Caminito del Rey in Winter: December, January & February Guide
Caminito del Rey stays open in winter, Tuesday to Sunday, except 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January. Compare December, January and February weather, tickets and closures.
You can walk Caminito del Rey in winter. It normally opens Tuesday to Sunday through December, January and February, closing only on 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January, plus days when rain or wind makes the walkways unsafe. The cool air makes the 8 km route more comfortable than in summer, and the low sun throws long shadows across the limestone gorge.
You walk along narrow wooden boardwalks fixed to an enormous cliff, with the Guadalhorce River far below, jagged mountains and pines around you, and a suspension bridge near the end. Winter also brings shorter days, rain and wind closures, so plan a little more carefully than you would in spring.
The three winter months compare like this, followed by tickets, opening hours, clothing, transport and what to do if the weather turns.
Check Availability
Winter Quick Facts
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Open in winter? | Yes, normally Tuesday–Sunday, subject to the calendar and weather |
| Winter months | December, January and February |
| Fixed holiday closures | 24, 25 and 31 December; 1 January |
| Mondays | Normally closed; exceptional openings possible |
| Temperatures | Mild by northern European standards; the gorge can feel cooler |
| Snow | Unusual on the visitor route |
| Official admission | €10 general, €18 guided |
| Shuttle | €2.50, when required |
| Full walk | About 7.7–8 km including the access and exit |
| Time required | Around 3–4 hours walking, plus travel |
| Minimum age | 8 years |
| Best entry | Morning or late morning, for a daylight margin |
| Main winter risk | Closure for unsafe rain, wind or other conditions |
Our recommendation: February has the best balance of rainfall, temperature and daylight in the long-term averages. Still, a clear January morning beats a rainy February day, so choose by the forecast, the slots on offer and your transport as much as by the month.
Is Caminito del Rey Worth Visiting in Winter?
Yes, if you are reasonably fit, comfortable with heights and ready to change plans. Caminito del Rey is not a beach that loses its appeal in cool weather. The draw is the setting: the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge, sheer cliffs, elevated boardwalks and the river deep below.
The path dates from the early twentieth century, when it served the hydroelectric works in the gorge. The old route became notorious as it fell apart, and the rebuilt, protected walkway reopened in 2015. Railings, mandatory helmets and staffed entry make it a managed attraction, not a technical climb, although you are still outdoors and exposed to the weather.
Why Winter Is Attractive
Comfortable walking temperatures: Inland Andalucía can be uncomfortably hot on exposed trails in summer. Winter usually feels better for several hours of walking.
Beautiful light: Low winter sun creates long shadows and picks out the texture of the limestone. Because of the way the gorge runs, different sections catch the light at different times.
A different kind of Málaga holiday: Pair a city break of museums and food with one dramatic mountain walk.
A slight dip in demand: Attendance eases a little from November to February, partly because of days lost to rain. Ticket numbers stay limited, though, and popular slots still sell out.
An easy day trip: You don’t need to stay near the gorge. An organised excursion or a well-timed train-and-shuttle plan gets you there from Málaga and back in a day.
Winter suits you less if a closure would be a disaster because you have no other day, or if you dislike cool wind, long outdoor walks or exposed heights.
Winter Weather: December, January and February
Most long-term statistics come from Málaga Airport, on the coast, and the inland gorge can feel different. Treat them as regional context.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Average rainfall | Days with 1 mm+ rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December | 17.5 °C | 8.9 °C | 100 mm | 6.6 |
| January | 16.8 °C | 7.4 °C | 69 mm | 5.8 |
| February | 17.7 °C | 8.2 °C | 60 mm | 4.8 |
Source: AEMET climate normals for Málaga Airport, 1981–2010. Historical averages; they are no forecast for winter 2026–27.
In the long-term record, December is the wettest of the three, January the coolest, and February slightly warmer and drier. The weather on your booked day matters much more than these monthly differences. A shaded stretch of gorge or a windy bridge can feel far colder than a sunny Málaga seafront.
December: Atmospheric, but Plan Around the Holidays
December makes a memorable outing during a Christmas stay in Málaga; our page on Christmas and New Year opening days goes through each date from 22 December to 6 January. The slopes are often green after the autumn rain, and the soft light can be beautiful. Málaga Airport’s average daytime high is 17.5 °C, but the gorge can feel cool in shade and wind, so carry a fleece and a waterproof shell.
The calendar is the main constraint. The route is closed on 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January, as well as most Mondays. Other dates usually operate, but check entry times and availability in the booking calendar. The Spanish public holidays on 6 and 8 December can also push up demand.
Around the winter solstice, Málaga gets only about 9 hours 40 minutes of daylight, and the cliffs shade parts of the path well before sunset. A morning or late-morning slot is easiest, especially if you are using public transport.
December verdict: A rewarding trip on a clear day during the festive season. Check the holiday calendar and keep a spare day for the weather if you can.
January: The Coolest Month, Still Very Walkable
January is the coolest of the three months, with Málaga Airport averaging a daytime high of 16.8 °C and a low of 7.4 °C. Clear days are still pleasant for walking, and sunny, sheltered sections can feel warmer than shaded or exposed ones.
Caminito del Rey normally opens Tuesday to Sunday in January, apart from 1 January and any other announced closures. 6 January, Epiphany (Three Kings’ Day), is not one of the four fixed closure dates, but it is a Spanish public holiday, so check admission and transport for that day.
Winter does not mean empty walkways. Timed tickets stay in place, and a sunny January weekend can still draw plenty of visitors. Snow is not normal on the visitor route, although the higher Andalusian mountains can get it, and unusual cold or ice can affect opening.
January verdict: Good if you like cool walking weather. Bring layers and check the forecast; you don’t need to pack for an alpine expedition.
February: The Best Winter Balance
Málaga Airport’s average February high is 17.7 °C, with about 60 mm of rain in the month, much less than December’s 100 mm in the long-term record. Daylight grows through the month, leaving more time for photographs, transport and a relaxed afternoon.
The weather can still be unsettled, and February brings no guarantee against strong wind or closures. Late February can feel springlike, but a dry day in any winter month beats a wet, windy one at the end of the season.
February verdict: Our slight favourite for its averages and daylight, although the forecast and the slots on offer should decide your actual date.
Which Winter Month Should You Choose?
| Priority | Consider | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas city break | December | Combine the walk with festive Málaga |
| Coolest walking weather | January | The coolest month on average |
| Overall winter balance | February | Milder on average, with longer days |
| Longer winter daylight | Late February | Daylight increases through the month |
| Photography | Any clear day | Conditions and light in the gorge matter more than the month |
| Fewer people | A flexible weekday | No season guarantees quiet boardwalks |
Opening Days, Entry Times and Booking
The 2026 regulations set normal opening Tuesday to Sunday, with most Mondays closed and a few special Monday openings. The fixed annual closures are 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January. Weather, maintenance and other operational issues can close the route on other days too.
The official booking calendar shows the slots for each date. Entry starts around 9:00 a.m., and the winter timetable, which begins at the end of October, stops admitting walkers in the early afternoon. Don’t copy summer hours into a winter plan.
Official tickets go on sale in large batches, a few times a year. The winter batch, around 190,000 tickets for 7 December 2026 to 2 May 2027, went on sale on 23 September 2026, so every date this winter is now bookable. Popular slots go first, so book as soon as your dates are fixed.
You must reach the northern entry gate at least 30 minutes before your slot. That is not the same as reaching a car park, El Kiosko or El Chorro station: the northern entrance is a walk of 20 minutes or more from the road.
Best Winter Entry Time
Book a morning or late-morning slot, roughly 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. where one is offered and your transport allows. That leaves daylight to finish the walk, eat afterwards and get back comfortably. It won’t guarantee perfect light or fewer people, but it takes the pressure off the journey.
What the Winter Walk Is Like
The full route is about 7.7–8 km including the access and exit paths, and the controlled section through the gorge is about 3 km. Allow 3–4 hours for the walking; travel from Málaga comes on top.
Northern access path: From El Kiosko, the shorter tunnel path is about 1.5 km and usually takes 20–25 minutes. The longer 2.7 km path takes around 35–50 minutes. Allow for this before the ticket gate.
Gaitanejo Gorge: The first section introduces the rock walls and elevated walkways. In winter the narrow canyon is often in shade, so a fleece helps even if it felt warm outside.
Valle del Hoyo: The landscape opens into a mountain valley. Look up at the cliffs for birds of prey, including griffon vultures; sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Gaitanes Gorge and the suspension bridges: The southern section has the cliffside views most people know from photographs. The exposed bridges are also the main reason strong wind can close the route. A new 110-metre suspension bridge opened in June 2026 as an alternative route for the final section; staff tell you which one is in use.
Exit to El Chorro: The walk is one-way, north to south, and ends towards El Chorro, not where you started. After the boardwalks you still need time for the exit path and your transport.
What to Wear in December, January and February
Dress in layers you can adjust; a thick winter coat is usually too warm once you are walking. Walking or trail shoes with reliable grip come first; you don’t need technical mountain boots. Add comfortable trousers, a breathable top, a light fleece and a waterproof, windproof jacket. Thin gloves or a hat help on cold days, as long as the hat fits under the helmet you are given.
Carry a small daypack with at least 1.5 litres of water per person, snacks such as fruit, nuts or energy bars, your downloaded ticket, identification and any medication you need. There are no toilets or cafés on the controlled route. Large bags, umbrellas, walking poles, selfie sticks, tripods, drones, pushchairs and pets are not allowed under the published rules. The helmet is handed out at the gate. Our winter packing checklist covers each month from November to February.
Does Rain Ruin the Visit?
Not necessarily. Cloud can make the cliffs atmospheric, and light or scattered rain may be allowed. Heavier rain, unsafe wind or other hazards can close the route. Check the official weather information instead of reading a chance-of-rain figure as a chance of closure.
Is Caminito del Rey Safe in Winter?
The rebuilt route has protected walkways, safety staff, helmets and timed entry, which makes it very different from the old, crumbling path. It is still a mountain gorge: wind, rain, rockfall and exposure to heights are all real. Follow the staff’s instructions, and never cross a barrier or look for an unofficial way in.
You don’t need climbing skills, but you do need to walk several kilometres over steps, slopes and natural ground. The minimum age is eight, and minors must come with an adult and bring proof of age. The route is not wheelchair accessible, pushchairs are not allowed and certain walking aids are banned. If you have significant vertigo or health concerns, read the official recommendations and our duration and difficulty guide.
Tickets: Self-Guided, Guided or a Full Excursion?
| Option | Price and inclusions | Best for | Our pick on GetYourGuide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official general admission | €10; self-guided, helmet provided | Visitors arranging their own transport | Caminito del Rey: Entry Ticket — from $16, 4.8/5 from 5,582 reviews |
| Official guided admission | €18; certified guide and entry | Visitors who enjoy history and nature commentary | Caminito del Rey: Tickets, Guided Tour, Shuttle & Water — from $47, 4.7/5 from 9,351 reviews |
| Tour from Málaga or the Costa del Sol | Price varies; usually transport, entry and a guide | Visitors without a car | From Málaga & Costa del Sol: Caminito del Rey Guided Tour — from $62, 4.8/5 from 10,118 reviews |
General admission is very good value. The €18 guided ticket adds the story of the gorge, its hydroelectric past, the geology and the wildlife. Neither official ticket includes transport from Málaga.
Without a car, the $62 tour from Málaga and the Costa del Sol picks you up in Málaga or the Costa del Sol resorts, includes entry and an official guide, and shuttles you between the two entrances. If you are staying in Málaga itself, the Caminito del Rey Guided Tour & Welcome Pack from Málaga costs about the same, from $63, and has the longest review record, 4.9/5 from 19,464 reviews. Check the pickup point, language, what entry is included, the cancellation terms and your date before choosing. Our guide to a winter day trip without a car compares these tours with the train and shuttle.
Can Tickets Sell Out in Winter?
Yes. Entry is timed and capped, and Christmas, weekends and sunny dates are popular. Book as soon as your dates are released. If general admission is gone, try another time or date, then official guided admission, then tour operators that hold their own allocations. No seller can guarantee a ticket that isn’t confirmed. Our tickets guide covers what to do when a date sells out, and the winter tickets page covers the December–May batch.
Getting There in Winter
Driving from Málaga
The gorge is roughly 60 km from the city by road. Either park near the northern access and take the shuttle back after walking, or park in El Chorro, take the shuttle north before the walk and finish near your car. The Visitors’ Reception Centre has official parking, listed at €2 a day, and shuttle access; it is not the gate where the boardwalks begin.
Train and Shuttle
Take a Renfe train from Málaga-María Zambrano to El Chorro–Caminito del Rey, which is near the southern end; the entry gate is at the northern end. Take the M-347 shuttle north towards El Kiosko, walk to the control point, complete the one-way walk and return to El Chorro for your train. Not every C2 train from Málaga reaches El Chorro; some terminate at Álora. Check Renfe for both directions.
The official M-347 timetable has a winter period from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027. The visitor day fare is €2.50; bring cash if you pay the driver. Check the services for your exact date, especially on public holidays. Our guide to getting there from Málaga walks through each connection.
Guided Excursion
A full excursion with transport usually lasts roughly 6–9 hours, depending on where you are picked up and the stops. It is often the least complicated choice on a short Málaga stay. Make sure you know whether you are booking a guided walk that meets at the northern entrance or a full tour that leaves from Málaga and brings you back.
Winter Closures, Refunds and Backup Plans
Caminito del Rey can close for heavy rain, strong wind on the exposed bridges, rockfall concerns or maintenance. The operator makes the final safety call. Light rain is sometimes allowed, and a forecast alone is not a closure. Our rain and wind closures guide explains how to check the status on the day and how to claim.
If you bought directly from the official site, an operator closure entitles you to move your ticket to another available date or request a refund of the admission fee through your account. You must do this within four calendar days of the closure notice. Cancelling because you dislike the forecast is treated differently. Tour operators set their own terms, and separate train or hotel costs are not refunded automatically.
If you can, book the walk early in your Málaga stay and keep a spare day. If bad weather covers the whole region, Málaga’s museums and indoor sights are a more dependable plan B than another exposed trail.
Winter FAQ
Is Caminito del Rey open in December?
Normally Tuesday to Sunday, except 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January, with weather and operational closures possible.
Is it open in January?
Yes on normal opening days, except 1 January and any other announced closures.
Is it open in February?
Yes, subject to ticket availability and safe conditions.
Which winter month is best?
February has a slightly better balance of averages and daylight, but the forecast for your day matters more.
Is it cold?
Usually mild by European winter standards, although shade and wind can make the gorge feel chilly.
Does it snow?
Not usually on the visitor route; the higher Andalusian mountains can get snow.
Can rain or wind close it?
Yes, when conditions are unsafe. Scattered rain doesn’t automatically close it.
Does winter mean fewer crowds?
Sometimes, but timed slots can still sell out.
Is a guide compulsory?
No. Official self-guided admission costs €10; official guided admission costs €18.
What time should I visit?
A morning or late-morning slot gives the best margin for travel and daylight.
Can children go?
Only from age eight, with an adult and proof of age.
Are there toilets on the route?
Not along the controlled walkway. Use the facilities before you go in.
Can I go without a car?
Yes, by Renfe train and the M-347 shuttle, or on an organised excursion.
Is a Winter Visit Worth It?
Yes. The cliffs, wooden walkways and bridges are dramatic in any season, and the cooler air makes the walk more enjoyable than in summer. February has a small edge on averages and daylight, but an available ticket on a clear day matters far more than the month. Book ahead, choose a morning slot, dress in layers, plan for the one-way route and keep a spare day for the weather. If you are visiting at the start of the season, our November guide covers the wettest month of the autumn, and our best time to visit guide compares the whole year.
Official Sources and Useful Links
- Official ticket booking
- Opening schedule
- Route and access
- Visitor FAQ
- Mandatory rules
- Official weather information
- Purchase and refund terms
- Renfe
- M-347 shuttle
- AEMET climate normals
Reviewed October 2026 for winter 2026–27. Climate averages are not forecasts; check your day, services and tickets.
Read next: Caminito del Rey in November · Best time to visit · What to wear · What to wear in winter
Book Your Caminito del Rey Day Trip
Join over 18,000 travellers who've rated this tour 4.9/5. Transport from Málaga, official guide, and entry ticket all included.
Check Availability on GetYourGuide