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El Caminito del Rey

  • Malaga, Andalusia, Spain

Last updated: 12 March, 2024

For thrills, chills and hopefully no spills, this vertiginous walkway, pinned 100m above ground to the walls of the narrow gorge, has become one of Andalusia’s top bucket list attractions.

Originally built in concrete in 1905 for hydroelectric plant workers, it earned its name, the ‘King’s Little Path’ in 1921 when Alfonso XIII walked it to open the Conde del Guadalhorce dam.

As it crumbled and devil-may-care walkers began plummeting to their deaths, it was closed in 2000. Fifteen years later, it reopened with a spectacular new and safe 1.5 km-long boardwalk.

Logistics

Price from: £25
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Duration: 3-4 hours

Getting there & doing it

It’s an hour’s drive (or 39-minute train) from Malaga to El Chorro station, on the south end of the Caminito, linked by a shuttle bus to the Ardales entrance (north). The path, 7.7km, is one way only and requires a reasonable level of fitness; allow 3-4 hours. Hard hats are provided.

If you prefer to go independently, you can book timed tickets or tours in English (no children under 8 allowed) on the website. However, you need to park up and walk some distance to the control cabin at the start, and then you have to get the shuttle back to your starting point (as the walk is one way) – allow 3-4 hours.

A better choice is to go on one of the plentiful organised tours (see recommendations below) that will organise everything for you, including pick up from your hotel in Malaga, Seville and Cordoba.

When to do it

The path is open all year round, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays and in bad weather.

Who to go with: organised tours

6

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Malaga

Join us on this full day excursion to Caminito del Rey from Costa del Sol where you can enjoy the views of the Andalusian white villages along the way. In addition, you will be able to recharge your batteries and get to know the picturesque town of Ardales before starting the hiking route. Enjoy an amazing experience and spectacular views along Caminito del Rey. Learn about the history of once considered world’s most dangerous pathway. Get on your walking shoes!

Price €62

Min age 8

Rating 4.10 / 5 [378 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Seville

On Tuesdays and Fridays you will enjoy a tour of the Caminito in the morning. Afterwards we will have free time to enjoy lunch and return to Seville in the afternoon. On Sunday we will make a stop in the monumental town of Osuna. We will arrive in Ardales where you will have free time for lunch and then we will do the Caminito in the afternoon, returning to Seville in the evening. Osuna: One hour from the capital is this stately town declared a Historic-Artistic Site. We will see beautiful buildings built between the 16th & 19th century. Caminito del Rey: Once known as ´the most dangerous hike in the world´, this experience is one to excite your senses as you discover The Gorge Desfiladero de los Gaitanes. The Caminito del Rey has been fully renovated and is safe and ready to accommodate our small group on this amazing pathway. With a rich history, this pass was the only railroad access to Malaga from the inner cities of Andalucia.

Price €99

Min age 8

Rating 4.52 / 5 [194 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Malaga

We will start the tour with pick-up with transport at an agreed starting point. We will visit Caminito del Rey accompanied by a local guide. The Caminito del Rey consists of 7,7 kms between walkways and trails crossing at the end of the route over a 105 mts high suspension bridge over the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes. We will return to the meeting point to resume the return trip.

Price €66

Min age 8

Rating 4.47 / 5 [136 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Malaga

Embark on a thrilling group tour to discover the renowned Caminito del Rey, accompanied by an experienced guide who brings the landscape to life with fascinating insights. This iconic location holds not only historical significance in Spanish contemporary history but also boasts breathtaking flora and fauna, mesmerizing rock formations, and stunning views of gorges that will leave you in awe.

Price €58

Min age 8

Rating 4.37 / 5 [58 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Malaga

Embark on an extraordinary trekking adventure at El Caminito del Rey, a mesmerizing activity set in a magical location. Prepare to be amazed by the daring walkway, captivating gorges, breathtaking canyon, and the thrilling hanging bridge. This private tour goes beyond a simple trek; it's an immersive exploration of nature and history. Discover the secrets of El Caminito del Rey with your private guide, ensuring a unique and enriching experience, offering insights into the awe-inspiring beauty of this remarkable location that makes it truly exceptional

Price €189

Min age 8

Rating 4.67 / 5 [49 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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