Camino Francés The French Way of St. Jamesthe complete version of 778 km Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port/ France – Pamplona/ Spain – Logroño – Santo Domingo de la Calzada – Burgos – Léon – Astorga – Ponferrada – Arzúa – Santiago de Compostela Camino del Norte The Spanish Coast Walk Irun/ Spain – San Sebastián – Gernika – Bilbao – Castro Urdiales – Santander – Llanes – Villaviciosa – Gijón – La Caridad – Ribadeo – Arzúa – Santiago de Compostela Camino Primitivo The oldest Way of St. James Oviedo – Grado – Salas – Tineo – Borres – Berducedo – Grandas de Salime – A Fonsagrada – O Cádavo – Lugo – Ferreira – Melide – Arzúa – Santiago de Compostela Experience a total solar eclipse on the Spanish Caminos in August 2026 A once in a lifetime natural phenomenon Pilgrims who set out on their Camino de Santiago in August 2026 will also have the opportunity to experience a truly unique natural spectacle. On August 12, 2026, Spain will witness a total solar eclipse that will bathe large parts of the country in a magical twilight. Those traveling on one of Spain's Camino de Santiago routes at this time will be able to experience a rare combination of spiritual journey and cosmic experience. Imagine putting down your backpack after a fulfilling stage of the Camino de Santiago and witnessing the moment when the sun and moon meet perfectly. Depending on the region, the sun is slowly covered by the moon in the late afternoon or early evening, and for a few minutes there is an almost unreal twilight that bathes the landscape in a special light. A moment that will remain etched in your memory and make the impressions of your Camino even more unforgettable. Which Caminos are best for experiencing the solar eclipse? To enjoy the total solar eclipse, the wide, open stages of the Meseta – the northern Spanish highlands – on the Camino Francés are ideal. Or the impressive coastline and secluded beaches of the Spanish Atlantic coast on the Camino del Norte. For pilgrims who are also looking for a sporting challenge, the higher sections of the original, nature-oriented Camino Primitivo are also suitable. If you can imagine walking the Way of St. James at this special time, we would be happy to advise you. We will show you which route suits you best and exactly when the solar eclipse will be visible on your Camino. Simply send us a travel request and plan your individual Way of St. James together with us! Frequently asked questions about our Camino group tours + Will the solar eclipse also be visible in Santiago de Compostela? No, in Santiago de Compostela, the solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, will only be partially visible, not total. A partial eclipse of about 70 to 80% is expected in Santiago. The totality, lasting up to 4 minutes, will occur 100 to 150 km north and east of Santiago, e.g., in Cizur Menor near Pamplona on the Camino Francés or in Lugo on the Camino Primitivo. + Is August generally a good time to travel on the Camino de Santiago? August is a solid but challenging time for the Camino de Santiago in Spain, as it can get very hot during the peak summer months. Temperatures often range from 25 to 35 °C during the day with high humidity, which makes hiking strenuous. For pilgrims who still want to travel in August, we recommend sections with short daily stages, little elevation gain, plenty of natural shade, and many opportunities to take a nice break. Be sure to bring sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and eat salty snacks to replenish your electrolytes. We are happy to advise you on which route is best suited to your fitness level and needs. + What equipment do I need to view the solar eclipse? For safe viewing, you must use certified solar eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2 standard, CE marked) – normal sunglasses do not protect against UV and IR radiation, which can cause serious damage to the retina. It is best to pack 2-3 glasses per person in case one breaks. You can purchase the glasses online at a reasonable price or locally for around €5-15. Discover the Caminos in our other categories: Caminos in Spain From the classics to the insider tips Sun-kissed golden wheat fields, lush green hills, and even a total solar eclipse in August 2026 await you on the Spanish Caminos Caminos in Portugal Explore the Coastal or Interior Route The choice is yours: along the Atlantic coast or through the historic green inland region Camino Group Tours Guided pilgrimages with a tour guide and in good company Plan your group trip on the Camino for 2026 with us!
