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Exploring Caminito Del Rey- All You Need to Know

Also Known As

King’s Little Path

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What is Caminito del Rey?

Inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1921, Caminito del Rey, known as The King's Little Path, was originally a small service path on the right bank of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, connecting the El Gaitanejo dam with the El Chorro hydro-electric plant. Today, it is an 8-kilometre-long walkway in the canyons of central Malaga, hanging 100 meters above the River Guadalhorce. Located around 55 kilometres from Malaga City, Caminito del Rey is an iconic tourist destination in Spain known for its stunning natural beauty and exciting walkway experience. 

Quick facts about Caminito del Rey

  • Official name: El Caminito del Rey
  • Location/Address: El Caminito del Rey, 29550 Ardales, Málaga, Spain
  • Date of opening: 21 May 1921 
  • Timings: 9am to 2:50pm (winter months) and 9am to 5:20pm (summer months)
  • Architect (for historical monuments): Original path built by Chorro Hydroelectric Society.  Path upgraded by Rafael Benjumea Burín.
  • Number of visitors per year: 300,000
  • Function: Originally built as an access route for workers at the El Chorro hydro-electric plant. Used as a walking path today. 

Plan your visit to Caminito del Rey in Malaga

Opening hours
Location

History of Caminito Del Rey in a nutshell

While the construction of Caminito del Rey began in 1901 and concluded in 1905, it was only opened to the public in 1921 by King Alfonso XIII. The path was primarily built for the workers at the Hydroelectric Power Station in El Chorro, who needed access between the two hydro-electric sites, including  Salto del Chorro (Chorro waterfall) and Salto de Gaitenejo (Gaitenejo waterfall) for maintenance, transportation, and other purposes. The Caminito del Rey is one of the most popular attractions in Spain, thanks to its serene natural surroundings and memorable walking experience. 

Who built Caminito Del Rey? 

The walkway was renovated by Chief Engineer Rafael Benjumea Burn in the early 1900s. The first path was built by the Sociedad Hydroelectrica del Chorro (Chorro Hydroelectric Society) between 1901 and 1905. While the stories remain unconfirmed to date, there are claims that convicts, including those sentenced to death, were tasked to construct the riskiest parts of the Caminito del Rey.

Frequently asked questions about Calminito Del Rey

What is the Caminito Del Rey?

Camintino del Rey is about an 8-kilometer walkway pinned to the El Chorro gorge in the central part of the Malaga province in Spain.

Why is Caminito Del Rey famous?

Caminito del Rey is famous for the mindblowing scenery of the El Chorro gorge and the thrilling walking adventure it provides throughout the 8-kilometer-long journey.

What can I do at Caminito Del Rey?

You can enjoy the nature, walk on the walkway, get a glimpse of different birds, and capture the beauty of the canyons and splendid views of the gorge.

How do I book tickets to visit Caminito Del Rey?

You can book tickets to visit Caminito del Rey online.

How much does it cost to visit Caminito Del Rey?

A guided tour of Caminito del Rey will cost you about €27.55.

Are there guided tours available at Caminito Del Rey?

Yes, guided tours are available at Caminito del Rey, and can be booked online.

Who designed/built Caminito Del Rey?

While the original path was built by Chorro Hydroelectric Society, the path was later upgraded by Rafael Benjumea Burín.

What’s inside Caminito Del Rey?

You will find a range of geological formations, beautiful waterfalls, a narrow trail along the gorge, bat caves, and plenty of vantage points to capture the natural beauty of the surrounding areas.

What are the Caminito Del Rey opening hours?

Caminito del Rey is open from 9 AM to 3:30 PM in the winter months, i.e., from November to February and from 9 AM to 5 PM in the summer, i.e., from March to October.

What is the best time to visit Caminito Del Rey?

The best time to visit Caminito del Rey is between September and November as the temperature is pleasant, allowing you to enjoy the scenic walk comfortably.

Is there a dress code for visiting Caminito Del Rey?

While there is no dress code, please ensure you wear reliable and comfortable hiking shoes, carry a hat or a cap, and wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.