The Caminito del Rey is a famous trail located in the province of Mรกlaga, in southern Spain. It is located specifically in the Gaitanes Gorge, in the municipality of รlora, and connects the municipalities of Ardales and El Chorro. This path is known for its stunning natural beauty and its walkways hanging over a deep gorge, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
History of the Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey was built between 1901 and 1905 to facilitate access to workers at the Chorro hydroelectric plant, a former electricity factory, who needed a safe path to transport materials and carry out work in the area. The name of the path comes from the King of Spain Alfonso XIII, who inaugurated it in 1921 during a visit to the area.
Over the years, the Caminito del Rey fell into a state of disrepair and became dangerous, leading to its closure in 2000. Over the years, it became a popular spot for adventurers and climbers, although many took risks by doing so due to the lack of security.
Is the Caminito del Rey dangerous?
The trail was very dangerous before the restoration. Many people walked the trail without protection. We can still see some videos on the internet. Before it was restored, it could be one of the most dangerous trails in the world.
Video of the dangerous Caminito del Rey
The original version. Filmed with a Sony handycam. No clipping. This video was recorded before the restoration. The path looked pitiful and very dangerous. Would you be able to walk there?
Restoration and New Caminito del Rey
In 2015, the Caminito del Rey was completely restored and reopened to the public. The restoration included rebuilding the walkways and improving security, making the trail accessible and safe for visitors.
Most of the materials were brought in by helicopter due to the difficulty of access.
Since then, it has attracted thousands of tourists every year, becoming one of the main tourist attractions in this area of โโMalaga.
Here is the video of the restoration of the Caminito del Rey.
Amazing experience from Nerja
Visiting the Caminito del Rey offers a variety of experiences:
- Hiking: The route is approximately 7.7 km long, with walkways that stretch along cliffs and stunning views of the gorge and the river.
- Nature: The natural environment is impressive, with rock formations, vegetation and the possibility of observing local fauna.
- Photography: The panoramic views and dramatic landscape make it an ideal place for photography lovers.
- Outdoor activities: In addition to hiking, the area offers opportunities for climbing, cycling and other outdoor activities.
- Culture and history: Visitors can learn about the history of the path and its importance in the industrialization of the region.
The Caminito del Rey is, without a doubt, a unique experience that combines adventure, natural beauty and a touch of history.
Don’t think twice and book your visit to the Caminito del Rey. You can go on organised tours from Nerja or visit on your own. You don’t need a guide to visit. It’s all very safe and you are always accompanied by other people during the tour.
๐บ How to get to the Caminito del Rey from Nerja
Getting there is very easy, we can go by bus, own or rental car, private transfer or taxi and also with a group or organized excursion. There are many tours to the Caminito del Rey with all kinds of extras.
๐ Go by bus to the Caminito del Rey from Nerja.
This option is more difficult, keep in mind that you will have to take several buses to get to the area. and then take a taxi from the nearest town to the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes or the beginning of the Caminito del Rey.
๐ Go by car from Nerja.
You can go by car. If you don’t have a vehicle you can rent a car in Nerja. It is very easy to get there by car from Nerja.
If you go by car you have to park in the area. There is usually parking in the area before you cross the tunnel that will take you to the gorge. (the tunnel is crossed on foot).
From Nerja to the Caminito del Rey there are approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. (118km)
๐ Private transfer from Nerja to Caminito del Rey
This is the second option, you can book a taxi or private transfer that will take you from Nerja to the Caminito del Rey. The transfer will pick you up after your journey and will bring you back from Ardales to Nerja.
๐ถโโ๏ธ Book a tour from Nerja to the Caminito del Rey
The easiest option. Book an organized excursion from Nerja to the Caminito del Rey. They pick you up in Nerja, take you to the king’s path, take you on a tour and explain everything in detail. And they take him back by bus to Nerja.
Book a guided tour of the Caminito del Rey
The meeting point for the start of the activity is at the start of the path. You can book and buy your tickets with a guided tour. BUY A GUIDED TOUR