Camino de Santiago

Primitivo Route

The Camino is more than a hike, it’s a pilgrimage. On August 24th I started walking the Primitivo, the hardest and oldest route, stretching 321 km from Oviedo to Santiago in 11 days. This guide combines my personal experience with practical tips so you can prepare for your own Camino.

This wasn’t just a trek; it was a pilgrimage. Long, quiet days through green mountains, reflecting on the climbs, and simple kindness of other pilgrims I met along the way. I’m sharing my actual stages, distances, and hard-earned tips so you can prepare well, and hopefully have your own journey filled Camino.

Camino Primitivo Route: My Itinerary

11 Days • 321 km • 9,000 m elevation gain

This route usually takes about 14 days. I pushed harder on a few stages, walking 40 km some days and even 50 km one day, which can be challenging. I recommend using my guide as a reference but ultimately finding your own pace and enjoying the journey. There are plenty of villages and towns along the way where you can stop if you don’t feel up to pushing the kilometers.

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Itinerary Overview Example

Day 1 – Oviedo → Grado (27 km / 553 m)

Need Help Planning Your Next Adventure?

I’ve traveled and filmed around the world, creating these guides to make your journey easier. If you have questions about stages, gear, or booking accommodations, just send me a message. I’m happy to share tips, or help you plan your trip so you can focus on the experience.

Joe M. Smith

I’m a travel media creator who explores the world through film and storytelling. My guides share clear, practical, first-hand insights so you can travel smarter, feel better, and focus on the experience.