Every year, thousands of pilgrims cross the Atlantic to embark on an unforgettable experience: walking the Camino de Santiago. This ancient route, which for centuries has attracted travelers from all over the world, has also conquered the hearts of Mexicans who, despite the distance, are encouraged to discover the secrets of a legendary pilgrimage.
According to data from the Pilgrim’s Office, in 2024 more than 30,000 Latin American pilgrims completed one of the routes of the Camino de Santiago, with Mexico being the country with the largest representation 9,481 pilgrims. This figure demonstrates the enthusiasm felt by Mexicans to live this experience that combines spirituality, history and adventure.
A cultural legacy that unites two worlds
The Camino de Santiago is not just a route; it is a bridge that connects cultures. In the case of Mexico, this pilgrimage has deep roots.
Since colonial times, devotion to St. James the Apostle has spread throughout Mexico, becoming part of the country’s religious and cultural imagery. In fact, several regions of Mexico, churches and towns bear the name of Santiago, which is evidence of the mark left by this tradition.
In recent decades this route has gained popularity thanks to the emergence of several associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago in Mexico, which are responsible for promoting the route, organizing meetings and informing those who dream of becoming pilgrims and living the experience.
Why do the Camino de Santiago from Mexico?
In addition to the historical and cultural ties with Spain, there are several reasons why more and more Mexicans are seeking tours of the Camino de Santiago.
No visa required
One of the biggest advantages for Mexicans is that they do not need a visa to travel to Spain or Portugal, the main starting points of the Camino. These countries are part of the Schengen Area, which allows free movement of travelers for a maximum of 90 days.
Other Latin American countries that have agreements in force are Argentina, Brazil, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Colombia, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Guatemala and Uruguay, among others. All you need is a valid passport and the desire to embark on the adventure.
No language barriers
If you are Spanish-speaking, you will not find it difficult to communicate with the locals, understand the directions on the maps or be entertained by the stories of other pilgrims. This will allow you to fully enjoy the experience.
A different way of getting to know Spain
Although the Camino de Santiago was born as a religious pilgrimage to atone for sins, today there are many reasons beyond faith to undertake this route.
Many Mexicans decide to walk this itinerary moved by their adventurous spirit, as a way of self-improvement or to get to know the culture and landscapes of northern Spain.
In fact, after arriving in Santiago de Compostela, some pilgrims decide to complete the journey by visiting other places of tourist interest such as the emblematic Galician pazos (old stately homes surrounded by spectacular gardens). Another place full of symbolism is Finisterre, considered by the Romans as “the end of the world” and the place where many pilgrims conclude their journey. And to enjoy the landscape, gastronomy and Galician wines, nothing better than visiting the Rías Baixas. There, pilgrims can savor the best seafood and its famous Albariño, while immersed in the soothing sound of the waves of the Galician coast.
How to enhance the Camino de Santiago experience from Mexico?
The Camino de Santiago from Mexico is a unique and enriching experience, but it is possible to enjoy it even more if it is planned in detail.
In Pambre Tours we are a family travel agency with more than 20 years of experience doing tours of the Camino de Santiago. We have covered all the available routes and we can recommend you the best option according to your preferences and physical condition. From the French Way, which is the best known and most traveled route, to the Primitive Way, the oldest and most challenging, or the Portuguese Way from Lisbon that combines coastal landscapes with the cultural charm of Portugal.
At Pambre Tours we make sure you travel comfortably and safely. We manage for you the reservation in the best accommodations such as hotels and rural tourism houses, and we take care of the transfer of your luggage between stages. If you have no experience in hiking routes, we recommend you to hire our VIP guided tour, where one of our expert guides will accompany you during the whole route. But even if you decide to do the Camino on your own, we offer you a 24/7 telephone service to resolve any incident.
In addition, we manage your credential with the corresponding stamps at each stage so you can get the Compostela, the certificate that certifies your pilgrimage.
Live the magic of the Camino de Santiago, discover the best of each stage and walk at your own pace. In Pambre Tours we help you to create a personalized experience that you will remember all your life.
