Published: October 12, 2025 • Last updated: October 7, 2026

Caminito del Rey Rules and Regulations: What You Can and Cannot Bring

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Planning a visit to the Caminito del Rey? It is worth knowing the rules before you arrive, as some items are not permitted on the route and certain visitors may not be allowed to enter.

This guide explains the most important Caminito del Rey rules and regulations, including age restrictions, backpacks, helmets, footwear, photography equipment, food and drink, and what you cannot take onto the walkway.

The rules are there mainly for safety, as the Caminito del Rey passes through a narrow gorge and includes long sections of elevated boardwalk. Knowing what to expect before you arrive will help you avoid problems at the entrance and make your visit much easier.

So here is a basic list of rules

Caminito del Rey_ Rules & Regulations
The Caminito del Rey has some sensible safety rules — and some surprisingly specific ones. Find out what you can and can’t take onto the walkway, from large backpacks and umbrellas to drones, selfie sticks and pets.

Caminito del Rey opening hours

The Caminito del Rey is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, with Mondays normally closed. It is also closed on 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January, although additional closures or special opening days may be announced.

The current visiting timetable runs from 9:00 until 14:50 or 17:20, depending on the season. Opening dates and visiting hours can change, so it is important to check the official Caminito del Rey website when booking your ticket.

Visitors must also arrive at the access point at least 30 minutes before the time shown on their ticket.

The pathway will allow 50 people at half hour intervals to enter from the access point (Lakes, Kings chair, Kiosko bar.) There is no access from the El Chorro side. The maximum number of people allowed to be on the path at any one time is 400

The path is closed on Mondays plus December 24th, 25th and 31st, and January 1st.

The most important rules

  • Organised groups: Groups are limited to 50 people plus the guide.
  • Children: Children under 8 years old are not allowed on the Caminito del Rey. Visitors aged 8 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult and carry suitable identification to prove their age.
  • The route is one-way: The Caminito del Rey is a linear route, so you cannot walk back to the starting point. If you park at the northern end near the reservoirs, King’s Chair or El Kiosko, you can take the shuttle bus from El Chorro back towards the starting area after your walk.
  • Allow plenty of time: The complete route, including the access paths, is approximately 7.7 km. The elevated sections account for almost 5 km, and you should allow several hours for the complete visit.
  • Toilets: There are no toilets along the Caminito itself, so use the facilities at the start of your visit.
  • Food and water: There are no places to buy food or water on the route. Bring enough water and any food you need with you. Picnicking on the Caminito is not permitted.
  • Heights and fitness: The Caminito includes exposed sections high above the gorge. It may not be suitable for people with a serious fear of heights or those who are not comfortable with several hours of walking.
  • Helmets: A safety helmet is provided at the entrance and must be worn while on the Caminito.
  • Backpacks: Large rucksacks are not permitted. Take only a small backpack containing water and essential personal items.
  • Umbrellas: Umbrellas are not permitted on the Caminito.
  • Selfie sticks: Selfie sticks are not permitted on the route.
  • Pets: Pets are not allowed on the Caminito del Rey.

There are plenty of other Caminito del Rey rules and regulations, but the points above cover the things most visitors need to know before arriving.

And yes, some of the official rules are rather more unusual. Scattering ashes is not permitted, and neither is removing your clothes or shoes while on the route.

Seriously — no ash scattering or stripping, please!

Entry tickets and guided tours from Get Your Guide

Caminito del Rey: Key Rules & Regulations FAQ

What items are prohibited on the Caminito del Rey?

The trail prohibits large backpacks, oversized bags, drones, pets, smoking, and bicycles. For safety and flow, only small day packs or waist pouches are allowed.

Do I need to wear a helmet, and who provides it?

Yes—helmets are mandatory for everyone on the trail. They are supplied free of charge at the entrance and must be worn throughout the hike.

Can I leave the marked path?

No—straying off the designated wooden walkway or climbing on barriers, rocks, or cliffs is strictly forbidden. This is essential to preserve visitor safety, as the Caminito runs along sheer gorge edges.

Is the trail accessible for children or people with reduced mobility?

Children under the age of 8 are not permitted, and the trail is unsuitable for people with serious mobility issues due to height and narrow sections. However, families and adults with moderate fitness levels generally manage the route comfortably.

What should I do in a trail emergency or severe weather?

In emergencies like illness or injury, notify a staff member immediately—there are first-aid points along the route. If bad weather (heavy rain, wind) occurs, the trail may close. In that case, entry tickets are automatically eligible for rescheduling via the “Canjeo por cierre” process.

Understanding the Caminito del Rey rules ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Most restrictions—like limits on bag size, selfie sticks, and entry age—exist to protect both visitors and the fragile environment of the gorge. Following these simple guidelines helps preserve the trail’s beauty and keeps the experience smooth from start to finish. Plan ahead, travel light, and respect the regulations so you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying one of Spain’s most breathtaking hikes.

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13 thoughts on “Caminito del Rey Rules and Regulations: What You Can and Cannot Bring”

    • Hi Anderson…. According to the official rules you can’t enter with a tripod or fly a drone… https://www.caminitodelrey.info/en/your-visit/prohibitions

      Taking photos or videos with a tripod or using cameras and equipment that can block other visitors’ way without explicit premission from management.
      As this Natural Beauty Spot is an important bird sanctuary it is absolutely forbidden to use drones or similar machines, except when authorized by the correspondent environmental consultancy.

  3. We are thinking of doing the walk in late December how will the weather be? Do you think it will be too cold to enjoy it?

    • December is very often cool with blue skies. There is always the chance of rain anywhere though in the winter… Just wear appropriate clothing and you will be fine

  4. My brother is law is booked today for the Cominto del rey walk but is too ill today to go. Is it possible for me to take his place if I take my NIE number et..

    • Hi Deborah, I am thinking that its very short notice and getting through to the people at the Malaga town council might be difficult… You could try to send a message here…. http://www.caminitodelrey.info/en/contacto/ You could try turning up and explaining the situation to the people at the entrance I suppose. Best of luck and let me know how you get on….

  5. We have a reservation at the Posada del Conde the night before we would like to walk the Caminto – do I still need a separate reservation as I think I have understood the hotel to say that the take care of this. …..

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