The Caminito del Rey hike, in English the Pathway of the King, was once known as “the most dangerous walkway in the world”. This hiking path alongside the gorge El Chorro back to the early 20th century when it was built as a means for hydroelectric power plant workers to cross between the Chorro and Gaitanejo Falls. This dangerous path hanging over a canyon got its Royal title in 1921 after King Alfonso XIII crossed it while inaugurating the dam. After years of neglect, the footpath crumbled into disrepair and became infamous for its dangerous conditions, attracting thrill seekers from around the world.
In this article, you will find a complete guide for visiting this most popular natural attraction in Southern Spain, so if you’re visiting Malaga as part of your itinerary you shouldn’t leave this one behind!
This guest post was written by Lucia from Viva La Vita.
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Getting to Caminito Del Rey
Your journey to Caminito del Rey starts in Malaga. From there, you can either book a dedicated tour to Caminito del Rey from Malaga, which includes transport and tickets or drive there on your own using a rental car. Just recently they have also introduced an extended train line to the village of El Chorro, so you can visit this attraction as a day trip from Malaga by train.
Remember that if you’re getting to Caminito del Rey on your own, you need to book your tickets in advance online as they have a dedicated time slot. You can choose to book it either as an independent hike or a guided walk. Both options include a safety helmet which you need to wear as there is a risk of falling rocks.
The recommended journey if you’re getting there with a car is to aim for the village of Ardales (the northern access point) and end at El Chorro (the southern access). You have to park the car at the visitor center at the north access point and take a shuttle bus that will take you to the start of the trail, which is accessible through a tunnel walk until you hit the entrance with safety guides. The shuttle bus service connecting these points operates regularly throughout the day, roughly every 30 minutes, ensuring that getting back to your starting point is pretty easy. I think the return ticket costs something like 2.50 euros per person.
Preparing for the Caminito del Rey Hike
Before packing for your trip to Caminito del Rey, make sure you check the weather and dress accordingly. Sturdy walking shoes are your best friend here – ensure they have a good grip as some sections of the path can be slippery. Depending on the season, a waterproof jacket might prove beneficial against sporadic rain showers typical of Andalusian weather. Don’t forget to pack a hat and apply plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from Spain’s fierce sun!
Due to safety, these items are forbidden on the path: selfie sticks, umbrellas, food or drinks, smoking or alcohol, walking off the main path, and inappropriate footwear like flip-flops.
Starting Your Caminito del Rey Hike
The main walkway is about 7.7 km long and includes a 4.8 km long accessway. It meanders through a landscape painted with rugged cliffs, mighty mountains, and sweeping views of Andalusian vistas. As you arrive at the entrance you will see a couple of buildings where they store safety helmets and audio equipment, and also toilets and a couple of vending machines. You need to wait for your dedicated time slot, put your helmets on, and either follow your guide or wait for their instructions on when you can start your hike.
The views from the path are absolutely stunning, and almost every corner presents a beautiful photo opportunity. As someone who is scared of heights, I’m happy to say I didn’t struggle on the trail at all and was too distracted by the views to pay attention to the height of the footpath.
The Gaitanejo Bridge is probably the most challenging part of the path for most people – a narrow walkway suspended over dizzying heights that guarantees soul-stirring photos – provided you can keep your hands steady! After the bridge, it’s only a short uphill climb of the stairs, and you have already reached the end of the hike. For my group with a guide, it took about 1.5 hours with stops in between and taking photos at every turn.
Safety Measures on the Caminito del Rey Hike
Local authorities have taken considerable care in implementing strict safety measures on this breathtaking path. The entire trail now features a sturdy wooden boardwalk with railings that provide a secure pathway along the cliff faces.
Additionally, every visitor is provided with a helmet at the start of their journey – non-negotiable attire on Caminito Del Rey due to occasional minor rockfalls from above. Remember to wear it throughout your journey! You may feel silly but better safe than sorry! Signage along the trail gives you clear instructions about where caution is needed most. Listening to these signs and respecting their warnings plays an integral role in protecting yourself.
Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting
If you’ve managed to traverse the thrilling yet breathtaking trail of Caminito Del Rey and are looking for more, you’re in luck. The surrounding area is teeming with historical sites, charming villages, and enticing natural wonders. Hardly a stone’s throw away is Antequera, a city often overlooked by tourists but brimming with rich history. Here you’ll find over 30 ancient churches, not to mention grand palaces and one particularly impressive Alcazaba fortress perched high on a hill.
Next, take a trip to El Torcal Nature Reserve where fascinating limestone formations will give your imagination free rein – are those towers or giant petrified mushrooms? Meanwhile, animal lovers should head towards Fuente de Piedra lagoon – an oasis for flamingos who swoop in during spring migration season.
Final Words: Caminito del Rey Hike
Walking the Caminito del Rey is a bucket list experience, it’s not merely a hike from point A to B, but instead, an exhilarating walk suspended high above the gorge. To feel your heart dance to the rhythm of every step you take on these suspended boardwalks is why every thrill-seeker should etch this hike onto their adventure bucket list.
As I conclude this comprehensive guide to Caminito del Rey, I hope it has inspired you to an unforgettable journey through this natural wonder of Southern Spain. This walkway may be known as ‘The King’s Little Path’, but rest assured – the experiences it offers are anything but little! So go ahead – seize these moments, live the adventure, and carry back memories that will last a lifetime.
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