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Caminito del Rey

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Caminito del Rey (Spain)

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The Caminito del Rey (King's Little Path) is a world-renowned, adrenaline-inducing walkway in the Andalusian province of Málaga, clinging to the vertical walls of the Gaitanes Gorge (Desfiladero de los Gaitanes). Originally constructed between 1901 and 1905 to provide workers access between two hydroelectric power plants, the path hovers nearly 100 meters above the Guadalhorce River. Over the decades, it fell into severe disrepair, earning a notorious reputation as the world's most dangerous walkway. Following a massive restoration project, it was safely reopened to the public in 2015. Today, the newly constructed wooden boardwalks, securely pinned to the sheer limestone cliffs, offer visitors a thrilling yet safe journey through the gorge. The geology of the canyon is spectacular, narrowing to just 10 meters across in some sections while dropping hundreds of meters deep. The sheer cliffs are also an important habitat for large birds of prey, providing excellent opportunities to spot griffon vultures and golden eagles soaring above.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C891114182326262218129
Rain mm535571532841327687871

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
Caminito del Rey is a spectacular walkway that can be visited with an entrance fee. Visitors must register in advance and receive a safety briefing.
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Typical hours
The walkway is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, often from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with different time slots. Mondays are usually closed; advance booking is mandatory.
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Photography
Photography is allowed along the entire path, but for safety reasons, the use of selfie sticks and tripods is prohibited. Drones are also banned for safety.
⏱️
Time needed
The entire Caminito del Rey route is about 3 km long, and the walk takes 2 to 3 hours. Allow extra time for travel and the safety briefing.
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Combine with
The walkway is near the El Chorro reservoir and the Gaitanes gorge, which also offer hiking trails. The city of Málaga is about 50 km away and has many cultural attractions.
🧭
Getting there
Caminito del Rey is best reached by car via the A-357 highway and the MA-4403 local road. There are parking lots at both ends of the path; buses run from Málaga and Álora.
💡
Insider tip
Book your tickets and time slot well in advance as the walkway often sells out. Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip and bring a water bottle.

Geography

Coordinates
36.91000, -4.77000

Facts

  • Suspended approximately 100 meters above the Guadalhorce River
  • Original construction took place between 1901 and 1905
  • King Alfonso XIII walked the path in 1921, giving it its name
  • Safely reopened to the public in 2015 after a multi-million euro restoration
  • The total length of the linear hiking route is nearly 8 kilometers
  • The Gaitanes Gorge narrows to a width of just 10 meters in some sections
  • The modern wooden boardwalks are anchored directly into the limestone cliffs

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ruins of BobastroRuins of Bobastro4 km · SExplore →
Torcal de AntequeraTorcal de Antequera21 km · EExplore →
AntequeraAntequera22 km · NEExplore →
CoínCoín28 km · SExplore →
Andalusia Technology ParkAndalusia Technology Park30 km · SEExplore →
Sierra de las Nieves National ParkSierra de las Nieves National Park30 km · SWExplore →
Alhaurín el GrandeAlhaurín el Grande31 km · SExplore →
Alhaurín de la TorreAlhaurín de la Torre33 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Caminito del Rey (5)

Bobastro🏺 historical

The ruins of a 9th-century rebel fortress and settlement in the mountains.

Mirador del Embalses🌿 nature

A viewpoint offering memorable vistas of the surrounding water reservoirs.

Garganta del Chorro🌿 nature

A dramatic limestone gorge through which the Guadalhorce River flows.

Mirador de las Buitreras🌿 nature

A scenic observation point known for views of bird nesting areas in the canyon.

Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Villaverde📍 landmark

A traditional hermitage chapel located in the vicinity of the Caminito del Rey.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Do you need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, booking weeks or months in advance is necessary due to high demand.
Is the path dangerous?
It has been safe since the 2015 renovation, but requires a lack of vertigo.
How long does the hike take?
The entire route is about 7.7 km long and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Is there an age limit?
Children under 8 years old are not allowed to enter Caminito del Rey.
Do you have to wear a helmet?
Yes, protective helmets are provided at the entrance and must be worn.
Caminito del Rey: where is it located?
Caminito del Rey is located in Galicia, Spain.
Caminito del Rey: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bobastro, Mirador del Embalses, Garganta del Chorro.
Caminito del Rey: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Caminito del Rey: why is it worth visiting?
The Caminito del Rey (King's Little Path) is a world-renowned, adrenaline-inducing walkway in the Andalusian province of Málaga, clinging to the vertical walls of the Gaitanes Gorge (Desfiladero de los Gaitanes).
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →
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