The Ultimate Guide to the running of the bulls (encierro) in Pamplona

Your Complete Pamplona Bull Run Guide: Tours, Safety, and Expert Tips

The running of the bulls—or Encierro in Spanish—is one of the most exhilarating and dangerous traditions in the world. While most people associate it with Pamplona’s San Fermín Festival, bull runs happen year-round in various cities across Spain, Portugal, Mexico, and France.

The Pamplona Bull Run remains the most famous, drawing thousands of runners and spectators every July. If you’re planning to participate, Encierro.com offers the only bull run tour led by current runners, providing pre-run guidance to help first-timers understand the risks, rules, and strategies.

📌 Book a runner-led bull run tour now: Encierro.com

What is the Running of the Bulls (Encierro)?

The Encierro (meaning "confinement" or "encircling") is a centuries-old tradition where bulls are released into the streets and guided toward a bullring by runners and herders. While Pamplona’s running of the bulls is the most well-known, similar events happen in cities like Cuéllar, San Sebastián de los Reyes, and Segorbe. These runs are deeply rooted in Spanish culture and were originally meant to transport bulls for bullfights.

📌 More about the origins of the Encierro: Wikipedia

Where is the Running of the Bulls?

The most famous Encierro takes place in Pamplona, the capital of Navarre, Spain, during the San Fermín Festival. However, bull runs happen across Spain and beyond, including:

✔ Cuéllar (Castile and León): The oldest bull run in Spain, dating back to 1215.
✔ San Sebastián de los Reyes (Madrid): Known as "the Pamplona of Madrid."
✔ Segorbe (Valencia): Features a unique running of bulls accompanied by horsemen.
✔ Other towns in Spain, France, and Mexico host their own variations.

📍 Pamplona Bull Run Location: Old Town Pamplona, Navarre, Spain

📌 More on the Running of the Bulls worldwide: Wikipedia

Why Does the Running of the Bulls Happen?

The Running of the Bulls is both a practical and cultural tradition. Originally, it was a way to move bulls from their pens to the bullring before bullfights. Over time, daring locals began running in front of them, turning it into a test of courage and skill.

Today, it remains a symbol of Spanish heritage, especially in Pamplona, where it honors Saint Fermín, the city’s patron saint.

When is the Running of the Bulls?

The Pamplona Bull Run happens every morning at 8:00 AM from July 7 to July 14 during the San Fermín Festival.

📆 Festival Dates: July 6 – July 14
🏃 Bull Runs: Daily, July 7 – July 14, at 8:00 AM

💡 Bull runs in other cities happen throughout the year, with some towns hosting multiple runs during their local festivals.

How to Run with the Bulls – Expert Guide

Running with the bulls isn’t just about speed—it’s about strategy, positioning, and awareness.

✔ Take a Guided Bull Run Tour: Learn the route and strategies with current runners at Encierro.com.
✔ Know Your Starting Spot: Each section of the course presents unique dangers.
✔ Stay Alert: Keep your focus on the bulls, not the runners around you.
✔ Run at the Right Time: Timing is everything—start too early, and you miss the bulls; start too late, and you risk getting trampled.
✔ Never Touch the Bulls: It’s illegal and highly dangerous.

🎥 Watch the ultimate guide to running with the bulls by Dennis Clancey:
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Official Rules of the Encierro (Bull Run)

Breaking the rules can result in arrest, fines, or being banned from the run. Pamplona strictly enforces these regulations:

🚫 Forbidden Actions for Runners:

No one under 18 years old may participate.
No drinking alcohol before the run.
No provoking, touching, or obstructing the bulls.
No running backward or stopping.
No cameras, GoPros.

📖 Full Official Rules: Pamplona City Guide

The San Fermín Festival: More Than Just the Bull Run

The San Fermín Festival is a nine-day celebration featuring:

🎇 Chupinazo (Opening Ceremony): A rocket launch at noon on July 6 starts the fiesta.
🎶 Live Music & Parades: Non-stop concerts, dances, and celebrations.
🐂 The Encierro (Bull Run): The daily highlight at 8:00 AM.
🕯 Pobre de Mí (Closing Ceremony): A candlelit farewell on July 14.

📰 More on San Fermín Festival: Wikipedia

The Bull Run Route & Course Breakdown

🏁 Santo Domingo Street: The bulls exit the corral at full speed—one of the most dangerous sections.
🏃 City Hall Square ("Ayuntamiento"): A narrow passage where runners must stay alert.
⚠ Mercaderes & The Curve: Please never call it "Dead Man’s Corner" - the term is disrespectful to runners.
🔄 Estafeta Street: The longest stretch, where experienced runners excel.
🏟 The Bullring (Plaza de Toros): The final destination of the bulls.

How to Watch the Running of the Bulls

🎟 Best Viewing Spots:
✔ Balcony Seats: Get the best view by booking through Encierro.com.
✔ Street Viewpoints: Arrive by 5:30 AM to secure a spot.
✔ Live Broadcast: Watch from home on Spanish TV.

Guided Bull Run Tours with Real Runners – Encierro.com

The best way to prepare is with a runner-led guided tour at Encierro.com.

✔ Led by experienced bull runners – Learn from those who run every day.
✔ Full route breakdown – Know where to start and when to run.
✔ Get expert insights – Learn survival tactics from professionals.

📌 Book your Pamplona Bull Run Tour now: Encierro.com

Final Thoughts on the Running of the Bulls

The Running of the Bulls (Encierro) is one of the most dangerous and thrilling traditions in Spain. Whether you’re running or watching, understanding the event is crucial.

📢 Don’t run unprepared—get expert guidance! Encierro.com offers pre-run tours to help first-time runners make informed decisions.

Experience the tradition. Feel the adrenaline. Stay safe.

🏆 Your journey starts here: Encierro.com