Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage - Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

Day 1 (FRI – SEP 24): Departure from the USA

Your journey begins today as you depart on your overnight transatlantic flight to Spain. As you settle into your seat, take a moment to reflect on the path ahead—not just a journey across the ocean, but a pilgrimage that has been walked for centuries. Enjoy dinner and in-flight entertainment as you prepare your heart and mind for the sacred rhythm of the Camino de Santiago.

Day 2 (SAT – SEP 25): Arrival in Madrid – City Walking Tour (2 miles | 3.2 km | 4,500 steps)

Welcome to Spain! Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you can take some time to refresh after your journey. In the afternoon, step into the vibrant heart of Madrid with a guided walking tour. Stroll through grand plazas and lively streets, taking in the exterior of the Royal Palace of Madrid, the historic Plaza Mayor, and the bustling Puerta del Sol. As you walk, you’ll begin to feel the rhythm of Spanish life—where history, culture, and everyday moments blend seamlessly together. This evening, gather as a group for a warm welcome dinner, a time to connect, share anticipation, and begin building the community that will walk the Camino together.

Overnight in Madrid.

Day 3 (SUN – SEP 26): Madrid – Foncebadón – O Cebreiro – Sarria (2.8 miles | 4.5 km | 6,500 steps)

Today marks the beginning of your Camino journey. After traveling to Foncebadón, a once-thriving medieval pilgrim stop, you will begin your first walk along this ancient path. Your steps lead you to the iconic Cruz de Ferro—a powerful and symbolic moment for many pilgrims. Here, you are invited to leave behind a stone, representing a burden, prayer, or intention, joining countless others who have done the same for generations.

Continue onward to O Cebreiro, a breathtaking village nestled high in the mountains. Its stone houses and sweeping views offer a glimpse into the timeless beauty of the Camino. After taking in the scenery, continue to Sarria, where your walking journey will continue in the days ahead. Dinner and overnight in Sarria.

Day 4 (MON – SEP 27): Sarria – Portomarín (15 miles | 23.5 km | 35,500 steps)

Today you begin one of the most meaningful stretches of the Camino, walking from Sarria to Portomarín. Along the way, you will pass the symbolic 100-kilometer marker—the minimum distance required to receive the Compostela certificate—marking a special milestone in your pilgrimage. The path winds through quiet forests, gentle hills, and small Galician villages, where Romanesque churches and stone farmhouses tell stories of centuries past. As you walk, you’ll begin to settle into the rhythm of the Camino—step by step, conversation by conversation, silence by silence.

Arrive in Portomarín, a town rebuilt stone by stone after being relocated due to a reservoir, where you will enjoy dinner and a well-earned rest.

Day 5 (TUE – SEP 28): Portomarín – Palas de Rei (16 miles | 25 km | 37,500 steps)

Today’s walk takes you deeper into the Galician countryside, through forests, fields, and rolling landscapes dotted with traditional granaries and ancient crosses known as “Cruceiros.” As you journey toward Palas de Rei, you follow paths once traveled by medieval pilgrims, kings, and travelers seeking faith, healing, and purpose. Along the way, you’ll encounter the Monastery of San Salvador de Villar de Donas, a quiet reminder of the spiritual heritage that defines this route. By the time you arrive in Palas de Rei, you’ll feel both the physical accomplishment of the day and the growing sense of community among your fellow pilgrims. Dinner and overnight.

Day 6 (WED – SEP 29): Palas de Rei – Melide (9.1 miles | 14.7 km | 21,560 steps)

Today’s walk offers a rich blend of history and culture as you make your way toward Melide. Along the route, you’ll visit the Church of St. María of Leboreiro and pass historic landmarks that once served pilgrims on their journey.

Cross the medieval Furelos Bridge, a structure that has welcomed pilgrims for centuries, and reflect on the generations who have walked before you. Melide itself is a lively and historic town, known not only for its deep Camino roots but also for its culinary traditions—especially its famous Galician octopus. It’s the perfect place to rest, refuel, and enjoy the local culture. Dinner and overnight in Melide.

Day 7 (THU – SEP 30): Melide – Arzúa (8.8 miles | 14 km | 20,533 steps)

As you continue your journey, the landscape begins to shift, with eucalyptus and pine forests replacing the oak-lined paths of previous days. The trail becomes more vibrant as routes merge and more pilgrims join the way, creating a shared sense of purpose and connection. Along the path, you’ll pass farms and small villages that offer a glimpse into everyday life in Galicia. In Arzúa, visit the Church of Santa María Magdalena and gather for Mass at the Church of Santiago—a meaningful moment of reflection along the journey. Dinner and overnight in Arzúa.

Day 8 (FRI – OCT 1): Rest Day in Arzúa (Optional walk 4.5 miles | 7.2 km | 10,500 steps)

Today offers a well-deserved pause in your journey. Take time to rest, reflect, and absorb the experiences of the past days. Whether you choose to enjoy a short walk, explore the town, or simply sit with a cup of coffee and journal your thoughts, this day allows your body and spirit to recharge. These moments of stillness often become some of the most meaningful parts of the Camino. Dinner and overnight in Arzúa.

Day 9 (SAT – OCT 2): Arzúa – Arca do Pino (14.2 miles | 22.8 km | 33,000 steps)

Continue walking through peaceful countryside, shaded paths, and small hamlets with names that echo centuries of pilgrimage tradition. The Camino here feels both quiet and expectant, as Santiago draws closer. There is a growing sense of anticipation in the air, as each step brings you nearer to your destination. Conversations deepen, reflections grow richer, and the journey begins to take on new meaning. Dinner and overnight in Arca do Pino.

Day 10 (SUN – OCT 3): Arca do Pino – Santiago de Compostela (10.4 miles | 17 km | 25,000 steps)

Today is the culmination of your Camino journey. As you walk toward Monte do Gozo—“Mount of Joy”—you will catch your first glimpse of the Cathedral, a moment that has moved pilgrims for centuries. Continuing into the city, you arrive at the grand Obradoiro Square, standing before the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. This is more than an arrival—it is a moment of accomplishment, reflection, and gratitude. Dinner and overnight in Santiago.

Day 11 (MON – OCT 4): Santiago de Compostela

This morning is yours for quiet reflection, prayer, or simply taking in the significance of what you have completed. At noon, attend the Pilgrims’ Mass at the Cathedral, where you may witness the powerful tradition of the Botafumeiro swinging through the sanctuary. Later, enjoy a guided tour of Santiago’s historic center, exploring its rich architecture, plazas, and streets filled with life. This evening, transfer to Porto for your final dinner and overnight.

Day 12 (TUE – OCT 5): Departure from Porto

Early this morning, transfer to the airport for your return flight home. As you leave, you carry more than memories—you carry the experience of a journey walked step by step, one that will continue to shape your heart long after you return.

Note: Itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of the tour leaders and guide.