El Caminito del Rey
Exploring one of the most dangerous hikes in Spain
For years, I heard a lot about the most dangerous hiking trail in Spain. El Caminito del Rey, or the King's Little Pathway.
Caminito del Rey is an easy day trip from Andalusia Malaga, Spain. It has evolved into a thrilling adventure. It draws adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts from all over the world every year to Andalusia, Spain.
It is located in the El Chorro gorge, known for its narrow walkways and stunning views. The trail was originally built in the early 20th century. After decades of neglect, it was closed in 2001 due to safety concerns. Shockingly, fatal accidents between 1999 and 2000 prompted the local government to close its entrances.
It was reopened in 2015 after a major renovation that cost over 9 million dollars.
Caminito del Rey has reemerged as a safe yet spine-chilling pathway. It attracts brave hearts from around the globe. Now considered one of the most exhilarating hiking trails in Spain.
To hike this trail and understand it, we must first learn the basics of how this place came to be.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll navigate its history, the secrets behind its name, and give you a step-by-step walk through. Let's make sure you're equipped with everything you need for this unique experience.
Planning a visit to El Caminito del Rey can be a daunting task. From getting the permit, to navigating how to get there, which parking lot to use, when is it closed, what you cannot bring, etc.
This guide is done with so much details to make it easy for you to understand how to navigate this experience. Feel free to use the following index to access the information you are looking for.
ON THIS PAGE:
All you need to know before hiking El Caminito del Rey in Málaga, Spain
1. History of El Caminito del Rey
2. Is it safe to hike el Caminito del Rey?
3. How to get to El Caminito del Rey?
4. Where to park at El Caminito del Rey?
5. How to get tickets to hike el Caminito del Rey?
6. What to wear to hike el Caminito del Rey?
7. The 3 phases of hiking el Caminito del Rey
8. Main things to see while hiking el Caminito del Rey
9. Where to go after completing your visit to el Caminito del Rey?
11. Complete map for your ultimate hike to el Caminito del Rey
History of El Caminito del Rey
Why was El Caminito del Rey created?
The birth of a legend
Back in 1901, the Chorro Hydroelectric Society took on a daring project to build two hydroelectric plants. A dam and an aqueduct across the gorge. The construction required a maintenance path for workers who were constructing the hydroelectric projects. Convicts and sailors from Malaga took on the challenge, hanging from ropes fixed at the top of the gorge.
If you are more into detailed history visit the Andalucia.com website for more historical facts.
How many people died building Caminito del Rey?
Despite the difficulty, only two men lost their lives during the original construction.
Why is it called El Caminito del Rey?
The simple answer is due to a real king's initial daring stroll through the most dangerous path
The path earned its royal name after King Alfonso XIII. During the opening ceremony, he decided to walk along the dangerous trail. Since then, it's been known as El Caminito del Rey.
Why was Caminito del Rey closed for over a decade?
Deaths and Accidents
As time passed, the old Caminito del Rey fell into disrepair. At the end, only a narrow path of planks clinging to the nearly vertical gorge remained. Adventurers braved the perilous conditions. Several deaths and accidents occurred. The last fatal incidents in 1999-2000 prompted the local government to close. In 2001, both the north entrance and the south entrance reopened.
Fragments of the original path linger below the new one, serving as a testament to the trail's perilous past.
How scary is El Caminito del Rey?
Not scary at all! The pathway is well designed and constructed. You feel 100% safe while walking. The only thing that could possibly affect only those afraid of heights, is the areas where you are most exposed to the cliffs and ridges. Other than that is totally safe, not scary.
This is the most exciting hike I've ever done!
Is it safe to hike El Caminito del Rey?
After the new project was revealed, what was known as one of the most dangerous hikes in the world is now a safe and pleasant hike. Most of the original walkway was replaced with a new suspended walkway that runs right above the older one.
The Caminito del Rey is a moderate hike that can be enjoyed by anyone. All fitness levels. It is important to be aware of the intensity involved before you start. The trail is narrow and exposed. There are several sections where you will be walking along a cliff edge. There are also a number of steep steps and ladders.
It is essential to wear proper hiking footwear. As part of the safety measures imposed by the park, all hikers must wear a helmet. This will be provided at the entrance. You should also be prepared for the weather, which can change quickly in the mountains.
The trail is only open to hikers who have a ticket (permit). These permits are limited. It is important to book your permit well in advance, especially if you plan to hike the trail during peak season.
How to get to Caminito del Rey?
The gorge is located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) southeast of Málaga in the Costa del Sol, Spain. The nearest airport is Málaga Airport, which is about an hour's drive from the gorge.
There are a number of ways to get to the Caminito del Rey. You can drive, take a bus, the train or take a guided tour.
DRIVING
If you are driving, you can take the A-357 highway from Málaga to Álora. From Álora, you can take the MA-540 road to El Chorro.
It takes approximately 1 hour from Málaga.
I rent cars in 95% of my travels and I always use RENTALCARS.COM , but if you prefer to rent cars from locally owned car rental companies I suggest you check LOCALRENT
Since early 2023, the preferred parking and starting point is the Visitors Center at Puerto de las Atalayas, Junction of MA-5403 (Km 5.5). This is located on the country road between Ardales Reservoir and El Chorro.
People opt for this option when wanting to learn more about the history of El Caminito del Rey. If they are hiking on their own without a guide (not my recommendation), the center serves to understand the intricacies of this place.
The visitor center parking is halfway the walk. It will take you longer to get to the northern entrance to start when you park here. This forces you to pay twice for the shuttle bus. One to get from the visitor center to the entrance. Second, to get back when you finish the hike. (I will explain more on the shuttle)
The best option I strongly suggest for parking is to use one of the parking lots close to the northern access of El Chorro. From there, you can take the shortest path to the main entrance. That is the tunnel path.
BUS
If you are taking a bus, you can take the Málaga-El Chorro bus from the Málaga bus station. The bus takes about an hour and a half. Cost is approximately 12 euros. But beware that the bus takes you to the town of Alora. From there, you have to take a bus to El Chorro.
Timetables for the buses seem to change consistently. For this unpredictability and for the fact that there is not a big difference in price compared to train, I would suggest taking the train over the bus.
TRAIN FROM MALAGA
Another popular way to get from Malaga to the Caminito del Rey is by taking the train. Starting in the province of Málaga, you need to take a train straight to EL CHORRO TRAIN STATION. From there, you need to transfer to the Caminito del Rey shuttle buses.
How long does it take the train El Chorro to El Caminito del Rey entrance?
Traveling from Malaga to El Chorro railway station proves to be a convenient and time-efficient choice. It has multiple daily trains covering this 22 mile (36 km) journey. The route boasts direct trains, eliminating the need for mid-journey transfers. Renfe, Spain's major rail operator, operates services along this route.
If you're pressed for time, opt for Renfe's fastest services. Ensuring you reach El Chorro from Malaga in as little as 38 minutes.
There are aprox around 8 trips a day.
Start in Malaga Maria Zambrano station and end at El Chorro station.
The round trip cost around €10. Bookings for the train can easily be done through RAILEUROPE
If you are taking a guided tour, there are a number of companies that offer tours from Malaga to Camino del Rey. The tours typically include transportation to and from the gorge, as well as a guide.
IMPORTANT: Make sure you calculate enough time to get to the entrance. Once you arrive and take the shuttle, there is a short walk that will take you 20-30 minutes. Plus, you need to arrive at least 30 minutes in advance to check in at the ticket office and get your equipment.
Logistics at El Caminito del Rey : How to get there?
Parking Tips
Are you driving to El Chorro?
Like I mentioned before, this is the best way to get there. 3 parking lots are available for you:
The north gate access (closer to the start of the walk, this is the shorter route)
The South gate access (This is the end of the trail)
The Visitor Center parking (in the middle between both entrances)
If all the parking spots at the north lot are taken, use the parking spaces at the south lot and take the shuttle to start the hike. The north lot involves a 1.5 km pedestrian tunnel walk to the start of the trail.
Why do I need to take the shuttle bus?
Caminito del Rey is a one-way linear route. The trail only allows you to go forward. After you reach the end of the pathway, you have to get back to the parking lot you choose.
Frequency: SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE runs every 30 minutes sharp, on the hour and half hour. So, no frantic time checks needed
Journey time: Only a quick 20 minute ride between El Chorro, the Visitor's Centre, and El Kiosko.
Operating hours: rides from 8.30am to 6pm. During winter, things wind down earlier with a 5pm cut-off. The buses run from Tuesday to Sunday, as the Caminito del Rey is closed on Mondays
How to pay for the shuttle?
Get your €2.50 pass at the tiny kiosk outside the El Chorro train station, or hop on and pay the driver directly (cash only, please!). You can also grab tickets when booking your Caminito del Rey trek.
No matter where you park, at some point you’ll need to take the shuttle bus service. The ride takes about 15 minutes and costs €2.5. Make sure you have extra cash to pay for this service. Another option is to park at the south end, take the shuttle bus to the Ardales, walk Caminito, and arrive right back at your car.
Caminito del Rey Tickets
Do I have to book tickets in advance?
It's important to understand that more than 300,000 people complete this hike every year. This means that every single day Caminito del Rey tickets sell out.
If you are planning a trip to Andalusia and this hike is part of your plan, I am sure this answers the question of how important it is to book these entrance tickets in advance.
General Entrance Tickets are priced at €10. You can opt for a Guided Tour for €18. Remember, an age limit of 8 years and older is enforced, and parking is available at €2 per space. The car parking lot isn't within walking distance, so a shuttle bus will take you to the entrance.
Total visitors are capped at 1,100 per day.
How to Buy Tickets to El Caminito del Rey
Booking in advance is ideal, but if the official website doesn't have availability, don't freak out. You can buy tickets at the box office (limited to 50 per day), get a combo ticket from the train station if you're in Malaga, or explore Get Your Guide for tour options.
There are 3 different ways you can get tickets:
- You can buy them online at OFFICIAL CAMINITO DEL REY WEBSITE. Tickets are released for purchase in a few batches throughout the year. Usually every 3 months. You can monitor these on their Facebook or Instagram account profiles.
Once you know the date when the sale opens, make sure you are ready to connect to their site on the hour. They usually sell out in a matter of minutes.
- If you didn't have any luck getting them directly at their website, you still have a chance to buy a private guided tour. This option comes with a premium. Usually, these tours start at $35 per person. They sometimes include transportation from Malaga.
- If you don't have any luck with these two options, you still have one more chance. You can get to the ticket office early and try to get one of the 50 tickets they offer for walk-ins every day.
The day we visited, we also noticed quite a few people selling tickets right at the entrance. Truth is that tour companies buy these in bulk, and there are always last minute cancellations.
Choosing your hike
Guided or Solo hike: Your Choice Matters
Visiting with a Guide
For an immersive experience, consider a guided tour. Guides provide insights into Caminito del Rey's history. While pricier, the convenience of pick-up and drop-off at your hotel is a significant advantage.
Venturing Solo
If you're a solo traveler or prefer a budget-friendly option, hiking the Caminito del Rey on your own is totally feasible. Extensive online resources cover its history, ensuring you're well-prepared for the journey.
What is the difficulty of hiking El Caminito del Rey?
The 8-Kilometer Tunnel and Canyon adventure
Prepare for an 8-kilometer adventure that begins with a tunnel leading to the main gate. The trail primarily descends from north to south.
It offers breathtaking views of the Gaitanes gorge or Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, the Gaitanejo Dam, el Tajo de las Palomas canyon and the heart-pounding Puente del Rey suspension bridge. You will also have a chance to see the hydroelectric power plants.
The restoration has made navigation easier, but be ready for the spine-chilling 300-ft drops along the way.
The Caminito del Rey is a challenging hike, but it is possible for people of all fitness levels.
The entire route is well-maintained, and there are plenty of rest stops along the way. The most difficult sections of the hike are the catwalks, which are narrow and exposed. However, these sections are short and there are always handrails to hold onto.
The exact distance of the hike is about 7.7 kilometers (4.8 miles). The average hiking time is about 4-5 hours. However, it is important to allow plenty of time for breaks and to take in the views.
The Caminito del Rey is open most of the year. The best time to hike the trail is during the spring or fall, when the weather conditions are mild.
Make sure you feel in good health to finish. Remember that once you start, you can't go back, as the trial is a one-way circuit. Wear comfortable clothing and proper shoes.
Bring plenty of water and snacks. You will have a chance to get some there before starting. There are vending machines accessible close to the box office.
How long does it take to walk El Caminito del Rey?
For reference, we used an official tour guide for this hike. I find the experience was more in depth and valuable this way. The entire Caminito del Rey hike took us approximately 3 hours from start to finish.
Should you opt to explore without a guide, it's possible to move at a quicker pace (we often found ourselves passed by solo hikers). However, rushing through the experience might not do justice to its beauty.
What to wear and what can I bring to hike El Caminito del Rey
We must admit that wearing the right clothes and gear to many outdoor activities can make or break the experience. Even though hiking El Caminito del Rey is feasible for people of all ages, dressing appropriately with comfortable clothing is my number 1 recommendation.
CLOTHING: For winter, layer up with warm clothing, and consider bringing gloves. It can get quite chilly.
SHOES: Opt for sturdy and comfortable footwear, like trainers or hiking boots (note that flip-flops or high heels won't get you past the main gate). You need shoes with a good grip and closed toes.
SUN PROTECTION: I cannot stress this enough, you need to apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection. Even if you decide to do this walk in the winter, since there are very little shaded areas.
More of Caminito del Rey
Things You Can't Bring to hike El Caminito del Rey
There are a number of things that are not allowed, but most will be taken into account. For example, we are not allowed to carry:
Big backpacks
Drones
Selfie sticks or tripods
Crutches
Umbrellas
Canes and prams.
Pets
Hiking poles
You are not allowed to smoke while on the pathway.
How is the Caminito del Rey Trail designed?
We can say the trail can be tackled in 3 different stages:
1. Initial Hike/ Ride to get to the main entrance
There are 2 paths to get to the beginning of the pathway. First, the path through the pedestrian tunnel, situated 200m up the road from RESTAURANTE EL KIOSKO, requires approximately 20 minutes for a 1.5 km walk. The second option, the Gaitanejo trail, is the longest. Located right beside the restaurant, it takes about 50 minutes to cover a distance of 2.7 km. Regardless of the route you choose, both paths converge near the official entrance gate.
If your entry is set for the early hours of the day, I suggest you take the shortest path through the tunnel. It will give enough time to prepare and pick up your safety helmets (hard hat).
2. Walking the actual Caminito pathway
Arriving early, we joined a group of fellow walkers who, like us, had opted for a guided visit in Spanish. We were given earphones and radios to hear our guide throughout the whole hike.
After a brief safety and rules chat, we officially started to hike El Caminito del Rey. With every little stop, a new fascinating fact to learn.
The excitement for the height of this place, the rock face, the striking sunrays coming through the gorge, seeing remnants of the old wooden path. It all felt quite surreal.
These are some of the main spots you will walking el Camino
del Rey:
Tunnel
The Gothic arch made of tafoni (cave structures)
The tunnel and Tafonis' bridge.
Gaitenejo Gorge
El Tajo de las Palomas (second gorge)
The impressive railway wall
The original water channels built into the rock face
Puente del Rey (King's bridge)
Desfiladero de los Gaitanes (third gorge)
Hoyo Valley
The old original pathway curving around the cliffs as testament of its scary history
The Aqueduct bridge
The Fossil Beach
The Juniper tree (growing inside the rock for more than 1oo years)
Peñón del Cristo Caves
The hanging footbridge
The Glass balcony
Albercones viaduct
3. Hiking back to El Chorro entrance/exit or the car park.
The hike back to El Chorro from this point is an easy stroll. Along the way, informative boards detail the construction of the Caminito del Rey. The path leads past the Los Albercones viaduct, also known as Puente de la Josefina.
You will also see an old chapel school, Ermita de la Medalla de la Milagrosa. She stands all on her own, accessible by some cute blue steps.
Constructed for the children of those involved in building the Caminito del Rey, the chapel school holds historical significance.
As you approach the end of the route, where you return your helmet, you'll encounter several kiosks offering food and drinks. Additionally, a spacious picnic area with benches, tables, and chairs invites you to take a moment to relax.
Remember, it's a one-way trail. After conquering the path, a shuttle bus (€2.50/person, exact change required) runs every 30 minutes, ensuring a safe return to the north parking lot.
Trail Wisdom
Overcoming Fears
Afraid of heights?
Fear not. With proper preparation, I strongly feel that even those with acrophobia can conquer Caminito del Rey. Inform yourself through YouTube videos and blogs. While hikin this trail take breaks, and make room for the rewarding experience.
Hydration and Facilities at El Caminito del Rey
Bring more water than you think you'll need; there are no restroom facilities along the trail. The weather can be dry, so staying hydrated is crucial.
Opening hours and best time to visit El Camino del Rey
Explore El Caminito del Rey throughout the year.
The Caminito del Rey is open Tuesday – Sunday, 9.30 to 14.30 every day of the year, except Christmas and New Year's holidays.
I will certainly say that the most comfortable weather is likely during spring and autumn. Both seasons are delightful in Andalucia. If you find yourself trekking in the hotter summer months of July and August, make sure you carry enough water.
Try to stick to early morning time slots if possible. To make sure you complete it before the peak of the day's heat.
Facilities offered at El Caminito del Rey
Food : There is a cafe at the visitor center, as well as El Kiosko and El Churro. You won't find access to food once you start walking the trail. Make sure you bring your snacks.
Toilets : Once you officially start walking the trail, you will not find toilets along the pathway. Restrooms are located only at the start in El Kiosko or the end in El Churro
Trash: No trash cans are available along the trail, only at the entrance.
Information : There is plenty of information at the Visitor Center. You can also access these resources online to better prepare for your adventure. Visitor reception center
Treasure the Moments
Whether you chose a guided tour or ventured solo, Caminito del Rey leaves an indelible mark. Cherish the memories of conquering Spain's most notorious hiking trail, relishing the stunning landscapes and overcoming personal fears.
Where to go after completing the hike at El Caminito del Rey
As your Caminito del Rey adventure concludes, consider exploring nearby attractions like El Chorro Dam or the El Kiosko Restaurant. Reflect on the accomplishment, savoring the unique blend of thrill and natural beauty that defines this extraordinary experience.
If you have extra time in your itinerary these are some of the places I visited in the area that I consider are absolute musts:
Ardales
Final Thoughts: Your Unforgettable Journey
Whether you came for the adrenaline rush, the historical allure, or the sheer adventure, Caminito del Rey delivers. As you bid farewell to this one-of-a-kind trail, leave with a sense of accomplishment and the knowledge that you've embarked on an unforgettable journey.
Southern Spain's Caminito del Rey stands as a testament to human determination and the irresistible pull of nature's wonders. Until your next adventure, carry the spirit of this iconic pathway, remembering the narrow paths, suspended walkways, and the breathtaking landscapes that define this unparalleled experience.
And like always, Have fun and Happy Travels!
Love, ❦ Karen Lee
El Caminito del Rey: A bucket list hike in Málaga, Spain (Full Map)
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I'm Karen Lee, a world traveler turned travel blogger & content creator who wants to inspire you to explore the world no matter what your budget or circumstances are, whether you're a seasoned traveler or just getting started. I work full time and my free time is dedicated to wandering new destinations, taking photos, creating memorable travel stories that I share with my travel community daily.
TRAVEL EXPERTISE: Bucket list Destinations, Adventure travel, Road trips, Hidden Gems, Outdoors, Group travel
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