Caminito del Rey from Benalmádena: The Ultimate Day Trip Guide

Planning to visit the famous Caminito del Rey from Benalmádena? This spectacular cliffside walkway, nestled in a gorge near Málaga, is one of Spain’s top adventure attractions. If you’re staying in Benalmádena on the Costa del Sol, a day trip to El Caminito del Rey is absolutely worth it for the breathtaking views and adrenaline rush. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know – from how to get there (with guided tour recommendations for a hassle-free experience) to practical tips, best times to visit, and what to expect on the trail.

Buy your ticket to Caminito del Rey from Torremolinos

How to Get to Caminito del Rey from Benalmádena

Benalmádena is about 60 km south of the Caminito del Rey site (near Ardales/El Chorro in Málaga province). There are several ways to travel from Benalmádena to the Caminito del Rey, each with its own pros and cons. Below is an overview of your transport options:

Option	Approx. Travel Time (one-way)	Notes
Guided Tour (Coach) Recommended	~1 hour by direct bus	Easiest option – hotel pick-up in Benalmádena, round-trip transport, entry ticket included, and a guide. No logistical worries.
By Car (Self-Drive)	~1 hour drive (+ 15 min shuttle)	Flexible timing. Drive via A-7 → A-357 → MA-5403 to Ardales (about 60 km). Park near the trail and take a shuttle bus to the start. Need to book entry tickets in advance separately.
By Train (Public Transport)	~2 to 2.5 hours total	Take the local C1 train Benalmádena→Málaga (25–30 min), then train Málaga→El Chorro (40 min). From El Chorro station, take a shuttle bus to the trailhead (20 min). Requires aligning train times and booking tickets.
By Bus (Public Transport)	~3 hours or more (multiple transfers)	The slowest and least convenient: involves taking a bus or train to Málaga, then regional buses with connections (Málaga→Álora→El Chorro/Ardales). Budget-friendly but multiple changes and limited schedules.

Next, we detail each option so you can decide the best way to experience the Caminito del Rey.

Option 1: Guided Tour from Torremolinos (near to Benalmádena) (Recommended)

For a stress-free, all-inclusive experience, a guided day trip from Benalmádena is highly recommended. This option takes care of all the logistics: transportation, tickets, and guidance on the trail. It’s ideal if you prefer convenience or are booking last-minute when official tickets might be sold out.

• Safety and Support: Traveling in a group with a guide means extra support. They’ll ensure everyone has the required gear (helmets are provided at the entry) and follows the safety rules. If you have questions or minor issues, someone is there to help.
• Hotel Pick-up & Transport: Tours will pick you up in Benalmádena (usually at or near major hotels or central points) in a comfortable coach. You’ll ride directly to the Caminito del Rey area (about 1 hour drive) without needing to navigate roads or transfers.
• Entry Ticket Included: The tour price includes your Caminito del Rey entrance ticket, so you don’t need to worry about reserving it separately. Given that tickets can be hard to obtain in peak season, this is a big advantage.
• Professional Guide: You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who will provide interesting commentary about the history, geology, and nature of Caminito del Rey during the journey and the hike. This enriches your experience with stories and facts you might miss on your own.
• No Hassle with Route Logistics: Importantly, the Caminito del Rey is a linear one-way hike – you start at the north entrance and end at the south exit, which are several kilometers apart. A guided tour handles the transfer, dropping you at the start and meeting you at the end, so you don’t have to figure out shuttles or returning to your car.

Booking a tour is the easiest way to enjoy Caminito del Rey. 👉 Secure your spot: Book the Caminito del Rey Day Trip from Torremolinos, near to Benalmádena with Civitatis. This highly-rated excursion includes round-trip transport from Benalmádena, entry ticket, and an expert guide – so you can just relax and focus on the amazing views.

(Price is roughly €70 per person, and tours typically last ~6–8 hours in total. Free cancellation is often available up to 24 hours before.)

Option 2: Driving from Benalmádena to Caminito del Rey

If you have a rental car or your own vehicle, driving offers flexibility to go at your own schedule. The drive from Benalmádena to the Caminito del Rey area takes about 1 hour (around 60 km). The fastest route is usually to head north on the AP-7/A-7 towards Málaga, then take the A-357 inland and finally the MA-5403 to Ardales. Roads are paved and in good condition (the route is not scary or dangerous to drive – it’s a reasonable drive through highways and country roads).

• Parking: Follow signs for “Caminito del Rey” or “El Kiosko/Ardales”. There are parking areas near the trail’s north entrance (around El Kiosko restaurant/Camping Ardales area). Official parking costs about €2 per day – bring a bit of cash as rural parking machines might not accept cards. In high season, parking can fill up, so arriving early in the morning is wise.
• Shuttle Bus: Remember, the Caminito del Rey trail is one-way. Unless you want to retrace your steps (not allowed) or take a very long walk back on roads, you’ll need to use the shuttle bus. Most drivers choose to park near the exit or the entrance and then shuttle to the other end. One convenient strategy is to park at the El Chorro (south) end near the exit, then take the shuttle bus before your hike to the north start – that way when you finish the hike, your car is right there at the end point. Alternatively, you can park at the north end, hike to the south exit, then shuttle bus back to your car. The shuttle buses run regularly throughout the day (every 20-30 minutes). The ride is about 15-20 minutes and drops you near either entrance. Cost: ~€2.50 per person** (cash only) for the shuttle. Keep your shuttle ticket handy; if you parked at the north, you’ll take it after finishing, or vice versa.
• Entry Tickets: Driving on your own means you must purchase Caminito del Rey tickets in advance for your desired time slot. Tickets cost around €10 (general admission) on the official booking site. It’s crucial to book well ahead (weeks or even months in advance for popular dates) because daily visitor numbers are limited. If you arrive without a pre-booked ticket, you likely won’t be able to enter. Book your ticket for a morning slot if driving from Benalmádena (to have enough time to arrive, park, and reach the entrance). You need to check in at the access point at your ticket time (if you miss your time slot, they may not allow late entry).

Pros: Having a car lets you leave as early as you want and maybe explore nearby sights (like Ardales or El Chorro) at your leisure after the hike. You’re on your own schedule.

Cons: You have to navigate and drive ~2 hours round-trip. Also, coordinating the start/end with the shuttle can be a bit of extra effort (though it’s straightforward once you’re there). Make sure you or someone in your group is okay to skip the post-hike beers until after driving back!

Option 3: By Train (Benalmádena ➜ Málaga ➜ El Chorro)

It is entirely possible to reach Caminito del Rey by public transport, and the train is the fastest public option. From Benalmádena, you’ll use a two-train combination:

• Benalmádena to Málaga: From Benalmádena’s Arroyo de la Miel station, take the C1 Cercanías commuter train toward Málaga. Trains run approximately every 20 minutes, and the ride to Málaga-María Zambrano station (the main train station in Málaga city) takes about 25–30 minutes. (If you’re closer to Torremuelle or Benalmádena Costa, you can board at any Benalmádena-area Cercanías stop; they all go to Málaga Center.) Fare is just a few euros.
• Málaga to El Chorro: At María Zambrano, switch to the regional train to El Chorro (often this is a Renfe Media Distancia or Cercanías line C-2 train). There are roughly 8 daily departures from Málaga to El Chorro (a small station near Caminito). The journey takes about 40 minutes. A one-way ticket costs around €3.50. Check the Renfe timetable for exact times on your date – you’ll want a morning train out. Important: The train schedules may not be very frequent (e.g., one train early morning, another late morning, etc.), so plan carefully. It’s wise to book your train tickets in advance (Renfe’s site or at the station) to secure a seat, especially on weekends.
• El Chorro to the Trail Start: The train arrives at El Chorro – Caminito del Rey station, which is actually near the end of the Caminito del Rey route (south end). To get to the start (north end) where you enter, take the official shuttle bus that connects El Chorro to the north access (near Ardales). The shuttle bus stop is right by El Chorro station. Buses depart about every 20 minutes and take 15–20 minutes to reach the north entrance drop-off. Tip: You can actually buy the shuttle bus ticket online alongside your Caminito entry ticket, or pay cash on the bus (€2.50). If you pre-book it, have the QR code or printout ready.
• Timing: Make sure your train arrival and shuttle will get you to the trail entrance before your ticket time! It’s recommended to arrive at the control cabin 15-30 minutes before your scheduled entry. You’ll need a few minutes to show your ticket and grab a helmet, and they often give a short safety briefing before letting you onto the boardwalk. For example, if you have a 11:00 entry, a train arriving El Chorro at 9:50 should be fine: shuttle by 10:00, arrive north gate ~10:20, walk 1.5 km to ticket checkpoint (~20 minutes walk), arriving around 10:40.
• After the Hike: When you finish the Caminito at the south end (El Chorro side), you’ll already be near the train station to head back. Check the afternoon train times back to Málaga (they might be infrequent, e.g., one mid-afternoon and one late afternoon). If there’s a wait, you can grab a drink or snack at a bar by El Chorro station and rest your legs.

Pros: Public transport is very cheap (total train cost under €10 round-trip). You avoid driving and can enjoy the scenery.

Cons: You must plan around fixed train times – which can mean an early start and possibly waiting for return trains. The trains can be limited on weekends or holidays. Also, after a few hours of hiking, the thought of multiple train rides and possible waits might be tiring (though the trains are comfortable).

Overall, if you’re a confident trip planner and don’t mind the 2+ hour journey, the train is a viable way to do Caminito del Rey from Benalmádena without a car. Just be sure to book everything in advance (train and Caminito tickets) and set out early.

Option 4: By Public Bus (the Long Way)

While there are bus routes that can get you to Caminito del Rey, this option is generally not recommended unless you have no other choice, because it’s time-consuming and a bit complicated. There is no direct bus from Benalmádena to the Caminito; you’ll have to connect via Málaga city or other towns:

One possible route is:

• Take a bus or the commuter train from Benalmádena into Málaga (approx. 30 minutes).
• From Málaga’s main bus station, take a bus toward Álora (a town near El Chorro). Some intercity buses (e.g., M-231 line) run from Málaga to towns in that area Travel time to Álora by bus is around 1 hour.
• In Álora, you might need to change to another bus that goes to El Chorro or Ardales/Caminito del Rey. For example, one route described is: Málaga to a stop called “Piscina” (near Álora) on one bus, then another bus from there to El Chorro, then possibly another to Ardales. These are infrequent (maybe only a couple per day).
• Total journey by bus can easily take 2.5 to 3+ hours one-way when you factor in waiting times.

Frankly, by the time you do all these transfers, you’ll wish you had rented a car or taken the train. The only advantage is saving a few euros, but fares aren’t even that cheap (you might pay around €4–€9 total). Also, the bus schedules can be confusing and may not align well with your entry time.

Bottom Line: Unless you have plenty of time and patience, or are spending a night near Caminito del Rey, the public bus route from Benalmádena is not very practical. If you must use it, be sure to get the latest timetables from the Málaga bus station (Estación de Autobuses) or the Consorcio de Transporte website, and plan an early start.

Guided Tour vs DIY: Which to Choose?

Now that you know the options, here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

• If you value convenience, have limited time, or couldn’t snag advance tickets, go for the guided tour. You’ll pay more per person, but it’s a smooth experience with no stress about logistics. Plus, the guide’s commentary can make the trip more enjoyable and informative.
• If you have a rental car and like flexibility, driving yourself can be great. Just remember to book tickets early and be prepared for the shuttle bus routine.
• If you’re on a tight budget or prefer public transit, the train is the best alternative. It’s doable and comfortable as long as you plan ahead. The bus-only method is a last resort due to the long duration.

Many travelers actually opt for the guided excursion for Caminito del Rey, even if they usually explore on their own, simply because it simplifies a lot of the hassle (especially the one-way route issue). At the end of the day, choose what fits your travel style and schedule. Either way, you’re in for an incredible adventure!

Buying Tickets for Caminito del Rey

Ticket Reservations: If you go independently (not on a tour), you must reserve a ticket for Caminito del Rey in advance online. Tickets are released on the official website (caminitodelrey.info) and often sell out weeks ahead during peak periods. Standard entry is about €10 per person (or a bit more if you opt for a guided tour on site or include shuttle bus). When booking, you’ll choose an entry time slot (usually half-hour increments). You should arrive at the entrance checkpoint at that time (there’s a tolerance of a few minutes, but don’t be late). You will need to show ID matching the ticket name.

Guided Tour Tickets: If you book a guided day trip (package), the tour company will handle your Caminito del Rey ticket. They will give you your ticket (or group ticket) on the day of the tour, usually when you arrive at the site. Make sure to still bring ID (passport or driver’s license) on the day, as staff at Caminito del Rey may verify ages (especially for children) and ticket names.

Tip: If you miss out on tickets, consider a guided tour package. Tours have group allocations and sometimes still have availability when individual tickets are gone. It might cost more, but you’ll get your experience rather than missing out entirely.

Best Time to Visit Caminito del Rey

Season: The ideal time to visit Caminito del Rey is in the spring (March – May) or autumn (September – November. During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the cold or rain of winter. Spring and fall also tend to be a bit less crowded than the peak summer holiday season, making for a more enjoyable hike with fewer people on the boardwalk at the same time.

Summer (June – August) is hot in inland Andalusia – temperatures can easily exceed 30°C (86°F) by midday. Walking the exposed sections of the path under a strong sun can be tiring. If you can only go in summer, try to book the earliest morning slot (the trail opens around 9:30am) or a late afternoon slot when the sun is lower. Also, bring plenty of water and sun protection in summer.

Winter (December – February) can be cool and sometimes rainy. Caminito del Rey can close in cases of heavy rain or strong winds for safety reasons (since the boardwalks become slippery and there’s risk of falling rocks). Check the weather forecast and be prepared for the possibility of last-minute cancellations in bad weather. On clear winter days, though, it’s quite nice – cooler temperatures mean an easier hike, just wear layers.

Time of Day: No matter the season, many veteran hikers recommend going early in the day. Morning visits have a special beauty – the gorge may still have mist, and you might catch sunlight filtering through in magical ways. Early hours are also quieter; the site tends to get busier late morning and midday as multiple groups move through. If you’re not a morning person, late afternoon is another lovely time (just keep in mind the last entry of the day is usually around 3:00pm in winter, and 5:00pm in summer, since they need everyone off the route before dark).

Also consider weekdays vs weekends. Weekdays usually see fewer visitors than weekends. If your schedule allows, a weekday trip from Benalmádena will likely be more relaxed.

What to Expect on the Caminito del Rey Hike

So you’ve sorted out how to get there – but what is it actually like to walk the Caminito del Rey? In short: absolutely unforgettable. Here’s an overview of the experience:

Trail Overview

Caminito del Rey is about 7.7 km (4.8 miles) long in total, of which roughly 2.9 km is the famed boardwalk section through the gorge, and the rest is dirt or forest trail leading to or from the gorge. The hike is one-way, north to south (you cannot turn around and go back to the start point). Most people take about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete it at a leisurely pace, including stops for photos. There’s no need to rush – the entry is regulated and only so many people are on the route at once, so you can often pause and soak in the scenery.

Elevation & Difficulty

The path is mostly flat or downhill (especially if starting from the north/Ardales side, you’ll be descending gently as you go south). There are some stairs – notably, a steep set of stairs near the very end of the trail just before exiting, which you’ll have to climb up (so save a bit of energy for that!). The highest point of the boardwalk is about 100 meters above the river below, which is thrilling if you’re afraid of heights, but the pathway is very secure with railings. The hike is generally rated easy to moderate in difficulty. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking for a few hours. There are plenty of flat resting spots. Children aged 8 and up are allowed (younger not permitted), and many active seniors also complete it without problems.

Safety & Condition of the Path

Despite its scary reputation in the past, the Caminito del Rey today is completely safe and well-maintained. The wooden boardwalk and metal supports were rebuilt in 2015, so you’ll be walking on a sturdy structure securely anchored into the rock. You are required to wear a safety helmet (provided at the entrance checkpoint, included in your ticket). The helmet is a precaution against small rocks that might fall or the rare case of dropping something. The path is mostly 1 meter (3 feet) wide, with steel cables and railings on the open side. If you have a fear of heights: it can be a bit heart-pounding at first to step onto the boardwalk and see the valley below, but most people say that the solid construction and the presence of others helps ease any vertigo after the first few minutes. There are even a couple of sections with glass floor panels where you can look straight down – these are optional to step on if you’re brave!

Highlights Along the Way

There are many memorable features:

• Gaitanejo Gorge: The first canyon you enter, with vertical rock walls looming as you walk the boardwalk attached to the side. It’s a stunning introduction to the hike’s scenery.
• Suspension Bridge (King’s Bridge): The most famous feature is a hanging footbridge (also called the “King’s Bridge”) near the end of the route. It’s a 35-meter long suspension bridge crossing the gorge. Only a limited number of people are allowed on it at once. Walking across it, you can see the river far below between your feet (the slats have small gaps). This is the ultimate photo spot and adrenaline moment – don’t worry, it’s very secure. Take a breath and enjoy it!
• Los Gaitanes Canyon: The deeper main gorge section is called Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, with sheer cliffs on each side and the boardwalk winding along them. The views here are jaw-dropping – make sure to take a few pauses at the wider viewpoint areas to look around and take pictures. You might spot large birds (vultures or eagles) soaring overhead.
• River & Reservoir Views: The Guadalhorce River runs through the gorge and opens into turquoise reservoirs. From the path you’ll see the river in the canyon and, at the start and end, more open water. The contrast of the green-blue water, grey rock, and green vegetation is beautiful
• Engineering Marvels: Throughout the hike you’ll also see remnants of the original early-1900s pathway below the new one – a few old concrete beams clinging to the cliff. It’s amazing to imagine workers traversing the old path without today’s safety measures. There’s also the old aqueduct and piping systems related to the historic hydroelectric project. The guides or info signs share the story of how King Alfonso XIII walked here in 1921, giving the path its name (“The King’s Little Pathway”).

Wildlife and Nature

The area is a nature reserve, so keep an eye out for wildlife. Mountain goats are occasionally seen on the cliffs. Various birds like kestrels, vultures, swifts, and herons live in the gorge. The flora includes pine forests at the start and lots of interesting rock-hugging shrubs and wildflowers in the canyon. It’s a geologist’s dream too – you’ll pass distinct rock formations (one nicknamed the “Gothic Arch” is a naturally eroded cave arch in the cliff).

No Facilities on the Trail

Note that once you start the hike, there are no restrooms or food vendors along the route itself. Be sure to use the toilet at the entrance area (there are basic toilets/portables near the ticket checkpoint) and carry your water and snacks with you. You must also carry out any trash (leave no trace in this pristine environment).

Trail Etiquette

The path is linear and narrow, so generally everyone is moving in the same direction. If you need to pass someone or take a break, just let others go around you at wider sections. No smoking is allowed, and you should not stray from the boardwalk or marked trails. For safety, no selfie sticks or drones are permitted either – a dropped item could be dangerous to those below, and drones could startle wildlife or other hikers.

By the time you exit near El Chorro at the south end, you’ll likely be exhilarated and maybe a little tired – but there’s a café and a kiosk at the end where you can grab a drink, relax, and relish the experience you just had. Don’t forget to return your helmet at the exit staff station.

What to Wear and Bring

Walking Caminito del Rey doesn’t require special gear, but you’ll want to be well-prepared for comfort and safety. Here are some tips on attire and items to bring:

• Footwear: Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes with good grip. Sneakers or lightweight hiking shoes are ideal. Sandals or flip-flops are not allowed (and would be unsafe on rocky paths). There is uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes help.
• Clothing: Dress for the weather in light, breathable layers. In warm months, shorts and a t-shirt are fine, but consider a light long-sleeve or jacket for cooler early mornings or if you’re sensitive to sun on your arms. In cooler months, a fleece or windbreaker is smart (the gorge can be chilly in shade). Avoid very loose scarves or hats that could blow off in windy sections.
• Sun Protection: The sun can be strong, especially midday. Bring a hat and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen before you start. Even though you’re partly shaded in the gorge, there are many sections of full sun exposure.
• Water and Snacks: Carry at least 1 liter of water per person. The hike isn’t extremely long, but on a hot day you’ll be glad to have water. A small backpack or daypack is useful to hold your water, plus a snack or light lunch if you want (energy bars, fruit, or a small sandwich). There are some picnic tables at the north entrance area and spots you can sit for a bite along the way (just be sure to take trash with you). Eating on the move is fine too. Keeping energy up is important; the path, while easy, still takes a few hours of walking.
• Camera/Phone: You’ll definitely want to take photos. Make sure your camera or phone is secured – use a wrist strap or keep it in a zipped pocket when not in use. Dropping it down the canyon would be disastrous (and unrecoverable!). Also, drones are banned and selfie sticks are not allowed, so plan to take normal hand-held shots or ask a fellow hiker for a photo if needed.
• Backpack: A small daypack is handy to carry your items. Large backpacks are not allowed (and would be cumbersome on narrow paths), but a compact backpack or sling bag is fine. Pack light; you don’t want a heavy load on the hike. Definitely avoid bringing any bulky items. Lockers are not available on site, so whatever you carry, you’ll carry the whole way.
• ID/Documentation: Bring your ID/passport. They may check ages of children (minimum age 8), and if you booked a ticket, the name might be verified. If you’re with a tour, have your booking confirmation just in case.
• Cash: Have a bit of cash in euros. The shuttle bus is cash-only (~€2.50), and if you want to buy a drink or ice cream at the kiosk at the end, sometimes cash is easier. Also the parking fee if you drove.

Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure and a head for heights! Caminito del Rey is thrilling but safe – trust the equipment and enjoy the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Tips for a Great Trip

• Plan and book in advance: This cannot be stressed enough – whether it’s reserving a tour or buying entry tickets, doing it early will save you disappointment. With only 50 people allowed every 30 minutes on the Caminito, spots fill up fast.
• Start early: Especially from Benalmádena, aim to start your journey early in the morning. It helps you beat traffic (if driving), catch the first trains/buses, and enjoy cooler temperatures on the hike.
• Use a map: If driving, use a GPS or map – search for “Caminito del Rey Parking” or “El Kiosko Caminito del Rey” for the northern parking, or “El Chorro” for the southern point. For convenience, here is an embedded Google Map showing the driving route from Benalmádena to Caminito del Rey:

(The map above shows the driving route from Benalmádena to the Caminito del Rey area. If embedded on a blog, you can interact with it or zoom in/out to see the details of the roads.)

• Stay hydrated and cool: Even outside of summer, the hike can warm you up. Take breaks in the shade, sip water regularly, and listen to your body. If you feel overheated, rest at one of the breezier viewpoints.
• Follow the rules and guidance: This ensures everyone has a safe time. It’s not the place to attempt daredevil antics – no climbing on railings or straying off the path. Rangers and staff are posted along the route for assistance and to enforce rules if needed.

Finally, enjoy every moment! The Caminito del Rey is often a highlight of anyone’s trip to the Costa del Sol. From Benalmádena’s seaside to the mountains and canyons of the interior, you’ll get to experience a stunning contrast of Andalusian landscapes in a single day. Make sure your camera battery is charged, and get ready for an adventure you’ll be talking about for years.

Safe travels and have an amazing time on El Caminito del Rey!