Updated November 2026
The Caminito del Rey lies in the Gaitanes Gorge between Ardales and El Chorro, about 60 km north-west of Málaga. The walk is one-way: it starts at the north entrance near Ardales and ends at El Chorro, so the key question is not only how to get there, but also how to get back to your car or train.
By car from Málaga
The drive from Málaga or the airport takes about one hour on the A-357 along the Guadalhorce valley towards Cártama and Ardales. Most drivers park at El Chorro, at the end of the walk, and take the shuttle bus to the north entrance; others park near the north access and catch the shuttle back at the end. Either way, arrive early on weekends — the car parks fill up. All details on the route and parking are on our page car rental at Málaga Airport for the Caminito del Rey.
Compare car rental at Málaga Airport
DiscoverCars compares local and international rental companies at Málaga Airport (AGP), the busiest car hire airport in Spain. Most bookings come with free cancellation.
Compare Car Hire at Málaga AirportCar hire search by DiscoverCars. Prices and rental conditions are shown on their website.
By train to El Chorro
Regional trains run from Málaga María Zambrano station to El Chorro in about 40 minutes. There are only a few departures a day, so check the timetable before you book your time slot. From El Chorro station take the shuttle bus to the north entrance, walk the route, and you finish back in El Chorro, close to the station.
On a tour with pick-up
The simplest option: a coach collects you in Málaga or on the Costa del Sol, a guide walks the route with you, and the ticket and helmet are included. The guided tour from Málaga is the most popular choice and takes about seven hours in total.
Timing tips
- Allow 20 to 50 minutes from the north car parks to the ticket control.
- The walk takes three to four hours; the shuttle bus runs regularly during opening hours.
- In summer choose an early slot — the gorge gets very hot by midday.
