In the past, hiking the El Caminito del Rey meant venturing out on one of the world’s most dangerous hikes, but today it’s transformed into a safe and popular day trip from Malaga.
The second I saw photos of the El Caminito del Rey trail online, I knew I had to see this natural wonder for myself. Not only do I love hiking, but this specific trail boasts striking landscapes and a truly unique historical background.
I decided to make the effort to hike the El Caminito Del Rey trail during my two day trip to Malaga. While we opted to visit the trail on our own, there are also plenty of tours in Malaga that you can sign up for making the trip super convenient.
Before you go, peep some of my top Spain travel tips to help make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
A stunning view from the trail
History of El Caminito del Rey
El Caminito del Rey actually translates to “the King’s Little Pathway”, and once consisted solely of concrete slabs hammered into the side of a cliff through a narrow gorge. Built over a hundred years ago, it was used as a means to easily access and maintain two hydroelectric power plants in the channel. 15 years after its construction, King Alfonso XIII himself enjoyed a stroll to marvel at the beauty in honor of the inauguration of a new dam. Pretty cool huh?
Over the course of time, the trail had been left to ruins and was closed off to tourists for safety concerns – only brave souls dared to attempt the hike. With the steel supports rusting and the concrete crumbling into massive holes, it’s no wonder it was considered one of the world’s most dangerous hikes! In 2015 however, the trail reopened after a massive renovation and is now accessible to all.
The oh so beautiful suspended boardwalks of Caminito del Rey
How to Visit El Caminito del Rey
My friend and I made the trek to the trail during a weekend visit to Málaga in the south of Spain. Easily accessible from Málaga via train and bus, (directions below for those interested in visiting), this is a must-see attraction when in the area.
Hiking El Caminito Del Rey requires entrance tickets, which cost 10 euros per person. You can purchase the tickets in person or online beforehand if you wish. You can grab your El Caminito del Rey tickets at their official website.
Visitors are allowed to access the part between 9:30am – 2:30pm and groups are let onto the trail in 30-minute increments.
The new boardwalks built above the old
How to Get to El Caminito Del Rey: Train From Malaga, Spain
- If you don’t have a rental car, don’t fret! You can take the train from Málaga to the El Churro train station. The ride is about an hour and tickets were about 10 euros roundtrip. We purchased ours directly at the station right before we left. We were there in low season however so plan accordingly!
- If you are taking the train, be sure to check the train schedule. The earliest train leaves Málaga around 10am – keep this in mind when scheduling and purchasing your entrance tickets to the park.
- Once you arrive at El Churro, there are buses in the station parking lot that take visitors up to the trailhead. Bus fare is 1.50 euros one way and can be purchased ahead of time with the purchase of the entrance ticket or in cash once you arrive.
- The trail is only one way, so once you finish your hike you will actually end up right back where you started at the train station. How convenient!
There you have it!! All about the beautiful hiking El Caminito del Rey! Enjoy.
Beautiful; thanks for sharing
I would appreciate the photo-cred for the touristy photo of you.. 😉 xoxo love this, and you! Wish we would have had this before we did the hike!!