Quick Overview

Region: Caminito del Rey is in the Guadalhorce Gorge between Ardales and El Chorro, about 60 km northwest of Málaga city in Andalusia, Spain.
Trail Entrances: Main entrance is the North Access (Ardales side); the route normally finishes at the South Exit in El Chorro.
Nearest Train Station: El Chorro–Caminito del Rey (regional trains from Málaga).
Best Base City: Málaga – frequent trains, buses and day tours operate from here.

Best First-Time Option

For most visitors, the easiest way is an organized tour from Málaga. You meet in the city, travel by coach directly to the official access point, have your ticket handled, and are guided along the route before returning to Málaga.

Málaga Day Trip & Tour

Independent Visitors

If you prefer to go on your own, you can:

  • Take a regional train from Málaga to El Chorro–Caminito del Rey, then shuttle to the entrance.
  • Drive to the Ardales/El Kiosko parking area and use the official shuttle bus.
  • Combine train or tour with an overnight stay in nearby villages such as Ardales or El Chorro.
Caminito Entry Ticket Guided Tour from Málaga

Option 1 — From Málaga City

Most popular starting point, with easy train and tour connections.

  • By Organized Coach Tour: Join a day trip from Málaga that includes transport, entry ticket, helmet, and a guide. The coach usually drops you close to the official access trail, and at the end you are picked up near the exit in El Chorro and driven back to Málaga.
  • By Train (Self-Guided): Take a regional train from Málaga María Zambrano to El Chorro–Caminito del Rey. From the station, walk or take the shuttle bus toward the north access tunnel near El Kiosko restaurant.
  • By Car: Drive from Málaga via the A-357 and local roads toward Ardales / El Chorro. Park near the El Kiosko restaurant or designated Caminito car parks and take the shuttle or access path to the trailhead.

Travel Time from Málaga

Expect about 1–1.5 hours each way depending on your mode of transport: faster with a direct coach, similar with train plus shuttle, and flexible by car.

Option 2 — By Train & Local Buses

Regional Train to El Chorro

Regional trains from Málaga María Zambrano typically stop at El Chorro–Caminito del Rey. From there, you:

  • Exit the station and follow signs to the official shuttle bus.
  • Ride the shuttle toward the Ardales / El Kiosko side (north access).
  • Walk through the pedestrian tunnel and approach path to the control checkpoint.

Always check the latest train schedule, and choose departure times that match your ticket entry slot with enough buffer.

Public & Shuttle Buses

Once in the area, most visitors use the official Caminito shuttle bus that connects the north access (Ardales / El Kiosko) with the south exit (El Chorro). This allows you to start at one end of the walkway and finish at the other without backtracking.

The shuttle usually requires a small additional fee on top of your ticket and runs at regular intervals. Keep your ticket and ID handy, as checks may happen before you enter the gorge.

From Costa del Sol Towns by Bus + Tour

If you are staying in Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Fuengirola or similar resorts, the simplest option is a coach tour that picks you up on the coast and drives directly to Caminito del Rey.

Málaga & Costa del Sol Tour

Matching Your Time Slot

Tickets for Caminito del Rey are timed. Whether you use train or coach, plan to arrive at the north access 30–45 minutes before your slot to walk from the parking/shuttle drop-off to the control gate.

Wayfinding Tip

Signage in the area clearly marks Caminito del Rey North Access / El Kiosko and South Exit / El Chorro. Following these labels helps you stay on the official route.

Option 3 — Scenic Walks & Approaches

The approach to Caminito del Rey is already part of the experience. Even before the wooden boardwalk starts, you walk past turquoise reservoirs, forests and rock walls.

  • From El Kiosko & Reservoir Area: Many visitors park or are dropped near the El Kiosko restaurant and walk through the pedestrian tunnel and forest path (about 20–30 minutes) to the check-in point at the north access.
  • From El Chorro Village: If you are staying in El Chorro, you can take the shuttle upstream toward the north access, then walk the Caminito downhill back to the village.
  • Photography Stops: Allow a little extra time for photos of the Gaitanejo area, the reservoir and the canyon viewpoints before you reach the start of the boardwalk.

Important:

Stay on marked paths and follow official arrows and staff instructions. The gorge is a protected natural area and cliff edges can be dangerous away from designated routes.

From Other Andalusian Cities

From Seville

The most comfortable option is to book a day trip from Seville with transport included. The coach will pick you up early, drive you via Antequera / Málaga province, and return in the evening.

If travelling independently, drive toward Málaga then follow signs for Ardales / El Chorro. Journey time is typically around 2.5–3 hours by car.

From Granada or Córdoba

Driving is usually the easiest way from Granada or Córdoba. Head toward Málaga region and follow the A-92 / A-45 / A-357 combination depending on your exact route, then continue to the Caminito car parks.

From Ronda

From Ronda, there are scenic but winding mountain roads heading toward Ardales and El Chorro. Expect slower driving time but spectacular views. Always check conditions before you go.

Coach & Tour Options

Various operators run all-inclusive tours from big cities in Andalusia. These typically include transport, entrance ticket, a guide and sometimes a snack or small picnic.

Stay the Night

If you dislike early departures, consider staying one night in Ardales or El Chorro. You can then choose a calm morning time slot and enjoy the surroundings without rushing.

Driving, Parking & Other Transport

Driving & Roads

Roads to Caminito del Rey are generally good but can be narrow and winding near the gorge. Drive carefully, especially on bends and when passing cyclists or hikers.

Parking Areas

There are official parking areas near Ardales / El Kiosko and around El Chorro. Follow road signs for “Caminito del Rey” and use designated car parks rather than improvising on the roadside.

Motorhomes & Campervans

Campervans can usually park in larger car parks, but overnight parking rules may vary. Check local regulations and signs, and avoid blocking access roads or turning circles.

Is Cycling Recommended?

Cycling to the area is possible on regional roads, but bikes are not allowed on the elevated boardwalk. You will need to secure your bike and continue the official route on foot.

Weather & Closures

In case of strong winds, heavy rain or maintenance, the walkway may close for safety. Check your tour provider’s updates and keep some flexibility in your itinerary.

Practical Arrival Tips

Arrive Early

Plan to be near the north access gate 30–45 minutes before your time slot. You’ll need time for the approach walk, ID check, helmet fitting and safety briefing.

What to Wear

Wear closed, comfortable footwear with good grip, and dress in layers. Sun, heat, wind and shade alternate along the gorge, so bring water, a hat and light snacks.

Tickets & ID

Carry your ticket (digital or printed) and a valid photo ID. Names on the ticket may be checked against ID before you are allowed onto the boardwalk.

Check Entry Times & Prices Book Málaga Day Trip

Caminito del Rey – Getting There Cheatsheet

Location

Guadalhorce Gorge, between Ardales and El Chorro in Málaga province, Andalusia, Spain.

Nearest Station

El Chorro–Caminito del Rey railway station, connected by regional trains from Málaga.

Best Base

Málaga city – easiest place for trains, tours and organized day trips.

Entry & Exit

Start at North Access (Ardales / El Kiosko), finish at South Exit (El Chorro), then use the shuttle bus between both ends.

Approx. Times

Málaga → area: ~1–1.5 hours • Caminito route itself: ~2.5–3 hours including approach paths and photo stops.

Key Tips

Book timed tickets in advance, arrive early, use the official shuttle, and always follow staff instructions for a safe, smooth visit.

Browse All Caminito Tours Guided Tour from Málaga

Ready to Visit Caminito del Rey?

Choose your base in Málaga or the Costa del Sol, pick the route that suits you best, and get ready to cross one of Europe’s most dramatic walkways high above the Guadalhorce Gorge.

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