Caminito del Rey
A dramatic reconstructed walkway bolted into the cliffs of the Gaitanes Gorge near Málaga, once considered one of the world's most dangerous paths.
Route overview
The Caminito del Rey (King's Little Path) is a walkway fixed to the sheer limestone cliffs of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge near Málaga in Andalusia. Originally built in the early twentieth century to service hydroelectric works, the path fell into severe disrepair and was closed for years after fatal accidents, before being fully rebuilt as a controlled-access boardwalk that reopened in 2015. The modern route consists of raised wooden walkways bolted to the gorge walls, suspended in places over 100 metres above the Guadalhorce River, connected to natural gorge-floor trails at each end. Access is managed by the regional authority through timed, ticketed entry, and helmets are provided and required. Despite its dramatic exposure, the rebuilt walkway is engineered with secure railings throughout and is suitable for most reasonably fit visitors, though it is not appropriate for those with a strong fear of heights.
Trail facts
- Country
- Spain
- Region
- Andalusia
- Distance
- c. 7.7 km
- Typical duration
- 3–4 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- c. 300 m cumulative
- Best season
- March–June, September–November
- Trail type
- Day walk / via ferrata-style walkway
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- Timed-entry ticket required, booked in advance via the official Caminito del Rey website.
- Bookings
- Book tickets well ahead, especially for spring and autumn weekends.
Safety context
Helmets are mandatory and provided at entry. The walkway is not suitable for those with severe vertigo. Advance timed-entry tickets are required and capacity is limited daily.
The route is frequently sold out weeks in advance during spring and autumn high season; walk-up entry is not guaranteed.
Highlights
El Chorro reservoir views Suspended walkway over the Guadalhorce River gorge Hanging bridge crossing at the gorge's narrowest point Dramatic limestone cliff scenery of the Gaitanes Gorge
Why find a buddy
A short but dramatic exposed walkway is more comfortable to experience with a companion, and coordinating the required advance ticket booking is easier together.
Primary source
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Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.