Nothing like running with bulls and surviving.  In fact we highly recommend it to anyone under the age of 90.  So here is the how to – including tricks, tips, accommodations, local knowledge etc. Click the “more” tab to get the whole scoop and prepare yourself for the fastest run of your life.

Accomodations – The Official Hotel accomodations can be seen here.  Hotel Agoretta is worth it and a nice spot to come back to after getting a bit grimey on the streets.

The Run – For a map of where the bulls actually run, see this map.  The red line labeled “Kukuxumusu” is the run.  The most important thing to note in running, is that you do NOT want to be caught in the turn in the middle of the run.  This is where the bulls often slam into the side gate as they take the turn too quickly.  Nothing like being between a gate and a bull.

The Party – It is seven days of non-stop partying, but about ten minutes before the run, police take a stroll through the racetrack, to ensure no one under age (18) and no one too drunk to survive will be in the path of the bulls.  In fact, a fairly accurate test to check your condition for running can be found here.

Tricks – You’ll want to arrive in Pamplona two full days before the first running.  The San Fermin festival is the official name of the running, and it begins the day before the first run in a wine soaked celebration in the main square.  The next morning at 8:00 a.m., is the first running of the bulls.  The run usually takes about 2 and 1/2 minutes, but there are an average of about four hospitalizations and twenty first aid from that brief time.  The bulls are run every morning for the next six morning.  Though some say actaully touching the bull is good luck, the locals tend to be more respectful and just run.  The run finishes in the bull fighting arena.  Then you can catch your breath. (Photo By Carmentxu Alemán)