When to walk the Camino Portugués: Faro – Santarém

This southern approach from the Algarve up through Alentejo and Ribatejo is open and exposed—long farm tracks, little shade, and big skies. Heat is the main obstacle; winter’s cooler, changeable days suit it far better. For most walkers, starting in late December to early March gives the best conditions on the Camino Portugués: Faro – Santarém.

You’ll get crisp mornings, comfortable afternoons, and a mix of sun and showers—great for steady pacing without battling high temperatures or scarce shade.

Best window: January, February, early March, late December

Expect a changeable pattern of bright spells, cloud, and passing showers. On the whole it’s comfortable for steady days, with crisp mornings and fresh air even across the wide, open stretches in Alentejo and Ribatejo.

Practical notes:

• Carry a light waterproof and something windproof; showers can be brief but punchy.
• Tracks can turn muddy after rain—quick‑drying shoes and short gaiters help.
• Daylight is shorter, so start early and keep an eye on longer stages.
• After wet days, be cautious of puddled lanes and occasional farm detours.

Mid to late March and April

Spring arrives with greener fields and wildflowers, but the weather stays lively: frequent showers, gusty days, and the odd warm surge. It’s still a decent time if you don’t mind rain gear on and off, though sticky mud can slow you down.

May

Mostly pleasant, but warmth builds inland and exposed sections begin to feel hot in the afternoons. You’ll still catch some unsettled spells. If you pick May, plan earlier starts and be ready for both sun and showers.

June to August

Generally not recommended. The plains can be very hot, water sources and shade are limited between towns, and long, straight tracks magnify the heat. If summer is your only option:

• Start at dawn, finish by early afternoon, and consider siestas.
• Carry extra water and strong sun protection.
• Shorten stages or add transfers on the hottest days.

September

A transition month: still warm to hot, especially away from the coast, with a few short rainy bursts later on. Manageable for heat‑tolerant walkers who plan early starts, but many will find it warmer than ideal.

October and November

Cooler and more comfortable than summer, with a mix of bright days and wetter spells. Showers can be prolonged at times, and farm tracks may be slick. A good shoulder‑season choice if you don’t mind getting rained on now and then.

Early to mid December

Changeable and often wetter than late December, with periods of overcast and some heavy rain. Still walkable, but if you’re choosing within the month, the tail end usually feels more settled and similar to January.

In short: for the Faro–Santarém stretch of the Portuguese Camino, winter suits the landscape—cooler air, lighter crowds, and fewer heat worries—so aim for January, February, early March, or late December.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. 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 Faro to Santarém, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.