Camino de Santiago Pilgrim Credential

If this is the year you've decided to walk the historic Camino de Santiago, here's all you need to know to make it unforgettable. Getting the Credential is vital — here's what it does and where to get it.

This passport-like document lets you collect stamps from the hostels and places you pass through. It's also needed to stay at hostels and to obtain the Compostela in Santiago.

The Credential is a triptych with boxes for stamps, pilgrim data, maps, routes and Camino information. There are different models; the official one is recommended — though not mandatory, some hostels require it to issue the Compostela.

What is the Camino Credential for?

The Credential is the easiest way to identify each of the thousands of pilgrims who walk every year. It's also used to collect the stamps you get at hostels and waypoints to request the Compostela on arrival.

Recommended for all pilgrims for easier hostel access. "La Compostela" is only issued after proving you walked a set distance — the Credential serves as proof through its stamps.

Space for stamps is limited — stamp only where you sleep so you don't fill the document. If you want every stamp, keep a separate diary.

How to get the Camino Credential

Quite simple — usually requested at a church or its institutions; you can even ask in your own city with time. Associations of Friends of the Camino and public institutions can also issue them.

Symbolic price of €1.5–€2 depending on the issuer. You must present your ID or passport, and the request must be made in person.

If you're travelling to Galicia for the Camino, try to get it before leaving. Otherwise you can do so on arrival at Camino churches or some hostels. At the Church of Santa María la Real of O Cebreiro you can request it for €1.50.

Where to get the Camino Credential

Easiest to request at Camino churches and parish churches in many points of Spain and Europe by prior arrangement. Also at Jacobean Associations — some accept online or phone requests. On route you'll find many refuges and hostels too. Many websites offer online applications.

Some places to get the Credential:

• Cathedral of Santiago, Pilgrim's Office — tel. 981 562419, fax 981566030, oficina.peregrinos@planalfa.es. Recommended for large groups.
• Roncesvalles: Pilgrim's Office.
• Larrasoaña: Hostel, ask for D. Santiago Zubiri.
• Pamplona: Hostel. Also at the University of Navarra campus.
• Estella: Hostel.
• Logroño: Hostel.
• Santo Domingo de la Calzada: Hostel, Brotherhood of the Saint.
• Burgos: Hostel.
• León: Municipal hostel.
• Astorga: Municipal hostel.
• Ponferrada: La Encina Parish, Hostel and Association.
• Molinaseca: Alfredo's hostel.
• Villafranca del Bierzo: Ave Fénix hostel.
• O Cebreiro: Church and hostel.
• Sarria: Hostel.
• All Camino Associations.