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Caminito del Rey means "the king’s little pathway." As you walk along high suspension bridges and boardwalks, you will be amazed by the 700-meter-high Guadalhorce Gorge. Enjoy the bright blue river, beautiful mountains, and lush greenery. This hike is a fantastic way to connect with nature and will be an adventure you will never forget. The trail is now safe and accessible for almost everyone, though it may not be suitable for those with disabilities. With its restored path and suspended bridge, the views will take your breath away.

Getting There

Transportation Options

1. By Car: Renting a car is a convenient option if you prefer flexibility. The drive from Málaga to Caminito del Rey takes about an hour. Follow the A-357 and MA-5403 roads to reach the starting point.

2. By Train: Take a train from Málaga's María Zambrano Station to El Chorro Station. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. From El Chorro, a shuttle bus will take you to the entrance of Caminito del Rey.

3. Guided Tour: Many tour operators offer guided day trips from Málaga, including transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide. This option is perfect for those who want a hassle-free experience.

We chose Get Your Guide’s From Málaga: Caminito del Rey Guided Day Trip . This tour has a 4.8 rating from over 750 tourists. Our group tour departed from Malaga city center and took us through the beautiful Guadalhorce valley.

Viator also offers a full-day tour to Caminito del Rey from Malaga (From Malaga Caminito del Rey Guided Tour with transportation).

We met our guide at Avenida de Andalucía (Malaga) and hopped on the bus. The ride took us northwest through the beautiful countryside of Málaga. We crossed the Alcaparaín mountain range and saw many orange groves and charming Andalusian villages. We enjoyed a quick half-hour stop in Ardales, which was perfect for stretching our legs and grabbing a snack.

The Trail

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The trail itself is a 7.7-kilometer (or 4.8 miles) walk through dramatic gorges, with stunning views of the Guadalhorce River and surrounding landscapes. Our tour guide shared insights about the geology, the wildlife, and the spectacular landscapes along the way. The footbridge, suspended almost 105 meters (340 ft) above the Gaitanes Gorge, provides an incredible panoramic view of the Sierra de Málaga. The path is well-maintained, with wooden walkways and handrails for safety. While the trail is mostly flat, some steep sections require comfortable hiking shoes.

Scenic Highlights

• Gorges and Cliffs: The trail suspends above the stunning Gaitanes Gorge, revealing awe-inspiring views of the cliffs and the Guadalhorce River below.

• Birdwatching: Look out for the diverse birdlife, including griffon vultures and other native species.

• Bridge Crossing: One of the most exciting parts is crossing the suspension bridge, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Preparing for Your Hike

What to Bring

• Since there are no shops or restaurants along the trail, carry enough water and some snacks for energy. - disposable water bottle

• Carry sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

• Comfortable hiking shoes are a must.

• Don’t forget a smartphone camera or a professional camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

Safety Tips

• Whether you use a tour guide or are hiking alone, listen to safety briefings and follow all instructions from guides or park staff.

• Respect Nature: Stay on the designated paths and avoid disturbing the wildlife or plants.

• Check Weather: Before heading out, check the forecast and plan accordingly. The trail may close in poor weather conditions.
  

Return

• After the hike, you will find food stalls / kiosks. Our tour allowed us approximately 30 minutes to buy snacks or food and drinks. After enjoying the meal, we boarded our bus to Malaga.

• The trail ends at the southern entrance, near the train station, where you can catch a train or bus back to Malaga.

• Shuttle buses are also available to take you back to the parking area or train

A day tour from Málaga to Caminito del Rey is an exciting journey through one of Spain's most remarkable natural landscapes. Whether you are gazing down from the dizzying heights or marveling at the surrounding cliffs, this experience will be a highlight of your trip. If you are planning to explore the magical trail on your own, remember to book your tickets in advance, as the park limits the number of visitors to preserve the area’s natural beauty. Enjoy your adventure!