Advice for Pilgrims departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

1. First stop: the Pilgrims' Office (Maison Laborde, 39 rue de la Citadelle)

This central location warmly welcomes pilgrims throughout the year. Here you will find:

• Your credential , a true pilgrim's "passport", with departure stamp.
• Maps , information sheets in several languages describing the stage to Roncesvalles, accommodation, water points, route alternatives, health, luggage transport, etc. Saint Jean Pied de Port pelerinsdecompostelle.com Compostelle.fr
• A friendly atmosphere with dedicated volunteers: in 2024, 156 people of 121 nationalities accompanied 58,451 pilgrims Compostelle.fr pelerinsdecompostelle.com .
• Opening hours: every day from 7:00/7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (or even until 10:00 p.m. on certain days) Compostelle.fr+1 Saint Jean Pied de Port .

• Good feedback from pilgrims:

  ""Great folks & they'll talk about weather, route options…""
  ""They give you the passport for €2… and very welcoming"" Reddit .

2. Equipment and final preparations

• Specialty shops like La Boutique du Pèlerin orDirection Compostelle offers you technical equipment (shoes, poles, backpacks, topos, guides, souvenirs, etc.) and valuable advice boutique-du-pelerin.com guides-cheminsdecompostelle.com .
• Take the opportunity to equip yourself, dry your shoes, or even consult the Internet if necessary (some places offer this service) guides-cheminsdecompostelle.com .

3. Physical, mental and luggage preparation

• Recommended training : regular walks with a backpack (nearly 10% of your body weight) to prepare your body randonnee.org verscompostelle.be .
• Suitable shoes : well-broken in, comfortable, with technical socks, to avoid blisters randonnee.org elcaminoconcorreos.com .
• Light & well-organized bag : clear list, bag adjusted to your body shape, rain cover, poles, hygiene kit, first aid kit, small pharmacy, lamp, useful papers... rp08.eu.
• Mental aspects :
  • Find out more through testimonials, associations, and groups to help you mentally prepare for the Camino de Santiago .
  • Gradually disconnect from the watch: the path is lived to the rhythm of the sun and the present moment. Way of St. James .

4. Life on the road: pilgrims' advice

• Travel light:
  • Example of a pilgrim: ""Travel light... less than 4 changes of clothes, laundry every 3 days... flip-flops for the shower... bucket hat/cap, sunscreen... always €50 in cash…""
• Think about the Compostella — final certificate — which you can request before leaving
• Respect your body: reasonable stages (~20–25 km/day), recommended rest days, listen to your rhythm verscompostelle.be randonnee.org .

In summary: your key steps at the start

1. Visit the Pilgrims' Office for your credentials, itinerary and advice.
2. Take a trip to a specialist shop and adjust your equipment.
3. Check your physical, logistical, mental and rational preparations.
4. Prepare to travel light and listen to your body.
5. Immerse yourself in the pilgrim spirit: encounters, silence, simplicity, tradition.