The Caminito del Rey is the most thrilling day out in Málaga province, and one of the great walks of Spain. The original path was pinned to the sheer walls of the Gaitanes gorge in the early twentieth century so workers could reach a hydroelectric canal, and it took its name, the King’s Little Path, from King Alfonso XIII, who walked it when the dam was inaugurated. Over the decades it fell into ruin and earned a reputation as the most dangerous path in the world, until it was rebuilt with new boardwalks and reopened safely in 2015. Today the complete route, including access paths, runs about 7.7 kilometres one way, almost five of them on the elevated sections, which cling to the rock high above the turquoise river, cross a suspension bridge over the gorge and pass through a wide green valley between the two canyons. Entry is by timed ticket, a helmet is provided and must be worn, and the walk is linear, starting at the reservoirs near Ardales and ending at El Chorro. Tiqets sells entry and guided tours, including options with a shuttle or transport from Málaga.
How to see it: the walk starts from the reservoir end, near the Kiosko bar and the King’s Chair, and there is no access from the El Chorro side. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your entry time, because the walk from the car park to the control point takes a while. The route is one way, so you finish at El Chorro, where a shuttle bus runs back toward the start for those who parked there. A guided tour adds commentary on the geology, the dam and the history of the path, and a guided tour with transport from Málaga removes the logistics entirely.
What to expect: the trail is normally closed on Mondays and on a few days around Christmas and New Year, and it can close in heavy rain or strong wind, with tickets then eligible for rescheduling. Children under 8 are not allowed, and visitors aged 8 to 17 must be with an adult and carry ID. There is little shade for long stretches. It is not for anyone with serious vertigo.
Making the most of it: book well ahead for spring and autumn weekends, the most popular times, and choose a morning slot to avoid the afternoon heat. Wear proper walking shoes and bring water and sun protection. If you do not drive, choose a Tiqets option with transport, or take the train from Málaga to El Chorro and the shuttle to the start.
What to expect
The experience
A linear, one-way walk on boardwalks and paths through two gorges and a valley, with a compulsory helmet and timed entry.
Best time
Morning slots in spring and autumn, which avoid both the summer heat and the busiest crowds.
How long
Three to four hours on the trail, and most of a day with transport from Málaga.
Tips
Arrive 30 minutes early at the reservoir end, wear proper walking shoes and remember it is closed on Mondays.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers who want the most dramatic scenery in the province.
- Families
- Possible with children aged 8 and over who are confident walkers and comfortable with heights.
- Couples
- An unforgettable shared adventure, with lunch by the reservoirs afterwards.
- Pair with
- A sunset catamaran in Málaga the same evening, or a quieter museum day after.
- Time needed
- Half a day on the trail, a full day with travel.
Good questions
Is the Caminito del Rey dangerous?+
Not any more, because the path was rebuilt with secure boardwalks and railings before it reopened in 2015. Helmets are compulsory, and the trail closes in bad weather for safety.
How long is the Caminito del Rey?+
The complete route is about 7.7 kilometres including the access paths, with almost five kilometres on the elevated sections. Allow three to four hours.
Is there a minimum age?+
Yes, children under 8 are not allowed on the path. Visitors aged 8 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult and carry ID.
Is the Caminito del Rey open on Mondays?+
No, it is normally closed on Mondays and on a few days around Christmas and New Year. It can also close in heavy rain or wind, with tickets then eligible for rescheduling.
How do you get to the Caminito del Rey from Málaga?+
The easiest way is a tour with transport from Málaga, which Tiqets sells. Otherwise drive to the reservoirs near Ardales, or take the train to El Chorro and the shuttle bus to the start.
