In the Footsteps of St. James: El Camino de Santiago

Join a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on northern Spain’s legendary Camino de Santiago, the historic route that has welcomed pilgrims for more than a thousand years. On this active program, follow the Way of St. James through wooded bluffs, flowered fields, and scenic landscapes, concluding at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. Explore the dazzling variety of art and UNESCO-listed architecture along the Camino, including awe-inspiring Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals and monasteries in Nájera, Burgos, León, and Santiago de Compostela. Hear Gregorian chants performed by the world-famous monks at the monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos. End with a special event: Witness the famous Botafumeiro ritual during midday Mass at the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Along the way, enjoy the culture and hospitality of this unique area, including exquisite cuisine and regional wines, and stay at splendid centuries-old paradores (hotels). Daily walks along the Camino average 3.5 miles per day, with some rest days for normal sightseeing. Traveling with you will be Teofilo F. Ruiz, Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus of History and of Spanish and Portuguese, who has hiked the Camino several times over the past 50 years and will share numerous stories and personal anecdotes about his time on the trail.