“I Would Never Do It Again”: One Woman’s Harrowing Camino de Santiago Experience Sparks Safety Concerns
For many, walking the Camino de Santiago is a spiritual journey — a path of reflection, self-discovery, and connection. But for 36-year-old Lisa Morgan of Oregon, what began as a lifelong dream turned into a frightening wake-up call about solo travel safety.
Morgan embarked on the Camino Frances route in late spring of 2024, planning to walk the 500-mile trail over five weeks. She had researched, prepared meticulously, and read countless stories of pilgrims finding healing along the way. What she didn’t expect was to feel so vulnerable, so alone — and, at times, afraid for her life.
“There were moments I felt completely invisible and yet too visible all at once,” Morgan told us in an exclusive interview. “As a woman walking alone, I thought I’d find peace. Instead, I found fear.”
Morgan described multiple unsettling encounters — men following her on isolated stretches, being watched at hostels, and even one incident where a man attempted to grab her backpack. She escaped unharmed, but the emotional toll was lasting.
“I’d lie awake at night replaying every step I took, every wrong turn, wondering if I made a mistake doing this alone,” she said. “I don’t want to discourage others, but I also won’t sugarcoat what I went through. This is not something I would ever do again.”
Her story has struck a chord with other female pilgrims who’ve shared similar experiences online, prompting renewed discussions about the need for stronger safety measures on the popular trail.
Camino safety advocates are now urging local authorities to increase surveillance on remote trail sections and to improve emergency response systems. Meanwhile, Morgan is using her platform to educate and empower others.
“I still believe in the spirit of the Camino,” she said, “but women deserve to feel safe in their search for meaning — not terrified.”
Despite her painful experience, Morgan remains proud of finishing the journey. “The road changed me, but not in the way I thought it would,” she said quietly. “I came looking for peace. What I found was my voice.”
Her advice for other women? “Go with someone. Trust your gut. And never apologize for turning around if something doesn’t feel right.”
Sometimes, strength means finishing the path. Other times, it means knowing when to walk away.
