When planning a trip to Malaga, hiking the Caminito Del Rey is a must! Want to know how to get from Malaga to Caminito Del Rey? Keep reading.
I personally had to do a lot of research before going to Caminito Del Rey, and this is a complete guide on how to get there from Malaga, with different options for all budgets.
Whether you prefer the independence of driving or the scenic views you’ll get from the train, we’ll go through all the details you need to know. Let’s get started.
Malaga to Caminito Del Rey: Summary
I understand you may not have the time to go through the whole guide, so here are the best options to get to Caminito Del Rey from Malaga:
BEST OPTION: Join a Malaga Caminito Del Rey Tour
CHEAPEST OPTION: Take the train from Malaga to Caminito Del Rey
CONVENIENT OPTION: Rent a car and drive from Malaga
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, about an hour from Málaga city.
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.
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 Time to Hike Caminito Del Rey
The best time to hit Caminito del Rey? 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!
Best Caminito Del Rey Tours
How to Get from Malaga to Caminito Del Rey
Now that you have a little more information about the hike, let’s go through all the ways to get to Caminito Del Rey from Malaga – There are 4 options in total, so make sure to read until the end before planning.
Join a Day Tour
Opting for a day tour to Caminito Del Rey is all about ease, convenience, and fun. You get direct access to the stunning paths and views without the fuss of directions or entry logistics.
When joining a day tour, you’ll get to have a local guide with you, who will give you more information, facts, and context about the hike and the trail, and that is a massive plus.
When I did the hike, I drove there and joined a tour and followed the guide along the trail. It didn’t feel rushed nor unpleasant, we had a headset to listen to her stories at all times, and we could even stop many times for photos.
Plus, you’re automatically in good social company, making it a sound choice for both the eager solo traveler and open-minded families. If you don’t want to deal with public transportation or rent your own car, this is definitely the way to go.
Last but not least, this is the most expensive option, but also the best one as entrance fees and transportation are included, you won’t have to deal with the parking lots, and it’s overall very convenient, which is priceless.
Rent a Car and Drive from Malaga
Renting a car for Caminito Del Rey equals freedom, and if you want to have your private time while going there, this is the option for you, especially if you’re on a road trip around Spain.
The way there, characterized by classic Spanish rolling hills, stunning landscapes, and views over the quaint southern Spain white villages, is just unbelievably beautiful, and that is worth the trip only.
The road trip from Malaga takes about 1 hour by car, and it’s overall an easy drive.
It’s worth noting that, when you do drive on your own, you’ll have to pick one of the 3 parkings near the trail:
- Parking in Ardales, near the trail entrance
- Parking in Álora near El Chorro Exit
- Parking at the Visitors Reception Centre
I’m not going to lie, 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).
I did park in Ardales, which is the first parking lot I listed, but I recommend you go for the Visitors Reception Centre and then take the shuttle bus to the hike, which is more convenient.
The shuttle bus costs 2.50 euros one-way per person, so that’s something to keep in mind when planning the trip.
Want to know more?
Check out the guide about
parking at Caminito Del Rey.
Take the Train to Caminito Del Rey
One cheaper option you have is taking the Renfe train from María Zambrano station in Malaga to El Chorro, which takes only about 40 to 50 minutes and costs only €4.40 per person.
There are 2 morning trains from Malaga to Caminito Del Rey – 08:58 AM and 09:43, arriving at 09:37 and 10:33 respectively.
On the other hand, trains from Caminito Del Rey to Malaga leave at 13:51 and 16:39, and arrive in Malaga at 14:34 and 17:28 respectively, which is fast and convenient.
The El Chorro Station is just minutes away from the shuttle bus stop, so you can easily go and come back – Again, consider the 2.50 euros per person to pay by cash.
Lastly, note that there is no one working at El Chorro train station, and I recommend booking your return tickets in Malaga or online so that you don’t have any issues after the hike.
Take the Bus
The bus from Malaga to Caminito Del Rey is another cheap yet most inconvenient option, since there’s no direct line to the trail.
You’ll have to first take a bus from Malaga to Piscina, which will take about 1 hour, and then take another bus from Piscina to El Chorro, which takes about 30 minutes, and then walk to the trail or take the shuttle bus.
To go back, you just have to take the same route, passing by Piscina.
The price per ticket per bus is about 2€ one way, so 8€ per person in total, and you’ll have to add the shuttle bus cost to the trail too, which makes it 10.50€ in total per person.
Is it worth it? Not really – Take the train or joining a guided tour are much better, convenient options.
Travel Tips for El Caminito Del Rey
Now that you know how to get to Caminito Del Rey from Malaga and back, here are more tips that you should know before going, when preparing your trip to Andalucia.
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.
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 – Caminito Del Rey from Malaga
In conclusion, the journey from Malaga to Caminito Del Rey is more than just a transition from one point to another; it’s an integral part of your adventure, rich with scenic views.
Whether you choose to drive, catch a train, or join a day tour, each option offers its own unique set of experiences and opportunities to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Andalusia.
Thanks for reading until the end and I hope this guide was helpful to plan your trip and the hike!
