On the Camino
Heat and heatstroke on the Camino de Santiago
On the Meseta, the Vía de la Plata or any Camino in July and August, heat is the biggest danger. How to plan the day, how much water to carry and how to recognise heatstroke, which is an emergency.
In this guide
Heat doesn’t warn you like a blister. It builds up through the morning and, by the time you notice, your body is already struggling. In summer, on shadeless stages of the Meseta or in the south, it is the Camino’s main risk.
Plan your day against the heat
- Start at dawn and aim to arrive before midday. In July and August many pilgrims set off with a head torch.
- Drink little and often, before you are thirsty: about half a litre an hour in the heat. Fill up at every fountain.
- Replace salts if you sweat a lot: a sports drink or something salty with your meal.
- Cap or hat, light clothes and breaks in the shade.
- Check where the fountains are: between Carrión de los Condes and Calzadilla de la Cueza there are none for 17 km.
Heat exhaustion: the warning
Dizziness, headache, nausea, cramps, heavy sweating and weakness. Stop in the shade, drink, wet your neck and wrists and rest until you feel well. Don’t keep walking dizzy.
Heatstroke: an emergency
Very hot skin, confusion, no longer sweating, fainting or seizures mean heatstroke.
What to do if someone is unwell
- Call 112 if there is confusion, fainting or no improvement within minutes.
- Move the person into the shade and lay them down.
- Take off their backpack and any extra clothes.
- Cool them with water all over and moving air: fanning helps a lot.
- If they are conscious and can swallow, give sips of water.
- Don’t leave them alone until help arrives.
FAQ
How much water should I carry on the Camino?
In the heat, about half a litre an hour. Carry at least 1.5 litres and refill at every fountain; more on stretches without villages.
Can I walk the Camino in August?
Yes, starting very early, drinking a lot and choosing your route. The Meseta and the Vía de la Plata in August are very tough; the Norte and the Portuguese Coastal route are cooler.
What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke?
Heat exhaustion brings dizziness, nausea and heavy sweating and improves with shade, water and rest. Heatstroke brings confusion and very hot skin, sometimes without sweating: it is an emergency.
