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Ultimate guide to visiting Caminito Del Rey | Timings, location, tips & more

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Caminito Del Rey | Visitor information at a glance

Caminito Del Rey

What are the Caminito Del Rey opening hours?

  • Caminito Del Rey is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, though these hours may vary by season. 
  • It is open from Tuesday through Sunday, being closed on Mondays. 
  • Additionally, it remains closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st, and January 1st

Where is the Caminito Del Rey located?

  • Caminito Del Rey is situated in a narrow gorge in El Chorro, near Ardales in the province of Málaga, Spain. Get directions.
Caminito Del Rey

How many entrances does the Caminito Del Rey have?

  • Caminito Del Rey has a north and a south access point. The northern entrance is near Ardales, while the southern entrance is closer to Álora. 
  • There's a main entrance 1.5 km from the main road, and parking facilities are available near the entrance to Caminito Del Rey in Ardales​.

How many number visitors does the Caminito Del Rey see per year?

  • Estimated at slightly less than 300,000 visitors per year, making it a notable attraction in Andalucia​​.

What are the Caminito Del Rey opening hours?

Tuesday to Sunday:  8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Closure: Caminito Del Rey remains closed on Mondays. Additionally, Additionally, it remains closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st, and January 1st

What's the best time to visit Caminito Del Rey?

Caminito Del Rey, often referred to as "The King's Little Path," experiences a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Thus, selecting a season that aligns with your preferences could enhance your visit.

Peak Season vs. Low Season 

Peak tourist season extends from April to October. During this time, the trail becomes heavily crowded, and while the summer months offer great weather, the influx of tourists and limited availability of tickets might pose a challenge. 

It's advisable to visit on the cusp of the peak season, such as March-May and September-October, to enjoy good weather while avoiding excessive crowds and ensuring ticket availability​​. 

The opening hours of Caminito del Rey vary with the seasons; in winter (November to March) it's open from 10 am to 2 pm, while in summer (April to October), the walkway is accessible from 10 am to 5 pm​​.

Weekdays vs. Weekends: 

For a more peaceful and enjoyable experience, it's recommended to visit Caminito del Rey during weekdays as opposed to weekends. 

The trail tends to be less crowded on weekdays, providing a more serene atmosphere to appreciate the natural beauty​​.

Where is Caminito Del Rey located?

How to get to Caminito Del Rey?

Caminito Del Rey

By Public Transportation

By Train:

  • From Málaga: There are trains from Málaga to El Chorro with a morning schedule at 10:00 a.m. (arrival at 10:47 a.m.) and an afternoon schedule at 6:00 p.m. (arrival at 6:50 p.m.)​​.
  • Other Departures: There are 8 train departures per day from Málaga to El Chorro, a roughly 40-minute journey. Upon arrival at El Chorro, a local shuttle bus running every 20 minutes will transport you to Caminito Del Rey​​.

By Bus: 

  • A shuttle bus service connects the exit point to the Visitors' Centre and the starting point. The bus stops near El Kiosko restaurant at the start of the trail in Ardales, and picks up near the El Chorro train station at the end of the trail.
Caminito Del Rey

By Car

The scenic drive from Málaga to El Chorro through the countryside is a delight. The route involves taking A-384 until Campillos, A-357 until Ardales crossing, and then continuing via MA-5403​​.

Parking Facilities

There are several parking options:

  • On site: Visitors' Reception Centre Parking​.
  • A car park located just north of the tunnel under El Mirador de Ardales​​.
  • The southern parking area near El Chorro station is usually less crowded and is recommended for those who don't mind a short walk to the north access​.
  • Park near the El Kiosko restaurant at the trail's start. From there, you're just a 20-30 minute walk to the hike's beginning.



Book Tickets To The Caminito Del Rey

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1.5-Hour Guided Tour of Granada Cathedral & Old Town
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Know before you go to Caminito Del Rey

Entrances
Facilities
Accesssiblity
Tips
Dine
Stay
Nearby
Caminito Del Rey

The main entrance is in the northern zone (Ardales). Ensure to be at the access point 30 minutes before your visit time. It's a downhill walk from there, which is something to look forward to​​.

Caminito Del Rey
  • On-site parking is available for €2, so you don't have to worry about finding a spot​​.
  • There are visitor centers with more information and possibly other facilities although details weren't available.
  • Helmets and hair nets are provided when you get there. 
Caminito Del Rey
  • The rugged terrain suggests that it may not be fully wheelchair accessible, so it's advisable to check in advance​.
  • Keep in mind that children under 8 years old aren't allowed, and those between 8 and 18 must be accompanied by an adult​.
Caminito Del Rey
  • Best to visit during Spring or Autumn to avoid the summer heat​​.
  • It's a linear route, plan your return transport accordingly​.
  • Dogs are not allowed, so they'll have to sit this one out​​. 
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothes suited for the weather. 
  • Make sure to carry some water, especially if it's a sunny day.
  • Sunscreen is a must, especially in the summer.
Caminito Del Rey
  • The dining facilities are not available on the pathway, but you might find local restaurants in nearby towns to indulge in some local cuisine.
  • El Kiosko: Try traditional Malagan dishes and tapas without any fuss, located just 2.4 kilometers from the Caminito del rey north access. Here, you'll find a cozy spot with a colorful terrace that provides a pleasant view of the lake. 
  • El Mirador: Situated just 1.9 kilometers from Caminito Del Rey, El Mirador is a charming eatery that lives up to its name by offering captivating vistas and a tempting menu of homemade delights. Try local favorites like ajoblanco, gazpachuelo, migas, or cardoon salad. 
Caminito Del Rey

Budget: Hotel La Posada del Conde ( 3 km) | El Arpa (8 km) | Caminito del Rey Rural Accommodation (13.3 km)

Mid Range: La Garganta Restaurante, Hotel y Turismo Activo (10.3 km)  

Luxury: Finca La Campana El Chorro Climbing (12.3 km) | Complejo Turístico Rural La Garganta (10.6)

Caminito Del Rey

Extend your adventure by exploring nearby attractions like El Chorro, Embalses Guadalhorce-Guadalteba, and the Ardales National Park. Each offers a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and local culture of the region.

Frequently asked questions: Visiting Caminito Del Rey in Malaga

Where is Caminito Del Rey?

Caminito Del Rey is located in the province of Málaga, between the municipalities of Ardales, Álora, and Antequera.

Can I visit Caminito Del Rey?

Yes, visitors can explore Caminito Del Rey, which was once known as a dangerous hike but has been revamped in 2015 with safer pathways along the cliffs.

Why should I visit Caminito Del Rey?

Visiting Caminito Del Rey is truly something special. Imagine walking on pathways attached to a cliff that's 100 meters high! It's not just about the amazing views, but also appreciating how they managed to build such paths in the middle of nature's beauty.

Can I visit Caminito Del Rey for free?

No, general admission is priced at €10, and there are other ticket options for guided tours and additional services​.

How do I book tickets to visit Caminito Del Rey?

Tickets can be booked through the official reservation platform of Caminito del Rey, where you can choose between general admission, a guided visit, or additional services like shuttle bus and parking reservations​.

How much does it cost to visit Caminito Del Rey?

General admission costs €10, an official guided visit is €18, shuttle bus service is €2.5, and parking reservation is €2​.

What is the best time to visit Caminito Del Rey?

The ideal times to visit are during the cusp of the peak season: March-May and September-October, when the weather is pleasant and ticket availability is better​​.

What are the Caminito Del Rey opening hours?

The opening hours are from 9:00 am to either 15:30 pm or 17:20 pm depending on the season​​.

Can I visit Caminito Del Rey in a group?

Yes, you can visit in a group, especially with the official guided visit option which accommodates a maximum of 30 people​.

Can I visit Caminito Del Rey with kids?

Children under 8 years old are not allowed. Those over 8 must provide original ID or Family Book for age verification​​.

Is it worth visiting Caminito Del Rey?

Absolutely! With its stunning vistas, historical significance, and the adrenaline rush of walking along high cliffside pathways, Caminito Del Rey offers a unique and memorable experience​​.