Completing the Camino in a wheelchair

[Welshchief]

Hi everyone,

I am a wheelchair user and want to do the camino - Any advice? would it be possible? I can walk some distance, but could need to use the chair at times.

Welshchief

 

[fraluchi]

I am a wheelchair user and want to do the camino - Any advice? would it be possible? I can walk some distance, but could need to use the chair at times.

Where there is a will, there is a way (ergo: Camino)
In October last year I scouted the Camino Francés from Sarria to Santiago (approx. 110 km) to investigate possibilities to do this stretch in a wheelchair. There are a number of short rocky tracks and creek crossings, as well as ascents and descents which are excessively difficult. Particularly nasty parts are between Peruscallo (km 102 before Santiago) and Ferreiros (about 4 km in total). From there to Moimentos, it's a mixture of difficult path surfaces. From Vilachá to Portomarín there is a long and steep descent, and from Portomarín the ascent is exhausting. Other bad bits are between Ponte Campaña, past Casanova and until Campanillo, after which the road is asphalted. Steep ups and downs again after Boente, and until Arzúa it's a lot of breaking and heavy pushing. Often these difficulties can be circumvented by taking an alternative route. It can be done, but obviously needs a bit of planning and assistance by a fit walker should be considered.
Animo :!:

 

[RENSHAW]

I HAVE SEEN IT DONE! Yes Chief , it is possible.

10 years ago while I was walking the Camino , there was a Spanish chap that did the whole Camino Frances in a wheelchair - he had no use of his legs at all.
His wife accompanied him throughout. Where the paths were too tough , they took to the road.
This was some time back and they were still able to cope - nowdays there are far more albergues and hostals that are handicap friendly.
As well as much of the Camino Frances now has maintained paths , some even paved.
I also think that you will find a volunteer or two on this forum that will offer to help you through your Camino if need be.
START PLANNING!
Ps. that is if you are not elderly and frail - then you need to look at a camino by car.