Caminito del Rey – the captivating pathway that meanders through the verdant Malaga province of Spain – is one of the favourite outdoor adventures of many Spanish students learning Spanish in Andalucia and Malaga. The path is renowned for its panoramic vistas and striking beauty. This almost eight-kilometer trek in southern Andalusia was once considered one of the most perilous paths in all of world. Now it has undergone an extensive restoration process assuring visitor’s safety along with an unforgettable experience walking amongst walkways dangling over 100 meters up on a sheer cliff face. The views are amazing!! So if you are in Malaga, as a tourist or to learn Spanish, this is one of the most beautiful hikes of Spain!

1: What Is Caminito Del Rey?

El Caminito del Rey is a 7,7 kilometers-long walkway located in Malaga, Spain. It’s considered one of the most dangerous hikes in the world with its 2,400ft sheer drops. The pathway was originally built in 1905 to provide access to workers for the hydroelectric power stations along the route. It’s now a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The awe-inspiring path takes you through captivating landscapes of ravines and cliffs as well as a spacious valley. The total trail takes about 3-4 hours. You can observe the impressive 400 metre walls of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, which were carved out by the Guadalhorce River – an ideal spot for encountering highland birds like Egyptian vultures or griffon vultures along with mammals such as wild boar and Iberian ibex.

2: How to Get To Caminito Del Rey From Malaga?

This beautiful walkway is just a short journey away from Malaga and can be accessed by car or public transport (bus or train; take the train to El Chorro-Caminito del Rey railway station or do train station Ardales) The drive by private car is approximately one hour, while public transport takes around two hours, so you can choose whichever option works best for you. If you arrive by car, you can park in El Chorro or by El Kiosko Restaurant. Once you arrive, prepare to be amazed by the incredible views and captivating nature that surrounds the area.

3: Where exactly is Caminito Del Rey?

Caminito Del Rey is situated in the steep walls of a narrow gorge, and has been considered one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world. The trail is located about 100 from the city of Málaga (see above). The start is in the town of Ardales and the exit in Álora. From the starting point there are two paths which lead to the control cabin and the Gaitanejo dam, where the official trail of El Caminito del Rey begins. One takes about 20 minutes, the other about 50.

The path already was a popular tourist attraction for its panoramic views along the gorge, but was then closed for safety reasons for some years after 2000; however, it has been reopened to the public following extensive renovations and is now a must-see destination during any trip to Málaga.

4: What are the best views from Caminito Del Rey?

If you’re looking for some of the most breathtaking views in Malaga, then look no further than the Caminito Del Rey. With its stunning natural landscape and sweeping views of the El Chorro Gorge, this famous walkway is the perfect place to take in the beauty of the region. From the top of the walkway, you can see all the way down to the reservoir below, making it a great spot to take in the picturesque Spanish countryside.

The viewing point on Gaitanejo dam has views of the cave dwellings of Sierra Parda (once home to the staff working at the hydroelectric plant (se below)). After reaching the walkways, the trail continues through the Gaitanejo gorge, the canyon called Tajo de las Palomas, and the hanging bridge, Puente del Rey.

5: What is the history of Caminito Del Rey?

The Caminito Del Rey was built in 1905 by the workers of the Chorro and Gaitanes hydroelectric plants. The walkway is known for its stunning views of the El Chorro Gorge and its unique design, which was made to make it easier for workers to access the hydroelectric plants. The walkway has become a popular tourist destination over the years, and it’s still an amazing place to explore and appreciate nature.

With its picturesque landscapes and stunning views, Caminito del Rey is a must-see destination for travelers looking for an unforgettable experience. If you have been some time living in Malaga to learn Spanish, you don’t want to miss out on this amazing experience so plan ahead!

Tips for the best Caminito del Rey Experience

• Book your Tickets several months ahead at: www.caminitodelrey.info/en
  Before you enter to buy the ticket, you need to know the date and choose a time slot.
• You can do the hike independently, or buy a ticket for a guided tour to gain insight into the regions history and geography as well as its impressive biodiversity. Either way, at the control cabin, personnel give visitors a protective helmet (the price is included in the ticket) and check that you wear suitable shoes.
• Selfie sticks and hiking poles are NOT allowed on Caminito del Rey.
• You need to be at the control cabin at least 15-30 minutes before your entrance time. There is a short safety briefing before you depart.
• It is advisable to bring sunscreen, a cap or hat (against the sun), water and some snacks (chocolate bars, nuts and fruits are all good choices) so that if dizziness should arise during any of the stretches it could be remedied by eating something!
• Also bring some cash money for the bus ticket.
• Can kids to the hike? Kids younger than 8 years old cannot access Caminito del Rey. Kids 8 years or older must show their ID or passport for the age control.
• Remember the path is open every day from Tuesday to Sunday but not on Mondays.
• Though large parts of the trail are in the shade, it can get very hot especially during the summer season, so you need to be prepared for that, You cannot go for a swim during the walk; however, you can swim at a lake afterward.
• Along the final stretch of the walk lies a maze of mountain paths and woodland tracks, situated between control cabins and the entrance-exit to its path. Additionally, there is an underground passage running alongside both walkways within Desfiladeros de los Gaitanes; this provides an alternative route on days when unfavorable weather conditions may result in mudor or landslides. The tunnel is 300 meters long- offering enough time for exploration!
• Plan your return: Caminito del Rey is a linear, one-way trail, so you need to consider the time taken at the end of the walk to return to your starting point (about an hour) when planning your trip.