Caminito del Rey Day Trip from Málaga — Walk the Gaitanes Gorge
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours total (2–3 hours hiking)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people who can walk on uneven paths for 2–3 hours; not recommended for those with severe vertigo or major heart conditions.
Overview
Step out of Málaga and onto a narrow boardwalk 100 meters above the Guadalhorce River. This guided day trip to the Caminito del Rey threads the Gaitanes Gorge, pairing geology, history and a 2–3 hour hike with round-trip pickup from Málaga.
Caminito del Rey Day Trip from Málaga — Walk the Gaitanes Gorge
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The bus pulls away from Avenida de Andalucía and the city’s coastal hum thins into scrub and limestone. By the time you arrive at the north access, the Guadhorce River has carved a narrow throat through white rock — the Gaitanes Gorge — and a narrow ribbon of boardwalk clings to cliffs 100 meters above the water. Helmets are fitted, guides check tickets in English and German, and the walkway invites a slow, deliberate pace: this is a hike that rewards attention.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Pickup
Meet at Avenida de Andalucía, 12 in front of UniCaja Bank and be there 10 minutes before departure to avoid missing the bus.
Wear Closed Shoes with Heel Strap
Closed hiking shoes or sturdy sandals with a back strap are mandatory; flip-flops and heels are not allowed.
Prepare for Heights and Wind
If you are prone to vertigo or strong winds, reconsider; certain sections are narrow and exposed 100 m above the river.
Pack Sun Protection and a Small Snack
A bottle of water is provided, but bring sunscreen, a hat and a light snack for energy on the trail.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Griffon vulture
- Iberian ibex (in higher surrounding ridges)
History
The path was originally built in the early 1900s for workers on hydroelectric projects and gained the royal name after King Alfonso XIII crossed it in 1921.
Conservation
Visitor numbers are managed and drones and off-route access are restricted to protect cliff vegetation and nesting raptors.
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Adventure Hotspots in Málaga
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy closed hiking shoes
Provides traction and meets the entrance requirement for safe footing on boardwalk and rock approaches.
Light waterproof wind shell
Blocks wind in exposed sections and layers easily for cooler mornings.
fall specific
Sun hat & sunscreen
Protects against strong Andalusian sun on exposed cliffs.
summer specific
Small daypack with snacks and extra water
Keeps hands free and stores layers, snacks and camera gear for the 2–3 hour walk.