Caminito del Rey

For years it was known as the most dangerous footpath in the world. Today, after the 2015 restoration, the Caminito del Rey is a perfectly safe walkway bolted to the wall of the Gaitanes Gorge, roughly 100 metres above the Guadalhorce river. And it is still spectacular.

The route

• Total length: about 7.7 km, of which 2.9 km are walkways.
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours including the access paths.
• One-way only: north to south, from Ardales towards El Chorro (Álora).
• Low difficulty: essentially flat with no scrambling. The only demanding parts are the distance and, for some people, the exposure.
• A glass-floored suspension bridge across the gorge — the high point of the walk.

Booking is compulsory

This is the critical point: you cannot get in without a pre-booked ticket, and places per time slot are limited. In high season and at weekends they sell out weeks in advance. Book on the official site as soon as you have dates.

Requirements and rules

• Minimum age: 8. Younger children are not admitted, and neither are pushchairs or baby carriers.
• Helmet compulsory, handed out at the entrance.
• Closed shoes with decent grip. No flip-flops.
• Not accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.
• Closes in strong wind, rain or storms.

Getting there

It is an hour’s drive from Málaga city and a little more from the western coast. There is a Cercanías train (line C-2) to El Chorro-Caminito del Rey station, though services are infrequent. Watch the logistics: the walk is linear, so you have to get back to the start by shuttle bus (paid service) or leave a car at each end.

What to bring

Plenty of water — there are no fountains on the route — plus a cap, sun cream and something to eat. In summer, take the first slot of the morning: the gorge has almost no shade and midday in July is hard going.

Is it worth it?

Yes, without reservation. It is the most impressive inland outing in the province and a perfect alternative for a day away from the beach. Combine it with lunch in Ardales or a swim in the Guadalhorce reservoirs.