Planning a visit to the Caminito del Rey? Before you lace up your hiking boots, it’s worth understanding how the Caminito del Rey Visitor Centre works. Officially opened to the public in 2023, the centre offers parking, scenic views, and helpful information—but also comes with a few quirks. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly where the visitor centre is, how to get tickets for Caminito del Rey, what to expect from the shuttle service, and essential tips to avoid last-minute surprises on your adventure.
Getting tickets for the Caminito del Rey
Step by step instructions to get your tickets for the Caminito del Rey.
What do do if the dates that you want to walk the Caminito del Rey are not available.
Where is the Caminito del Rey visitor centre?
The reception centre and main car park is situated at Puerto de las Atalayas on the MA 5403 road about halfway between the village of El Chorro and the start point of the Caminito del Rey. Inside you’ll find displays and information about the history of the area with great views across the lakes of Ardales.
There have been a few negative comments about the centre.
- The published opening hours are from 8am to 5 pm every day except Monday. However these opening hours seem to be a bit “flexible” at the very least and many people have found the centre closed during published open times.
- You cannot buy tickets for the Caminito del Rey from the reception centre. Read about how to get tickets here: https://caminodelrey.es/no-tickets-for-the-caminito-left-online-no-problem-hopefully/
- There is parking for 250 cars at 2 euros per day. However, many people have complained that they are being charged on the day when they previously purchased parking and shuttle bus using the online system.
- The shuttle bus from the reception centre to the nearest area for the Caminito del Rey start point (Kiosko bar) takes about 5 minutes. There have been complaints similar to the parking that the bus charges (2.50 euros) even though a bus ticket was purchased during the online process for an entry ticket.
- The bus takes CASH ONLY will not accept card
A short promo film inside the information centre for the Caminito del Rey
TIP: If you use this parking whilst you walk the Caminito del Rey then I recommend that you have the correct money in your pocket just in case the bus wants to charge you. (You can always complain later!).
REMEMBER: This car park is approximately an hour away from the start point (by the time you have parked your car, waited for (and then got on) the bus, arrived at the Kiosko bar area and then walked to the start point (10-15 mins.) Try to be parking at least 1.5 hours before your entry time.
Don’t be too dissapointed if you find the reception centre closed. The actual Caminito del Rey is much better anyway!
FAQ: Caminito del Rey Visitor Centre and Ticket Info
The Caminito del Rey Visitor Centre officially opened in October 2022, with access to the public beginning in 2023. It features exhibits on the area’s history and scenic views over the Ardales lakes.
You’ll find the visitor centre and main car park at Puerto de las Atalayas, on the MA-5403 road, about halfway between El Chorro and the Caminito del Rey start point.
No, tickets cannot be purchased at the visitor centre. All ticketing must be done online in advance. If tickets are sold out, check this guide for tips:
What to do if Caminito del Rey tickets are unavailable
The published hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, except Mondays. However, these hours are not always reliable, and visitors have reported the centre being closed during supposed open times.
Yes, there is space for approximately 250 cars, and parking costs €2 per day.
A shuttle bus connects the visitor centre car park to the Kiosko Bar area, close to the Caminito del Rey’s start point. The ride takes around 5 minutes, followed by a 10–15 minute walk to the trailhead.
The shuttle bus costs €2.50 per person and accepts cash only.
Arrive at least 1 hour before your Caminito del Rey entry time. This allows time to park, wait for the shuttle, travel to the Kiosko bar area, and walk to the entrance.
Inside, you’ll find:
A short promotional video
Historical and cultural exhibits
Panoramic views over the Ardales lakes
Don’t worry too much—the Caminito del Rey itself is the main attraction. Even if the centre is closed, your experience on the walkway won’t be affected.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!