If you thinking of doing something different and want to explore the historical part of Malaga, then visit El Caminito del Rey. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers much more than just being a sight.
One of the best things to do in Malaga in winter is to actually walk the El Caminito del Rey. Once considered as one of the most difficult hikes in the world, has now become much more accessible for the public and is considered a scenic hike of the world.
Located around 100 metres above the deep gorge of Los Gaitanes and flanked by beautiful green forests, this walk is a majestic sight to behold. Many visitors, who come down to explore this peculiar sight, learn about a fact. It takes around 2 hours to walk 8 kilometres, one way. There are shuttle services available for those who look for their return possibility.
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Visiting Caminito Del Rey
Table of Contents
Planning Your Trip
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Where to Stay in Malaga
There is a wide range of accommodations available in Malaga, so you will not be short on options. Here are our top suggestions for the best places to stay in Malaga for any budget.
Luxury –Only YOU Hotel Málaga is a luxury hotel in the city centre of Malaga. The hotel has a restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool and a bar with fantastic views. All rooms are air-conditioned with wifi and a coffee machine.
Book your stay at Only YOU Hotel Málaga here.
Mid-Range – When you visit Malaga, how about staying at AC Hotel Málaga Palacio by Marriott, a beautiful hotel in the city centre of Malaga. The hotel has a rooftop pool with views over the port, as well as a gym and free wifi.
Book your stay at AC Hotel Málaga Palacio by Marriott here.
Budget – We recently stayed at AAC Málaga – Con luz propia, amplio y nuevo! , a beautiful self-catering apartment in the city centre. The apartment is very spacious with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a large balcony, a kitchen and a washing machine. Located a 15-minute walk from the city centre.
Book your stay at AAC Málaga – Con luz propia, amplio y nuevo!here.
History of Caminito Del Rey
The historical site of Caminito Del Rey has its own history documented well enough. Even after so many years, the place gets enough attention it deserves.
As per the historical facts, The construction of Caminito del Rey began in 1901 and lasted until 1905. El Caminito del Rey, whose name literally translates to the King’s Path, has an interesting fact associated with it. The name of King’s Path was given after the visit of King Alfonso XIII. he was the one who used this walkway to inaugurate the dam.
But the historical facts don’t stop here. Caminito Del Rey was initially built as a transit point for operators and maintenance staff. It was used by the maintenance workers from Saltos del Gaitanejo and El Chorro. Eventually, they stopped and this beautiful bridge was used by the villagers of the surrounding areas.
Due to its old-age construction, it wasn’t safe to be used by the newer generation. As a result, the area was closed from 2001- 2015 after it saw 2000 tourist deaths.
After many reconstructions and renovations, it reopened with a safety built-in. Now, many tourists flock down here and enjoy the best of Malaga as well as get amazed by the beauty of El Caminito del Rey.
Hiking Caminito Del Rey
Hiking one of the most dangerous paths in Malaga, Caminito Del Rey is an adventure altogether.
Located as a walkway pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge in El Chorro, this has now become one of the most famous hikes of all time. Spread across 8 kilometres, this hike takes around about 3 hours to complete. The time differs as some tourists walk fast and complete the hike within the time range of 1.5-2 hours. Whereas some take their time and walk at their own pace, whilst gazing around and getting mesmerised by the presence of nature around.
Another thing about the hike is the fact that it runs 1 way only. That is the reason, you won’t cross people who are on their return journey. For them, there is a shuttle service available.
When is the best time to visit Caminito Del Rey
Visiting Malaga all around the year is quite easy. Each season gives something different to remember the city by.
If you are planning to explore Caminito Del Rey on your Malaga itinerary, then there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Avoiding the hottest months of July to mid-September would be the right choice. Since those are the hottest months, the temperatures go up and hiking at that time won’t be feasible. There are many tourists you come down to during those months, but I would recommend skipping the hottest months. Also, during the colder months, the mornings tend to get chilly. Therefore, during those months, try hiking later in the day instead of going early mornings.
Other Things to do in Malaga
Montes de Malaga Nature Park
Be prepared to visit the city’s green lungs while planning a trip to the Montes de Malaga Nature Park. People call this park Málaga’s lung because of the lush trees that let you rest whilst on your journey and allow the esteemed privilege of greenery and quite clean air.
This natural wonder became a protected natural space in 1989. Another ecological aspect added to this ecological wonder is that it has a large volume of hydrological resources as it is in the Guadalmedina river basin.
Initially, the Guadalmedina river basin was the reason for various flood flashes the city had to face. To put a stop to this, the construction of the Agujero reservoir and the forest-water repopulation of pine forests on the river basin seemed a proper and safe solution to this untamed problem.
The nature park has numerous hiking trails, picnic spots and traditional restaurants available as a facility and enjoyment. Here you can try one of the popular local dishes ‘plato de los montes’ or ‘dish of the mountains’ and add a different yet traditional to your list.
Botanical Gardens
If you feel like exploring the rich flora of Malaga, try prepping a day to visit the botanical gardens in Malaga. One of the free things to do in Malaga includes visiting the botanical gardens which aim to impress you with their rich collection.
It is renowned as the tropical and subtropical garden of Europe and found some time to make its way for the public. Originally designed for a rich establishment in the 19th century, Malaga’s botanic garden was made a public park in 1990.
Nothing feels more comforting and relaxing than being surrounded by a vast variety of plants and flowers.
Day trips from Malaga
Malaga is one of the highly preferred locations for tourists and mainly because of the rich history associated with it. The city of Pablo Picasso has created its fandom with this factor and many others.
If you are looking for a day trip from Malaga, visiting Granada would be the perfect option. Granada is a city full of hope and beauty alongwith many things that can be done. This charming city in Andalucía is loaded with marvels and interesting infrastructures, the tapas culture is quite evident and that is why Granada is definitely an interesting destination to visit.
As you plan your day in Granada, include the following areas in your exploration to know and learn about the rich historical influence of this magical city:
- Alhambra
- Granada Cathedral
- Albaicín
- Mirador de San Nicolás
- Sacromonte Caves Museum
Apart from Granada, you can explore another magnificent city- Ronda. One of the most visited coastal locations of Andalusia, Spain, Malaga has captured the attention of fellow tourists for a long time. With a fine collection of stunning beaches, culture, and food, the city has managed to convince travellers to come here every season. This beautiful Spanish town is full of impressive historical ruins and stunning views. Alongwith this, this city has gained its name as one of the ‘white villages of Andalusia’.
Whilst your stay in Ronda, you can explore Puente Nuevo (new bridge), Plaza de toros (Bullring ), El balcón del coño (Coño Balcony), La Casa del Rey Moro (Moorish Palace), Jardines de Cuenca (Cuenca Gardens), Duchess of Parcent Square to get a glimpse of the historical presence here.
Exploring these towns will help you understand the magic Malaga holds. Also, how beautifully it has managed to retain its historical presence for visitors to adore and be amazed with.
Before You Leave for Malaga
Before you set off on your way to Malaga, there are a number of things you will need to get organised to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. These include what to pack, where to stay and what is the best insurance for your trip to Malaga. All of this is discussed in detail below.
How to Get to Malaga
The most popular way to arrive in Malaga is by flying, however being located in the south of Spain, many people may also arrive in Malaga by bus or train.
Where to Stay in Malaga
There is a wide range of accommodations available in Malaga, so you will not be short on options. Here are our top suggestions for the best places to stay in Malaga for any budget.
Luxury –Only YOU Hotel Málaga is a luxury hotel in the city centre of Malaga. The hotel has a restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool and a bar with fantastic views. All rooms are air-conditioned with wifi and a coffee machine.
Book your stay at Only YOU Hotel Málaga here.
Mid-Range – When you visit Malaga, how about staying at AC Hotel Málaga Palacio by Marriott, a beautiful hotel in the city centre of Malaga. The hotel has a rooftop pool with views over the port, as well as a gym and free wifi.
Book your stay at AC Hotel Málaga Palacio by Marriott here.
Budget – We recently stayed at AAC Málaga – Con luz propia, amplio y nuevo! , a beautiful self-catering apartment in the city centre. The apartment is very spacious with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a large balcony, a kitchen and a washing machine. Located a 15-minute walk from the city centre.
Book your stay at AAC Málaga – Con luz propia, amplio y nuevo!here.
What to Pack for Your Trip to Malaga
What you need to pack for Malaga will rely highly on when you make your trip there. During the Spring and Autumn months, temperatures and weather patterns vary wildly between beautiful sunny skies and rainy days. During the Summer, you are pretty much guaranteed nice weather with temperatures ranging from 20-35 oC. The hottest months are July and August, so these will be the most popular for a Summer holiday.
During the winter months in Malaga, the rain will become more frequent and the temperatures will drop to between 10-20 oc. If you need more inspiration on what to pack for your trip, check out our full packing guides for all-weather conditions over here.
When it comes to toiletries, we recommend that you don’t forget to pack sunscreen. The sun in Malaga is very strong, especially during the summer months. Apply a lot of sun cream regularly to prevent a nasty burn from ruining your trip. We use this specific sunscreen to protect us as it is not as oily and irritating as other sunscreens.
Given the beautiful sights and scenery that you will see in Malaga, we highly recommend packing a good camera for your trip. If you want to read more about the cameras we use and why we love them, check out the link below.
Photography Equipment
Main Photography Camera – Sony A7v Mirrorless Camera and Sony A7iii Mirrorless Camera
Microphone – Sony Mic ECM-B1M
Main Lens – Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8
Zoom Lens – Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8
Camera Tripod – ZOMEI Z669C Camera Tripod
Gorilla Pod – JOBY JB01507-BWW GorillaPod
Action Camera – GoPro Hero 11 and Insta 360 One RS
Drone Camera – DJI Mavic Pro 3
Camera Bag – Wandrd PRVKE 41L and The Nest by Tropicfeel
Phone Tripod – Manfrotto MKPIXICLAMP-BK, Mini Tripod with Universal Smartphone Clamp
Sturdy Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick – ATUMTEK 61″ Selfie Stick Tripod, Sturdy Phone Tripod Stand with Wireless Remote
Hard Drives – LaCie Rugged Mini, 5TB, 2.5″, Portable External Hard Drive
SSD – SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB Portable NVMe SSD
Travel Adapter –Worldwide Travel Adapter Universal Travel Plug with 4 USB Ports+Universal AC Socke
What is the Best Travel Insurance for Malaga
I know travel insurance is the least enjoyable thing to purchase and look at when you’re planning a trip, however, you wouldn’t want to be without it in the event that something happened. Accidents can happen anywhere and the extortionate medical bills will ruin your trip if you are not covered.
To ensure you have a stress-free trip with no worries about potential medical bills, make sure you cover yourself when you travel. We can recommend using SafetyWing, a backpacker-friendly and cheap insurance company that provides good coverage and support. It is also nomad-friendly, unlike most other insurance companies, meaning you do not need to worry about being out of your home country for too long.
Get a quote for your travel insurance right here and get covered!
So there you have it, your guide to the best 10 things to do in Malaga. If you are visiting this incredible city and have any other questions on what to expect, leave us a comment down below. We love to chat about this stuff! Let us know in the comments below!
Also, remember to share this with your friends and family that you are going to share this amazing experience with. Sharing is caring and we want to ensure that everyone is fully prepared to maximise their experience completing this stunning walk.
If you are planning a Spain trip soon then check out our other Spanish content right here. Come and find us on social media to see where we are currently exploring. Tag us in your photos from your stay and we will share them with the rest of our community of explorers and backpackers.
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