Best time of year to walk the Camino del Norte

When planning your journey along the Camino del Norte, one of the most important considerations is choosing the right time of year to ensure the best possible weather conditions. We recommend that you start walking the Camino del Norte in mid March - May, or late August - early September. Here’s why we think these periods are ideal:

Spring: starting in mid to late March, April, or May

Walking the Camino del Norte in March, April, or May offers a delightful experience of springtime in northern Spain. During these months, the temperatures are moderate, making for comfortable hiking conditions. You can expect pleasant weather, with neither extreme heat nor cold, allowing for an enjoyable trek.

Springtime brings vibrant landscapes with blooming flowers and lush greenery, enhancing the scenic beauty of your journey. Additionally, rainfall levels are generally low, meaning you're less likely to encounter heavy rains. The historical data shows that storms or intense showers are rare this time of year, providing a pleasant and dry trekking experience.

Late Summer: starting in late August or early September

Late August and early September mark the transition from summer to autumn, offering another excellent window for walking the Camino del Norte. The temperatures during this period remain within a comfortable range, preventing the oppressive heat that can make hiking challenging.

While still enjoying the warmth of summer, you will avoid the peak tourist season, meaning fewer crowds and a more peaceful path. Extreme temperatures are unlikely, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. Additionally, late summer typically experiences lower rainfall, reducing the risk of encountering significant precipitation.

Why these months?

Choosing to walk the Camino del Norte in mid to late March, April, May, late August, or early September aligns with several key weather considerations:

• Comfortable temperatures: The weather during these months ensures a pleasant hiking experience, avoiding both the chill of early spring and the intense heat of summer.
• Lack of weather extremes: By selecting these periods, you can avoid the risk of unexpected heat waves or cold snaps.
• Low precipitation: These times of the year have historically lower levels of daily rainfall, minimizing the chances of heavy rain disrupting your walk.
• Scenic beauty: Whether it's the blooming landscapes of spring or the golden hues of late summer, these months offer stunning natural scenery to enhance your Camino experience.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. For example, if you prefer walking in the cooler morning hours to avoid midday heat, you might prioritize dates with drier conditions. On the other hand, if you are more accustomed to colder climates, you may choose to avoid hotter periods - even if it means encountering more rain. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the Camino.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Irún to Santiago de Compostela, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.