Experience the Caminito del Rey

Follow the way of the kings on a private half-day trekking tour of El Caminito del Rey from Ardales. Predominantly on a wooden boardwalk, you’ll hike past the Los Gaitanes gorge and Hoyo valley and stop intermittently to capture photographs of the dramatic scenery.

The route of the Caminito del Rey is one of the most famous in the province of Malaga, but also in the whole of Spain. You will be able to see one of the most spectacular landscapes of the Málaga mountain range, with steep walls and considerable height. The river Guadalhorce flows through this area after passing through the reservoirs of El Chorro, Guadalteba and Gaitanejo.

1. Pickup at your hotel or apartment

We will pick you up at your hotel or apartment in Malaga or Marbella. We offer pricate transportation for just your party.

2. Reception

We will meet the rest of the group at Hotel La garganta where we will take a shuttle bus that will take us to the start point of the route (15 minutes), at this point we will be with the official Caminito del Rey guide.

3. Visitor’s reception booth

After passing through the path or track of Gaitanejo we will find the official start of El Caminito del Rey. At this point, as we have already said, the tickets are validated, a case is granted and after some indications the groups are organized according to the foreseen schedule.

This stand is located in the Gaitanejo Hydroelectric Power Station, which was one of the oldest in Spain.

4. First canyon

This is the first of the two great gorges on the route. The Gaitanejo Gorge, barely 10 metres wide, is the beginning of the first footbridge. Here you can see:

• The viewpoint, the commemorative plaques and the first wooden walkway.
• The kettles or shifts
• The remains of ancient electrification

5. Second canyon

After a long curve the visitor enters the second canyon, called the Tajo de las Palomas. Here you can see:

• The viewpoint of the railway slope in the anteroom of the Tajo de las Palomas
• The King’s Bridge in the middle of the Tagus
• The Desander and the Cave of the Bull
• The flat rocks

6. The Hole Valley

The water of the Guadalhorce River, after some rapids and gullies that produce quite a lot of noise, flows back and enters a space with abundant vegetation. You will enter the Valle del Hollo. Here you will be able to enjoy a lot of nature. In this area of the route there is even a bat shelter.

7. Third canyon

This part of the route is known as the Gaitanes Gorge and South wall. This “hanging” section of footbridges located more than 100 meters away will allow you to feel the adrenaline and enjoy the environment. It is the most impressive part of the route. The last stretch of the Caminito del Rey is done by walking up the stairs. If you keep your eyes down you will be able to see the new Central Hidroeléctrica del Chorro.

Hanging bridges, zip lines, viaducts, the hundred-year-old juniper tree and many other surprises to enjoy this unique enclave in Andalusia.

8. Final section

This last part runs along the so-called “Caminito del Rey Avenue”, a 2.1 km downhill path. Here you will find:

• The El Chorro Hydroelectric Plant
• The Albercones Viaduct
• Ancient village of El Chorro
• The hoof stand
• The train station and the tunnels.

As you have seen, the Caminito del Rey route has everything you need to make this experience unique. You only have to plan in advance the date of your visit as there are many visits throughout the year and it is often complicated to obtain tickets.

Highlights

• Get spectacular views of Lake Guadalhorce
• Receive undivided attention from your guide.
• No waiting in lines—entrance fees are included
• Perfect for travelers who want to spend time outdoors exploring Malaga
• Private transportation to the meeting point and back to your hotel or apartment
• Bottle of water for each guest
• Close on Monday