Q & A:

How will the Spanish classes work?

Informal classes will take place during the entire trip. Lunches, checking into an albergue or even quick trips into a  little store are all opportunities for teaching, learning and practicing Spanish.  Private instruction will also be given during the walk.  Each peregrino will have a private or semi-private session for an hour with a profe during the day. These details will be decided the night before based on the group's interest, level, and possibly weather or pace. 

How much can I expect to spend on the not-included items?

Flights from Europe are currently $400 and flights from the USA are between $1100-$1600.  Total lodging during el Camino should total $200-400+ depending on if you choose an albergue (hostels) or hotels. Food and snacks should be $100-$200 for the trip. Many restaurants and albergues have great meal deals for peregrinos. You will also need to spend one night in San Sebastian prior to our departure on the morning of 4/10. Although not entirely required, a night or two in Bilbao would be splendid. Bilbao and San Sebastian are large cities and offer a wide range of accommodations and international airports. 

Where exactly will we stay?

Each town will have an albergue and some towns will also have a small hotel option as well. We will have some rooms reserved ahead of time but purchasing them will be the responsibility (and opportunity to practice your Spanish) of each peregrino. Your experienced, Spanish speaking profe will facilitate, and help negotiate lodging in route as required. 

When should we arrive?

Our trip starts at 8AM on the morning of the 24th. We suggest arriving on the 22nd or 23rd. 

Where is the place we are meeting? De Cervantes Plaza @ 7:30 AM

What if I get tired?

We are in no hurry and no peregrino gets left behind. However, we will walk 10-15 miles a day with our belongings so be prepared. Bus or taxi may also be an option to the next town. 

Is anyone extending their trip in Bilbao or arriving early in San Sebastián?

Good question and an excellent idea! We will let you know who may do so when we have our roster finalized. 

I'm a teacher! Is graduate credit available? 

Every institution has different requirements but you can get graduate-level university credits through the University of the Pacific.

Do I bring snacks for the hike? Where do I purchase them?

You can bring stacks for the first “etapa” Nuts or fruit are good choices.  We will have time to buy for the next “etapa” when we get to the “albergue”. In Spain, supermarkets close around 9:30 pm.

How many hours a day will we walk?

We estimate we will walk between 5 and 7 hours. The pace will vary and we will often have two speeds of walkers. Both groups will be going at a relatively slow pace to enjoy the experience. 

How early do you expect we will start walking in the morning?

It is recommended we start the journey early, between 7am and 8am. If we expect a hot day it will be better to start earlier.

Do you know of a business/agency who would transport my larger pack so I only use a daypack?

There are different companies that can transport the backpack. One of them is the Spanish post office. Sometimes the same albergue offers to transport your backpack.

Can I take my own route for part of the trip?

Peregrinos may alter a route to see an additional landmark or a cultural spot but may miss out on Spanish classes during that portion of the trip. Profes will use WhatsApp for communication. 

What if there is an accident or I need assistance along the way?

The Spanish Health system is one of the best in Europe. If you need an ambulance and to go to a hospital there will be no problem, but you will need to make sure that your travel insurance or private insurance covers the expenses.

Mochila -How big? What to pack? link

What is the weather like in July?

April  is the perfect time to do “El Camino del Norte”. The average temperature during the day is around 75º and morning and night are cooler down to 60º.  Rain is unlikely.  Packing suggestions. 

What is the deposit? Is it refundable by a certain date? 

$200 is due March 15, 2023   

When is the balance due?

$595 is due April 15, 2023. 

Should I invest in travel insurance?

If you come from a European country you need your E111, also known as the European Health Care, which entitles the holder for free emergency services. If you are coming from anon-European country you may consider travel insurance. 

Should I do any preparation for Spanish in advance of the trip?

No, you don't need to do any preparation other than walking/hiking in the shoes you plan to bring.