Caminito del Rey: The Complete Guide to the Suspended Trail in Málaga

The Caminito del Rey is one of the most impressive routes in Andalucía, located in the province of Málaga. Situated in the gorge of El Chorro, the path offers a suspended walk on bridges fixed to vertical rock walls, providing unforgettable views from a hundred meters high.

History and the true origin of its name

The construction was originally inaugurated in 1905 as access for maintenance workers of the Sociedad Hidroeléctrica del Chorro. The current name only emerged in 1921 when King Alfonso XIII walked the path to attend the inauguration of a dam in the region. At that time, elements such as benches and a stone-carved table were installed at what is now known as Sillón del Rey, so the monarch could admire the works.

From dangerous trail to safe walk

For decades, the reputation of the Caminito del Rey was that of "the world's most dangerous trail." Due to the advanced state of deterioration of the original bridges, access was officially prohibited in 2000 following several accidents. After years of neglect, the site underwent a complete restoration and rehabilitation process with the aim of preserving its historical structure and ensuring it is now a safe and accessible attraction for the general public.

Practical information for your visit

To visit the site, advance booking through the Official Booking Platform Caminito del Rey is mandatory. As visitor flow is controlled, tickets often sell out months in advance.

The trail is approximately 58 km from the city of Málaga. For those arriving by car and choosing to park at Parking Sur in El Chorro, it is necessary to use a shuttle bus (circular bus) to reach the trail access point. The frequency of these buses is every 30 minutes, with an average travel time between 25 to 30 minutes, varying according to local traffic.

When planning your day, consider that the hike requires moderate physical preparation. Walking through the gorge allows you to understand why this place, once feared by mountaineering experts, is now one of the most visited tourist spots in the region. Always check weather conditions and safety rules published by park administration before starting the route.