Caminito del Rey: an adrenaline pumping adventure
In the heart of Andalusia, Spain, lies a breathtaking spectacle that draws in adventurers and thrill-seekers from around the world. The Caminito del Rey is a hike that combines stunning natural beauty with a heart-pounding dose of adrenaline.
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What is El Caminito del Rey?
El Caminito del Rey was originally built to provide a safe passage for workers commuting between two power plants. The path clings to the walls of El Chorro Gorge, offering a shortcut across the deep and rugged terrain.
In 1921, King Alfonso XIII of Spain crosses the path, giving it the name “Caminito del Rey” or “The King’s Little Pathway”.
Over the year, the path fell apart, earning it the title of one of the world’s most dangerous walk. It was then closed to the public in 2000, but adventurous hikers and adrenaline junkies continued to risk their lives to experience it.
In 2013, the Caminito del Rey was reopened. Following a complete renovation it is now equipted with boardwalks and sturdy harnesses for hikers.
The Thrill of the Hike
Walking the Caminito del Rey is not for the faint of heart. You will cross narrow pathways and suspension bridges high above the Guadalhorce River. One of the scariest parts is when you cross the Gaitanes Gorge on the suspension bridge. The sheer drop below and the sound of the river rushing beneath your feet is an unforgettable experience. The hike is also full of viewpoints, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Top Tips for when visiting Caminito del Rey
If you’re considering hiking the Caminito del Rey, here are my top tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure:
Do you need to book tickets for Caminito del Rey in advance?
Caminito del Rey is very popular and it essential you buy your tickets before. During peak season tickets sell out weeks in advance, so book those tickets!
I don’t even remember seeing a place to book tickets.
Should you go with or without a guide?
I visited as a solo traveler so I opted to go with a guide. The guide provided some historical context and was great at taking photos for us when at the different view points.
However, if you prefer to do things at your own pace, without lots of people surrounding you, I would say a guide is not needed.
What to wear at the Caminito del Rey?
Make sure your’e wearing comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, and depending on the time of year I suggest you wear layers as the weather can change rapidly in the gorge.
What else should you take when visiting the Caminito del Rey?
Bring lots of water and some snacks to keep your energy levels up. I really wished I took more than 500ml of water when I went, but they fortunately had a vending machine near the end to purchase water from.
You will be provided with a helmet and a safety harness when you get there. Just make sure they are properly fitted and secure before you start.
How long does it take to hike the Caminito del Rey?
The total length is 7.7km so in theory you can hike it in less than 2 hours. However, this is a walk to be savoured, so admire the scenery and take it all in.
How to get to Caminito del Rey
From Malaga
A day at Caminito del is the perfect addition to your Malaga Itinerary.
By car: follow the A-357 and then the MA-5403 towards El Chorro. The drive typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Once you finish the hike, you can then take the bus back to the car park.
By public transport: take the train from Malaga María Zambrano to El Chorro train station. The ride takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Once you get to El Chorro you then need to get the bus from outside the station. No need to book this, and they run every half an hour. Once you finish the hike, you will be walking distance from the train station.
Take a tour: the easiest way to experience the hike is by taking a tour.
From Seville
By car: take the A-4 motorway from Seville towards Cordoba and then the A-357 towards El Chorro. The drive typically takes 2 hours. Once you finish the hike, you can then take the bus back to the car park.
By public transport: take the train from Seville’s Santa Justa Train Station to to El Chorro train station. The ride takes approximately 2 hours 15 minutes. Once you get to El Chorro you then need to get the bus from outside the station. No need to book this, and they run every half an hour. Once you finish the hike, you will be walking distance from the train station.
Take a tour: the easiest way to experience the hike is by taking a tour.
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The walk has such beautiful views and sounds thrilling, however I’m clumsy and this would be too thrilling for myself.
Aha, they do have barriers around the edge, but it’s definitely not an experience for the faint-hearted!
This looks like such a cool spot. I missed it the last time I was in Andalucia. Would love to go back!