In recent years, the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain has become more popular than ever. And it has existed for centuries. Every year, millions of people embark on the journey to fulfill their dream of walking nearly 800 kilometers to reach the Cathedral of Santiago and complete one of the world’s most famous pilgrimages.
The good news is that you no longer need to cross the Atlantic to experience something very similar. In Mexico, Querétaro has just inaugurated its own Camino de Santiago, a route that promises adventure, reflection, nature, and delicious local cuisine—because yes, that counts too.
Querétaro Inaugurates the Camino de Santiago
In early January 2026, the governor of Querétaro, Mauricio Kuri, along with the Order of the Knights of the Camino de Santiago, officially approved this new route, which will cover 127 kilometers through the Sierra Gorda mountains, divided into seven stages.
According to Alejandro Rubín, president of the International Association for Cooperation and Tourism Development, this route—known as the Camino Iniciatico (Initiatory Way)—is a replica of the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) that European pilgrims have traveled since the Middle Ages to venerate the apostle.
And it’s not a hastily copied version: the route has the symbolic blessing of the original Camino de Santiago, making Querétaro a new point of interest for pilgrims, travelers, and adventurers seeking the experience but unable (or unwilling) to travel to Spain.
Where does the Camino de Santiago pass through Querétaro?
This route traverses some of the state’s most spectacular landscapes, passing through the following municipalities:
Pinal de Amoles
Landa de Matamoros
Arroyo Seco
Jalpan de Serra
During the journey, you’ll walk among mountains, rivers, and waterfalls, as well as cross towns brimming with history, culture, and traditional cuisine that, let’s be honest, make the experience even better.
A key—and very appealing—point is that, unlike the original Camino in Spain, the Camino de Santiago in Querétaro is low-impact. You don’t need to be an athlete or in peak physical condition to complete it. The route is designed to be safe, accessible, and enjoyable, even for those experiencing this type of journey for the first time.
Furthermore, the Sierra Gorda is a peaceful and well-maintained area, making the route virtually risk-free for hikers.
So, the question is: what do you say? Shall we embark on the Camino de Santiago, Querétaro version?
Source: directoalpaladar
