The Camino de Santiago in February: Festivals, Weather and Routes

Senderismo - Envato

Why do the Camino de Santiago in February?

It is impossible to say what is the best time of the year to leave our footprints on the Camino de Santiago. The tastes, preferences and time of each person are different. While some prefer to get away from the crowds, others simply want to experience the adventure of meeting pilgrims from all over the world traveling along the most popular routes. 

Although it is most common to do the Camino de Santiago during the summer months, taking advantage of the summer vacations, other pilgrims prefer to go against the tide and live the experience in other months of the year, such as in February. 

The month of February has its advantages and disadvantages, but regardless of our final decision, undertaking the journey along the various pilgrimage routes during this month is a unique experience for those who take the plunge. 

Advantages of doing the Camino de Santiago in February

1. Doing the Camino away from the crowds

If someone is looking to do the Camino de Santiago away from the crowds and with more tranquility, the month of February is one of the best to do it. In the month of February the number of pilgrims drops enormously and an example of this is the data obtained through the Pilgrims Office. 

Covid-19 has continued to be the great protagonist of the year 2021, so despite the fact that last year only 14 pilgrims received the Compostela in February, we also see a decrease in 2020 with 3,076 and in 2019 with 2,119 pilgrims. 

2. Avoid the sweltering heat

An important factor when choosing the best time to walk the Camino de Santiago is the weather. Although there are exceptions, during the month of February temperatures are generally cooler so it is perfect for those who avoid the sweltering heat at all costs.

3. A different experience

Doing the Camino de Santiago in the month of February is totally different from doing the Camino during the summer months. This month helps the experience to be calmer and we can enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the different routes from another perspective. 

Disadvantages of doing the Camino de Santiago in February

1. Some hostels close their doors

Doing the Camino de Santiago in winter can be a bit tedious when it comes to finding accommodation where you can recharge your batteries. During this time of the year, as the flow of pilgrims is lower, many hostels are closed. This fact means that sometimes you have to resort to a hostel or hotel to rest and continue the route the next day. 

2. Rain as a travel companion

Everyone knows that the further north on the map we travel, the colder the temperatures are and the more frequent the rains, especially during the winter months. If the Camino de Santiago is traveled in February, it is most likely that some part of the route will be covered by water. This fact may be annoying, but with the right equipment, it should not be an impediment to finish each stage. In addition, the effect that rain has on nature and the environment will allow you to observe spectacular scenery.

Carnaval - Envato

What festivals can you find in February?

After Christmas, February is another of the most awaited months of the year thanks to the great variety of festivities that we can celebrate. On the one hand, on February 14 Valentine's Day is celebrated, which although it is an international holiday, gives rise to the perfect time to find the most romantic day with our partner. Galicia offers spectacular panoramic views, so along our way we find a perfect experience to do as a couple that will surely tie even more ties. 

On the other hand, during the month of February carnivals are celebrated and can be enjoyed in different cities that cross the Camino de Santiago, such as Pontevedra, Ourense, Avilés, Mérida, A Coruña and even Santiago de Compostela. 

Lluvia - Envato

What is the weather like in February?

As we explained above, although February is the perfect month to avoid the sweltering summer temperatures and start enjoying the good weather, there are certain exceptions that we as pilgrims must take into account. Although during the day the temperature can be pleasant, as the day progresses the mercury in the thermometer drops enormously. To all this we should add the high probability of rainfall, since, as you may well know, Galicia is characterized by rain.

However, none of this should be an obstacle to do the Camino de Santiago in February. With good shoes, clothes and luggage in the backpack, we will have nothing to worry about.

Which route is best to do in February?

To choose one route or another, the factors to take into account are the weather in each season and the time we have available. Doing the Camino de Santiago in a week shortens the chances of doing a fully complete route, while both the heat and the cold can hinder the beautiful experience that is the Camino de Santiago.

During the month of February, any of the Jacobean routes have good conditions, however we must take into account the low temperatures and how to take advantage of them. In February you can take advantage of the cold to make routes such as the Mozarabic Way or the Via de la Plata from Seville or Merida, to enjoy its landscapes without having to expose yourself to the high temperatures that have during the warmer months.