Are you looking for an exciting adventure in nature? Do you want to live a unique experience in one of the most impressive places in the province of Malaga? Then you have to know the Caminito del Rey, a path that will take you through gorges, canyons, and vertical walls that will leave you breathless.
Caminito del Rey
Caminito del Rey is located in the Gaitanes Gorge, a natural landscape formed by the Guadalhorce River, in the western area of the Betic Cordillera. It is a pedestrian path hanging at a height of about 100 meters, attached to almost vertical walls inside a canyon, with sections of only 1 meter in width, not suitable for people with vertigo! 😂 The most spectacular aspect of its appearance is the vertical stratification presented by the limestone due to erosion caused by the Guadalhorce River. It starts in the municipality of Ardales, passes through Antequera, and ends at the “El Chorro” Reservoir in Álora.
Construction and restoration
Caminito del Rey was built in 1905 by the Chorro Hydroelectric Society for the passage of workers and transportation of materials. In 1921, King Alfonso XIII crossed it to inaugurate the Guadalhorce-Guadalteba Reservoirs, which gave it the popular name of Caminito del Rey. Over time, the lack of maintenance made it dangerous and almost impassable. After fatal accidents and the demolition of its initial section, in February 2014, the Malaga Provincial Council and the Andalusian Government started its restoration, which lasted for a year. In March 2015, Caminito del Rey opened again to the public.
The route
The Caminito del Rey route is spectacular as it is located in a unique natural environment, running between two gorges, canyons and a large valley. It is a linear and one-way route, descending from north to south, starting in the municipality of Ardales and ending in Álora.
The itinerary begins at the Conde del Guadalhorce reservoir (Ardales) and ends at the Chorro dam (Álora). It has been divided into seven sections:
- Reception area: parking and the well-known Sillón del Rey (where Alfonso XIII signed the completion of the Conde de Guadalhorce Dam).
- Two access areas: the trail and the Gaitanejo track.
- Visitor reception booth and Gaitanejo reservoir.
- First gorge: Gaitanejo Gorge.
- Second gorge: El Tajo de las Palomas.
- The Hoyo valley.
- Third gorge: Gaitanes Gorge, where the famous hanging bridge is located and provides access to the final section that reaches El Chorro.
For more information, you can visit: http://www.caminitodelrey.info/en/
How long does it take to complete it?
The route is approximately 8 km long and takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete.
What is the difficulty level?
The difficulty level of Caminito del Rey is considered moderate. Many visitors without hiking experience have completed this route.
How much does it cost to enter Caminito del Rey?
General admission costs 10€ and the official guided tour in Spanish and English costs 18€. You can buy your tickets in advance on the official website. Click here.
It is important to note that children under 8 years old are not allowed to enter. Therefore, children over 8 years old must bring their ID or family book to verify their age.
Tips for visiting Caminito del Rey
To visit Caminito del Rey, it is important to book your ticket in advance on the official website. It is recommended to book at least a week in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season.
It is important to keep in mind that the trail is quite narrow and only one person is allowed to pass at a time. Therefore, it is important to maintain a constant pace and avoid stopping during the route.
It is mandatory to wear a helmet during the route and it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and appropriate hiking clothing. It is also recommended to bring water and some food for the journey.
If you like risk and want to feel the adrenaline, this is the place for you!
Where is Caminito del Rey and how to get there?
It is located in the Gaitanes Gorge, in the Guadalhorce region, between the municipalities of Álora, Ardales and Antequera.
The easiest way to get to Caminito del Rey is by private car. It takes approximately 45 minutes from the city of Malaga via the A-357 towards Campillos and Ardales, where the trail access is located. It is also possible to arrive by public transport, taking a train from Malaga to the El Chorro station, where the start of the trail is located, or taking a bus to Ardales and then a taxi or local bus to the entrance.
Follow the signs. Click here.
