The Pros and Cons of Walking the Camino Solo vs. in a Group

When I first started planning my Camino de Santiago journey, the choice of who I was walking with was easy. I was going with my husband. But one of the biggest decisions pilgrims face is whether to walk solo or with a group. This choice might seem simple at first, but it impacts nearly every part of your experience—from the pace you walk to the connections you make and even how you process the journey on a spiritual level.

Walking the Camino, I’ve experienced both approaches, and each one brought something unique and meaningful to my pilgrimage. In this post, I’ll share what I’ve learned about the benefits and challenges of walking alone versus in a group, along with tips to help you decide which is best for your Camino.

Why This Decision Matters

The Camino isn’t just another hike. It’s a pilgrimage that stretches over hundreds of miles and several weeks, with moments of breathtaking beauty and deep personal challenge.

Whether you walk alone or with companions, this decision will affect:

Your daily rhythm – Start times, breaks, and walking pace.
Your budget – Costs for accommodations and meals.
Your safety – Navigating unfamiliar terrain and dealing with fatigue.
Your inner journey – How much space you have for reflection and solitude.
Your social experience – Opportunities to meet new people or deepen existing friendships.

Hiking the Camino Real — Me on the Camino.

Walking the Camino Solo

Walking solo can be an incredibly freeing experience. You have the chance to connect deeply with the trail, the history, and yourself without compromise.

Pros of Walking Solo

Total flexibility – You choose when to start walking, how far to go, and where to stay each night.
Personal growth – Perfect for reflection, healing, or spiritual exploration.
Easier to meet others – Being alone often makes you more approachable to fellow pilgrims.
Choose your pace – Whether you’re fast or slow, you’re in complete control.
Empowering independence – Solving problems on your own builds confidence.

Personal note: On my Camino, with my husband, many times it was just the two of us walking together. But many times, we would walk and talk for miles with people we had just met. We had some amazing conversations with other pilgrims that we will cherish for years to come.

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Group of hikers on the Camino de Santiago — There are always people to talk to along the trail.

Cons of Walking Solo

Can feel lonely at times – Especially in remote areas or during quiet stretches like the Meseta.
Safety concerns – If you get injured or lost, you must rely on yourself or strangers.
Decision fatigue – Every choice, from meals to accommodations, is up to you.
Harder to stay motivated – When you’re tired or sore, there’s no one to push you forward.

A long trail, trees, scenery — There is always plenty of reflection time along the Camino.

Walking the Camino in a Group

Walking with friends, family, or an organized group creates a shared experience filled with laughter, encouragement, and teamwork.

Pros of Walking in a Group

Built-in support system – Someone is always there to encourage you or help with challenges.
Shared planning and costs – Splitting expenses like laundry or taxis can save money.
Safety in numbers – Less worry about getting lost or facing an emergency alone.
Instant companionship – Meals and milestones are more joyful when shared.
Motivation boost – Others can help you keep going when you feel like stopping.

Personal story:

My husband and I met many pilgrims, we now call friends. Whether traveling solo or with a group, you can meet others along the trail. It's a very friendly atmosphere.

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Cons of Walking in a Group

Less flexibility – You must compromise on start times, breaks, and destinations.
Different walking speeds – Varying fitness levels can lead to frustration.
Potential conflicts – Spending long days together can sometimes create tension.
Limited alone time – Harder to find quiet moments for reflection and prayer.
Possibly higher costs – Guided tours or structured groups may charge more.

How to Decide: Solo or Group?

If you’re still unsure, here are some key questions to help guide your decision:

1. What Are Your Goals for the Camino?

Spiritual growth or deep reflection? Solo walking may be ideal.
Shared memories or bonding with friends? A group might be best.

Related post:How to Choose the Best Hiking Poles for the Camino de Santiago | Tips from Experience

2. How Confident Are You in Traveling Alone?

Comfortable navigating new places by yourself? Solo could work well.
Feeling nervous about logistics or safety? A group offers extra support.

3. Do You Need a Hybrid Approach?

You don’t have to choose just one! Many pilgrims blend both experiences:

Start walking solo, then naturally connect with other pilgrims along the way.
Walk with a group for part of the trip, then take time alone later.
Form a “Camino family” of new friends who come and go throughout the journey.

An arrow to point you in the right direction along the camino de Santiago

Final Thoughts: There’s No Wrong Choice

Both solo and group walking offer something beautiful and life-changing.

The trail will teach you self-reliance and give you space for deep reflection, no matter what you choose. Time spent walking with other pilgrim friends was filled with laughter, shared stories, and treasured memories.

The Camino will meet you wherever you are—whether in solitude or community—and give you exactly what you need for your journey.

Buen Camino, my friend. May each step bring you closer to your own transformation.

Renae

Walking the Camino Solo vs. in a Group: Which Is Best for You?

The Pros and Cons of Walking the Camino Solo vs. in a Group

Why This Decision Matters