Why do some people travel the Camino de Santiago for nonreligious reasons?

While the Camino de Santiago originated in the Middle Ages as a significant Christian pilgrimage route for religious devotion and the seeking of indulgences, its motivations have evolved in the modern era.123

In the 21st century, the Camino has experienced a significant increase in popularity, with a growing number of people undertaking the journey for nonreligious reasons. This shift reflects broader trends where the tourism industry often overlaps with or incorporates elements of traditional journeying. For many modern travelers, the Camino serves as a recreational activity, offering an opportunity for personal challenge, physical exercise, and cultural exploration rather than strictly devotional practice.34512

Data from the Pilgrim’s Reception Office in Santiago de Compostela highlights this trend, showing that while many still travel for religious or spiritual purposes, a substantial and increasing percentage of pilgrims now cite exclusively nonreligious motivations for completing the route.3