The path was originally constructed to allow maintenance workers and materials to cross between two hydroelectric stations.
The name 'Caminito del Rey' originates from a 1921 visit by King Alfonso XIII, who crossed the original, perilous path for the inauguration of the Conde del Guadalhorce dam.
The original walkway was constructed using concrete rails supported by steel beams and had no handrails for decades.
During the 2014-2015 restoration, helicopters were used to transport materials and remove the old, crumbling concrete structure.
The gorge walls reach heights of up to 400 meters in some sections of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes.
El Caminito del Rey is a narrow, 7.7-kilometer hiking trail pinned along the steep, vertical walls of the Gaitanes Gorge in Málaga, Spain. Originally built in 1905 to provide workers access between the Chorro and Gaitanejo hydroelectric power plants, the path hangs 100 meters above the Guadalhorce River. The modern structure consists of a secure wooden boardwalk bolted directly into the rock face, replacing the severely deteriorated concrete path that gained a reputation as one of the world's most dangerous walkways before its 2015 renovation. Visitors traverse the gorge through a sequence of canyons, valleys, and large bridges that connect the municipalities of Álora, Ardales, and Antequera. The route is linear, meaning hikers enter at the Ardales side and exit at the Álora side. It is located within the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Natural Area, characterized by Jurassic limestone formations. Safety protocols include the mandatory use of provided helmets throughout the walking sections.
The glass-floored balcony section overlooking the gorge provides the most dramatic vertical perspective.
Book tickets weeks or months in advance, as limited daily entry slots sell out rapidly.
Ensure you have a reliable mobile ticket, as printed versions are often not required or available on-site.
Wear closed-toe athletic or hiking footwear with good grip; sandals or flip-flops are strictly prohibited for safety.
Avoid arriving without a pre-booked entry time, as no tickets are sold at the gate; do not attempt the hike if you suffer from severe vertigo.
Closed on Mondays and occasionally on December 25, January 1, and January 6; subject to closure during high winds or extreme weather events.
Helmets provided at the entrance must be worn at all times while on the boardwalk; keep noise levels low to respect local wildlife; stay on the marked path.
