The original path was constructed in 1901 to allow workers at the Chorro and Gaitanejo hydroelectric power plants to cross between the falls.
King Alfonso XIII crossed the original pathway in 1921 to inaugurate the Conde del Guadalhorce dam, which earned the path its name, 'The King's Little Path'.
The original bridge structure was largely destroyed by rockfalls and erosion, leading to its closure in 2001.
The modern suspension bridge uses a metallic grate flooring that allows visitors to look directly down into the canyon floor.
The entire walkway is anchored into the limestone cliff faces using high-tension steel bolts.
The Puente colgante del Caminito del Rey is a 100-meter-long suspension bridge located within the Gaitanes Gorge in Málaga, Spain. Suspended approximately 105 meters above the Guadalhorce River, the bridge connects the canyon walls along the historic Caminito del Rey path. It serves as the final, dramatic highlight of the walkway, designed to allow visitors to cross from one side of the gorge to the other. The original structure, replaced during the 2014-2015 restoration, was notorious for its dilapidated state and was known as one of the most dangerous paths in the world. The current bridge features a reinforced steel and wood construction with a mesh floor that provides a direct view of the drop below. It is located at the narrowest section of the gorge where the limestone walls reach significant vertical heights.
The center of the suspension bridge looking north through the narrowing limestone walls of the Gaitanes Gorge.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip, as the path involves uneven terrain and metallic walkways.
Carry a backpack with sufficient water and sunscreen, as there are no services or shade once you enter the gorge sections.
Avoid bringing bulky items, as the wind can be strong on the suspension bridge and space is limited.
Attempting to cross the bridge without a pre-booked reservation, as the entire Caminito path requires controlled access; visiting during high wind warnings.
Closed on Mondays for maintenance; also subject to closure during high wind conditions or severe weather.
Helmets must be worn as provided by the management; stay within marked boundaries and do not stop on the bridge to allow for continuous foot traffic flow.
