Are you travelling with a group of four people or more to the Caminito del Rey? Get your guide for the Caminito del Rey Could be the best option!
Or, maybe you have looked at the Tiqets website for availability? People use Tiqets to easily discover, buy, and access museums and attractions across the globe.
The online reservation system for the Caminito del Rey sells out pretty fast and even though many hotels can help, you may already have your accommodation organised.
Once the places start to fill up, it can be almost impossible to reserve if your group is more than 4 people (and sometimes even 2 is impossible!)
With this in mind, a guided visit for your group is the solution. Have a look at some options from Get Your Guide using the below links. Many of these companies can cater for large groups for 30 or more people, some offer private tours and others an inclusive day trip with lunch and tapas!
Get your guide for the Caminito del Rey
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Finally, after the inaugeration by local politicians and dignitaries in October 2022, the Caminito del Rey visitors’ reception centre has opened to the public. It is getting mixed reviews and quite a few negative comments I’ll try to explain whats going and give some solutions if you are looking for 2024 Caminito del Rey tickets.
The Caminito del Rey visitor centre was opened in October 2022 by local politicians and dignitaries.
The reception centre and main car park is situated at Puerto de las Atalayas on the MA 5403 road about halfway between the village of El Chorro and the start point of the Caminito del Rey. Inside you’ll find displays and information about the history of the area with great views across the lakes of Ardales.
A look inside the Caminito del Rey Reception Centre.
There have been a few negative comments about the new centre.
The published opening hours are from 8am to 5 pm every day except Monday. However these opening hours seem to be a bit “flexible” at the very least and many people have found the centre closed during published open times.
There is parking for 250 cars at 2 euros per day. However, many people are complaining that they are being charged on the day when they previously purchased parking and shuttle bus using the online system.
The shuttle bus from the reception centre to the nearest area for the Caminito del Rey start point takes about 20 minutes. There have been complaints similar to the parking that the bus charges (2.50 euros) even though a bus ticket was purchased during the online process for an entry ticket.
The bus takes CASH ONLY will not accept card
Masks must be worn on the bus at all times.
If you use this parking whilst you walk the Caminito del Rey then I reccommend that you have the correct money in your pocket just in case the bus wants to charge you. (You can always complain later).
REMEMBER: This car park is approximately an hour away from the start point (by the time you have parked, got the bus, arrived at start area and then walked to the start point. Try to be parking at least 1.5 hours before your entry time.
Don’t be too dissapointed if you find the reception centre closed. The actual Caminito del Rey is much better anyway!
The Caminito del Rey visitor centre has information about the history of the area.
I am sure as time goes by these teething problems for the new Caminito del Rey visitors’ reception centre will be solved and also, none of them really take away the fantastic experience of walking the spectacular Caminito del Rey
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Embark on a thrilling adventure in the heart of Malaga with the Caminito del Rey. This seven-kilometer trail, once deemed the world’s most dangerous, has been revitalized, offering a safe passage through breathtaking landscapes and a touch of history. Let’s delve into the wonder that is the Caminito del Rey.
Situated in the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a canyon carved by the Guadalhorce River, this extraordinary path spans Álora, Antequera, and Ardales. A narrow gorge, only ten meters wide in some sections, plummets to depths of 700 meters. Originally a pastoral route, the area transformed with the advent of industrialization in the mid-19th century, leading to the creation of a railway line connecting Córdoba’s mining basins and Malaga’s factories. Getting to the Caminito del Rey here.
The path’s moniker changed to Caminito del Rey after King Alfonso XIII’s visit in 1921. Two parking options exist: starting in El Chorro and taking a shuttle to the Conde de Gudalhorce reservoir, or parking at the reservoir and shuttling back from El Chorro. Tickets, available on the official website, offer general or guided tour options.
A Tour Through a Changing Landscape
Venture into the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Natural Area, a protected haven for diverse flora and fauna. Winding through gorges, canyons, valleys, and swamps, the trail spans three kilometers, providing a challenging yet captivating journey. The linear route showcases the Gaitanejo Gorge, Tajo de las Palomas canyon, the Hoyo Valley, and the Gaitanes Gorge, revealing a dynamic landscape.
The view from the mirador close to the Guadalhorce reservoir
Much More Than Nature and Height
Beyond its dizzying heights, the Caminito del Rey boasts historical landmarks. The Gaitanejo Hydroelectric Power Plant, Sierra Parda cave houses, and remnants of the old power lines add layers to the experience. Commemorative plaques and preserved fossils along the walkways recount the path’s history, while the Valle del Hoyo unveils medieval Islamic and Castilian ceramics, hinting at a 13th-century settlement.
Alternative Ways to Walk the Caminito del Rey
In the Gaitanes Gorge section, an alternative route, less traversed but equally enchanting, offers a tunnel that bypasses the walkway. Virtual visits are available for those with mobility issues or vertigo.
A Great Diversity of Fauna and Flora
Designated a Special Protection Area for Birds, the Guadalhorce River surroundings harbor griffon vultures, golden eagles, and a myriad of other species. The area’s flora, adapting to rocky habitats, includes oleanders, reeds, and fruit trees, contributing to a rich ecosystem.
A New Visitor Reception Center for Caminito del Rey
The Visitor Reception Center designed by Luis Machuca promises to enhance the Caminito del Rey experience. Serving as a parking lot, viewpoint, and hiker welcome center, it will offer guidance, a cafeteria, and insights into the area’s history, geology, and archaeology. Read more about the visitor centre and parking options at the caminito del rey here.
Candidate for World Heritage
The Caminito del Rey and its surroundings are potential UNESCO World Heritage sites, encompassing natural wonders and historical landmarks within a 20 km radius.
How to Walk the Trail Respectfully
Certain restrictions apply, ensuring a safe and respectful experience. Safety gear is provided, and guidelines include appropriate attire, no consumption of food on walkways, and restrictions on selfie sticks and drones. The venue is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with exceptions on specific dates. Check out the rules and regulations here.
Embark on this extraordinary journey through the Caminito del Rey, where nature, history, and adrenaline converge in a unique and unforgettable experience.
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Discover the Iberia Nature Forum – Environment, geography, nature, landscape, climate, culture, history, rural tourism and travel.
“El Caminito del Rey”, in English, “The King’s little pathway”, was initially built as an access route. It enabled workers at the hydroelectric power plants of El Chorro Gorge and Gaitanes Gorge with an easier way to transport materials, maintain and inspect the workings of the two power plants.
Construction of the “walkway” began in 1901 and was finished in 1905 and in 1921 King Alfonso XIII visited and walked along the path for the inauguration of the Conde del Guadalhorce dam and since that time it became known as the “Kings path”
In order to visit the Caminito del Rey you need to get to the area of the small village of El Chorro and Guadalhorce reservoirs located in Málaga province, Andalusia, Spain. Getting to El Chorro, reservoirs and Camino del Rey is pretty easy.
El Chorro is a few miles away from the larger town of Alora. REMEMBER THAT THE START POINT FOR THE CAMINITO DEL REY IS NOT IN EL CHORRO… EL CHORRO IS THE FINISHING POINT.
