Caminito del Rey: Entry Ticket
About This Experience
Highlights
- Self-guided walk along the 7.7 km Caminito del Rey pathway
- Timed-entry ticket to avoid overcrowding
- Access to both the gorge walk and the new suspended boardwalk sections
What's Included
- ✓ Official timed-entry ticket
- ✓ Helmet (provided at entrance)
Not Included
- Transport to/from the entrances
- Guide
- Shuttle between North and South entrances
What to Bring
- Closed-toe shoes (mandatory — no sandals)
- Water (at least 1.5 litres — no shops on route)
- Sun protection
- Snacks
Good to Know & Caveats
- Route is one-way — you must arrange shuttle transport between the two entrances yourself
- No direct public transport to the North Entrance (Ardales)
- Limited train service to El Chorro (South Entrance)
Not Suitable For
- Children under 8
- Visitors who need guided assistance
Meeting Point
Either North Entrance (Ardales) or South Entrance (El Chorro) — confirm with your booking
The Self-Guided Option: Who It’s For
The standalone entry ticket is the right choice if you are already in the area, have your own transport, and prefer to explore the Caminito del Rey at your own pace. You buy a timed-entry slot in advance, show up at your chosen entrance with the ticket on your phone, collect a helmet at the desk, and walk the route independently.
This option saves money compared to guided tours, but it does require more planning. The route is one-directional (you cannot walk back the way you came), which means you must arrange your own shuttle between the North Entrance (Ardales) and the South Entrance (El Chorro). If you are driving, park at the North Entrance — there is a paid shuttle service to the South Entrance so you can return to your car after the walk.
Walking the Route Self-Guided
The Caminito del Rey is well-marked and straightforward to follow without a guide. The full route is 7.7 km and takes most walkers 3–4 hours. There are information boards at the entrance and at key points along the route explaining the history of the path and the gorge.
The most impressive section is the suspended boardwalk over the Gaitanes Gorge, where the limestone walls narrow and the river is visible hundreds of metres below. This section features in almost every photo of the Caminito del Rey — the reality is even more dramatic than the pictures suggest.
Practical Requirements
Closed-toe shoes with good grip are mandatory. Sandals, flip-flops, and open-toed shoes are not permitted and will be turned away at the entrance. A helmet is provided and must be worn throughout the route.
Bring at least 1.5 litres of water — there are no refreshment points on the route. In summer, temperatures in the gorge can be significantly higher than in Málaga. Apply sunscreen before you start, particularly on the exposed boardwalk sections.
Book your ticket well in advance. The number of visitors per day is strictly capped, and popular slots — particularly weekend mornings in spring and autumn — sell out weeks ahead.
What Travelers Say
Rated 4.8/5 by 5265 verified GetYourGuide travelers.
An incredible natural wonder that everyone should see. I really enjoyed it! Even those afraid of heights can complete this trail. We took 1 hour and 20 minutes to walk it while enjoying the views.
— , 2026-07
Great experience. Easy to check in, friendly and helpful multi lingual staff. Route is simple to follow with stunning views.
— , 2026-07
Excellent, a shoot out to the employees who where very friendly and helpful all the way.
— , 2026-06
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get between the two entrances?
The route is one-way. If you drive, the car park at the North Entrance has a shuttle service to the South Entrance (small charge). If arriving by train to El Chorro, you enter from the South and need to arrange transport back.
Is a guide included?
No — this is a standalone entry ticket. You walk the route self-guided with map information at the entrance. If you want a guide, consider the full guided tour from Málaga (ID 207921) instead.
