Visit Caminito del Rey
in Ardales
Cross the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorges on 3 km of secure walkways above the Guadalhorce river. A family-friendly hike suitable for ages 8 and up, without the complexity of a via ferrata, set in a historic hydroelectric landscape.
Ticket options
Prices and conditions
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour + Shuttle Bus from El Chorro
From 39 €.
Do you dare to walk one of the most dangerous trails in the world?.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour
From 29,90 €.
Walk along a high path and learn about its historical origins.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour from Málaga
From 65 €.
Walk along suspended pathways and learn about regional history.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Day Tour from Málaga
From 75 €.
Wander along Málaga's extraordinary canyon walkway with a friendly guide.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour from Málaga + Álora Visit + Lunch
From 72 €.
Walk along a famous path and taste local food.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour + One-Way Shuttle from El Chorro + Rock Climbing
From 89 €.
Walk along a scenic path and climb a vertical rock face.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour from El Chorro in German
From 55 €.
Walk along towering cliffs and learn about unique geology.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour in Italian + One-Way Shuttle Bus from El Chorro
From 55 €.
Walk on elevated paths and cross a high hanging bridge.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Day Tour from Costa del Sol
From 67 €.
Visit the famous Caminito del Rey on this guided tour from the Costa del Sol.
What visitors say
Thousands of visitors have already booked their visit: reviews and testimonials
★ 4.6/5 · 12 reviews collected directly from visitors and moderated by Visit Tickets
"An unforgettable experience! We booked the guided tour with shuttle to avoid logistical stress. The glass balcony is an incredible photo spot, 100 meters up in the air. Our kids (8 years old) loved it. Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes!"
"The trail along the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes is stunning and secure. I was a bit disappointed by the crowds on Saturday morning, but the guide was very professional. There are no toilets along the way, so empty your bladder beforehand! The price of €75 seems high but is justified."
"As a solo traveler, I loved this linear hike. You don't need to be an elite athlete, just have good non-slip shoes. The history behind the name, linked to King Alphonse XIII in 1921, adds a strong historical dimension. The return bus to El Chorro is convenient."
"The site is superb, especially near the Conde de Guadalhorce reservoir. However, we had a hard time booking our slot; tickets go fast! The queue at the North Access was long that day. Despite this, the adventure remains unique."
"Ideal for a getaway from Malaga. The section restored in 2015 offers perfect safety, far from those dangerous old photos. We took our time to photograph the glass floor. Pack a light picnic as there is nothing on the path."
"Very well organized despite the crowds. The guide explained the hydroelectric origin of the trail between 1901 and 1905. I would have liked more time to enjoy the views over the Guadalhorce, but that's inevitable during peak season. The provided helmet is reassuring."
"We came as a family and everything went well. The kids were eager to see the glass balcony. It's accessible from age 8, as indicated. Thanks to the guide for his anecdotes about the movie 'Von Ryan's Express'. A must-do stop in Andalusia."
"I didn't expect the path to be so flat and stable. Perfect for seniors! The contrast with the surrounding beaches is striking. Check the weather carefully on the morning of, as wind can cancel everything. We saw the Natural Park of Los Ardales at its best."
"A lovely adventure through the gorges. The only downside: you have to manage your own meal, as there are no restaurants on the trail even though El Kiosko is close to the access point. We ate afterwards. The view of the Serranía de Ronda is breathtaking. Take cash for the return bus."
"A must-see! Booking via Visit Tickets was smooth. You cross 3 km of secure walkways suspended over the void. The most intense moment: looking down from the glass balcony. Our English friends were impressed by the local organization."
"The scenery is breathtaking, but the price of €75 seemed high for less than 2 hours of walking. On the other hand, safety is top-notch with mandatory helmets. Note that it is one-way; impossible to turn back if you get tired. Good physical preparation is advised."
"We did the guided tour from Málaga, which made things much simpler. The guide was very attentive to historical details, particularly the construction of the dams. The Desfiladero de los Gaitanes really lives up to its reputation. Would do it again without hesitation."
Practical info
Everything you need to plan your visit
Address
29550 Ardales, Spain
Andalucía
Located 6 km from the Ardales crossroads. Main access via Puerto de las Atalayas. Parking available (2€/day).
Opening hours
Seasonal opening (spring to autumn). Time slots vary by month; check the weather on the morning of as wind can cause cancellations.
Fares
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour : From 29,90 €
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour from Málaga : From 65 €
Caminito del Rey: Guided Day Tour from Málaga : From 75 €
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour : From 55 €
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour from Málaga + Álora Visit + Lunch : From 72 €
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour + One-Way Shuttle from El Chorro + Rock Climbing : From 89 €
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour from El Chorro in German : From 55 €
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour in Italian + One-Way Shuttle Bus from El Chorro : From 55 €
Caminito del Rey: Guided Day Tour from Costa del Sol : From 67 €
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View ticket options and conditions.
Visit duration
Photos
Audience
Accessibility
PMR
Not suitable for wheelchairs due to the topography and narrowness of the path.
Family
Accessible to children aged 8 and older, accompanied by an adult and with proof of identity.
Audio guide
French, English, Spanish
Weather in Ardales
Current conditions and forecast to plan your visit
Discover Caminito del Rey
A royal and industrial heritage
From dam construction to modern reopening
1901-1905
Initial construction
1921
Inaugural royal visit
2015
Secured reopening
3 km
Route length
The Caminito del Rey, built between 1901 and 1905, takes its name from King Alphonse XIII's visit in 1921. Stretching 3 km, this developed trail crosses the El Chorro gorges with enhanced safety since its reopening in 2015. It is an accessible hike, not a complex via ferrata. The current structure relies on 14 km of steel cables installed during renovation works.
History and royal origin
Built between 1901 and 1905, this path served engineers working on the Chorro and Gaitanejo hydroelectric dams. Its fame stems from King Alphonse XIII's inaugural visit in 1921, during the opening of the Conde del Guadalhorce reservoir. This anecdote gave it its current name, the Little Path of the King.
After decades of abandonment and a total closure in 2000, the site underwent major restoration. Between 2014 and 2015, a new secure walkway was built above the old structure. This modernization made the site accessible to the general public, including families, while preserving the historical character of the place.
The setting also inspired cinema, serving as the backdrop for the film 'Von Ryan's Express' in 1965. Today, the site is protected within the Los Ardales natural park. It has not yet received UNESCO status but remains a jewel of Andalusian industrial heritage thanks to its railway and hydroelectric infrastructure.
Logistics and practical access
Advance booking is mandatory, as only 1200 visitors are allowed per day. Access is prohibited for those under 8 years old, and minors must be accompanied with proof of identity. The main starting point is Puerto de las Atalayas, located 6 km from the Ardales crossroads, distinct from the south entrance. Remember to check the guide's language if you opt for a guided tour.
Plan for a walking approach before the final check and arrive 1h to 1h30 before the time indicated on your ticket. Hiking shoes are mandatory; flip-flops and heels are not allowed. A helmet is provided on site. The route is not a loop nor wheelchair accessible, so it requires good physical fitness for the approach.
The journey is one-way, from Ardales towards El Chorro. The actual duration of the walkways is approximately 1h30, but the total excursion includes the approach and the return shuttle. From Málaga, you can choose an organized excursion with transport included, or use the train and a local shuttle. Check the guide's language if you choose a guided tour.
Safety and field tips
Since its reopening in 2015, safety has been significantly enhanced to welcome families. The path is 3 km long and 1 meter wide, overlooking the Guadalhorce river by about a hundred meters. Although vertigo may be present, the structure is stable and secure, offering an impressive yet controlled experience. The suspension bridge provides a spectacular bird's-eye view of the valley.
Wind can lead to the cancellation of the visit. It is crucial to check the specific cancellation policy of your ticket, as it differs between the official operator and resellers. Do not count on guaranteed all-weather opening. Check the weather on the morning of and keep some flexibility in your daily schedule.
For people sensitive to vertigo, the suspension bridge and narrow sections can be challenging, but the post-2015 structure is designed to reassure. Photograph the glass balcony, an iconic spot at 100m height. If in doubt, honestly assess your physical capabilities before confirming your online reservation.
Highlights of the route
An immersion into Andalusian hydroelectric history
Tips for visiting Caminito del Rey
Insider tips
Book in advance
Tickets sell out very quickly, especially in high season. Book your Caminito del Rey reservation online several weeks in advance to guarantee your slot. Spaces fill up rapidly, particularly for weekend dates and holidays.
Photograph the glass balcony
A glass floor overlooks the gorge at a height of 100m; it is the iconic photo spot of the restored section. Position yourself well to capture the depth of the gorges and the contrast between the gray rock and the blue of the Guadalhorce river below.
Plan for meals
There is no restaurant directly on the route. Plan a light picnic to eat before or after the crossing, or rely on the options available in El Chorro or at the visitor center. Water is essential, especially in hot weather, so bring enough bottles.
Appropriate footwear required
You must wear closed-toe, non-slip walking shoes. Flip-flops and heels are prohibited for safety reasons on the concrete slabs and sections carved into the rock. A helmet will be provided, but your outfit should remain practical and comfortable.
Managing family groups
For Caminito del Rey family children, ensure that all children are at least 8 years old and capable of walking for several hours. The route is not suitable for wheelchairs or carried babies, so young participants need a certain level of physical independence.
Check the weather on the morning of
Wind can cancel the visit if conditions become too unstable. Check local forecasts and know the cancellation policy of your specific ticket, as policies differ between the official site and third-party resellers. Light rain is generally tolerated.
Locate Puerto de las Atalayas
This is the main visitor center, located 6 km from the Ardales junction. Do not confuse this northern entrance with the southern entrance near El Chorro, where you arrive only at the end of the route. Remember to park your vehicle at the visitor center parking lot, which costs 2 euros/day.
Understand ticket types
Clearly distinguish the entry-only ticket (approx. €14.50) from the guided excursion with transport from Málaga (more expensive). The former assumes you arrange your own access, while the latter offers a turnkey solution. Choose according to your budget and logistical comfort.
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Little-known anecdotes
The royal origin of the name
The path owes its name to the inaugural visit by King Alphonse XIII in 1921, during the opening of the Conde del Guadalhorce reservoir. This royal visit immortalized the trail, which has become a tourist icon despite its initial purely utilitarian function for workers.
Hydroelectric construction
Built between 1901 and 1905, this path served the needs of constructing the Chorro and Gaitanejo hydroelectric dams. It was only opened to the public later, transforming an industrial infrastructure into an attraction.
Modern restoration
After a total closure in 2000 due to danger, a new secure walkway was built above the old structure between 2014 and 2015. This rehabilitation brought the site back to life while ensuring optimal safety for current visitors.
Cinematic backdrop
Before its restoration, the original walkways served as a filming location for the movie 'Von Ryan's Express' in 1965. This cinematic appearance contributed to the site's international fame, long before it became a popular hiking destination for families.
Impressive dimensions
The path is 3 km long but only 1 meter wide, overlooking the Guadalhorce river from a height of about one hundred meters in some places. This extreme narrowness creates a spectacular dizzying effect, but modern safety measures make the crossing accessible even to those sensitive to heights.
Enhanced safety
The 2015 reopening allowed families to visit thanks to complete safety measures along the route. This evolution transformed a perilous adventure into an accessible family hike, making the site entirely safe.
Plan your visit to Caminito del Rey
Three itineraries depending on available time
Express excursion from Málaga
- 08:00: Departure from Málaga on an organized excursion with transport included.
- 10:00: Arrival at Puerto de las Atalayas, identity check and start of the walking approach.
- 11:30: Crossing of the Caminito del Rey (duration varies according to family pace).
- 13:30: Return by local shuttle to El Chorro then transfer to Málaga.
Nature and industrial heritage immersion
- 07:30: Departure by car or train to Ardales to avoid traffic jams.
- 09:30: Visit the Visitor Centre and discover the historical hydroelectric context.
- 11:00: Crossing of the Caminito del Rey with photo stops at the glass balcony.
- 14:00: Return by shuttle to El Chorro for lunch facing the gorges.
- 16:00: Free time in El Chorro or departure for the Costa del Sol.
Authentic Andalusia weekend
- Day 1: Stay in Antequera or Ronda, discovery of the Los Ardales natural park.
- Day 2: Morning Caminito del Rey (prior booking required), afternoon relaxation in El Chorro.
- Day 3: Return to Málaga or cultural extension to Seville according to your preferences.
Caminito del Rey: Guided Tour from Malaga
Discover the extraordinary Caminito del Rey with transport from Malaga and a local guide.
From 65 €
See also
More must-see experiences in Ardales
Interactive map
Find the attraction and nearby places to visit
Near Caminito del Rey
Make time to explore the surrounding area
Los Ardales Natural Park
5 min walk
Ecosystem rich around the gorges, ideal for observing local wildlife before the hike.
Guadalhorce River
At the foot of the trail
The watercourse that structures the gorges, offering spectacular views from the walkways.
Restaurants in Puerto de las Atalayas
2 min walk
Places to rest after the physical effort, offering local Andalusian dishes.
Visitor Welcome Center
At the entrance
Point of mandatory check where tickets are verified and helmets are distributed.
El Chorro Trails
10 min by shuttle
Trails for alternative walks to extend the day in the wild nature.
Glass Balcony of the Caminito
On the route
Iconic photo spot with a glass floor overlooking the gorge at 100 meters high.
How to get to Caminito del Rey
Estimated travel times from the main points in the city
Metro : Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport metro or train station (484 min walk)
- From Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport metro or station 38,7 km → 132 min
- From Airport Axarquia 59,9 km → 203 min
- From El Chorro-Caminito del Rey 3,9 km → 16 min
- From Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport metro or train station 38,7 km → 181 min
- From Axarquia Airport 59,9 km → 279 min
- From El Chorro-Caminito del Rey 3,9 km → 20 min
Accommodation
Find a hotel near Caminito del Rey
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before your visit
Reservation
Visit
Practical Info
Accessibility
Caminito del Rey on video
A preview of this exceptional place before your visit
Caminito del Rey in pictures
See what to expect during your visit
Caminito del Rey vs other spectacular hikes
Quick comparison with other major sites
| Caminito del Rey | Sentier des Aiguilles Rouges (Geneva) | Skywalk de Zermatt | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year Established | 1901-1905 | 1911 | 2015 |
| Visit Duration | 1.5 - 2 hours | 4 hours | 30 minutes |
| Feature | Secure walkway on a cliff | Classic alpine hike | Panoramic suspension bridge |
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