North foundation Camino de Santiago

Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes of Spain on the NORTH Foundation Camino de Santiago Trek 2026. Trek for a cause that matters to you, make a difference, and change lives.

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 5-11 September 2026

Travel Dates

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$390 $240

Registration Fee

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$3,525

Trip Cost

Paid upfront or in instalments

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3.5/5

Challenge Grade

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111km

Trekking Distance

Give Back to the Community

$3,000

Fundraising Target

Early bird offer: sign up before 30 June 2025 and save $150 on your registration fee!

A Journey with Purpose

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the final 111km of Spain’s legendary Camino de Santiago, while raising funds to address our most critical health challenges. Whether it’s mental health, cancer, paediatric or aged care, or another area of healthcare close to your heart.

Walk in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims as you traverse the breathtaking Galician countryside, passing quaint hamlets, Roman ruins, and traditional stilted hórreos. By day, soak in the history and beauty of the trail; by night, immerse yourself in Spain’s vibrant culture and cuisine. And when you finally arrive at Santiago de Compostela, the sense of achievement is truly unmatched.

Every step supports the NORTH Foundation in advancing health and medical research; improving patient care, driving vital research, and supporting healthcare professionals through education and training.

Best of all, you won’t be walking alone. You’ll share this incredible experience with a group of passionate individuals, forging lifelong friendships while making a real difference.

NORTH Foundation Camino de Santiago Trek 2026

The NORTH Foundation is the charity partner of the Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD), which includes Royal North Shore, Ryde, Hornsby Ku-ring-gai and Mona Vale hospitals and more. We also support the Kolling Institute, NSW’s oldest medical research institute, and the Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice, Australia’s first dedicated service for young people with life-limiting illness. 

Join us on the NORTH Foundation Camino de Santiago Trek 2026 to challenge yourself and help close the gap between today’s needs and tomorrow’s possibilities.

How it works

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FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS

Pay upfront or in flexible instalments.
Cancel more than 90 days before departure to receive refund options (excluding deposit).
For more details, see our FAQs.
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Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Teamwork

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Our adventure begins in Sarria, in north-western Spain. Upon arrival, make your own way to our accommodation. Later this afternoon you’ll meet your guides and the rest of your team mates for a briefing on what to expect over the next week of our adventure. Make sure you rest up tonight, as we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow! 

Accommodation: 2-star hotel

Meals: None

Today, we begin our Camino! On the path from Sarria to Portomarin, we’ll traverse quiet country roads through pretty villages and peaceful hamlets, under the shade of oak trees. Along the way, we’ll spot many Galician traditional ‘hórreos’ (granaries), some of which date back to the 12th century. We’ll make a stop to visit the beautiful Romanesque church in the village of Barbadelo. After a rewarding day of trekking, we’ll arrive at our accommodation in Portomarin for a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation: 1-star hotel

Trekking distance: 22km

Meals: Breakfast

Our route today sees us crossing the river Miño (Galicia’s longest river), and trekking steadily uphill towards the Serra de Ligonde. We’ll pass the beautiful Gonzar and Vetas de Narón hamlets, and stop at two more iconic churches; the Romanesque Church of Santa María in Castromaior and the Romanesque church in Eirexe, with its portal featuring a sculpture of Daniel with animals, as well as Pilgrim Santiago.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Trekking distance: 22km

Meals: Breakfast

The Camino trail continues downhill today, passing the village of Casanova and the delightful village of Leboreiro. We’ll be taking a break in the lively market town of Melide, where we can try octopus, Galicia’s most classic dish, in one of the many ‘pulperías’. The Camino crosses several streams and follows a forest track before bringing us to the village of Boente and the church of Santiago. Next, we’ll head to the medieval hamlet of Ribadiso and finally the town of Arzúa, famous for its local cheese. In Arzúa, we’ll visit the churches of Santa María and A Magdalena, if time permits. 

Accommodation: 2-star hotel

Trekking distance: 28km

Meals: Breakfast

We’ll spend much of today winding through picturesque woods, sleepy villages and across quaint streams. We’ll pass the chapel of Santa Irene, known of its unique statue of Santiago, and spend the remainder of the day on gentle country roads and lush forest tracks until we arrive in Amenal, our home for the night. Tomorrow is the final stretch!

Accommodation: 2-star hotel

Trekking distance: 23km

Meals: Breakfast

Our final day of trekking takes us to Lavacolla in the outskirts of Santiago, where pilgrims used to wash themselves in the river in preparation for their arrival in Santiago de Compostela. Rows of tall eucalyptus trees line our journey to Monte do Gozo (‘Mount of Joy’ 368m) and it’s from here that we’ll cacth our first glimpse of the spires of the cathedral in Santiago. When we arrive in the city, we’ll be able to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s architecture and the wonderful atmosphere of this spiritual and cultural city. With only 16km to walk today, we should be in Santiago in time for the pilgrim mass (12pm). 

After visiting Santiago Cathedral and recovering from our walk, we can take time to explore this gem of a city, which is small and vibrant. In Santiago de Compostela you will find not only pilgrims but also locals and students, enjoying a few bites and socialising over a glass of wine in the many bars, restaurants and cosy cafes - the perfect place to celebrate your wonderful achievement.

Accommodation: 2-star hotel

Trekking distance: 16km

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, say goodbye to your fellow teammates and guides as our adventure has come to a close! Make your own way to the airport or for your onward journey, taking with you the memories of an incredible achievement. 

Meals: Breakfast

Package Inclusions: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in 1-3 star hotels based on twin-share • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • Professional English-speaking guide • Entrance fees as per itinerary

Package Exclusions: Airfares • Airport transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

NORTH Foundation - El Camino 2026 (Open Challenge)

Why you'll love this adventure

  • Trek under the warm Spanish sun, into historic hamlets, beside bubbling rivers and across mountain meadows
  • Discover the colour, culture and cuisine of Spain
  • Retrace the footsteps of history along the Camino de Santiago
  • Make new friends while making a difference to patient care and research so people can enjoy good health throughout their lives

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventures.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3.5/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Camino trek is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 111 kilometres over 5 days. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. 

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks. 

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

NORTH Foundation has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $50 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and NORTH Foundation you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

How do I train for this adventure? 

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. 

What is the accommodation like? 

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 1-3 star hotels and country cottages (pensions). Some of the hotels, particularly in small towns, are older buildings and may not have amenities like lifts. Hotels and cottages will have modern and clean amenities with toilet paper provided. 

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

How is my luggage transported?

You will only need to carry a day-pack with you each day. Your main luggage will be transported between accommodation for you.

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for the NORTH Foundation are tax-deductible.

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $3,915 which is inclusive of:

  • Registration fee: $390 (non-refundable after 5 days)
  • Travel cost: $3,525 (includes a $950 non-refundable travel deposit)

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,000 (per person) for the NORTH Foundation.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

  • Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund (less card transaction fees).
  • Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit, $390 registration fee and card transaction fees.
  • Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?

Australian passport holders do not require a visa to enter Spain. From mid-2025, visitors to 30 different European countries including Spain will require an e-visa known as ETIAS. This costs €7 and is valid for 3 years. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

Take this new and exciting corporate social responsibility initiative and see your staff and brand take on this adventure as a team.

An Inspired Adventure with the NORTH Foundation offers the following benefits:

  • Employee engagement opportunities to attract and retain staff
  • Long-term partnership with the NORTH Foundation and increased community engagement
  • Improved employee wellness through the impact of paying it forward
  • Increased brand value through unique PR opportunities
  • Improved workplace mental and physical health with a focus on fitness and training for the challenge
  • Increased visibility through an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility
  • Team building opportunities across departments through the achievement of a common goal
  • Great networking opportunities

Find out more by downloading our corporate sponsorship pack HERE.

 

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.