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International Experiences

Travel and learn with us.

Pathway to Faith: El Camino de Santiago

Embark on a spiritual journey with Jasper's friends and family in Spain, from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela along the Way of Saint James (Camino de Santiago). This pilgrimage, the Way of Saint James, has been a path of faith and self-discovery for centuries.

Join Dr. Edgar Zavala on a journey that starts in Madrid, Spain, where historic architecture meets modern art, tantalizing tapas await at every corner, and the spirit of fiesta is always in the air.

From Madrid, we will go to the quaint town of Sarria, known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture. As we set off, we’ll traverse through the lush Galician countryside, soaking in the serene beauty of rolling hills, peaceful rivers, and ancient oak forests.

Along the way, we’ll visit the historic town of Portomarín, where we’ll marvel at the impressive Church of San Juan, relocated stone by stone from its original location. We’ll also pass through charming villages like Palas de Rei and Melide, each offering a unique glimpse into Spanish culture and history.

Image of VillageOur pilgrimage culminates in the sacred city of Santiago de Compostela, where we’ll visit the iconic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the final resting place of Saint James the Great. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to attend the Pilgrim’s Mass, a moving experience that brings pilgrims from all walks of life together.

This traditional Lasallian experience is a trek across Spain and a spiritual journey of faith, fellowship, and personal growth. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and join us on this unforgettable pilgrimage.

Email us at edgar.zavala@manhattan.edu to schedule a one-on-one meeting to discuss your questions further.

As a Lasallian, this experience allowed me to reconnect with my values of community and faith. As a full-time professional, I never thought I could find the time to do this journey; however, I finally did this with my two teenage sons. I learned that our path in this life is short, and I am glad I was able to make a decision that transformed my relationship with my sons and my life.

Edgar Zavala

The Camino de Santiago is not just a physical journey; it's a soul pilgrimage. It's an opportunity to disconnect from daily life's hustle and bustle, reflect on your purpose and beliefs, and emerge from the experience with a renewed sense of self and a deeper connection to the world around you. It's an adventure that leaves an indelible mark on your heart, forever reminding you of the beauty of simplicity, the power of human connection, and the enduring appeal of the Camino.

Sharon Muñoz

Agenda

Activity

Notes

Accommodation Included

Pilgrimage Maximum Elevations

Meals Included

Day 1: Arrival to Madrid

We meet in Madrid, visit Decathlon (a hiking store), and have dinner together.

Madrid

650 m/2,156 ft

Dinner

Day 2: Travel from Madrid to Sarria

We meet at the hotel and leave for Sarria (train & bus).

Sarria

486 m/1,594 ft

Breakfast @ Hotel

Day 3: Sarria to Portomarin (22.75 km/14 miles)

We start our pilgrimage at Sarria, where we will visit the Church of Santa Marina.

Portomarin

660 m/2,165 ft

Breakfast @ Hotel

Day 4: Portomarin – Palas de Rei (25 km/ 15 miles)

We continue our pilgrimage, where we will get our templar's stamp at 78 km from Santiago de Compostela.

Palas de Rei

720 m/2,362 ft

Breakfast @ Hotel

Day 5: Palas de Rei – Melide (14.9 km/ 9.2 miles)

We continue our pilgrimage and visit the "Pulperia."

Melide

515 m/1,670 ft

Breakfast @ Hotel

Day 6: Melide - Arzúa (15 km/ 9.3 miles)

We continue our pilgrimage and visit the Church of Santiago upon our arrival.

Arzúa

515 m/1,670 ft

Breakfast @ Hotel

Day 7: Arzúa – O Pino/O Pedrouzo Stage (19,1 km/ 12 miles)

We continue our pilgrimage and visit the Church of Santa Eulalia de Arca.

O Pino

420 m/1,378 ft

Breakfast @ Hotel

Day 8: O Pino/O Pedrouzo – Santiago de Compostela Stage (22,75 km/14 miles)

We continue our pilgrimage, arrive at Santiago de Compostela, and gather at the Cathedral. We get our final stamp and get our Compostela.

Santiago

370 m/1,214 ft

Breakfast @ Hotel

Group Dinner

Day 9: End of the Experience

This is the end of our group experience.

Santiago

Breakfast @ Hotel

  • Program Fees

    June 2 - 10, 2025: $4,860 $3,600

    - A $500 deposit must be made during registration using this link.

    Included:

    • Hotels, see Accommodations notes in the agenda.
    • Welcome and farewell group dinners and all breakfasts at hotels.
    • Daily Luggage transfers up to 20 kg from Sarria through Santiago
    • 24 Hr. Assistance Vehicle days 1-6 from location to hospital or health clinic
    • Pilgrim's Credentials
    • Compostela Certificate
    • All local transfers
    • Manhattan College souvenir

    Not included:

    • Flights to arrive in Madrid and depart from Sarria
    • Travel and health insurance
    • Lunch & dinner

Dates & Registration

June 2 - 11, 2025
Registration deadline: March 15th, 2025

Register

For questions or to schedule a one-on-one meeting to discuss this program, please email us at edgar.zavala@manhattan.edu.

  • Participants must have a valid passport to travel to Spain with an expiration date of more than six months from traveling to the date of return.
  • Participants must show proof of accident/medical insurance for the time of the experience. Manhattan University may provide this service at an additional cost.
  • Participants must submit a letter from their primary physician stating they are physically fit to participate in this experience. The letter must disclose all health issues (if any).
  • We will be walking a range of 14-18 miles per day. 

Cancellation, Refund Processing & Changes

Manhattan University reserves the right to vary its programs and to reschedule or cancel an event if it is under-subscribed or for any other reason. Manhattan University attempts to give participants at least one month's notice if the event is rescheduled or canceled.

Please provide a valid email address and phone number during registration. If Manhattan University cancels events for any reason, you will receive a full refund.

Suppose the participant cancels attendance at the program for any reason and provides at least two months’ notice of cancellation before the program start-day. In that case, the participant will be entitled to a full refund, less a one-time processing fee of $100.00.

Cancellation of participant attendance with less than two months’ notice forfeits the participant’s rights to a refund.

Please remember that refund processing usually takes 4 – 6 weeks (this timeframe depends on your financial institution).