How to Get to Caminito del Rey
Logistics is the part that confuses most visitors. Here is the perfect step-by-step plan so you don't miss a thing.
The perfect plan (step by step)
lightbulbThe trick every returning visitor recommends
Park at the CRV (south access, El Chorro), take the shuttle north, hike the route south and walk straight back to your car. You only need the shuttle one way — no backtracking, no second bus.
Park at the CRV (Visitor Reception Centre)
The CRV is located in El Chorro, at the south end of the route. It is the official car park for Caminito del Rey.
- Cost: €2/day
- Opens early in the morning
- You can also buy your shuttle ticket here
GPS: Ctra. del Caminito del Rey, El Chorro, Málaga
Shuttle bus to the North entrance (Ardales)
From the CRV, the shuttle bus runs to the north entrance in Ardales. The journey takes about 10–15 minutes.
- Cost: €2.5/journey
- ⚠️ Cash only — cards not accepted
- Frequency: every 15–30 min depending on season
Tip: Arrive at the CRV at least 1.5 hours before your entry time slot. The shuttle + the walk to the checkpoint takes longer than you think.
From the shuttle to the checkpoint: choose your tunnel
From the shuttle stop to the checkpoint you have two options:
✅ Short Tunnel (Recommended)
Next to El Kiosko restaurant
1.5 km · ~20 minutes
Long Tunnel
Next to the north car park
2.7 km · ~50 minutes
The short tunnel is lit and is the one recommended by all local visitors.
The route: North to South (7.7 km)
Once inside the Caminito, the route is one-way, from north (Ardales) to south (El Chorro).
- Average time: 3–4 hours (including stops)
- Difficulty: medium-low, suitable for most people
- Maximum height: 105 m above the river
- Not circular: you do not return to the start
The most thrilling sections are the hanging bridge and the walkway pinned to sheer rock faces.
At the finish: El Chorro and back to your car
The route ends in El Chorro, a short walk from the CRV where you left your car. Several restaurants and bars are right there.
If you arrived by train from Málaga, El Chorro station is also very close to the route exit.
Reference maps
Find the parking and visualise both route entrances before you leave.
Overview — North entrance (Ardales) & South entrance (El Chorro)
CRV Parking — Visitor Centre (El Chorro)
Getting there from major cities
From Málaga (by car)
- ›Take the A-357 towards Ardales
- ›~50 km · ~45 minutes
- ›Exit at El Chorro towards the CRV
- ›GPS: Centro de Recepción de Visitantes, El Chorro
From Málaga (by train)
- ›Line C-2: Málaga → El Chorro
- ›~1 hour journey
- ›Limited frequency — check timetables
- ›El Chorro station is 5 min from start/end of route
From Seville / Marbella
- ›From Seville: A-92 → A-357 · ~1 h 45 min
- ›From Marbella: AP-7 → A-357 · ~1 h 15 min
- ›Organised coach trips are the most convenient option
- ›Depart from central points in each city
First-hand experience, safety & practical tips
Real travellers share what the walk is actually like: the helmets, the height, the most exciting sections, and why the Caminito is suitable for most people.
Mandatory rules and restrictions
Failure to comply with these rules can result in denied entry with no refund.
Minimum age: 8 years
Strictly prohibited for children under 8. Physical ID or passport for the child must be presented at the checkpoint. No exceptions.
Closed-toe footwear required
Only closed-toe sports or hiking shoes are permitted. Sandals, flip-flops and heeled footwear are strictly prohibited.
Safety helmet required
The helmet is provided at the checkpoint and is compulsory throughout the gorge. Tip: wear your hair in a low ponytail or braid for a better fit.
Prohibited items
Umbrellas, selfie sticks, tripods, large backpacks, crutches and climbing harnesses are all banned. In light rain, a waterproof jacket is permitted.
No pets
Pets are completely prohibited due to the narrow sections of the walkway.
Closure for wind
If wind exceeds 60 km/h or rain causes rockfall risk, the Caminito closes for safety. Always check the Weather section on the official website before leaving your hotel.
Logistics sorted — now secure your entry
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