The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Caminito Del Rey in Malaga, Spain - Don't Miss This!

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

Where to stay in Caminito Del Rey
History of Caminito Del Rey
Hiking Caminito Del Rey
How To Get To El Caminito Del Rey
When is the best time to visit
Day trips from Malaga
Before you leave for Caminito Del Rey

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.

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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.