Planning a visit to the Caminito del Rey? This practical FAQ answers the questions visitors ask most, from tickets and parking to the shuttle bus, what to wear, how long the walk takes and where to stay nearby.
If you’re visiting for the first time, start here. Each answer links to more detailed guides where you’ll find step-by-step information for planning your day.
1. What is the Caminito del Rey and why is it famous?
The Caminito del Rey (King’s Little Pathway) is a spectacular cliffside walkway in the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Natural Park near El Chorro in Málaga province. Built between 1901 and 1905 to help workers maintain the hydroelectric system, it later became famous after King Alfonso XIII walked the route in 1921 during the inauguration of the Conde del Guadalhorce Dam, giving the pathway its name.
For decades the original concrete walkway fell into disrepair and earned a reputation as one of the world’s most dangerous walks. Today, after a complete restoration in 2015, it is a safe one-way route with boardwalks, suspension bridges and spectacular views through the gorge.
The walk itself covers around 7.7 km, including the access paths, with sections suspended up to 100 metres above the river beneath cliffs rising to around 300 metres.
Read more about the Caminito del Rey here.
Watch the famous death defying video taken before the Caminito del Rey was repaired.
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!