Travel & Lifestyle

Caminito del Rey – hiking one of the world’s scariest pathways in Malaga

What’s it Like Walking the Caminito del Rey? Hiking One of the World’s Most Dangerous Pathways

Last time we heard from Jane Blonde she was paragliding in the Swiss Alps. Well, she’s out on another pulse-pumping mission – only this time it might be slightly warmer.

Are you ready to take a hair-raising walk along one of Spain’s most breathtaking hiking trails? Once we knew that a place this thrilling existed in the stunning Costa del Sol, we couldn’t keep our very own Jane Blonde away!

Welcome to the Caminito del Rey, once considered the most dangerous walkway in the world!

Thankfully, this legendary path, which clings to the cliffs of Málaga’s stunning gorge, has been fully restored and is now a safe but exhilarating experience. Expect jaw-dropping views, fascinating history and a hike that will stay with you forever.

A Brief History of the Caminito del Rey

Originally constructed in 1901 and completed in 1905, the Caminito del Rey was built as a service path for workers at the nearby hydroelectric plants. It provided a shortcut across the Gaitanes Gorge, allowing engineers to inspect and maintain the water channels.

The pathway gained its name in 1921, when King Alfonso XIII walked along it during the inauguration of the Conde del Guadalhorce Dam.

Over the years, the trail fell into disrepair, with crumbling concrete and missing sections making it infamous as one of the world’s most dangerous hikes. Sounds utterly terrifying!

For over a decade, it was officially closed—until a €9 million restoration transformed it into a secure, modern trail, reopening in 2015.

Today, the Caminito del Rey is a bucket-list experience, combining history, nature and adventure in one unforgettable journey. So, let’s take you closer to the action. Here’s what to expect from the team who scaled it.

What to Expect on the Caminito del Rey Hike

The trail is a 7.7km linear hike. That means it starts at one location and ends in another – rather than forming a loop.

Consisting of a mix of pathways, forest trails and the famous elevated boardwalks attached to the gorge’s vertical rock face. Highlights include:

Suspended Walkways – Wooden paths built 100m above the river, offer showstopping views of the unbelievable landscape and exceptional flora and fauna. Every exciting turn delivers something new
The Hanging Bridge – A thrilling steel suspension bridge connecting two cliffs over the majestic Guadalhorce River.
Wildlife Spotting – Keep an eye out for soaring vultures, eagles, and other native birds. Since 1987 the Caminito del Rey environment has been a designated Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA)
Breathtaking Rock Formations – Ancient Dolomite cliffs make for a dramatic and imposing setting.

While the height may test your nerves, the trail itself is well-maintained and safety measures ensure a secure experience.

Tickets and Pricing

All in all, walking Caminito del Rey is an incredible day out. Plus, it’s not going to cost you an arm and a leg, which is good because you’re going to need those!

General Entry: €10 per person
Guided Tours: €18
Parking: €2

So, now we know what it is, why it’s sooo cool and how much it costs to get in, let’s tell you about the best time to go!

When is the Best Time to Walk the Caminito del Rey?

We recommend going in December to avoid the summer heat and the crowds. At 17ºC, it was a very comfortable to walk, even while carrying plenty of drink in our rucksacks.

But what’s it like at other times of the year?

Spring (March–May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make this a picturesque time to visit.
Autumn (September–November) – Comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
Winter (December–February) – Cooler but still pleasant, and much quieter than peak season.

Avoiding the Summer Heat

While summer is a popular time to visit, it can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 35ºC some days – and it’s definitely not advisable suffering from heat stroke or dehydration while you’re walking a pathway 100m in the air.

However, if you must visit between June and August, aim for an early morning or late afternoon slot to escape the worst of the summer heat.

Best Time of Day to Visit

For the best experience, get out there early in the morning when temperatures are lower, and the light enhances the stunning scenery. Late afternoons are also a littler cooler, but mornings generally offer fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

How Long Does it Take to Complete the Caminito del Rey Walk?

The whole walk took us about three hours, including wandering up the access road to the main entrance in the northern part of the Caminito.

But, while the walk is the main event of the day, don’t let that stop you from treating the family to a beautiful day out.

A picnic in the open air is what many families enjoy on the way. We found a beauty spot for a quick pit stop, where the lay of the land was so dramatic, we felt we were sitting on the set of a Spaghetti Western or an old Winnetou film.

How to Get to the Caminito del Rey

The Caminito del Rey is located near El Chorro, about an hour’s drive from Málaga. You can reach it easily by car. You can park on the Northern Access Area which is closer to the main entrance of the Caminito.

However, we recommend parking at the Southern Access Area in El Chorro and taking the shuttle up to th entrance. The bus only costs €2.50pp and it means you can walk directly back to your car rather than waiting for a return bus after the trek.

Some hikers prefer to explore at their own pace, while others enjoy the added context from guides. Either way, we’d definitely book in advance, especially during peak season.

Other Things to Do in the Costa del Sol

The Caminito del Rey is just one of many incredible experiences in southern Spain. While in the area, consider exploring:

1. Relax on the Beaches

The Costa del Sol is famous for its stunning coastline. Top beaches include Playa de la Malagueta in Málaga, Cabopino Beach near Marbella, and Playa de Burriana in Nerja. Whether you’re after lively beach bars or secluded coves, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.

2. Visit Málaga’s Historic Centre

Discover the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, explore the Alcazaba Fortress, and enjoy tapas in Málaga’s charming old town. The city is a cultural hub, with excellent museums, historic architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene.

3. Explore Andalusia’s White Villages

Take a scenic drive to picturesque villages like Ronda, Mijas, and Setenil de las Bodegas, each offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage. These villages provide a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life with their whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and charming plazas.

4. Experience Andalusian Cuisine

Indulge in Andalusian cuisine with fresh seafood, jamón ibérico and gazpacho. Try espetos (grilled sardines) at a beachfront chiringuito or explore food markets for authentic local flavours.

For a more unique experience, take a Spanish cooking class and learn to make regional specialties like paella and salmorejo.

5. Discover the Region’s Natural Parks

Hike in El Torcal de Antequera, kayak in the Nerja caves, or visit Doñana National Park, home to the endangered Iberian lynx. The region’s diverse landscapes offer something for every nature lover.

6. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures

If you love adventure, try activities like rock climbing in El Chorro, paragliding over the mountains, or paddleboarding along the coast. The Costa del Sol is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

Is the Caminito del Rey Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a unique experience, the Caminito del Rey offers an unbeatable combination of adventure, history, and natural beauty.

Plus, with the Costa del Sol’s beaches, culture and cuisine just a short drive away, it’s the perfect addition to any Andalusian getaway. We couldn’t recommend it enough.

Discover More Thrilling Jane Blonde Adventures On Our Travel Channel

If all that death-defying hiking sounds a little too out of your comfort zone, don’t panic. You don’t have to move a muscle to hear about more thrilling adventures like this in Europe.

Well, that’s not strictly true. You might need a couple of finger muscles to head over to TA-DAH.TV and uncover all the wonders that are waiting on our Travel Channel. You’re not likely to break a sweat though.

Caminito del Rey – hiking one of the world’s scariest pathways in Malaga

What’s it Like Walking the Caminito del Rey? Hiking One of the World’s Most Dangerous Pathways

A Brief History of the Caminito del Rey