How to Secure Your Caminito del Rey Tickets (+ Helpful Tips) 2024

Helpful Tips and Recommendations for Your Caminito del Rey Adventure:

General tickets not available: If your desired date is fully booked on the official website for general entry, consider opting for a guided tour, which may still be available. Alternatively, try securing a general entry slot via the Get Your Guide platform.  

Caminito del Rey tickets without guide: Alternatively, for those who still prefer a self-guided experience, spontaneous visits without a guided tour are also an option for Caminito del Rey tickets on the day, as mentioned in this guide. You just take the risk of purchasing them at the ticket booth entry!

Guided Tours and Group Etiquette: If opting for a guided tour, remember that the purpose is to be guided. Straying from the group is generally not allowed, as it may impact headcount and safety measures. If you prefer a self-guided experience, consider the available time slots for flexibility.

Booking Time Slots: Entries to the Caminito del Rey are allocated in specific time slots, and visitors must adhere to their reserved entry times. While some may wonder about the possibility of entering earlier with a later time slot, it’s advisable to stick to the designated plan to ensure a smooth and organized experience.

Age Restrictions: The Caminito del Rey can only be accessed by people aged 8 and above. Tickets are not available for children below this age, so plan accordingly when considering a visit. Kids 8 years or older must bring their original ID or Family Book to check their age.

Starting Side: You can’t choose where to start; it’s fixed at the Northern Access, near the Restaurant el Kiosko. Enjoy the downhill or level walk, beginning your adventure from the lakeside. Caminito del Rey North Access tickets can be obtained at the designated ticket booth nearby (a 25-minute walk from the tunnel entrance). El Caminito del Rey lenght has evolved into a 7.7 km journey that spans the breathtaking landscapes near Ardales, Malaga.

Return Tickets and Transfers: Tickets for the Caminito del Rey are generally non-transferable. The tickets you are purchasing are for individual use. If you find yourself with extra tickets or need to inquire about a refund, direct communication with the official site is necessary. Refund availability and transfer procedures can vary, so contact the site for accurate information.

Shuttle bus: For added convenience, after you have paid for your tickets on the official website, you can also purchase tickets for the shuttle bus which will be linked to your caminito del rey entrance. It costs 2.50 euros per person  and is not included in the ticket price. The ticket allows you to travel freely in both directions as many times as you need on the day of your visit. You can buy it on the official website (linked to your ticket) or directly at the shuttle stop with cash (no card payments) . The bus operates from 07:40 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., taking approximately 15-20 minutes to reach El Kiosko Restaurant (Northern Access). 

Caminito del Rey parking: The official website also allows you to  add parking to your general or official guided entry ticket reservation. Parking is available at Centro de Recepción de Visitantes, costing 2€ per space. Arrive at least an hour early, as this parking is about halfway between the village of El Chorro and the start point of the Caminito del Rey. Alternatively, for a chance at a closer spot, park for free closer to the Northern Access (limited availability).

Weather Conditions: The Caminito del Rey may close in adverse weather conditions, particularly during high winds or heavy rainfall, which can lead to rockfalls. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your visit. Note that sometimes it can also be closed for repair works. In these cases, the official information for visitors will be the website. 

Helmet Requirement: While there is no need for climbing harnesses, every visitor will be provided with a safety helmet upon arrival. This helmet is mandatory and must be worn throughout the entire journey. It is prohibited to use a harness or to be tied to a cable on the boardwalks, as this might put obstacles in the way of other people who transit it and can make them fall down the precipice. These safety measures ensure that Caminito del Rey is safe for all visitors, addressing the concern “is Caminito del Rey safe?”.

Carry Bags and Prohibited Items: While large trekking rucksacks (the kind backpackers use) are not allowed, small bags for essentials, cameras, and picnics are permitted. It’s crucial to adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth journey. Additionally, selfie sticks, hiking sticks, crutches, canes, baby carriage or similar, and umbrellas are not allowed on the trail. Access to animals is also strictly forbidden for security reasons including guide dogs.

Drones or tripods: While capturing the beauty of Caminito del Rey is a must, there are specific rules to follow. Tripods for cameras are not allowed. Avoid obstructing paths with camera equipment without explicit permission. Drones are strictly prohibited, except when authorized by the environmental consultancy due to the area’s status as a bird sanctuary. Follow these rules to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit.

Luggage Storage: For those planning a one-way trip and needing luggage storage, contacting the Garganta hotel located near the El Chorro train station (Southern Access) is recommended. Inquire about the availability of storage options, including lockers or assistance from local hotels. If you wanna spend a night over, there is another local hotel which we recommend is Posada de Conde (near the Northern Access).

Phone Signal Tips: Expect limited phone signal on the path, particularly due to the geographical layout. Vodafone users might find some coverage, but overall, anticipate reduced signal availability.