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Spain Tours & Hiking Adventures

Camino del santiago

Golden sand beaches, rich history, best in the world gastronomy and endless adventures await on our Spain Tours and Hiking Adventures.

It's practically impossible to describe Spain in just a few words. Influences from Romans, Greeks, Celts, Phoenicians and Arabs, all who invaded or populated the country at one time, are ever so present. Each town has its own magnificent culture, delicious cuisine and historical legacy.

Various landscapes stretch across the country, with bucket-list adventures just waiting to be ticked off. Northern Spain is especially ideal for those seeking a grand hiking tour. Being Europe's most environmentally diverse country, you can walk in the footsteps of James the Apostle, explore glorious mountains and oak forests, and discover a piece of yourself on one of the most renowned walks of Christian history. Pack a lunch, don a pack and spend days walking through historic villages, along hidden coves and across magical rolling green meadows complete with wild horses. Hop aboard our Spain Tour and Hiking Adventure and let local guides show you the many secrets of this vast country.

Spain Trips

Europe

Camino De Santiago Adventure

ActiveAdventures

Operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

4.6

  • Duration 9 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Those who take on our Level 3 tours are looking for more challenging hikes that will raise their heart rate.

    Read more about the Active Range

Trek in the footsteps of pilgrims, who, for thousands of years, made their way along the same routes to Santiago de Compostela. As you hike, you'll be met with rich traditions still very much alive today in these Celtic regions.

Trip Start: Bilbao Trip End: Santiago de Compostela

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What people say about the trip

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Camino De Santiago Adventure

Leslie R

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

L | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Monica K

"This was my second trip with Active, and while the trip was wonderful, it wasn't an 'active' trip- it was a food tour with some walking. Since the trip was labeled 'El Camino' I expected much more walking. We spent WAY more time sitting and eating than doing any physical activity, which was a massive shame and really my only complaint about the trip. My mother didn't join us as this trip was labeled 'Level 3', but even Level 2 would have been generous. We saw beautiful towns, ate UNBELIEVABLE food, learned about the history of the area, stayed at wonderful hotels....but we didn't walk enough of the Camino. While I was the youngest guest by quite a bit, I think the majority of guests would have appreciated at least the option to walk more. On my first trip with Active (Rimu), we often had options- those that needed a slower day vs. others- but regardless, the days were PACKED with physical activities. I thought this would be the same and I would have opted for a sandwich on the go for a few days- rather than a lavish lunch- if it meant I could have experienced the Camino…

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This was my second trip with Active, and while the trip was wonderful, it wasn't…

"This was my second trip with Active, and while the trip was wonderful, it wasn't an 'active' trip- it was a food tour with some walking. Since the trip was labeled 'El Camino' I expected much more walking. We spent WAY more time sitting and eating than doing any physical activity, which was a massive shame and really my only complaint about the trip. My mother didn't join us as this trip was labeled 'Level 3', but even Level 2 would have been generous. We saw beautiful towns, ate UNBELIEVABLE food, learned about the history of the area, stayed at wonderful hotels....but we didn't walk enough of the Camino. While I was the youngest guest by quite a bit, I think the majority of guests would have appreciated at least the option to walk more. On my first trip with Active (Rimu), we often had options- those that needed a slower day vs. others- but regardless, the days were PACKED with physical activities. I thought this would be the same and I would have opted for a sandwich on the go for a few days- rather than a lavish lunch- if it meant I could have experienced the Camino more. I would recommend this to friends of my parents, but I would not recommend this trip to people that are below 50 and hoping for an 'active' vacation. read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

M | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Jim K

"Fully filled days. Amazing itinerary. Super guides, knowledgeable and accommodating. The trek is well planned to see as much as possible of Spain. Beaches, mountains, farms, people, and history.
Loved it and recommend it. The only criticism is that this hike is not even close to level 3. It is a 1.5 to 2 max. Had it been labeled as such, my wife would have for sure joined and enjoyed.

read more

Fully filled days. Amazing itinerary. Super guides, knowledgeable and accommodating. The trek is well planned…

"Fully filled days. Amazing itinerary. Super guides, knowledgeable and accommodating. The trek is well planned to see as much as possible of Spain. Beaches, mountains, farms, people, and history.
Loved it and recommend it. The only criticism is that this hike is not even close to level 3. It is a 1.5 to 2 max. Had it been labeled as such, my wife would have for sure joined and enjoyed. read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

J | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Sarah jusko, M

"Besides being the perfect, challenging adventure for a solo woman, the group size was perfect (9) and the itinerary was so interesting. Just the right amount of history and fact-based information, the right amount of friendship and encouragement, more than enough good food and accommodation, and amazing leadership. David set the bar high as he led us each day; always laughing and teasing; always encouraging. And Elize was a master of facilitation. She worked hard to make this adventure run at a high level and to accommodate each of our needs. She brought out the best in us and became a good friend.

read more

Besides being the perfect, challenging adventure for a solo woman, the group size was perfect…

"Besides being the perfect, challenging adventure for a solo woman, the group size was perfect (9) and the itinerary was so interesting. Just the right amount of history and fact-based information, the right amount of friendship and encouragement, more than enough good food and accommodation, and amazing leadership. David set the bar high as he led us each day; always laughing and teasing; always encouraging. And Elize was a master of facilitation. She worked hard to make this adventure run at a high level and to accommodate each of our needs. She brought out the best in us and became a good friend. read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

S | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Nadine K

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

N | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Susan M

"Good, really enjoyed it

read more

Good, really enjoyed it

"Good, really enjoyed it read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

S | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Jill T

"I’ve experienced an Active Adventures trip before which was amazing but this was next level! So well organised, amazing guide, fantastic accomodation and food everywhere, and a great group of like minded travellers that we shared it with. And Spain and the Camino - words just don’t describe how good it is . This really is a trip not to be missed!

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I’ve experienced an Active Adventures trip before which was amazing but this was next level!…

"I’ve experienced an Active Adventures trip before which was amazing but this was next level! So well organised, amazing guide, fantastic accomodation and food everywhere, and a great group of like minded travellers that we shared it with. And Spain and the Camino - words just don’t describe how good it is . This really is a trip not to be missed! read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

J | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Shonie F

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

S | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Dorian M

"The Santiago trip couldn't have been better: it was tops. It combined moderate daily walking on the most scenic highlights of the Camino with daily cultural excursions resulting in a thorough Spanish experience. David, our leader, was a gem. He has a strong background in history, art history and natural history and facilitated a seamless trip with his fine organization. This was our first trip with Active Adventures and I was surprised by the comprehensive nature of the tour. We enjoyed daily guided walks in the towns we visited led by knowledgeable, local historians, visits to active archeological sites, and culinary treats of the regional specialties. We had a really comfortable group of 13. Efforts had been made to make sure everyone's dietary needs were covered. I never could not have planned such a superlative tour separately. This was everything in one.

read more

The Santiago trip couldn't have been better: it was tops. It combined moderate daily…

"The Santiago trip couldn't have been better: it was tops. It combined moderate daily walking on the most scenic highlights of the Camino with daily cultural excursions resulting in a thorough Spanish experience. David, our leader, was a gem. He has a strong background in history, art history and natural history and facilitated a seamless trip with his fine organization. This was our first trip with Active Adventures and I was surprised by the comprehensive nature of the tour. We enjoyed daily guided walks in the towns we visited led by knowledgeable, local historians, visits to active archeological sites, and culinary treats of the regional specialties. We had a really comfortable group of 13. Efforts had been made to make sure everyone's dietary needs were covered. I never could not have planned such a superlative tour separately. This was everything in one. read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

D | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Brooke anderson, M

"We had a terrific tour guide from Madrid who brought to life the Camino de Santiago hike and cultural adventure. Jaime was an easy-going, informed, and fun leader for our small group! Would definitely travel with him again.

read more

We had a terrific tour guide from Madrid who brought to life the Camino de…

"We had a terrific tour guide from Madrid who brought to life the Camino de Santiago hike and cultural adventure. Jaime was an easy-going, informed, and fun leader for our small group! Would definitely travel with him again. read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

B | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Patricia C

"Jamie--our guide--was EXCELLENT, loved the food, loved the itinerary, the hikes, the hotels, the tour guides, the whole trip was amazing!

(PLEASE KEEP THIS ANONYMOUS)

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Jamie--our guide--was EXCELLENT, loved the food, loved the itinerary, the hikes, the hotels, the tour…

"Jamie--our guide--was EXCELLENT, loved the food, loved the itinerary, the hikes, the hotels, the tour guides, the whole trip was amazing!

(PLEASE KEEP THIS ANONYMOUS) read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

P | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Nancy H

"Excellent trip! Food, guides, and accommodations were awesome.

read more

Excellent trip! Food, guides, and accommodations were awesome.

"Excellent trip! Food, guides, and accommodations were awesome. read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

N | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Geralyn G

"Northern Spain is extra beautiful in late April/early May. Nice temps, little rain and beautiful wildflowers. Our trip was complemented by 2 very competent and fun guides, David & Gregory. We hiked parts of several Cominos, not stressful, plenty of delicious local cuisine, wine & coffee. Spain was exceptionally clean, modern & friendly. We had a great experience.

read more

Northern Spain is extra beautiful in late April/early May. Nice temps, little rain and beautiful…

"Northern Spain is extra beautiful in late April/early May. Nice temps, little rain and beautiful wildflowers. Our trip was complemented by 2 very competent and fun guides, David & Gregory. We hiked parts of several Cominos, not stressful, plenty of delicious local cuisine, wine & coffee. Spain was exceptionally clean, modern & friendly. We had a great experience. read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

G | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Sarah S

"I highly recommend Camilo Sousa as a main guide for a Camino de Santiago trip--he is the most passionate, funny, knowledgable and kind guide I could've hoped for. The secondary guide Sagra also was excellent. We are so grateful for all they did for us to make a memorable, special experience.

read more

I highly recommend Camilo Sousa as a main guide for a Camino de Santiago trip--he…

"I highly recommend Camilo Sousa as a main guide for a Camino de Santiago trip--he is the most passionate, funny, knowledgable and kind guide I could've hoped for. The secondary guide Sagra also was excellent. We are so grateful for all they did for us to make a memorable, special experience. read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

S | January 1970

Camino De Santiago Adventure

Jason W

"Truly enjoyable hike through highlights of the Camino with passionate stories (and some facts!) from our amazing guide Camilo. As always, Active Adventures combines continuity of trip leader with local guides in nearly every stop. These people are passionate about their place and deeply authentic in sharing their knowledge. The hiking is balanced and mostly flat with incredible vistas. We left in awe of the history of northern Spain and grateful to have experienced it with a great group!

read more

Truly enjoyable hike through highlights of the Camino with passionate stories (and some facts!) from…

"Truly enjoyable hike through highlights of the Camino with passionate stories (and some facts!) from our amazing guide Camilo. As always, Active Adventures combines continuity of trip leader with local guides in nearly every stop. These people are passionate about their place and deeply authentic in sharing their knowledge. The hiking is balanced and mostly flat with incredible vistas. We left in awe of the history of northern Spain and grateful to have experienced it with a great group! read less

4.6 Stars (28 reviews)

J | January 1970

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Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

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Active Assurance can be purchased at the time of booking, enabling you to receive a full refund up to 61 days out from your trip departure date. For more details, view here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spain known for tourism?

Spain is possibly the only country in Europe that cares for its architectural relics as a heritage of its nation. The towns of Spain are known for being ideal for romantic tourism, and the country boasts undiscovered, hidden alcoves to popular tourist resorts, there's a beach for everyone and with over 300 days of sunshine each year you're guaranteed the weather to enjoy them!

How many days do you need in Spain?

Ten days is the optimum amount of time to explore two regions or cities with time left to venture to the rural neighborhoods, including Barcelona’s Catalonia coast and the Andalusian city of Cordoba, which sits a two-hour drive north of Granada. However, we recommend a minimum of 12 days so you can hope on our Camino de Santiago trip and have a day or two either side to explore elsewhere!

What is there to do in Bilbao?

You could visit the Guggenheim Museum; stroll around the old town (Casco Viejo) - full of interesting shops and great little places to eat or drink. Go tapas-hopping! (in the Basque Country, tapas are called pintxos ("pinchos"). You can eat standing up at the bar or at a table. Take a visit to the city's traditional La Ribera market (from early morning until around 2pm, except Sundays when closed) or take the funicular up to Mt. Artxanda for views over Bilbao. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Transporter "Vizcaya Bridge" at Getxo, down at the mouth of the estuary (ask hotel staff for directions) - you can ride in the gondola across in one direction and walk back in the other.

What type of plugs and voltage do you use in Spain?

Spain operate on a 220V AC system with Plug Type C which consists of two round parallel pins while the wall plug has two holes where it is connected.

What kind of clothing should I be packing?

Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.

What is the time zone in Spain?

For the majority of the summer season Spain is in the Central European (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get local currencies?

Our trips include all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except where indicated on the itinerary). Most people like to bring a little extra to cover a round of drinks at the pub, take home some souvenirs, book a tour and eat out on their free day, and tip our guides if they've had a great time.

Usually the easiest thing to do is use your credit or debit card to withdraw money directly from your home account, in local currency. There are plenty of ATM's and banks in larger towns in Europe, and ATM's will accept all major credit cards and many debit cards. Cash advances are the most convenient way to get cash.

What is the currency in Spain?

The currency in Spain is the Euro €.

What if I need a special diet?

We are accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • fishatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in our pre-trip questionnaire. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online questionnaire.

What is the food like in Spain?

Food is the one force that unites everyone in Spain and Spanish people’s love for food is also seen in the 5-6 meals they’ve in a day – breakfast, mid-morning snack, lunch, merienda (evening snack), tapas, or dinner. The first breakfast is light and usually had at home whereas the second breakfast or is called Almuerzo and is typically had at 10:30 A.M. A traditional breakfast in Spain includes café con Leche (espresso with warm milk) with a small bite of food. Paella is a typical lunch dish that consists of saffron, beans, vegetables, and a mixture of snails, rabbit, chicken, and duck. Nowadays, paella is also made with seafood as it’s abundant in Spain. A typical Spanish dinner will have a main dish, such as a seafood dish, vegetarian dish, or roasted meat. This is either stuffed in a sandwich or served with a portion of rice. Common sides include a green salad, omelette, fried potatoes, grilled vegetables, cold cuts, or cheese. The dinner may be finished with a light dessert.

What is Spain known for tourism?

Spain is possibly the only country in Europe that cares for its architectural relics as a heritage of its nation. The towns of Spain are known for being ideal for romantic tourism, and the country boasts undiscovered, hidden alcoves to popular tourist resorts, there's a beach for everyone and with over 300 days of sunshine each year you're guaranteed the weather to enjoy them!

What kind of clothing should I be packing?

Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.

How many people are there on each of your Spain trips?

We generally take up to 14 people per trip, although this can vary, and all our trips have at least two of our guides to look after you (apart from the occasions we have a small group). We have found that our trips tend to attract a particular kind of person and many people have commented that the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!

What's included on your Spain trips?

Accommodation
On your Spain trip you'll stay in a variety of places depending on the destination and activities. For the most part you'll stay in hotels along the Camino; great locations, comfort, character and friendliness. In addition, many of these hotels offer some of the finest breakfasts to be found in Spain.

Transport
Your transport will be mainly travelling on your very own two feet on our trips in Spain! All your transport is included from the start of your trip and until we leave you in Santiago de Compostela at the end, except airprot transfers, with the details all listed in the trip specific itineraries.

Meals
All your meals are included as described in the itinerary except on your free days. We have found that people enjoy checking out what is on offer by themselves sometimes, so you can go and see what's out there! On every other day and especially after any long hikes, we've chosen places to eat that can cater for our hearty appetites, work well with our small groups (they know we are coming) and provide us with an authentic destination specific culinary experience. There are always options for you, so you can either be brave or choose something more familiar. You can be assured that on all our trips we will make sure you are very well fed, and Europe's vast array of cuisine won't disappoint you!

Trip leaders
Our trips are all led by an experienced Trip Leader alongside a local specialist guide. Our Trip Leaders are very proud to work with Active Adventures and often lead our trips for many years, for which we are very lucky and very grateful, as it means we're able to consistently offer a fantastic level of service. They work closely with our local specialist guides to provide you with a seamless, fun, exciting and memorable trip. They will happily share with you as much or as little as you want to know about the history, culture, social aspects and lifestyle of the country you are visiting.

Can you help me find international flights to Spain?

Our preferred Travel Partner Fuzion Travel can assist with you with flights and other travel arrangements. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

As an Active Adventures traveller, It’s essential you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of personal injury, medical expenses, trip cancellation for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Insurance page for more in-depth information and insurance provider options. It’s also important to check your insurance covers all the activities you’ll be partaking in, in case you’re travelling to altitude or looking at extreme sports.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Spain?

You don't need any vaccinations for Spain. Easy!

Do I need a visa to visit Spain?

It is your responsibility stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Please use the CIBT entry tracker on our website as a guideline or visit the relevant immigration webpage for more information regarding this.

What month is Spain closed?

Traditionally the month for holidays is August, and during this time all the locals are travelling around so it may be best to skip this month for your holiday!

How many days do you need in Spain?

Ten days is the optimum amount of time to explore two regions or cities with time left to venture to the rural neighborhoods, including Barcelona’s Catalonia coast and the Andalusian city of Cordoba, which sits a two-hour drive north of Granada. However, we recommend a minimum of 12 days so you can hope on our Camino de Santiago trip and have a day or two either side to explore elsewhere!

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Why Travel With Us

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Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

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Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

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You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

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Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

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Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

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"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.