El Caminito Del Rey (King's Path) in Spain 2024-2025

El Caminito del Rey, or the "King's Little Path," is a remarkable walking trail in Málaga, Andalusia, offering an exhilarating journey through the stunning El Chorro gorge. Spanning roughly 7 kilometers, it winds through the dramatic Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge, showcasing breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and serene landscapes.

Open Hours

El Caminito del Rey is open year-round except Mondays, Christmas (December 24-25), and New Year (December 31-January 1). Hours vary by season: 9 am to 2:50 pm in winter (November–March) and 9 am to 5:20 pm in summer (April–October), with entries every 15-30 minutes.

Best Time to Visit

Although El Caminito del Rey is open year-round, the ideal time to hike is from October to April, when the weather is milder. During the summer months, temperatures can exceed 40°C, making the trail challenging and uncomfortable. It's recommended to avoid these peak summer months unless you're accustomed to extreme heat. Be sure to check the weather before planning your visit, as organizers may restrict access during unsafe conditions.

Getting There

El Caminito del Rey is located in the Paraje Natural Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, Málaga, about 60 km from Málaga City. Visitors can reach it by road via Málaga, Antequera, or Ronda, with travel times of around 50-60 minutes. By train, RENFE offers services to El Chorro-Caminito del Rey station, with a shuttle bus connecting to the trail's northern access. The bus costs €2.50 per trip (cash only) and runs every 30 minutes from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, taking about 15-20 minutes.

Access & Parking

There are two primary access points to the Caminito del Rey. The Northern Access is located in Ardales, where visitors can park near the Conde de Guadalhorce reservoir at the Visitor Centre. The Southern Access is in El Chorro, where parking is available near the El Chorro railway station, with shuttle buses available at the trail entrance. Parking at the Visitors' Reception Center costs €2 per day. It is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your scheduled time. You can reserve and purchase your parking space online during the ticket purchase process or directly upon arrival, depending on availability.

Guided Tour

Guided tours of El Caminito del Rey offer a rich experience, with guides sharing the history, wildlife, and stories of the trail. The tour starts at the northern access point, where participants receive helmets and radio guides for clear commentary. The group moves at a relaxed pace, allowing time for photos (selfie sticks are not allowed). Tours are available in Spanish and English. After the hike, visitors return to the reception center on a shuttle bus with the guide.

Tickets

Tickets for El Caminito del Rey can be purchased either at the entrance or on the official website. The general ticket costs €10, allowing visitors to complete the trail independently. For an official guided visit, tickets are €18, with groups of up to 30 people led by a certified guide. Note that children under 8 years old are not permitted on the trail.

Route

The Caminito del Rey spans 7 kilometers, starting at the northern entrance in Ardales and ending at the southern entrance near El Chorro. Most hikers complete the trail in 3 to 4 hours, depending on their pace and time spent enjoying the views. The trail begins with the Gaitanejo Gorge, a narrow section that leads to the Tajo de las Palomas Canyon, where hikers can see impressive cliffs. It then opens into the Hoyo Valley, an area with diverse vegetation and wildlife. The final section is the Gaitanes Gorge, which includes a suspended walkway attached to the cliffs. This part provides clear views of the surrounding landscape, making Caminito del Rey a popular hiking destination in Spain.

Wildlife

The Caminito del Rey is situated within a protected natural area rich in diverse plant and animal species. Birdwatchers can spot griffon vultures, golden eagles, and other birds, while the flora includes oleanders, reeds, and various fruit trees that thrive in the rocky environment.

Travelers' Tips

Rove.me spoke with Ioana Cartite, a Romanian hiker who shared her experience on El Caminito del Rey in early October. She described the weather as perfect—sunny and not too hot, which made the trek even more enjoyable. Ioana found the hike very safe and reassuring, especially with guides offering clear instructions along the route. Helmets are mandatory, and there are designated areas where hikers may need to wait their turn in narrower or more exposed sections, ensuring everyone’s security.

For Ioana, the highlight was the third section of the path, famous for its jaw-dropping views often seen on social media. She remarked on how surreal it felt to stand in the spot she’d admired in countless photos. To maximize the experience, Ioana recommends hiking in the afternoon to witness the sunset painting the gorge in golden hues.

Her advice for future visitors? Don’t let the heights deter you; the path is well-secured. For those unsure of their abilities, a guided tour can add an extra layer of comfort. Ioana also suggests checking the weather before planning your visit, as organizers may restrict access during unsafe conditions. Exploring El Caminito del Rey, she believes, is a must-do for anyone venturing through Andalusia, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and thrilling adventure.

Melissa van Nijnatten, an adventurer from Etten-Leur, the Netherlands, shared with rove.me her experience hiking El Caminito del Rey in the sweltering summer heat. She found the hike stunning but warned against visiting in summer due to the intense heat and lack of shade. Following safety protocols, including wearing the required helmet, made the hike feel secure despite its reputation. Melissa highlighted the bridge as the best viewpoint and was captivated by the breathtaking views along the entire path. Her advice? Skip summer and opt for cooler seasons to fully enjoy this scenic trek.

Safety Tips

For safety on the Caminito del Rey, it’s important to carry your water as there are no refill stations along the trail. Be cautious when passing slower hikers on the boardwalks to ensure everyone stays safe. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, hats, and sun protection. Remember, no food is allowed on the walkways, and selfie sticks, large backpacks, and drones are prohibited. Safety helmets will be provided and must be worn at all times.

Nearby Attractions in Malaga

Beyond the Caminito del Rey, the region offers several other attractions. The Guadalhorce Reservoirs are perfect for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking, offering a peaceful retreat in nature. The Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Natural Park features more hiking trails and wildlife-watching opportunities. Additionally, there are various historical sites to explore in the surrounding area.

Origins of the Walkway

The Caminito del Rey, built between 1901 and 1905, was originally designed to provide access for workers to the hydroelectric power stations at Gaitanejo and Chorro Falls in Málaga. The narrow, terraced path, perched 100 meters above the river, was named after King Alfonso XIII, who crossed it in 1921. After years of neglect and accidents caused by unregulated and unsafe paths, the walkway was closed for a decade before being restored and reopened in 2015. Today, it offers visitors stunning views of the Gaitanes Gorge and has become a popular filming location for movies like "Von Ryan's Express" and "The End."