Taking the train from Malaga to Caminito del Rey is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to reach the area. The journey is short, affordable, and avoids the need to drive or deal with parking.

However, there’s one important thing to know: the train stops at El Chorro, which is located at the end of the Caminito del Rey route — not the start.

Once you understand how to get from the train station to the entrance, the whole trip is very straightforward.

If you’re planning your visit, it’s also a good idea to check ticket availability in advance, as time slots often sell out.

Can you go to Caminito del Rey by train?

Yes — you can take a direct train from Malaga to El Chorro, which is the closest train station to Caminito del Rey.

The journey is simple and takes less than an hour, making it a popular option for visitors who prefer not to drive.

However, the train does not take you directly to the start of the Caminito. After arriving at El Chorro, you’ll still need to reach the northern entrance, usually by shuttle bus – the last step to reach the entrance.

Malaga to El Chorro train (quick overview)

Here’s a quick overview of the train from Malaga to Caminito del Rey:

The route is operated by regional trains and offers a simple and comfortable journey through the Andalusian countryside.

Because trains are not very frequent, it’s important to check schedules in advance and plan your visit accordingly.

How to book train tickets from Malaga

You can book train tickets from Malaga to El Chorro online through the official Spanish railway website or other travel platforms.

The main options are:

• Renfe (official website) — the national railway operator in Spain
• Trainline — an easy-to-use platform with English interface
• Omio — another popular booking platform for European trains

In most cases, tickets are inexpensive and can be booked in advance, especially if you want to secure a specific departure time.

If you’re traveling during busy periods, it’s a good idea to book your train tickets early to avoid limited availability.

Timing your visit: which train to take

When choosing your train from Malaga to El Chorro, the most important factor is your entry time for Caminito del Rey.

Here’s how to plan it:

• Aim to arrive at El Chorro at least 1 to 1.5 hours before your ticket time
• This gives you enough time to:
  • take the shuttle bus to the north entrance
  • walk to the access point
  • avoid stress or delays

For example: If your Caminito ticket is at 10:00, you should ideally take a train that arrives around 8:30–9:00.

Important things to consider

• Train schedules are limited, so you may need to adapt your ticket time to the train (not the opposite)
• Always allow extra buffer time, especially during busy periods
• Missing your entry slot can mean losing your ticket, so don’t cut it too close

Choose your train first, then book your Caminito ticket accordingly — or leave enough margin to stay flexible.

Where does the train stop?

The train from Malaga stops at El Chorro station, which is the closest train station to Caminito del Rey.

However, it’s important to understand that El Chorro is located at the end of the Caminito route, not the beginning.

How to get from El Chorro to the start

After arriving at El Chorro by train, you’ll need to reach the north entrance of the Caminito del Rey before starting the walk.

There are two main options:

1. Shuttle Bus (recommended)

The easiest and most common option is to take the shuttle bus that connects El Chorro to the northern access point.

• Runs regularly throughout the day
• Takes about 15–20 minutes
• Stops near the main access points (including El Kiosko)

This is the option most visitors use, and the simplest way to reach the start of the Caminito. Click here to see the shuttle bus details.

2. Walking (less practical)

It is technically possible to walk from El Chorro to the north entrance, but this option is longer and less convenient.

• Takes significantly more time (1,5+ hours)
• Not ideal before starting the full Caminito walk

On top of that, the walk is not very scenic and along a busy road, which can even make it a little dangerous. Thus, for most visitors, the shuttle bus is a much better choice.

Is the train a good option?

Taking the train from Malaga to Caminito del Rey can be a great option — but it depends on how you like to travel.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Advantages of taking the train

• Affordable compared to tours or car rental
• No driving required, which makes the trip more relaxing
• Scenic journey through the Andalusian countryside
• Convenient if you’re staying in Malaga without a car

Things to consider

• Limited schedule, with only a few trains per day
• You’ll need to take the shuttle bus after arriving
• Less flexibility compared to driving
• You need to plan your timing carefully around your entry slot

So, is it worth it? The train is a very good option if you want a simple and budget-friendly way to reach Caminito del Rey without driving.

However, if you prefer maximum flexibility or want everything organized for you, you may want to consider other options.

Alternative: Complete tours from Malaga

If you’d rather avoid planning transport altogether, a complete tour from Malaga is the easiest option.

These tours typically include:

• round-trip transportation
• organized schedule
• often a guided visit of the Caminito

This is a great choice if you want a stress-free experience without worrying about trains, parking, or timing. Check out all tours from Malaga here.

Tips for taking the train to Caminito del Rey

To make your trip as smooth as possible, keep these tips in mind:

• Check train schedules in advance, as departures are limited
• Match your train with your entry time to avoid rushing or waiting too long
• Arrive early at the station in Malaga, especially during busy periods
• Plan your return journey before you go, so you don’t get stuck after the walk
• Allow time for the shuttle bus from El Chorro to the entrance
• Bring water and essentials, as services around the area can be limited

Tickets and tours: What to do next

Once you know how to get to Caminito del Rey by train, the next step is choosing how you want to experience the walk.

Most visitors simply book their tickets in advance and plan their train and shuttle around their selected time slot. This is the best option if you’re traveling independently.

If you’d like a more complete experience, you can also choose a guided visit, which includes explanations along the route and helps you get more out of the Caminito.

And if you prefer not to deal with train schedules or logistics at all, you can opt for a day trip from Malaga, which includes transport and takes care of everything for you.

FAQ: Train from Malaga to Caminito del Rey