Okay, people with a fear of heights can skip this article. Due to the altitude differences, El Caminito del Rey is not very suitable for them. However, if you love heights and challenges, this hiking trail in Andalusia is a fantastic experience.
The history of El Caminito del Rey
We go back two centuries to delve into the history of El Caminito del Rey, or the King's Path. In the 19th century, it was decided to build a hydraulic power plant at the Choro and Gaitanejo waterfalls. Construction began at the beginning of the 20th century, and it opened 20 years later.
Throughout all these years, a path along the rock walls was used to transport building materials to the facility – using donkeys. When construction was completed, the path was no longer used and fell into disrepair. The railings crumbled, and the steel rusted so much that it finally collapsed. The most dangerous hiking trail in Europe
Although daredevils found El Caminito del Rey increasingly attractive, the trail also acquired an image associated with (sometimes fatal) accidents. In fact, the trail was declared the most dangerous hiking trail in Europe and even one of the most dangerous in the world.
In 1992, the government decided enough was enough; part of El Caminito del Rey was demolished. Then, in 2000, the remaining part was closed after several fatalities. And heavy fines (up to €6,000) were imposed on those who gained access.
If you watch videos, you immediately understand that this trail was indeed no longer safe. Even with a good dose of hiking and climbing experience and the right equipment, things could go wrong. El Caminito del Rey after restoration
Sporadic fatalities or serious accidents – undoubtedly combined with the desire for a new tourist attraction – led to the decision in 2006 to restore El Caminito del Rey. The goal was to ensure that it would be accessible to all tourists. In other words: a wider path with proper fences and railings. Less dangerous, but no less beautiful due to the amazing views, the cliffs that sometimes reach 400 meters in height, and the accompanying elevation changes.
The renovation began in 2014 and was completed in the spring of 2015. This despite the fact that due to its location in the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge, it was by no means an easy task. Mountaineers were deployed, and construction materials reached their destination by helicopter.
The approximately 7.5 km long hiking trail – which has been enormously popular since its opening – now consists mainly of wooden bridges. However, in some places it also offers glass walkways for amazing views. A glass suspension bridge even “floats” 100 meters above the Gaitanes gorge. This is one of the main reasons why El Caminito del Rey is not recommended for people with a fear of heights.
Where to find El Caminito del Rey?
You can find El Caminito del Rey in the southern Spanish region of Costa del Sol, about 60 km north of Málaga. It is not only a popular day trip from the Spanish city; holidaymakers from well-known seaside resorts such as Torremolinos, Fuengirola and Marbella are also more than happy to take a day trip to the famous walking path.
Tickets for El Caminito del Rey
In summer, the path is open from 10:00 to 17:00, and in winter from 10:00 to 14:00. However, there is a limit to the number of walkers allowed on the path, so it is advisable to buy tickets in advance.
Tickets can be easily purchased via the official website of El Caminito del Rey. If you do not have a (rental) car at your disposal, you can also arrange transport there immediately.
Is your chosen day already fully booked? (and given its popularity, this can easily be a few months in advance) Organized tours are often still available. And maybe you prefer to go on an organized tour anyway. In that case, you can check out these tours via our partner GetYourGuide.
Practical tips!
Before you start your amazing hike along El Caminito del Rey, we have some practical tips and information for you:
Calculate a walking time of approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete the entire trail. Wear good walking shoes and make sure you have plenty of water. Sunscreen is also highly recommended.
Good to know: Children under 8 years old are not allowed on El Caminito del Rey, even under supervision. Older children must be accompanied. You must also be able to show valid ID at all times to prove your age.
There are no toilets or other facilities along the route.
When you enter the trail, you will be given a helmet. For safety reasons, you must wear it throughout the hike.
El Caminito del Rey may be closed in bad weather (especially strong winds). Do not plan this for your last day of vacation; you won't be able to try again.
El Caminito del Rey; No longer the dangerous hike it once was (sorry daredevils!), but definitely still one of our personal highlights of Andalusia. Are you going to hike there too?
