When to leave in May?

[shyla]

Hi there,

I was planning to walk the Camino this October (ticket purchased and everything!) but I have had to re-schedule until May 2008 However, I am not sure when to start - the beginning or the end of the month. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.

 

[Sumachado]

Hi Shyla, Iam thinking of starting by the very end of May 08 from SJPP. I am from Brazil, Rio de Janeiro, and I do not want to risk crossing the Pirinees with snow. So I hope to get better weather then...( I don't mind hot weather, obviously...) Regards, Sumachado.

 

[Karo]

Hi Shyla, I started the Camino this year on May 8th, but had only a week to go. I'll continue on May 3th 2008. I chose the same time again because the weather and conditions were so good. Cold nights but warm days, the nature was beautiful and the albergues were not so crowded yet. It is ofcourse possible that weather could be unpredictable at that time of the year, but for me the last experience was excellent. No matter what time you choose for your departure, I hope you'll enjoy the company of other pilgrims and the Camino spirit.

Buen Camino!

Karo

 

[brendan nolan]

Hi Shyla,
Welcome to the Forum, and hope you get lots of help for your pilgrimage. Sorry your October date didn't work out.
Regarding May 2008 - don't know where you are starting from but if crossing the Pyrenees there should be no problem re snow, check with locals, but good chance of clear skies and wonderful views.
The month of May can be a good time to start, but if you start towards end of May, then as you get closer to Santiago you will be towards end of June and the Camino gets more crowded over that section at that time. Don't want to sound negative, but when working as hospitalero this year at Rabanal some days were very busy in the last half of May, ie every bed in the village was taken some nights. But then two nights later we had spare beds - if you find yourself on a section with many pilgrims and pressure on beds, drop back a day or two by doing short days.
Buen Camino
Brendan