My "moment of fear" was when I was walking toward Astorga, just out of Hospital de Orbigo on a dirt road (before David's beautiful cantina). It was fairly early and there wasn't anyone on the trail within sight. Ahead, out of the brush, a man came slowly out, saw me and then slowly stepped back into the brush. I turned around and walked back until I met other pilgrims and joined them. This is very close to where Denise was murdered and before they caught the guy. Always...always...ALWAYS listen to your body: mine set on high alert immediately. Just be safe. If I am setting off alone on a brushy section, I have waited to walk behind a group of older men pilgrims (mostly Spanish men) who seem to walk slowly and leisurely, or a maybe group of pilgrims, asking if I can walk for a bit behind them. Everyone is kind for the most part, and willing to band together. Buen Camino!
Thanks for sharing this. And quick thinking for turning back and waiting for more pilgrims to join up with. I agree, it’s good to listen to our instincts. Most pilgrims wouldn’t mind at all if you walked near to them if you felt uneasy on the trail. Buen Camino!
Denise was walking a wrong way with wrong signs, at night and knocking at the door. Behind the door was her murderer. Walking in daylight and like a man.🥋🥊. Be strong.🚶🏼🥾🥾
@@davidgutesleben1266 Its not nice to ptacticly saying like she asked for it. Its only the fault of her murder . Yes she maybe was nothing more but naiv that lead to this crime.
It's always a good idea just to ask. I'm a tall muscular guy with a natural confident posture. Many years in the military and after becoming a psychologist I worked 10 years in a psychiatric security institution for the criminally insane - I'm used to observe and respond to the immediate environment (threats etc). I have been on 9 caminos (planning nr.10 at the moment). I have often been asked by women if it was okay that they walked with me - especially in the early dark morning hours. Once it actually turned into a group where we were 8 people. Now to the serious part - because I have actually had to show my presence in one instance. Early morning leaving castrojeritz (pitch black) going towards the hill I noticed two people ahead of me - getting closing I noticed there were 10 meters between then. The one in front was a young woman with all the pilgrim gear, the one behind her was a man not equipped in any way and was totally out of place. So I hurried up and went up to her - her face was all tears from fear and I just told her that she was not alone anymore. At that point I turned around and the weird guy had turned and walked into the field away from the trail. She told me he had been following her since she left the albergue. So if you are in doubt - please wait for other pilgrims.
I’m about to go on my first Camino solo this Spring. I really appreciate the information you put here. I think you presented this so thoughtfully. I’m glad that you said something about safety info like 112. Thank you
I just had goosebumps watching this video at 6:16. I walked the camino as a solo female pilgrim in 2022. I felt completely safe the entire time, except one single time when I felt uneasy about one man. There was something unusual about his posture and behaviour that sent some red flags to my subconscience. It happened just as I was arriving to Samos, right in the same place you are describing in this video!!!! OMG He didn't do anything to me though, and I ended up thinking I was crazy or paranoid... But I had other men approaching me on the Camino and I never felt the same way about them, it was just this one time with this guy on the path to Samos. It can't be a coincidence...
oh wow! Another friend had a similar experience in the same place and she was a day ahead of me on the Camino at that point as I stayed an extra night earlier on recovering from an injury. I wonder if it’s the same person?
I walked in 2022 too, and while I didn’t see the man, there was definitely some moments of feeling really uneasy in certain sections on the way to Samos. I thought it was just me…glad we are sharing these moments, for awareness and to be alert. Thank you!!
Thank you for your video. I'm planning my second Camino. On my first, I had the last experience that you mentioned, unfortunately. He didn't even want me to be around other pilgrims. I stayed one extra night at some place to avoid walking with him.
I’m so sorry this happened to you! 😞 Well done on shaking him off though. Sounds like v controlling behaviour. I hope you have a fantastic next Camiño! 💚
I know the exact section you are talking about, I didn’t see anyone, but overall there were some creepy moments, completely alone in little villages that seemed abandoned. And a few dogs in basements that barked like crazy when I walked by and scared the bageezus out of me; it went with the spooky mood too well. Parts felt a bit like walking through an episode of The Walking Dead or something. But made it to Samos and met up with friends! It gave us all something to talk about and made for good Camino stories. Thanks for these videos!
I agree. I'm walking solo, but don't plan to walk along through remote areas. I'll find a group the night before and ask if I can walk along for the day.
I remember a creepy guy on the way to Portomarin but fortunately there were many other pilgrims around so nothing happened. Still, this was 5 years ago and I still recall it. Beware ladies!
Great video. Someone mentioned on a forum this week that crime was rife on the Frances but didn't provide any additional information and I don't know where they got the info from. Interesting to hear you say police think it's locals not pilgrims
Hi Sharon, I think petty crime is more of a potential issue in larger towns and cities. But by following some common sense advice and you should be fine! Also the level of crime will be minuscule compared to major cities like Paris, Barcelona etc! Buen Camino!
Twas all sound advice , it's a great shame that for women there are extra dangers, on a few occasions I've had female pilgrims ask to accompany them on the quieter sections because they've felt nervous or been spooked. That's probebly the safest option once you've made a few pilgrim friends on the trail . I've also heard of a few thefts in alberques , again your advice was sound . Overall the Camino is pretty safe as long as you follow the normal rules you'd follow anywhere . Buen Camino 🙏🏼
Years ago I (male) was going to a pub and found myself walking behind a lady. She kept looking back and I could see she was freaking out. I changed my route.
Tienes el camino primitivo desde Asturias a Galicia, el camino del norte, y el nas desconocido el camino ingles. El camino ingles empieza en Inglaterra o escocia o Dinamarca o Noruega, se hace parte del camino en barco
Recientemente caminé por el Camino Inglés desde Ferrol y conocí a algunos peregrinos que habían viajado en un gran barco desde Inglaterra. ¡También he recorrido algunos tramos del camino inglés en Inglaterra! ¡Hay tantas rutas! ¡Buen Camino!
First few minutes in and I like your format! Also I wasnt sure what the pilgrimage was until I searched. Now I know its in Spain, France and Portugal. Safe travels!
Hi I watched your other videos on accommodation. Im doing my first Camino in September and was wondering about whether to use a travel agency or book as I go. So thank you for clarifying that for me. I have decided to book as I go.😊
The only unsafe situation was in Santiago. There is a local man on the city shouting and harassing women. I talked to the police and they laughed and said he is just that way.
It’s safer to walk across Spain with a backpack by somebody who has never walked with a backpack before than it is to walk across any of the top 10 most populous US cities.
It's interesting to consider. I want to be mostly solo this spring on the Portuguese. My wife brought up the issues of safety. I reminded her that there's been a few murders in our town of 30,000 in the last 10 years. And I believe only 1 on the Camino. So I pointed out that it's safer to be on the Camino than it is to live in our town (which is relatively safe, don't get me wrong. I mean, there are times we don't always have our doors locked. But she didn't bring up the subject of safety to me after that. There are dangerous people everywhere, and I don't have worries about the Camino, but will still stay vigilant, and sure appreciate the tips from this video and others.
I completed the last 30k of the Camino to Santaigo in the dark reaching the city by 3am in a thunder storm I was alone and was a bit paranoid on the forest sections but it was my mind playing tricks and I was fine.
I walked alone St Jean to Logrono May 2019 and Sarria to Santiago Sept 2021. I never felt uncomfortable or threatened. I always left about 0800-0830 and sections usually took me about 5hrs. I often took the alternative routes which usually had no other pilgrims on them. I would never give my phone number or e-mail address to anyone single male or female on a holiday.
Advice on how to deal with fears I cannot offer, as each situation is different, but maybe just this: shit can happen anywhere … near your home when hiking in the fields or on the Camino. Not to do the Camino is not an option. You‘d miss too much. I believe, a Camino must be gone solo to get its full experience. Like all my Caminos on my most recent Camino I went solo… 2.500km. France was deserted and it was wonderful. Nothing happened. Nor in Spain, where some years back on another Camino I had an encounter of a strange kind. I mention this incident in my video #33 on my channel KaterOnBike. May it come across as a bit funny now, back then I did not think that at all … but I managed to deal with the situation kind of in a reflex and got out of there as quickly as I could. My videos are in German, but I have created English subtitles for my international friends. Anyway, traffic is not to be an underestimated danger… and dogs … the latter not so much on the populated Camino routes … but you can find them on alternative cycle routes. All in all: don’t let yourself be put off. Go. Buen Camino 😊
On the Camino Francés, from Sarria in, be on the lookout for fake pilgrims. They are few and far between, but they are there and some of them are very good at what they do. They will steal from you in the albergues, pick your pockets in bars and restaurants, and even spike your drinks when you’re not aware. A great rule to work with: Hang out with those you met in the first 680 km. Buen Camino!
Sadly I have heard of this approach being used and it is important to keep your wits about you and be cautious. But there are also plenty of people (genuine pilgrims) who start the pilgrimage at Sarria who struggle to feel part of the Camino community. It’s lovely to spend time with people you already know but also great to include people who have just started their Camino. Buen Camino!
I am sorry, that women especially, ever feel unsafe (justifiably) whilst doing hikes/treks/pilgrimages especially as I love my solitude and being 6ft and built more like a rugby player than a female gymnast, am able to enjoy this privilege with far reduced risks. I try do 2 treks a year which also allows my wife some peace. Being autistic and having adhd I do crave adventure but struggle with change so I am an absolute pain in the ass as a companion. Hence very lonely treks. I do enjoy this but there is some regret I cannot share experience with companions. Although I am uncomfortable socializing I do find the evenings are easier because everyone shares the common interest of the trek. Anyway I was wondering if anyone else shares this Eleanor Rigbyen version of trekking? On the Camino or otherwise.
Hi David thanks for sharing! I do enjoy time alone on the trails and I am just editing my next video where I talk about this. Most of the time I do feel safe as well - only occasionally I don’t. I also appreciate time with others, particularly at rest stops and in the evenings. I’m on the borderline of being introvert and extrovert so I sometimes like to be with others and other times like to be alone. I’m glad you are able to share the experiences of the walk with others in the evening. it’s definitely an easier starting point when you have that in common! Buen camino!
Walking too far in one day is not clever. Take in the surroundings, the people and places... head down and banging out the miles is crazy, you can do that anywhere. Consider the weather forecast Pack a compact emergency shelter eg Lifesystems Energy food Small water filter You may have to spend the night in a downpour or with a twisted ankle. Oh, and if you are annoying dont expect people to want to walk with you. ☹️ Be nice.
Snacks and water are important to have with you. I didn’t need a water filter (I have one but didn't bring it or need it). There are many facilities along the Camino Frances although there are some longer stretches without them.
Common sense is required, situational awareness. Too many Western women go around the world with none of that in mind which is why we read so many harrowing reports about their demise.
![[SFM] Risky Recital](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RzNkY1_Nk3o/mqdefault.jpg)
My "moment of fear" was when I was walking toward Astorga, just out of Hospital de Orbigo on a dirt road (before David's beautiful cantina). It was fairly early and there wasn't anyone on the trail within sight. Ahead, out of the brush, a man came slowly out, saw me and then slowly stepped back into the brush. I turned around and walked back until I met other pilgrims and joined them. This is very close to where Denise was murdered and before they caught the guy. Always...always...ALWAYS listen to your body: mine set on high alert immediately. Just be safe. If I am setting off alone on a brushy section, I have waited to walk behind a group of older men pilgrims (mostly Spanish men) who seem to walk slowly and leisurely, or a maybe group of pilgrims, asking if I can walk for a bit behind them. Everyone is kind for the most part, and willing to band together. Buen Camino!
Thanks for sharing this. And quick thinking for turning back and waiting for more pilgrims to join up with. I agree, it’s good to listen to our instincts. Most pilgrims wouldn’t mind at all if you walked near to them if you felt uneasy on the trail. Buen Camino!
Denise was walking a wrong way with wrong signs, at night and knocking at the door. Behind the door was her murderer. Walking in daylight and like a man.🥋🥊. Be strong.🚶🏼🥾🥾
@@davidgutesleben1266 Its not nice to ptacticly saying like she asked for it. Its only the fault of her murder . Yes she maybe was nothing more but naiv that lead to this crime.
@@wanderslust1781 the only guilty human is always the murderer. Yes, that is the truth.
It's always a good idea just to ask. I'm a tall muscular guy with a natural confident posture. Many years in the military and after becoming a psychologist I worked 10 years in a psychiatric security institution for the criminally insane - I'm used to observe and respond to the immediate environment (threats etc). I have been on 9 caminos (planning nr.10 at the moment). I have often been asked by women if it was okay that they walked with me - especially in the early dark morning hours. Once it actually turned into a group where we were 8 people. Now to the serious part - because I have actually had to show my presence in one instance. Early morning leaving castrojeritz (pitch black) going towards the hill I noticed two people ahead of me - getting closing I noticed there were 10 meters between then. The one in front was a young woman with all the pilgrim gear, the one behind her was a man not equipped in any way and was totally out of place. So I hurried up and went up to her - her face was all tears from fear and I just told her that she was not alone anymore. At that point I turned around and the weird guy had turned and walked into the field away from the trail. She told me he had been following her since she left the albergue. So if you are in doubt - please wait for other pilgrims.
Never ignore Gut feelings and Safety in numbers . Thank you for the video
Thank you! ☺️
I’m about to go on my first Camino solo this Spring. I really appreciate the information you put here. I think you presented this so thoughtfully. I’m glad that you said something about safety info like 112. Thank you
Glad it was helpful! Have an amazing time! Buen Camino!
Hiii I’m also walking this spring the primitivo route
Hey! I’m also walking my first camino in Spring. When are you starting?☺️
I just had goosebumps watching this video at 6:16. I walked the camino as a solo female pilgrim in 2022. I felt completely safe the entire time, except one single time when I felt uneasy about one man. There was something unusual about his posture and behaviour that sent some red flags to my subconscience. It happened just as I was arriving to Samos, right in the same place you are describing in this video!!!! OMG
He didn't do anything to me though, and I ended up thinking I was crazy or paranoid... But I had other men approaching me on the Camino and I never felt the same way about them, it was just this one time with this guy on the path to Samos. It can't be a coincidence...
oh wow! Another friend had a similar experience in the same place and she was a day ahead of me on the Camino at that point as I stayed an extra night earlier on recovering from an injury. I wonder if it’s the same person?
I walked in 2022 too, and while I didn’t see the man, there was definitely some moments of feeling really uneasy in certain sections on the way to Samos. I thought it was just me…glad we are sharing these moments, for awareness and to be alert. Thank you!!
Are you sure it wasn't a ghost?
As a solo wilderness backpacker and doing my Camino solo in 11 days I despite being a guy I find advice excellent, Thanks Kate.
Glad it was helpful! :)
Thank you for your video.
I'm planning my second Camino. On my first, I had the last experience that you mentioned, unfortunately. He didn't even want me to be around other pilgrims. I stayed one extra night at some place to avoid walking with him.
I’m so sorry this happened to you! 😞
Well done on shaking him off though. Sounds like v controlling behaviour.
I hope you have a fantastic next Camiño! 💚
I know the exact section you are talking about, I didn’t see anyone, but overall there were some creepy moments, completely alone in little villages that seemed abandoned. And a few dogs in basements that barked like crazy when I walked by and scared the bageezus out of me; it went with the spooky mood too well. Parts felt a bit like walking through an episode of The Walking Dead or something. But made it to Samos and met up with friends! It gave us all something to talk about and made for good Camino stories. Thanks for these videos!
Glad you got to Samos safely! I loved visiting the monastery at Samos!
Excellent advice, for everyone not just women, find yourself a group to walk with when in rural areas.
Thank you
I agree. I'm walking solo, but don't plan to walk along through remote areas. I'll find a group the night before and ask if I can walk along for the day.
planning to walk the camino portuguese solo in september. so glad to have found this video - hoping i can walk majority of it with a camino family!
You will have an incredible time! Buen Camino!
Couldn’t add a comment on the Meseta video, but those portraits in the house were outstanding, brilliant videos btw👍
The portraits were great! Thank you so much 😀
Great info and inputs Kate!
Glad you think so!
I remember a creepy guy on the way to Portomarin but fortunately there were many other pilgrims around so nothing happened. Still, this was 5 years ago and I still recall it. Beware ladies!
Happens everywhere gonna watch out for yourself ❤thanks for the info
You are welcome! 😊
Great video. Someone mentioned on a forum this week that crime was rife on the Frances but didn't provide any additional information and I don't know where they got the info from. Interesting to hear you say police think it's locals not pilgrims
Hi Sharon, I think petty crime is more of a potential issue in larger towns and cities. But by following some common sense advice and you should be fine! Also the level of crime will be minuscule compared to major cities like Paris, Barcelona etc! Buen Camino!
Twas all sound advice , it's a great shame that for women there are extra dangers, on a few occasions I've had female pilgrims ask to accompany them on the quieter sections because they've felt nervous or been spooked. That's probebly the safest option once you've made a few pilgrim friends on the trail .
I've also heard of a few thefts in alberques , again your advice was sound .
Overall the Camino is pretty safe as long as you follow the normal rules you'd follow anywhere .
Buen Camino 🙏🏼
Thanks Sean :)
Years ago I (male) was going to a pub and found myself walking behind a lady.
She kept looking back and I could see she was freaking out. I changed my route.
It was kind of you to change your route!
Tienes el camino primitivo desde Asturias a Galicia, el camino del norte, y el nas desconocido el camino ingles.
El camino ingles empieza en Inglaterra o escocia o Dinamarca o Noruega, se hace parte del camino en barco
Recientemente caminé por el Camino Inglés desde Ferrol y conocí a algunos peregrinos que habían viajado en un gran barco desde Inglaterra. ¡También he recorrido algunos tramos del camino inglés en Inglaterra! ¡Hay tantas rutas! ¡Buen Camino!
First few minutes in and I like your format! Also I wasnt sure what the pilgrimage was until I searched. Now I know its in Spain, France and Portugal.
Safe travels!
Thank you!
Hi I watched your other videos on accommodation. Im doing my first Camino in September and was wondering about whether to use a travel agency or book as I go. So thank you for clarifying that for me. I have decided to book as I go.😊
Great! You will have an amazing adventure! Buen Camino and thanks for watching my videos! ☺️
Kate, another well researched video, very well presented. I envy your fluidity!
Thank you Peter! 😊
The only unsafe situation was in Santiago. There is a local man on the city shouting and harassing women. I talked to the police and they laughed and said he is just that way.
I’m really sorry you had this experience
It’s safer to walk across Spain with a backpack by somebody who has never walked with a backpack before than it is to walk across any of the top 10 most populous US cities.
I’m sure this is true! I definitely feel safer on the Camino than in an unfamiliar city!
It's interesting to consider. I want to be mostly solo this spring on the Portuguese. My wife brought up the issues of safety. I reminded her that there's been a few murders in our town of 30,000 in the last 10 years. And I believe only 1 on the Camino. So I pointed out that it's safer to be on the Camino than it is to live in our town (which is relatively safe, don't get me wrong. I mean, there are times we don't always have our doors locked. But she didn't bring up the subject of safety to me after that. There are dangerous people everywhere, and I don't have worries about the Camino, but will still stay vigilant, and sure appreciate the tips from this video and others.
I completed the last 30k of the Camino to Santaigo in the dark reaching the city by 3am in a thunder storm I was alone and was a bit paranoid on the forest sections but it was my mind playing tricks and I was fine.
I walked alone St Jean to Logrono May 2019 and Sarria to Santiago Sept 2021. I never felt uncomfortable or threatened. I always left about 0800-0830 and sections usually took me about 5hrs. I often took the alternative routes which usually had no other pilgrims on them. I would never give my phone number or e-mail address to anyone single male or female on a holiday.
That’s great you felt safe! I did too apart from feeling a bit uncertain on this one occasion!
Advice on how to deal with fears I cannot offer, as each situation is different, but maybe just this: shit can happen anywhere … near your home when hiking in the fields or on the Camino. Not to do the Camino is not an option. You‘d miss too much. I believe, a Camino must be gone solo to get its full experience. Like all my Caminos on my most recent Camino I went solo… 2.500km. France was deserted and it was wonderful. Nothing happened. Nor in Spain, where some years back on another Camino I had an encounter of a strange kind. I mention this incident in my video #33 on my channel KaterOnBike. May it come across as a bit funny now, back then I did not think that at all … but I managed to deal with the situation kind of in a reflex and got out of there as quickly as I could. My videos are in German, but I have created English subtitles for my international friends.
Anyway, traffic is not to be an underestimated danger… and dogs … the latter not so much on the populated Camino routes … but you can find them on alternative cycle routes.
All in all: don’t let yourself be put off. Go. Buen Camino 😊
sounds like you have had some amazing adventures Kate. I agree fear should not stop you doing the Camino. Buen Camino! ☺️
@@Kate_Pilgrim Yes, it was truely awesome! Wishing you the very best for your next adventure!
Smart move to call the taxi. I plan to do the same if I ever feel uncomfortable
Buen Camino Donna!
Very helpful video. Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
On the Camino Francés, from Sarria in, be on the lookout for fake pilgrims. They are few and far between, but they are there and some of them are very good at what they do. They will steal from you in the albergues, pick your pockets in bars and restaurants, and even spike your drinks when you’re not aware. A great rule to work with: Hang out with those you met in the first 680 km.
Buen Camino!
Sadly I have heard of this approach being used and it is important to keep your wits about you and be cautious. But there are also plenty of people (genuine pilgrims) who start the pilgrimage at Sarria who struggle to feel part of the Camino community. It’s lovely to spend time with people you already know but also great to include people who have just started their Camino.
Buen Camino!
thank you
💚
I am sorry, that women especially, ever feel unsafe (justifiably) whilst doing hikes/treks/pilgrimages especially as I love my solitude and being 6ft and built more like a rugby player than a female gymnast, am able to enjoy this privilege with far reduced risks. I try do 2 treks a year which also allows my wife some peace. Being autistic and having adhd I do crave adventure but struggle with change so I am an absolute pain in the ass as a companion. Hence very lonely treks. I do enjoy this but there is some regret I cannot share experience with companions. Although I am uncomfortable socializing I do find the evenings are easier because everyone shares the common interest of the trek. Anyway I was wondering if anyone else shares this Eleanor Rigbyen version of trekking? On the Camino or otherwise.
Hi David thanks for sharing! I do enjoy time alone on the trails and I am just editing my next video where I talk about this. Most of the time I do feel safe as well - only occasionally I don’t. I also appreciate time with others, particularly at rest stops and in the evenings. I’m on the borderline of being introvert and extrovert so I sometimes like to be with others and other times like to be alone. I’m glad you are able to share the experiences of the walk with others in the evening. it’s definitely an easier starting point when you have that in common! Buen camino!
Walking too far in one day is not clever. Take in the surroundings, the people and places... head down and banging out the miles is crazy, you can do that anywhere.
Consider the weather forecast
Pack a compact emergency shelter eg Lifesystems
Energy food
Small water filter
You may have to spend the night in a downpour or with a twisted ankle.
Oh, and if you are annoying dont expect people to want to walk with you. ☹️
Be nice.
Snacks and water are important to have with you. I didn’t need a water filter (I have one but didn't bring it or need it). There are many facilities along the Camino Frances although there are some longer stretches without them.
Common sense is required, situational awareness.
Too many Western women go around the world with none of that in mind which is why we read so many harrowing reports about their demise.
Sorry did not edit my comment. Buen Camino, btw. I will be bivouing 90% of my Camino .
I would love to do some wilderness backpacking in the near future! Have an amazing time on the Camino! Buen Camino!
Click bait, I've walked the Frances 7 times. Not once have I witnessed or been told of any of this stuff
Everyone has different experiences. Everyone’s experience is valid. I’m glad you have not experienced any of this stuff.
The scariest thing is German pilgrims doing farting noise all night in albergues. What is going on Germany? Why you farting so much?