulk
Rain jacket or poncho – essential for spring showers
Convertible hiking pants – switch from pants to shorts easily
Comfortable sleepwear – for hostels or albergues
Two to three pairs of moisture-wicking socks – to prevent blisters
Buff or scarf – adds warmth and sun protection
Lightweight hat or cap – for sun protection
Related post:The Complete Packing List for the Camino de Santiago (What You Really Need)
Get Your Gifts and Gear Here
Footwear
Your feet will carry you every step of the way, so choose wisely:
Broken-in hiking boots or trail runners – make sure they’re waterproof
Comfortable sandals or lightweight shoes – for evenings and rest days
Blister care kit – Compeed, moleskin, and tape are lifesavers
Related post:The Best Footwear for the Camino de Santiago: Hiking Boots vs. Trail Runners
For detailed advice, read: Camino Foot Care: Preventing Blisters and Injuries.
Gear Essentials
Lightweight sleeping bag or liner for albergues (spring nights can be cool)
Water bladder or reusable bottle (I like using a day pack with a bladder for water.)
Headlamp (some pilgrims start walking before sunrise)
Lightweight trekking poles (especially helpful in wet or uneven terrain)
Quick-dry towel
Minimal toiletries (travel-sized)
Small first-aid kit
Ziplock bags or dry sacks to keep gear organized and dry
Tips for Walking in Spring
Here a few things that will make the journey smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Start Your Day Early
Spring days are shorter than in summer, especially in March and early April.
Leaving early ensures you have enough daylight to reach your next destination safely.
2. Embrace Layering
Start the morning in a fleece and jacket, then shed layers as the day warms up.
Avoid bulky clothing by bringing lightweight, packable layers instead.
3. Expect Rain (and Mud!)
Rain is part of the charm of spring on the Camino, especially in Galicia, which is famous for its misty, green landscapes.
Pro tip:
Use waterproof shoe covers or gaiters to keep your feet dry.
Pack your backpack contents in a waterproof liner or dry bag.
Get your Rain Gear here.
An umbrella like this is perfect for rainy days on the trail.
4. Make Reservations in Popular Spots
While spring isn’t as busy as summer, certain towns and festivals can fill up quickly.
If you’re walking during Easter or a local festival, consider booking a night or two in advance.
5. Stay Flexible
One of the beautiful things about the Camino is its unpredictability.
Weather changes, injuries happen, or you might just fall in love with a particular village and want to stay longer.
Allow room in your schedule for spontaneity.
The Camino often has a way of surprising you with unexpected gifts.
Best Spring Festivals Along the Camino
Spring is a season of celebration in Spain, and you might be lucky enough to experience one of these festivals along your route:
Semana Santa (Holy Week) – late March or April, depending on Easter dates
Fiesta de la Cruz de Mayo – early May, with flowers and parades
San Prudencio Festival in Álava – April 28, known for music and food stalls
These festivals are vibrant and deeply rooted in Spanish culture, adding extra magic to your Camino journey.
Traditional Basque musicians, San Prudencio Festival in Álava
Why Spring Is Perfect for Reflection
There’s something symbolic about walking in spring.
Just as nature is awakening and blooming, you may find yourself experiencing renewal and growth too.
On your spring Camino, you'll found that the quieter trails and changing weather encourages reflection.
The gentle rain will feel cleansing, and the warm sunshine will bring joy and gratitude.
Each day will feel like a new beginning—a reminder that the Camino is as much a journey of the heart as it is of the body.
For more personal reflections, read: Lessons Learned From 500 Miles on the Camino Francés.
Conclusion: Spring on the Camino Is Worth It
Walking the Camino de Santiago in spring requires preparation, flexibility, and a good sense of humor when the weather turns.
But it also offers breathtaking landscapes, peaceful trails, and a chance to experience Spain’s culture and beauty at its finest.
If you pack wisely, embrace the unpredictability, and open yourself to the journey, you’ll discover that spring is one of the most rewarding times to walk the Camino.
Next Steps
Download my Essential Camino Packing Guide.
Brush up on 25 Basic Spanish Words for Pilgrims.
Start training with my 12-Week Camino Training Plan.
Buen Camino, and happy spring walking!
Renae