Experience the Original Caminito del Rey – Before Restoration
Before it became a safe, scenic walkway visited by thousands each year, the Caminito del Rey was known as the most dangerous path in the world. This video, filmed by the late adventurer Daniel Ahnen in the late 2000s, captures the raw, vertigo-inducing state of the route as it clung to the cliffs of El Chorro.
Watch as Daniel Ahnen navigates rusted beams, crumbling concrete, and sheer drops with only a camera and remarkable courage. It’s a powerful reminder of the trail’s wild past—and of the daring spirit that helped make it world-famous.
Warning: Not for the faint of heart.
A Tribute to Daniel Ahnen and the Spirit of Adventure
Daniel Ahnen tragically lost his life while climbing in the Himalayas just a few years after filming this video. His footage remains a lasting tribute—not only to the Caminito del Rey in its most extreme form, but also to the passion that drives explorers to go beyond the edge.
This video continues to inspire hikers, climbers, and dreamers from around the world. If it moved you, consider exploring the modern route yourself—or discover the stories behind the natural park, the rebuilt trail, and the nearby villages that make this region so unforgettable.
Plan your visit to the Caminito del Rey
Learn more about the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Natural Park
Discover the Ardales Cave and its prehistoric art
A quick Q and A about the video and the Caminito del Rey
This footage was captured in the late 2000s, before the trail was restored. At the time, the walkway was in an extremely dangerous state and officially closed to the public.
Daniel Ahnen was a climber and adventurer who filmed this iconic video. He sadly passed away in a mountaineering accident in 2011. His video remains one of the most viewed and impactful records of the original trail.
No. The original path has been fully renovated and reopened in 2015 as a safe, regulated hiking route. Access to the old, crumbling sections is no longer allowed.
The restored trail is about 7.7 km long, including access routes. It typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete and offers stunning views with full safety measures in place.
Yes, guided tours are available and often include transport and extra insights into the history and geology of the area. Click here to learn how to book your visit.
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!
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