Nestled in the heart of Andalusia, the Caminito Del Rey invites nature lovers to embark on a journey like no other. I personally loved the experience but one part wasn’t clear – the Caminito Del Rey parking situation.
In this guide, I’ll go through the options, the cost, how to get there and what each parking lot involves, and everything else you should know before going.
Truth be told, the parking situation was the worst part of the trip, as the indications aren’t clear and the shuttle bus stops weren’t clear to me when going back (I do speak Spanish, but still).
For this reason, make sure to read until the end to have all the information you need, and feel free to comment at the bottom of the article if you need any clarification.
Caminito Del Rey Parking – Summary
I understand you may not have the time to go through the whole guide, so here are the parking options in Caminito Del Rey. See the map below for reference.
BEST OPTION: P – Visitors Center Parking
CONVENIENT OPTION: P1 – Parking Lot in Ardales
GOOD OPTION FOR THE TRAIL’S END: P2 – Parking Lot in Álora
To get more information about each, check out the following section. For now, though, let’s focus on a few elements that you’ll want to know as a first-timer.
Where is Caminito Del Rey?
Caminito del Rey is in Malaga, Spain, tucked into the Gaitanes Gorge. It’s a path pinned along the gorge’s cliffs, and it takes about 1 hour to get to Caminito Del Rey from Malaga.
This path was first made for workers at a hydro plant but now it’s a spot for tourists looking to see some amazing views and get a bit of a thrill. You can get there through Ardales or Álora, and it’s definitely a spot you won’t forget.
Is Caminito Del Rey Worth it?
Yeah, it’s definitely worth it. Imagine walking along a narrow path, cliffs on one side, a drop on the other, and stunning views all around. That’s Caminito del Rey for you, and you can’t miss it when coming to Andalucia.
It’s also safe, and only the last part of the hike is relatively scary due to the height, but I can assure you, you will be totally fine!
How Far is Malaga from Caminito Del Rey?
Malaga is about 60 kilometers (around 37 miles) away from Caminito Del Rey. Depending on how you’re traveling, it could take roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
If you’re using public transport, like a bus or train, factor in a bit more time for transfers and waiting, so it could take around 2 to 3 hours to get there.
Best Caminito Del Rey Tours
Don’t feel like driving, despite taking a road trip in Andalucia? Here are some day tour options that I’m confident you’ll love.
3 Caminito Del Rey Parking Options
Now that you have a little more context, let’s go through each option one by one, going from the most convenient to the least one.
Before starting, note that you’ll want to get there at least one hour beforehand, just in case one parking lot is full, so that you can always try another option.
Like I mentioned above, it’s easier to either book the Visitors Centre parking ticket when booking the hike, or to join a guided tour so that you won’t even need to worry about logistics.
Visitors Centre Parking
This is the most convenient Caminito Del Rey parking option and is a prime spot to consider.
To ensure a smooth start to your adventure, I recommend parking here so that you can catch the shuttle bus easily to and from the trail.
You can buy the parking ticket when booking the entrance tickets to Caminito Del Rey, which I highly recommend because spots are limited and they always sell out.
The parking ticket only costs 2 euros per day, which is very cheap, and a little cheaper than other Caminito Del Rey parking options I’ll list below.
Check the location on Google Maps here.
Parking in Ardales
This is yet another convenient Caminito Del Rey parking option, and where I personally parked my car.
With a nominal fee of 2 euros, it’s an affordable parking solution. From here, you have two paths to reach the entrance of Caminito Del Rey: an illuminated tunnel stretching 1.5km and another scenic route passing next to the Kiosko restaurant, which is 2.7km long.
The tunnel is clear and easy to follow, and I suggest to go through that path.
Depending on your pace and chosen path, reaching the entrance can take between 20 to 35 minutes.
After completing your trek (typically between 1:30 to 2 hours), you’ll find yourself in El Chorro (Álora), where the parking lot P2 is, and where you can take the shuttle back to your car.
The shuttle bus costs 2.50 euros one-way per person, so that’s something to keep in mind when planning the trip.
Check the location on Google Maps here.
Parking in Álora
This is the most convenient Caminito Del Rey parking option to get your car right at the end of the trail and leave early.
Like the others, arriving here at least an hour before your scheduled visit is recommended. This parking area positions you perfectly for the start of your Caminito Del Rey adventure, with the shuttle bus stop only 300 meters away, situated conveniently on the train platform.
From P2, two paths lead to the trail’s entrance: through an illuminated tunnel (1.5km) and beside the El Kiosko restaurant (2.7km), with estimated walking times of 20 and 35 minutes, respectively.
Completing the Caminito Del Rey circuit, which takes about 1:30 to 2 hours, lands you in the neighborhood of El Chorro. Here, after returning the protective helmet, you’ll find your car not far, and that is a nice way to end the trip.
Check the location on Google Maps here.
Bus Shuttle at Caminito Del Rey
The shuttle bus service at Caminito Del Rey is a convenient and flexible way to get from the start and ending point of the trail, ensuring that you can move easily before and after the hike.
With a single ticket, you can travel in both directions, as often as needed, on the day of your visit. The ticket costs 2.50 euros per person, which is pretty cheap.
The shuttle passes every 30 minutes or so, which is good enough but make sure not to miss yours as you’d have to wait 30 minutes until the next one.
Travel Tips for El Caminito Del Rey
Now that you know the best parking Caminito Del Rey options, here are more tips that you should know before going, when preparing your trip to Andalucia.
Best Time to Hike Caminito Del Rey
The best time to hike Caminito del Rey is during spring or fall. The weather’s just right – not too hot, not too cold. Summer can get really hot, making the hike less enjoyable, and winter might be a bit chilly and unpredictable.
Plus, in spring and fall, you get all the colors and the comfortable temps, making your walk through those cliffs and paths even better. Just remember to book your ticket early; it gets busy!
Where to Buy the Tickets?
You can buy the tickets on 2 different platforms, GetYourGuide or Caminito’s official website.
The easiest option is getting them from GetYourGuide, as it’s fast and convenient, while you have to register for an account when buying them on the official website.
That said, tickets on GetYourGuide are limited, so you might have to create an account and buy them on the official website.
Also, the visitors center parking lot is bookable only on the official website, so keep that in mind.
How Long Does the Hike Take?
Walking Caminito Del Rey takes about 2 hours, and that includes several stops to take photos along the way and a couple of breaks.
What to Pack for Caminito Del Rey?
Here are some essentials you’ll want to pack for the hike:
- Water: Keep a bottle handy. You’ll need it!
- ID and Tickets: Don’t leave these behind.
- Snacks: For a little munch on the way.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
- Camera or Phone: You surely don’t want to miss the photo opportunities.
- Small Backpack: Keep your hands free. You can get a rope bag in Malaga for a few euros.
What to Wear for Caminito Del Rey?
Here’s what I recommend wearing for the Caminito Del Rey hike:
- Cap or Hat: The sun can be sneaky.
- Sunglasses: Keep the glare away.
- Layer Up: A light jacket if it’s chilly or for the morning.
- Breathable Clothes: T-shirt and shorts or comfy pants.
- Comfortable Shoes: Think good grip and comfy for walking. I did wear Converse All Stars and they were just ok.
Is It Mandatory to Wear a Helmet?
Yes, wearing a helmet is mandatory when walking the Caminito Del Rey. They provide helmets at the entrance, so you don’t have to bring your own.
It’s all about keeping you safe while you enjoy the stunning views and thrilling paths. Make sure to keep your helmet on throughout the journey – Your guide will remind you to keep it on anyway!
Conclusion – Parking Caminito Del Rey
Thanks for reading until the end, and I hope this guide helped you find your way around the Caminito Del Rey parking options.
The hike itself is a little scary in some parts and the views are just incredible, and the parking situation shouldn’t be the one to ruin the trip! Have you made it to Caminito yet? Let me know in the comments!
