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Caminito Del Rey tickets | Malaga

4.5(2.2K Ratings)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.

Caminito Del Rey Tickets






From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Jacquelyn Stevenson

Jacquelyn

Oct 2019
The majestic walkway was been restored well and after having heard so much about it, there was no way were going to miss it
Clayton Mcgee

Clayton

Jun 2019
Had a great experience and the guide was very informative and helpful. Our pick up was also on time and very comfortable.
Miles Nixon
CA

Miles

Canada
Oct 2024
The tour was beautiful and we learned a lot from the guide. The directions could have included some information about parking options, and exactly how to get to the trail head.
Aklek Molina Raya
ES

Aklek

Spain
Oct 2024
I think it is one of the most beautiful experiences we have had, highly recommended, incredible views, we went with a guided tour and the truth is that it is the best way, very happy, thanks for the good attention ...
Juan Luis BASABE
ES

Juan

Spain
Sep 2024
A bit crazy when you arrive. Many people with the same doubts about the group you belong to. Otherwise the experience is unforgettable!!!.
Ysabel remuzgo
BE

Ysabel

Belgium
Aug 2024
It was a great,experience early in the morning 9 am,ideal time,for a nice sunrise not too hot,supper friendly guides,supper views and of course,my dearest sister ❤️

Top things to do in Malaga

Caminito del Rey | Brave the King’s Little Pathway

The Caminito del Rey is a hike unlike any other. It's a narrow walkway clinging to the vertical cliffs of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge near Malaga, Spain. Back in the day, when the path through the steep Spanish gorge was falling apart, it had different names like The King's Little Path, The World’s Most Dangerous Trail, or El Camino de la Muerte (which means 'The Walkway of Death'). But those days are gone. Since 2015, strong wooden platforms have been installed over the Guadalorce River, making the new Caminito del Rey much safer, yet still retaining the thrill of the old days. If you're in Malaga, Granada, or Seville, you can plan a day trip to Caminito del Rey and make unforgettable memories.

What are you looking for?

No cliffhangers here (except the actual one)! Here is all you need to know about Caminito del Rey tours and how to maximize your visit! Just click on the links below to jump straight to what you're interested in:

  1. Why take a Caminito dey Rey tour?
  2. Things to keep in mind!
  3. Which Caminito del Rey ticket is best for you?
  4. Caminito del Rey day trip options | Choose your city
  5. Breaking down your Caminito del Rey walk
  6. Caminito del Rey tour highlights
  7. Get hike ready with these handy info | Caminito must-knows
  8. Visitor tips
  9. Frequently asked questions about Caminito del Rey tours

Why take a Caminito dey Rey tour?

Transportation to Caminito del Rey
Thrilling hiking at Caminito del Rey
Caminito del Rey Path
Kids will feel like Indiana Jones!
1/4

Transportation's covered!

The easiest way to get to Caminito del Rey from Malaga, Granada, or Seville is to join a day trip with a shuttle bus service, that handles all the transportation details, taking you straight to the North Access. Once there, shuttle buses connect to key locations like El Chorro village, the Visitor's Centre (Tickets unavailable here, buy in advance), and the starting point near El Kiosko restaurant. Shuttles run every 30 minutes from 8:30am to 6pm in summer and 5pm in winter. Tickets cost €2.50 each and can be purchased online, at the train station kiosk, or on the bus (cash only).

Taste the thrill

The Caminito itself is a moderate walkway with designated one-way traffic for a smooth experience. You'll traverse suspended walkways and boardwalks, but the well-maintained path with railings ensures safety. The real thrill comes from the sheer cliffs and the Guadalhorce River snaking 100 meters below – perfect for conquering a mild fear of heights and getting that adrenaline rush.

Walk in the steps of Royalty

Originally built for hydropower workers, King Alfonso XIII inaugurated the path in 1921. You'll tread the same route as a Spanish monarch with a Caminito del Rey ticket! See sections of the original, more precarious walkway preserved alongside the modern path.

Kids will feel like Indiana Jones!

Even though it's crowded, thankfully, the newly renovated path is more of a leisurely walk than a tough hike, and even kids as young as nine can do it now! So, let them whip out their inner Indiana Jones on your family outing! It might even feel like an adventure for some, facing a fear or two along the way. So, it might not be as easy as it seems for everyone!

Things to keep in mind!

Understanding how to get to the Caminito del Rey trail can be confusing, but we'll try to clear it up for you.

Caminito Del Rey

Before booking your tickets

  • Book weeks in advance: Many wish to walk El Caminito del Rey due to its proximity to a cruise ship port and popular cities in Spain. However, entry is controlled and requires tickets. With limited daily spots (supposedly 1100) and timed entries, getting tickets can be tough. As a result, tickets and tours often sell out fast, particularly the cheaper ones without guides, which are often gone weeks in advance.
  • Age restrictions: Children under the age of 8 are not allowed to get on the walk. Visitors aged 8 to 18 must be accompanied by an adult and have ID. Adults should also carry proof of age. A copy/photo on your phone might suffice, (bear in mind the patchy 4G signal, so pre-download)
  • Fitness level: The Caminito del Rey is not a demanding hike in terms of distance (2.9 kilometers or 1.8 miles), but it does involve inclines and uneven terrain. There are also sections with stairs, including a long, steep climb at the beginning. If you suffer from severe vertigo or a deep fear of heights, consider avoiding the experience altogether.
Caminito del Rey walk

Before beginning your Caminito del Rey walk

  • Start point and ticket pick-up: The official start point of the Caminito del Rey tour, called the North Access, is where you'll show your ticket and get your helmet. Whether you have an entrance ticket, are part of a guided group, or on a day trip, you'll need to go here to begin the trail.
  • Getting to the North Access: The North Access isn't by a road, a car park, the Caminito del Rey Visitor Centre, or on the shuttle bus route. It's only reachable through a 1.5km walk via a couple of tunnels and a dusty trail.
  • The walk to North Access: The 1.5km walk is signposted and starts in a tunnel by the side of a road. It takes about 20 minutes, so plan to arrive 15-30 minutes before your ticket time.
  • You can't start at the South Exit: Caminito del Rey is a one-way loop, which starts at the North Access, so you will be picked up at the end of the walk by a shuttle bus. You can not start the journey from the South Exit. The shuttle links the entry and exit points: Ardales(entry) in the north and Álora(exit) in the south.

Note: Remember, none of the parking areas mentioned below (⬇️) are right next to the trail start point. You'll have to walk 1.5 km and take the shuttle bus at least once, regardless of where you park.

Which Caminito del Rey ticket is best for you?

As mentioned above, getting tickets for El Caminito del Rey is tough due to limited daily spots and high demand! There are three types of tickets available: Guided tours, General entry tickets, and Day trips. But which one should you pick? Let's look at the details to help you plan your ideal Caminito del Rey adventure.

Caminito del Rey General Entry

General entry

Who's this for: Independent hikers and budget-conscious travelers should go for Caminito del Rey tickets

  • Go at your own pace: Explore the Caminito del Rey independently, setting your own rhythm and schedule. Take photos, linger at viewpoints, and soak in the scenery at your leisure.
  • Budget-friendly: General entry tickets are the most affordable option, making the Caminito del Rey accessible to a wider range of visitors.
  • Flexibility: Choose your start time within your allotted entry window. This allows you to avoid peak crowds and potentially find better parking or shuttle availability.

Trip option: Caminito del Rey General Entry Tickets

Caminito del Rey Guided Tours

Guided tour

Who's this for: History buffs, First-time visitors, or those unfamiliar with the area should go for Caminito del Rey tours

  • Safety and security: Guides are trained in first aid and familiar with the terrain. This can provide peace of mind, especially for those with mild concerns about heights.
  • Group atmosphere: Enjoy the camaraderie of exploring with others, potentially making new connections with fellow adventurers.
  • Structured schedule: Follow a set itinerary with designated stops for photos and information. This ensures you don't miss any key points of interest.

Trip option: Caminito del Rey Official Guided Tour in English & Spanish

Caminito del Rey Day Trips

Day trips

Who's this for: If you're coming from far away and you don't want to worry about transportation

  • Transportation available: All three cities (Malaga, Granada, Seville) offer day trips with round-trip transportation included.
  • Explore beyond: If you have time in your hands, you can visit famous attractions in each of the cities, for example Alhambra Palace, Seville Cathedral, Picasso museum etc.!
  • Refuel after exertion: The hike can be tiring, and delicious post-hike food is a great reward. Stop at local restaurants, for example El Kiosko restaurant, for a flavor of rich and authentic Andalusian cuisine you might not experience otherwise!

Trip option:CFrom Granada/Malaga/Seville: Caminito del Rey Guided Tour with Round-Trip Transfers

Need tickets for Caminito del Rey but cutting it close? No worries! You can snag last-minute tickets ​right here with us. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous adventure or just realized you missed out, we’ve got you covered. Grab your spot now and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Click here to claim your last-minute Caminito del Rey tickets!

Caminito del Rey day trip options | Choose your city

Malaga

From Malaga

Travel time & distance: around 1.5 hr, 59.8 km by public transport

As Malaga is the closest city to El Chorro, the gateway town to the walkway, you can easily plan a day trip to Caminito del Rey if you're already exploring its attractions. This also makes it the easiest city to visit the Caminito del Rey on a tour, especially if you're relying on public transport. However, day trips from Malaga include round-trip transportation, so you don't have to worry about the logistics. This is especially ideal for first-time visitors.

Know more
Granada

From Granada

Travel time & distance: around 2 hr, 143 km by public transport

Granada is further away (approximately a 1.75-2 hour drive) compared to Malaga. On the way, you can see the Andalusian countryside, Sierra Nevada mountains, white villages, and olive groves. Visit Granada's ​Alhambra Palace (buy tickets early as they sell out months ahead due to popularity) if you have a longer layover. For those in Granada, joining a day trip is the easiest way to avoid the hassle of public transport or car rental.

  • Pick up at 9am
  • Frequency: Tuesday to Sunday (Closed on Monday)
  • Departure: ​Find on Maps
  • Included: Transfer from Granada, Bilingual guide
  • Attractions in Granada:Alhambra, ​Granada Cathedral
Learn more
Seville

From Seville

Travel time & distance: Around 2.5 hrs, 164 km

Seville is a great base for exploring southern Spain, and a day trip is the perfect way to experience the Caminito del Rey. Although Seville is the farthest from the Caminito, you can make a stop in a charming Andalusian town for a delicious tapas lunch or dinner break, or attend flamenco shows, and visit the magnificent Seville Cathedral while returning from the walk.

Know more

Breaking down your Caminito del Rey walk

Starting El Caminito del Rey Hike:

  • At the trailhead, there's a spot with a restaurant and parking spaces, where the last shuttle bus also stops. The shuttle bus makes stops along the road, which is handy for getting back to your car after the hike.
  • There are two paths at the start: one leads to the control house, where you get a helmet, and the other heads to the Gaitanejo dam, where the hike begins.

Swedish Tradition:

  • If you choose the longer path starting at Sillón del Rey, it's 2.7 km (1.7 mi) long and has stone benches, a table, and a chair used by the king. Alternatively, you can take the 1.5 km (1 mi) shorter trail that begins 200 meters (218 yards) before the restaurant and passes through a small cave.

The Unforgettable Suspension Bridge:

  • Once you reach the Gaitanejo dam, you'll encounter the Sierra Parda cave, once home to workers of the hydropower plant. Continuing along, you'll come to the Gaitanejo gorge and the Puente del Rey suspension bridge, which hangs high above the ground, surrounded by towering mountains.
  • Crossing the bridge, the path winds through the Los Gaitanes valley, with paths hanging 100 meters (109 yards) above the ground. The hike offers stunning views of nature in every direction, including a 100-year-old juniper tree and a "fossil beach" with fossils from the Jurassic period. Don't miss the glass balcony that juts off the main path. Finally, return the helmets and walk the last 2.1 km (1.3 mi) downhill to the El Chorro train stop.

Caminito del Rey tour highlights

The Corridor of the Immortals

The Corridor of the Immortals

This is the most famous part of the Caminito del Rey. It is a narrow walkway that hangs over the gorge, with sheer cliffs on either side.

The Bridge of Sighs
Caminito del Rey Cave of Bats
The Waterfalls
Mirador de los Gaitanes

Get hike ready with these handy info | Caminito must-knows

While day trips cover round-trip transportation, making your experience seamless and stress-free, here are some of the other ways you can travel to Caminito del Rey, how to visit, entrance, and all essential information explained for you!

There's only one northern entrance where most tours begin. You can't access the walk from anywhere else except for this North Access near El Kiosko restaurant. You can get there by car and park at the Ardales (€2/day) lot. From there, you have a choice of two paths: a shorter 20-minute walk through a tunnel, or a scenic 35-minute walk along the Gaitanejo trail. The trail offers lovely views but takes longer. Whichever path you choose, they both lead to the official entrance gate of El Caminito.

In summary:

  • Pedestrian tunnel (shorter, 20 minutes): This is near El Kiosko > takes you to the North access
  • Gaitanejo trail (longer, 50 minutes): This is a scenic route through a forest > takes you to the North access

If you're driving, you need to park at one of four available car parks to reach the tunnel entrance. You can pay on arrival with cash or reserve a spot while booking your tickets:

  • Car Park Ardales: Costs €2, opens at 8.30am, opposite the tunnel entrance. (​Google Maps). There's free parking in the village of El Chorro (​Google Maps)
  • El Kiosko: Limited free parking near a restaurant/cafe, then a 5-minute walk to the tunnel entrance. (​Google Maps)
  • Official Caminito del Rey Car Park: Costs €2, furthest from the tunnel (2.2km), but you can reserve a space online. (​Google Maps)

*Note: As mentioned earlier, none of these car parks are located right next to the North Access. You will need to get on a 1.5km hike to reach the North Access to start your walk!*

  • Train: Regular trains depart from Estacion Maria Zambrano in Malaga to El Chorro. The journey takes about 45 minutes and costs €3.50 one way. From the railway station, you'll need to take the shuttle bus to the aforementioned car parks.
  • Bus: Although less convenient, you can also reach the Caminito del Rey by bus. If you're coming from Malaga, you'll need to change at Alora to reach El Chorro.
How to reach Caminito del Rey?
  • Reception Booth: After following the trail and landmarks, visitors arrive at the reception booth where the official route begins. This area features informational panels and is where two paths merge. The walk to this point can take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the chosen path.
  • Check-In Process: At the Control Cabin, visitors receive a protection helmet and undergo a check for footwear and restricted items (e.g., umbrellas, hiking sticks, selfie sticks). They are then organized into groups based on their timeslot. Guides provide an introductory talk emphasizing the importance of not littering (orientation).
  • Shuttle bus: A shuttle bus service operates between the parking areas and the Caminito del Rey entrance, with tickets available for €2.50 each way online or in cash from the driver.
  • *Important to note: There are no toilets or bins on the walkway itself, so be sure to use the facilities at the visitor center before you set off.*
Caminito del Rey Timings
  • Opening times: The Caminito del Rey is open from 9am
  • The Route: The Caminito del Rey is a one-way, linear route that takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. The distance is 7.7 kilometers (4.8 miles), with most of the elevation gain at the beginning. There are walking sticks available for rent at the entrance, but they are not essential.
Know the opening hours of Caminito del Rey
Caminito Del Rey Ecology
  • The Gaitanes Gorge: located between Alora, Antequera, and Ardales in the Malaga Mountains, it is a stunning natural beauty spot. It features the River Guadalhorce flowing through steep, high walls, and narrow passages as tight as 10 meters wide and up to 700 meters deep.
  • Reservoirs: The area includes El Caminito del Rey Path, originally opened by King Alfonso XIII. This path stretches about 3 kilometers along vertical walls and a footbridge across the gorge, following a water channel between the northern reservoirs and El Chorro.
  • Vegetation: The gorge supports diverse vegetation like Aleppo pines, holm oaks, and Mediterranean fan palms, with a variety of fauna including Egyptian vultures, golden eagles, and mountain goats.
How to plan your visit?
Caminito Del Rey Rules
  • Tickets & entry: Entry requires a digital or printed ticket and is primarily from the northern zone (Ardales), following a downhill path. Arrive 30 minutes before your time slot. The starting point is near Restaurant El Kiosko by the Conde del Guadalhorce Swamp. Use the designated northern access with your ticket. Off-path areas, especially train tracks, are off-limits.
  • Safety: Visitors between 8 and 18 years must have adult supervision and provide ID to prove age. Adults also need ID to enter and exit. Wear safety gear properly and proceed cautiously, especially when passing slower visitors. Follow staff instructions and keep areas clean. Access is limited to marked paths.
  • Expulsion: Misconduct may lead to expulsion. The administration can close the site for safety or maintenance without obligation. Comply with all staff directions and stay updated via the Caminito del Rey platform regarding any changes or incidents.
https://cdn-imgix.headout.com/media/images/b87a11cc88de9323cdcc4a32c8ca8dea-Caminito%20del%20Rey%208.jpg

Signposting Details: All signs conform to the Natural Areas Signposting Manual from the Andalucia Council. Directions from Environmental Agents and Spanish military police are mandatory.

Types of Signposting:

  • Location Signs (Big Format): Provide general location within Málaga, showcasing the area's connection between northern plains and the Guadalhorce valley.
  • Guidance Signposting (Arrow-like Format): Placed at entry crossings of the two paths.
  • Complimentary Signposting: Marks the start and end of the path at the northern and southern accesses, with symbols indicating danger, prohibition, or precaution.
  • Theme Signposting: Discusses local flora, wildlife, and geology.
  • Public Use Signposting: Offers bilingual information about the route, including maps showing distances, landscape profiles, local amenities like hotels and restaurants, and specific locations.
Caminito Del Rey
  • Carrying and Lifting: Do not carry or lift anyone on the boardwalks.
  • Obstructions on Paths: Do not use harnesses, cables, or carry large backpacks and bags that could obstruct the path or cause accidents.
  • Mobility Aids and Accessories: Canes, crutches, wheelchairs, baby carriages, and selfie sticks are prohibited.
  • Misuse of Equipment: Follow correct usage of security equipment provided at access points.
  • Photography and Drones: Avoid using tripods, large cameras, or drones (unless specifically authorized).
  • Animals and Noise: Do not bring animals, play loud music, or make excessive noise.
  • Physical Environment: Do not swim in rivers or ponds, enter unauthorized tunnels, leave the path, damage geological features, paint, or write on surfaces.
  • Respect for Nature: Avoid pulling up plants, undressing, lying down, or scattering ashes.
  • Restricted Items and Areas: Bringing prams or anything that could hinder evacuation is not allowed. Children under 8 are not permitted.
Caminito del Rey Food

There are a couple of options for places to eat near Caminito del Rey, depending on what you're looking for:

  • El Kiosko (Quick and casual): This is a simple restaurant with a colorful terrace overlooking the lake. They offer tapas and traditional Malagan dishes, like fritura malagueña (fried fish) and gazpacho. It's a good option for a casual meal with a view. They're open every day from 8:30am to 10pm.
  • Restaurante El Mirador Ardales (Sit-down meal with a view): This restaurant offers Andalusian cuisine with a beautiful view of the mountains. They have a wide variety of dishes on the menu, including grilled meats, seafood, and pasta. They're open every day from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, except for Mondays.

Visitor tips

  • Wear trainers for the walk; hiking boots aren't necessary, but don't wear flip-flops or casual sandals to avoid injuring your feet while hiking.
  • You're allowed to bring a small backpack, but not large picnic setups. Remember to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
  • Bring water, and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen, especially on your left side. Avoid walking between 12pm-3pm in peak summer to escape the intense sun for the roughly two-hour journey.
  • Use the bathroom before starting the walk, as there are limited facilities along the route. The last chance for a restroom break is at the northern access point, with another available about five minutes after the southern access/exit. Once you start, there's no turning back, and traffic flows only one way.
  • Despite visitor limits (1100), the boardwalks can still feel overcrowded. Consider slowing down to let others pass for a more enjoyable experience. Expect queues and congestion, especially during peak times like Easter, July, and August.
  • If you're nervous about heights, rest assured that the boardwalks are wide with handrails and steel mesh on exposed edges. It's a manageable experience designed to help overcome fear, but guided walks or virtual tours can offer additional support. However, If you have medical conditions, reconsider.

Frequently asked questions about Caminito del Rey tours

What type of Caminito del Rey day trips and tours are available?

Most Caminito del Rey day tours are full-day excursions, with transportation included from Malaga, Granada, or Seville. These day trips typically focus on the Caminito del Rey itself, with guided walks along the path and explanations about its history and geology. The right trip for you is based on your place of preference! If you're in Seville and you have time on your hands, get on a day trip to Caminito del Rey! Malaga is the closest to Caminito, so you can squeeze it into your itinerary any day! Granada is a great starting point, once you're done visiting Alhambra Palace and other famous attractions!

What are the must-visit attractions and how do I prioritize them?

The Caminito del Rey is the main attraction, but don't overlook:
El Chorro gorge: A beautiful natural area with waterfalls and hiking trails (allocate 1-2 hours)
Ardales: A charming white village with a castle and historical center (can take 1-2 hours)
Malaga (if departing from there): Explore the Malaga Cathedral, Picasso Museum, or Alcazaba fortress.

Can I customize my day trip itinerary?

With an entrance ticket, you have the flexibility of curating your perfect itinerary

Are there any age restrictions for Caminito del Rey tours?

Children below 8 years of age are not allowed to get on a hike. This is due to safety considerations on the Caminito del Rey. Those aged 8-18 must be accompanied by adults at all times. Do not forget to bring ID proof with you.

Are day trips suitable for children or older adults?

The Caminito del Rey itself requires a good level of fitness and has uneven surfaces. It might not be suitable for very young children or older adults with mobility limitations.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.