The original path was inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1921, which gave the route its name meaning 'The King's Little Path'.
The walkway system includes a 105-meter long suspension bridge that connects the two sides of the canyon at a significant height.
The gorge itself was carved by the Guadalhorce River through Jurassic limestone rock over geological epochs.
The original concrete walkway was built between 1901 and 1905 to transport materials and personnel for the El Chorro hydroelectric plant.
During the years of disrepair, the path became legendary among extreme sports enthusiasts and urban explorers before its closure and restoration.
The entire route is equipped with a mandatory safety helmet system provided to all hikers at the entrance points.
El Caminito del Rey is a 7.7-kilometer aerial walkway pinned into the steep limestone walls of the Gaitanes Gorge in Málaga, Spain. Originally constructed for maintenance workers of the hydroelectric power plants, the path reaches heights of 100 meters above the Guadalhorce River. The current walkway was renovated in 2015 after decades of being known as one of the world's most dangerous paths. The route features a glass balcony viewing platform and a suspension bridge crossing the canyon. Visitors follow a linear one-way trail starting in Ardales and ending in Álora. The walkway is engineered with modern anchorages and safety railings to provide stability alongside the sheer vertical cliffs.
The suspension bridge provides the most iconic perspective of the gorge and the vertical drop below.
Purchase tickets well in advance online as they often sell out weeks ahead of the visit date.
Bring sufficient water and sun protection as the path is largely exposed with limited shade in the gorge.
Utilize the official shuttle bus service to return to your vehicle, as the trail is strictly one-way.
Do not attempt to walk the trail without a pre-booked reservation, as walk-in access is not permitted.
Closed on Mondays; occasionally closes during high wind conditions or adverse weather for safety.
Closed-toe hiking shoes are mandatory; flip-flops or sandals are prohibited for safety. Helmets must be worn throughout the entire duration of the walk.
