Caminito del Rey
Just under a two hour drive from Villa Andalucia in Competa you can have a thrilling adventure – the Caminito del Rey.
This iconic trail winds through the awe-inspiring Gaitanes gorge, offering a journey that seamlessly blends history and nature. The roots of this trail stretch back to the early 1900s when it was originally constructed.
It earned its moniker, “Caminito del Rey,” after a memorable visit by King Alfonso XIII in 1921. The gorge itself is a natural masterpiece, featuring towering walls that soar over 300 meters high, all sculpted by the patient hand of the Guadalhorce river over countless centuries. After suffering significant damage, the Caminito del Rey underwent a painstaking restoration process and was reopened to the public in 2015, allowing visitors to once again immerse themselves in its rich history.
Booking Your Own Tickets
To secure your spot on this remarkable journey, you can purchase your tickets on the official website up to three months in advance. Given its popularity, it’s advisable to book early, especially if you plan to visit during weekends when it tends to be busier.
Tickets
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General
10€Complete the trail your own way. Ticket purchase limit is 10 tickets.
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Official guided visit
18€Groups of 30 people max accompanied by a certified guide.
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Minors
Kids younger than 8 years old cannot access Caminito del Rey. Kids 8 years or older must bring their original ID or Family Book to check their age.
How to Get There
Reaching Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, where Caminito del Rey is situated, is a straightforward drive. Starting from Cómpeta you drive down the mountain to the A-7 and take the direction of Malaga. You’ll then take the A-357, connecting with the MA-5403 in Ardales, leading you to El Chorro.
By Train – From Malaga’s Maria Zambrano train station, direct to El Chorro. The journey takes around 40 minutes direct and trains run several times a day for between €3 and €5.
Guided Tour
Tips for Your Journey
Caminito del Rey is a linear route spanning nearly 8 kilometers. The walkway is one-way, so you’ll need to either walk back or take the shuttle bus back to your starting point.
Don’t forget essentials like:
- Water
- Sun cream (especially in summer)
- Snacks
- Comfortable clothing
- Walking shoes are a must.
Be mindful that there are no facilities on the walkway, so use the toilet before you go and carry your trash until the end.
In recent years, Caminito del Rey has a new visitor center. It includes an information point, customer service, car park, café, and shop.
Helen did the Caminito del Rey a couple of years ago - watch her day out below!
To plan a day out or book a guided tour of the Camino del Rey, click on the email address below and contact Helen for more details.
