Perched in the rugged heart of Málaga province, Caminito del Rey offers an exhilarating trek through one of Spain’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Once dubbed the “world’s most dangerous path,” this aerial walkway clings to the sheer cliffs of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a dramatic gorge carved by the Guadalhorce River. Today, fully restored and safe, it beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike with its dizzying heights, rich history, and unparalleled views. As of March 2, 2025, here’s why this 7.7-kilometer trail remains a Costa del Sol icon.

A path born from necessity
Caminito del Rey’s story begins in the early 20th century, sparked by the industrial ambitions of the Sociedad Hidroeléctrica del Chorro. Between 1901 and 1905, workers—often fishermen skilled at scaling heights—built this narrow passage to link the Gaitanejo and El Chorro hydroelectric dams, easing the transport of materials and maintenance crews. Suspended up to 100 meters above the river, the original concrete path was a marvel of grit and engineering, threading through a canyon where walls soar to 700 meters and narrow to just 10 meters in places.

In 1921, King Alfonso XIII walked the route to inaugurate the Conde de Guadalhorce dam, lending it the name “Little Path of the King.” Over decades, neglect eroded its safety, turning it into a perilous draw for thrill-seekers. After fatal accidents in 1999 and 2000, authorities closed it, but a €5.5 million restoration by the Diputación de Málaga reopened it in 2015—transforming a crumbling relic into a secure, world-class attraction.

The journey today
The modern Caminito del Rey is a linear, one-way trail stretching 7.7 kilometers from Ardales in the north to El Chorro in Álora to the south. It splits into 4.8 kilometers of access paths and 2.9 kilometers of wooden boardwalks pinned to the cliffs. Starting at the northern entrance near the El Kiosko restaurant, visitors don helmets and follow a forest track to the control cabin, where the real adventure begins. The boardwalks—rebuilt with steel and timber—hover over the gorge, offering heart-pounding views through glass-floored sections like the Balcón de Cristal, a cantilevered platform that tests even steady nerves.

The route weaves through three distinct sections: the Gaitanejo gorge, the Tajo de las Palomas canyon, and the Hoyo Valley, ending with a swaying suspension bridge 105 meters above the riverbed. Along the way, Jurassic fossils dot the “fossil beach,” and a centennial juniper clings to the rock face. The trek takes 3-4 hours, descending gently southward, with a shuttle bus (€1.55) returning you to the start from El Chorro—a practical nod to its non-circular design.

Nature’s spectacle
Beyond the adrenaline, Caminito del Rey immerses you in the Paraje Natural Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a protected haven teeming with life. Griffon vultures and golden eagles soar overhead, their wingspans cutting through the sky, while Iberian ibexes clamber along the cliffs. Rare Spanish firs (pinsapos) dot the upper reaches, remnants of ancient forests, and the river below glints turquoise against the ruddy limestone. The microclimate shifts from cool, misty shadows to sun-warmed expanses, making every turn a visual feast—especially when Africa’s silhouette emerges across the Strait of Gibraltar on clear days.

Planning your visit
Accessibility has made Caminito del Rey a hit, drawing over 300,000 visitors annually since its rebirth. Tickets (€10 general, €18 with a guide) must be booked online well in advance via the official website, as daily slots cap at 400-600 people across hourly entries from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (seasonal hours vary). It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, closing for weather extremes—check forecasts, as wind or rain can shut it down. Málaga’s María Zambrano station offers Renfe trains to El Chorro (€4-€6), or drive an hour via the A-357 and MA-5403. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and note there are no facilities mid-route—toilets and snacks wait at the ends.

The trek suits most fitness levels, though vertigo sufferers might pause at the bridge. Kids over 8 are welcome with adults, and the path’s gentle slope keeps it manageable, even for casual hikers. Post-walk, refuel at El Chorro’s La Garganta, a hotel-restaurant with hearty Andalusian fare and terrace views.

A modern marvel rooted in history
Caminito del Rey’s allure lies in its duality: a feat of human daring reborn as a safe yet thrilling escape. In 2024, as the Costa del Sol welcomed 14.47 million visitors, this trail stood out—not just for its Instagram-worthy vistas but for its tale of resilience. Aspiring to UNESCO World Heritage status, it’s a monument to Málaga’s past and a gateway to its wild beauty. Whether you’re tracing Alfonso XIII’s steps or chasing the rush of heights, Caminito del Rey delivers an unforgettable slice of Andalusia.