South Africans Walking the Camino: Pilgrimage or Adventure

Abstract

The Camino Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela is an institution that has been operative for more than 1200 years. The European summer months see hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, whether they be persons of faith, agnostics or even atheists, walking the different routes to the city of Santiago de Compostela in the north-west of Spain. To be officially recognised as a pilgrim, by the cathedral authorities, a participant must walk at least 100 km or travel 200 km by bicycle or on horseback along the route. Most carry their luggage with them, making them backpackers. They are usually on a tight budget, have flexible itineraries and opt for inexpensive basic accommodation. This explorative case study looks at the reasons why South Africans undertake the Camino. The results show that they represent a much older group as opposed to the typical Camino pilgrim or international backpacker. Unlike many other documented Camino pilgrims, men do not undertake the journey for religious or spiritual reasons; rather they embark on the trip to fulfil their leisure, recreational and adventurous inclinations. Their female counterparts see it as a personal challenge and a cathartic experience after having lived through a traumatic event. Lastly, some may use it as an opportunity to immerse themselves in their ancestral European heritage.