How to Run with Bulls
Expert Guidance from Experienced Bull Runners for a Safer Encierro Experience
The running of the bulls (encierro) in Pamplona is one of the most exhilarating and dangerous traditions in the world. As experienced bull runners who have participated in countless bull runs, our team at Encierro provides authentic guidance based on years of firsthand experience at the running of the bulls. This comprehensive guide offers essential advice for anyone considering participating in this challenging event during the San Fermín Festival.
Important Safety Notice
Running with the bulls is extremely dangerous and can result in serious injury or death. Since record keeping began in 1910, 16 people have died during the bull running in Pamplona, with dozens more injured each year.
This guide is provided for educational purposes only. Encierro strongly recommends consulting with experienced guides in person before deciding to participate. Consider booking a pre-run tour with our experts for personalized guidance.
General Disclaimer
The information on this page is meant to give you an initial starting point for conversations about how to approach the run. Don't take anything on this page as absolute truth—rather, it should drive conversation and thought. This content is meant to complement an in-person discussion about the running of the bulls with our experienced guides. Nothing we share on this website should be taken as guaranteeing one's safety on the run. Anyone who gets on the run route is accepting the risk of injury and death.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Run
Suitable Participants
- Physically fit individuals capable of sprinting
- Those with quick reflexes and good situational awareness
- People who have studied the route and bull behavior
- Individuals who have received proper instruction from experienced runners
- Those who understand and accept the risks involved
Unsuitable Participants
- Anyone under the age of 18 (legally prohibited)
- Individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Those with limited mobility or health conditions
- People who haven't properly studied the route
- Anyone planning to take photos or videos during the bull run
- Anyone not prepared to accept the dangerous consequences
Physical Preparation
Proper bull run training is essential for anyone considering participating in the encierro. The physical demands of running with the bulls require specific preparation to ensure you can react quickly and maintain awareness in a high-stress situation.
Training Recommendations
Sprint Training
Bulls run at 15–20 mph (24–32 km/h). Practice short, explosive sprints to match this pace.
Agility Drills
Work on quick direction changes, lateral movements, and reaction time.
Hill Training
The route begins with an uphill section. Train on inclines to prepare and boost speed and explosiveness.
Endurance
Build cardiovascular fitness to react to the demands of the run.
Preparation Timeline
As experienced bull runners, we recommend beginning your preparation as soon as you determine that you intend to run—hopefully at least 8 weeks prior to San Fermín. This gives your body time to adapt to the specific demands of the encierro while reducing injury risk. Remember that proper bull running strategy requires both physical capability and mental clarity.
Understanding the Route
The Pamplona bull run route spans approximately 875 meters through Pamplona's historic streets. Each section presents unique challenges and requires specific strategies. Studying our detailed Pamplona bull run route map is essential for understanding the terrain and planning your run.
1. Santo Domingo (Starting Hill)
- • Uphill section, narrow street
- • Bulls are at their freshest and fastest
- • Strategy: Prepare for an explosive uphill sprint; more technical given speed and incline
- • Not recommended for first-time runners
- • Stay to the sides
2. Town Hall Square (Ayuntamiento)
- • Wide open space, generally flat
- • Route widens and banks left with two small turns leading to Mercaderes
- • Bulls are still fairly fresh and moving very quickly
3. Mercaderes and La Curva
(Not "Dead Man's Corner"—we never use that term)
- • Sharp 90-degree turn onto Estafeta
- • Bulls often slip or fall here
- • Extremely dangerous section
- • Should be avoided by first-time runners
- • Be prepared for bulls to lose footing
4. Estafeta Street
- • Long, straight section—longest stretch of the route
- • Limited barriers to exit the run route
- • Bulls typically moving at a more uniform speed
5. Telefónica
- • Widest part of the run route
- • Bulls are tired but still dangerous
- • Runners who start too early tend to bunch up here, creating crowds
- • Despite being wider, not necessarily safer
6. Callejón
- • Narrowest part of the run route
- • Very dangerous and known for pileups
- • Can create bottlenecks
- • Not recommended for first-time runners
7. The Sand of the Bullring (Plaza de Toros)
- • Can be very dangerous—bulls don't always go immediately into their paddocks
- • Bulls may still be running around on the sand as runners enter
- • Never assume your run is over until you're behind a barrier
- • Running on sand heightens the probability of slipping, especially transitioning from stone surface
Proper Bull Running Attire
Traditional Outfit
- White shirt and pants — Preferably made of lightweight, breathable fabric
- Red sash (faja) — Tied around your waist with a slipknot that can break away if caught
- Red bandana (pañuelo) — Tied with a slipknot around the neck
- Running shoes — Comfortable with good grip; avoid new shoes that haven't been broken in
What to Avoid
- Cameras or phones — They distract you and others, creating dangerous situations
- Backpacks and bags — Can get caught on barriers, bulls, and other runners; you'll likely be removed from the run route
- Loose clothing — Anything that can snag or trip you up
- Valuable items — Watches, jewelry, anything you don't want to lose or damage
- Inappropriate footwear — Flip flops, sandals, or dress shoes that lack necessary traction
Timing and Logistics
Schedule
Dates
July 7–14 each year during the San Fermín Festival
Start Time
8:00 AM sharp, signaled by a rocket
Duration
Typically 2–3 minutes for the entire herd to complete the course
Active Running Time
Most runners are actively running only 15–20 seconds
Arrival Time
Be at your chosen position by 7:00–7:15 AM at the latest
Police Closure
Access to the route is closed by police at approximately 7:30 AM
Pre-Run Ritual
Many runners participate in the traditional prayer to San Fermín at 7:55 AM.
Choosing Your Starting Position
Your starting position is one of the most critical decisions for a safe and successful bull running experience. Based on our years of participating in the encierro, we recommend different sections based on your experience level.
For First-Time Runners
Recommended:
Town Hall Square (Ayuntamiento) or Upper Estafeta Street
Why:
- • Better visibility of approaching bulls
- • More space to maneuver
- • Multiple options to avoid bulls
For Experienced Runners
Options:
Santo Domingo (starting hill), Mercaderes (approaching La Curva), Lower Estafeta
Challenges:
- • Requires quick reactions
- • Higher risk of falls and collisions
- • More technical running required
Avoid for First-Timers
Sections:
La Curva, Telefónica and Callejón
Why:
- • Bulls often fall and lose formation
- • Extreme bottlenecks create pileups
- • Highest historical injury rates
For personalized advice on choosing a starting position based on your specific abilities and goals, consider booking a guided tour with our team.
Book a TourWhat to Do After the Run
Immediate Steps
Medical Check
Even if you feel fine, check yourself for injuries. Adrenaline can mask pain. Visit the Red Cross for any medical attention and to get wounds cleaned.
Hydrate
Drink water to recover from physical exertion and potential dehydration.
Reconnect
Meet up with your group at a predetermined location. We recommend Bar Txoko in Plaza de Castillo.
Post-Run Activities
Traditional Breakfast
Many runners celebrate with a traditional breakfast after the run
Rest
Consider taking a siesta to recover from the early morning and the intense experience
Historical Context
Understanding the history of the encierro adds depth to your experience.
The running of the bulls originated in the 13th century as a practical way to transport bulls from outside the city to the bullring for afternoon corridas. Over time, this practical necessity evolved into a cultural tradition and test of courage.
The current 875-meter route through Pamplona's historic streets has changed numerous times over the centuries, and safety measures have evolved. Wooden barriers now line the route, and medical teams are stationed at strategic points.
Despite these precautions, the fundamental nature of the event—running alongside six fighting bulls and their accompanying steers—remains true to its historic roots.
For a deeper understanding of how this tradition developed and its cultural significance, we recommend exploring the history of the encierro.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before the Run
- Drinking alcohol
- Failing to study the route
- Wearing inappropriate footwear
- Not having a clear plan
During the Run
- Taking photos or videos
- Touching or taunting the bulls
- Attempting to run the entire course
- Stopping suddenly in the path
Dangerous Behaviors
- Getting up after falling while bulls are still nearby
- Running against the flow of the run
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can run with the bulls in Pamplona?
Anyone over the age of 18 can participate, provided they're sober and physically fit enough to sprint and react quickly under pressure. The run is free to participate in, but proper preparation is strongly recommended.
What should I wear when running with the bulls?
The traditional outfit consists of white clothes with a red sash (faja) around your waist and a red bandana (pañuelo) around your neck. Both should be tied with slipknots so they can break away if caught. Wear comfortable running shoes with good grip and avoid accessories. See our guide to proper bull running attire for more details.
What is the best section to run in Pamplona?
For first-time runners, Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) and the upper part of Estafeta Street are recommended. More experienced runners often prefer Santo Domingo (the initial uphill section) or Mercaderes. The curve at Mercaderes/Estafeta and the entrance to the bullring are the most technically challenging sections and are not recommended for first-time runners.
What time does the running of the bulls start?
The run begins precisely at 8:00 AM each morning from July 7–14. Runners should be positioned by 7:00–7:15 AM, as police close access by 7:30 AM. The run itself typically lasts 2–3 minutes, but an individual runner's experience might only be 15–20 seconds of actual running.
What happens if I fall during the bull run?
If you fall, stay down and protect your head with your hands. Do not attempt to get up until the entire herd of bulls has passed. Getting up prematurely is one of the most dangerous mistakes. Other runners and officials will try to divert bulls away from fallen runners.
Critical Safety Rules:
- • Never touch the bulls—it's dangerous and disrespectful
- • Don't run against the crowd
Safety Protocols
Official Signals (Cohetes/Rockets)
There are four rockets that signal key moments:
First Rocket — Signals the opening of the corral gates and the start of the run
Second Rocket — Confirms all bulls have left the corral
Third Rocket — Indicates all bulls are in their pens and the run is officially over
Important Caveat
Don't rely on rockets as a sign of your safety. For as long as you're on the run route, assume you're not safe. Your run isn't over until you've left the actual run route. People have a history of setting off firecrackers in the city that can confuse you as to what's happening.
Additional Safety Guidelines
- Always listen to police and officials' instructions
- Know your strategy for where you're running
- Be aware of the Pastores—herders wearing green polo shirts who guide the bulls; listen to their instructions
- Don't be a hero—if someone is injured, experienced runners will quickly help protect that individual and get medical attention to them
Learn from Bull Runners
While this guide provides essential information, nothing compares to learning from experienced bull runners who have participated in the encierro for years. Our team at Encierro offers guided walking tours of the bull run route, providing personalized advice and insight that can make a significant difference in your safety and experience.
What We Offer
Expert guides with 15+ years of running experience
Small groups for personalized instruction
5-star rated tours with excellent reviews from our clients