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.
2. Where does the Caminito del Rey start and finish?
The Caminito del Rey is a one-way walk. It starts at the North Entrance near Ardales and finishes in El Chorro.
One of the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make is assuming El Chorro is the start. It isn’t—it’s the finish of the route.
From the Visitors’ Reception Centre, it’s about a 5-minute shuttle bus ride followed by a 15-minute walk to the North Entrance. If you park in El Chorro instead, you take the shuttle bus first and finish your walk back at your car.
Read more about getting to the Caminito del Rey here.
3. How do I get tickets for the Caminito del Rey?
The easiest way to get tickets is through the official Caminito del Rey booking website. Standard tickets cost €10, while official guided visits cost €18.
Popular dates—especially spring weekends and holidays—often sell out well in advance, so booking as early as possible is recommended.
If official tickets have sold out, don’t panic. Guided tours frequently have availability because they use separate allocations, and there are also a limited number of same-day tickets available at the entrance on many days, although these cannot be guaranteed and usually require arriving very early.
- Step-by-step booking guide: Booking the Caminito del Rey
- Sold out? No Tickets for the Caminito Left Online?
- Latest releases: Caminito del Rey Tickets 2027
NOTE: If the Caminito del Rey closes because of severe weather, you’ll receive instructions about rescheduling or refunds.
4. Is there a shuttle bus, and how does it work?
Yes, but it’s important to understand what the shuttle bus actually does.
The shuttle bus is not a bus from Málaga or other cities to the Caminito del Rey. It’s the local service that connects the North Entrance and El Chorro, allowing visitors to travel between the two ends of the one-way route.
The journey takes around 15–20 minutes and costs €2.50 per person. You can buy a ticket when booking online or pay the driver in cash if you board without one.
If you park near the North Entrance, you’ll normally take the shuttle after your walk to return to your car. If you park in El Chorro, you’ll take it before starting the walk.
Read more about the shuttle bus service for the Caminito del Rey here.
5. How do I get to the Caminito del Rey?
The easiest way to reach the Caminito del Rey is by car, with the drive taking about 1 hour from Málaga and around 45 minutes from Ronda. Parking is available both at the Visitors’ Reception Centre near the North Entrance and in El Chorro, depending on how you want to use the shuttle bus.
If you prefer public transport, you can take the train from Málaga to El Chorro, then use the shuttle bus to reach the North Entrance before starting the walk.
Read more about getting to the Caminito del Rey here.
Trains to El Chorro and the Caminito del Rey
If you prefer public transport, you can take a train from Málaga to El Chorro. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs between €6-€10 one way. From El Chorro, you can take the shuttle bus to the North Entrance. Public buses are available as well, but services are limited.
Renting a car and visiting the Caminito del Rey
Have a read of our article about renting a car and discovering the beautiful places close to the Caminito del Rey
Or, go straight to Renting a car online.
6. What should I bring and wear?
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip, as the Caminito includes uneven surfaces, boardwalks and steps. Comfortable, breathable clothing is best, especially in warmer weather.
Bring:
- A small water bottle
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses and sunscreen)
- A few snacks, as there are no food stalls along the route
A small backpack is fine, but larger bags and oversized backpacks are not allowed for safety reasons.
Read more about the rules and regulations for the Caminito del Rey here.
7. What are the best nearby attractions?
The Caminito del Rey sits in one of the most scenic parts of Málaga province, so it’s well worth exploring beyond the walkway itself.
Top nearby attractions include:
- Guadalhorce Reservoirs – viewpoints, walking trails and the King’s Chair.
- Bobastro Ruins – a fascinating Mozarabic cave church and historic site.
- Ardales Cave – one of Andalusia’s most important prehistoric sites.
- Álora – a traditional white village with a Moorish castle.
- Ronda – famous for its dramatic bridge and gorge, less than an hour’s drive away.
Read more about things to see and do in the area of the Caminito del rey here.
8. Where to stay near the Caminito del Rey?
There are a number of great accommodation options near the Caminito del Rey, ranging from cozy rural stays to comfortable hotels.
In El Chorro, Hotel La Garganta is a top-rated option, offering a pool and stunning views. Alternatively, you could stay in Ardales at Complejo Turístico La Posada del Conde, which is set in a rural location near the lakes. For those looking for a peaceful retreat, Finca Rocabella provides charming rural houses.
If you’re visiting during spring, autumn or holidays, it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance.
9. Where to eat near the Caminito del Rey?
There are several good places to eat before or after your walk.
- El Kiosko – the classic choice for breakfast or a pre-hike meal near the North Entrance.
- La Garganta – one of the best restaurants in El Chorro, just a short walk from the train station.
- Bar La Estación – Right on the station, a handy stop for tapas if you’re waiting for your train.
- Restaurante El Mirador – a good option if you’re exploring the reservoirs.
Check out my top picks for eating out close to the Caminito del Rey
Remember: There are no food stalls inside the Caminito del Rey, so eat beforehand or bring a few snacks.
10. Is it safe? Who can do the walk?
Yes. Since its complete restoration in 2015, the Caminito del Rey has been a safe, well-maintained one-way walkway with wooden boardwalks, secure railings and safety helmets provided at the entrance.
The walk is suitable for most visitors with a reasonable level of mobility, but it may not be enjoyable if you have a strong fear of heights, as several sections cross high above the gorge. Read our special guide for people who do not like heights.
Keep in mind that:
- Children under 8 years old are not allowed.
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is required.
- You should follow staff instructions and stay on the marked route throughout the walk.
11. How long does the Caminito del Rey take and when is the best time to visit?
Most visitors spend around 3–4 hours on the full experience, including the access walk, photo stops and the shuttle bus if needed.
- Walk itself: around 2–3 hours
- Total distance: approximately 7.7 km
- Shuttle bus: allow another 15–20 minutes if you’re returning to your car
If you’re joining a guided visit, allow a little extra time for the commentary and group pace.
The best times to visit are during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During summer, temperatures can be high, making it more challenging to complete the walk, so it’s better to start early in the morning. Winter is cooler and quieter, but it’s essential to check the weather and ensure the path is open.
See our guide on the best time to visit the Caminito del Rey.
Final Tips for a Perfect Caminito del Rey Visit
- Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your entry time to ensure you have enough time to park and get to the starting point.
- Bring cash for the shuttle bus (€2.50) and exact change.
- Wear proper shoes and sun protection.
- Respect safety rules—don’t stop on narrow sections, leave the footpath or take unnecessary risks.
Listen to me (Clive) talking about the Caminito del Rey
Listen to the podcast from Mike and Sarah based on this article.
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!
Thank you – very helpful. Much better than the ‘official’ website!