Get ready for a wild ride through nature’s playground! Caminito del Rey, also known as the King’s Pathway, is THE place for jaw-dropping views in the Ardales.
El Caminito del Rey is known throughout the world as the one of the most dangerous trails in the world. This trail, which is located in the natural area of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes in Spain, was closed at the beginning of the 21st century due to several fatal accidents.
Today it is one of the most recommended routes that you cannot miss in the area.
The History of the Caminito
Caminito del Rey isn’t just a trail – it’s a living piece of history. Originally built for workers maintaining hydroelectric plants, it was constructed in 1905. After more than 100 years, the path began to show serious signs of deterioration due to falling rocks that damaged its concrete structure and the wear and tear that could be expected after so many years of use – the local authorities closed it in 2001.
The work carried out at the Caminito consisted of the construction of a new path built just above the old one, which is the one you’ll walk on when visiting today. The new path way opened in march 2015 and is now a playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
The Hike
The road is 7.7 km long, of which 4.8 km is the access road and 2.9 km from one end of the suspension footbridge to the other.
There are two possible routes, one from Álora (south) and one from Ardales (north).
If you choose the southern entrance, the route is mainly uphill and takes a little longer (about 5 hours).
Using the north entrance, you will descend most of the way and it will take you less time to complete the route (approximately 4 hours).
Walking along the trail, you will also discover several sections of glass floor and a suspension bridge with stunning views of the riverbed, which is 100 metres below.
HOW TO GET FROM MALAGA TO CAMINITO DEL REY?
By train from Malaga to El Chorro Station
Go to Maria Zambrano Station in Malaga and take the line to El Chorro Train station (approx. 50 minutes). If you join the Caminito del Rey Guided tour with Shuttle bus the tour actually starts a few hundred meters from the train station at La Garganta Restaurante, Hotel y Turismo Activo.
Otherwise you’ll have to take a shuttle bus from El Chorro Station to the Northern starting point (the tour goes to the northern starting point as well).
By car from Malaga
The journey by car from Malaga takes 50 minutes. However, you should know that there is a parking fee at Caminito del Rey so do not forget to bring some cash on hand in case that cards may not be accepted.
The Visitors’ Reception Center at the northern point
Currently, at the Visitors’ Reception Center you cannot buy tickets to access the Caminito del Rey. You can reserve and purchase your ticket through this website or directly at the northern access of the Caminito, at the ticket office.
💡FAQ’s about La Caminito del Rey
What are the opening hours of the trail?
El Caminito del Rey is open all year round from Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays (as well as december 24, 25 and 31st and january 1st).
From April 1st to October 30th: 10am to 5pm
From November 1st to March 31st: 10am to 2pm
What to bring?
- Water: as you’ll be walking a lot, water is always a good idea to bring. There’s different kiosks at the end of your trip, but remember that there’s no toilets on route.
- Sun protection: don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat or cap and sunglasses, especially on summer and sunny days.
- Closed-toe walking shoes: wearing sandals during the hike is not allowed, but there’s no need for full on hiking shoes. Bring comfortable, closed-toee walking shoes.
What is not allowed?
Will you need my own equipment?
No, you’ll be provided with a hairnet and helmet at the entrance point.
Wearing a safety helmet is mandatory!
How much does it cost to walk Caminito del Rey?
You can reserve and purchase your ticket through the Caminito del Rey website or directly at the northern access point of the Caminito, at the ticket office. A single ticket is €10 and the shuttle bus is €2.5 (ONLY cash).
If you want a guided tour – do as me – and book through GetYourGuide. It’s €35 and you’ll hear the fascinating tales and legends surrounding Caminito del Rey and the Andelusian part of Spain from a professional.
What does a ticket include?
A single ticket allows you to walk freely in both directions as many times as you want during the day. If you choose a guided-tour – it of course includes a guide who will tell you everything you want to know about the trail, the area and other recommendations.
How long does it take to walk?
Depends on how many stops you take. The path is not difficult but you want to stop and take in the views! So about 1,5-2 hours.
What is the best season to visit Caminito del Rey?
The best time to visit Caminito del Rey is spring and autumn, as temperatures are usually mild and pleasant, avoiding the intense heat of summer. It is also low season, which means there are fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the route in a more relaxed way.
Is it worth it?
YES, absolutely! I went to Málaga for my birthday in May 2023 – and my friend and I took the guided tour as a part of our visit. I would not have been without it!
Included:
- Entry ticket to Caminito del Rey
- Local guide
- Guided hike
- Shuttle bus to the north entrance
- 1 bottle of water per participant
Put on your blue safety helmet and have a thrill of a lifetime.
*Disclaimer - the guided tour only includes the new walkway and not the options of climbing, using the via ferrata cable or anything else.
Via Ferrata El Chorro
If you are in search of extra adrenaline – take the via ferrata mountain route of El Chorro.
The via ferratas range in difficulty from K1, which is the easiest level, to K6, the most extreme level. The via ferrata El Chorro has a K3 level, mainly because of its length rather than its difficulty.
No knowledge of climbing is required, although it is very important not to be afraid of heights.
This route takes 3 to 4 hours and has three main points of interest:
- 1 zip line
- 1 Tibetan bridge
- 1 mono bridge
