- Travel Enthusiast
- 6 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
CAMINITO DEL REY - SPAIN: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE
Caminito del Rey is one of southern Spain’s most striking outdoor experiences. Suspended high along the vertical walls of the Gaitanes Gorge, this narrow walkway traces a canyon carved by the Guadalhorce River, with limestone cliffs rising up to 100 meters (328 feet) above the water.
Originally built in the early 20th century to maintain nearby hydroelectric plants, the path later fell into disrepair and gained worldwide notoriety for its danger. After a complete reconstruction, it reopened in 2015 as a safe, well-managed route that keeps the dramatic setting fully intact.
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HOW TO GET THERE & TICKET INFORMATION
Located in the province of Málaga, Caminito del Rey sits about one hour from Málaga city, making it an easy half-day or day trip.
HOW TO GET THERE
By train – Trains run from Málaga María Zambrano to El Chorro – Caminito del Rey station. From there, a shuttle bus connects the station with the official access points.
By car – Driving offers the most flexibility. Parking is available near the northern entrance (Ardales area). After finishing the walk, a shuttle bus (€2–€3) links the southern exit back to parking areas and the train station.
By guided tour – Prefer not to deal with logistics? Guided tours from Málaga typically include transport, entrance tickets, and a professional guide.
TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets must be booked in advance, as same-day availability is rare, particularly on weekends and during the busy spring and autumn months.
Standard ticket – Includes entry and a safety helmet.
Guided ticket – Includes entry, a safety helmet, and a professional guide (Spanish or English).
ROUTE, DIFFICULTY & SAFETY
The full route covers 7.7 km (4.8 miles), including 2.9 km (1.8 miles) of elevated walkways fixed directly into the cliff face. At a relaxed pace, the walk takes around 2.5 to 3 hours and follows a one-way route from north to south.
The trail begins near Ardales and ends close to El Chorro, alternating between forest paths, narrow canyon sections, and suspended boardwalks clinging to the rock walls. The most memorable moment comes near the end, where a hanging suspension bridge crosses the gorge high above the river.
Caminito del Rey is classified as easy to moderate and does not require any hiking or climbing experience. Modern safety measures are built into the route, including solid wooden walkways anchored into the rock, steel railings along exposed sections, mandatory helmets provided at the entrance, and timed entry slots that limit visitor numbers.
While the path is well secured, the height is very real, and those uncomfortable with heights may find certain sections challenging.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Spring (March–May) is one of the best times to visit Caminito del Rey. Daytime temperatures are mild, the surrounding landscape is greener, and the conditions are comfortable for walking without the intense heat of summer. This is also a popular period, so booking tickets well in advance is essential.
Autumn (September–November) offers similarly pleasant weather, often with slightly fewer visitors than spring. Temperatures remain comfortable for walking, and the softer light in the gorge makes the landscape feel calmer.
Summer visits are still possible, but heat can be intense, especially in the exposed sections of the walkway. Early morning entry slots are strongly recommended, as midday temperatures can make the walk far less comfortable.
The route may close temporarily during periods of strong wind, heavy rain, or other extreme weather conditions, so checking local conditions shortly before your visit is advised.
SCENERY & PRACTICAL TIPS
Here are a few things to know before and during the walk at Caminito del Rey in Spain, including practical details and points of interest along the route:
Wear proper footwear – Closed-toe shoes with good grip are mandatory, especially on the elevated boardwalks where the surface can feel exposed.
Travel light – Large backpacks, umbrellas, and selfie sticks aren’t allowed. A small backpack with water and light snacks is more than enough.
Use the facilities before starting – There are no toilets once the route begins, so it’s important to stop at the entrance before setting off.
Expect a one-way route – The walk runs from north to south, with no option to turn back. Pause where you can and move at a comfortable pace.
Take your time through the narrow sections – As the gorge tightens, the limestone walls rise almost vertically above the river. These stretches are some of the most visually striking, so it’s worth slowing down and looking both up and down.
Pause at the viewpoints – Several sections open out over the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, offering clear views of the canyon and the river below. These are ideal spots to stop, take photos, and appreciate the scale of the landscape.
The suspension bridge deserves a moment – Located near the southern end, this is the most exposed part of the route. Many people rush across, but taking a few seconds to look out over the gorge makes it one of the most memorable parts of the walk.
Keep an eye out for wildlife – Mountain goats are often spotted on the cliffs, and birds of prey regularly circle above the gorge.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
How difficult is Caminito del Rey?
Caminito del Rey is generally considered easy to moderate. The route is well maintained, clearly marked, and does not require hiking or climbing experience. The path is mostly flat, with a combination of forest trails and elevated boardwalks. The main challenge comes from the length (7.7 km / 4.8 miles) and the exposure to height rather than physical difficulty.
How scary is Caminito del Rey?
That depends largely on your comfort with heights. While the walkway is secure and equipped with railings, it runs high above the gorge in several sections, and the drop below is very visible. If you're comfortable with heights, it feels dramatic but manageable. If you have a strong fear of heights, certain sections, especially the suspension bridge, can feel intimidating.
Is Caminito del Rey worth it?
Yes. Caminito del Rey offers a rare combination of dramatic scenery, accessibility, and history. The walk feels unique without being extreme, fits easily into a half-day itinerary, and offers views that are difficult to experience elsewhere in southern Spain.
How many people died on Caminito del Rey?
Before its reconstruction, five fatal accidents were reported along the deteriorated original walkway, mainly in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when the path was unsafe and largely unmaintained. Following these incidents, the route was closed and fully rebuilt. Since reopening in 2015, Caminito del Rey has operated as a regulated, secure attraction with modern safety features in place.
