Caminito del Rey is located in a natural area between Ardales and El Chorro, about one hour from Malaga. While it’s not directly accessible by public transport to the entrance, getting there is actually quite straightforward once you understand your options.

Most visitors choose between three main ways to get there: driving, taking the train, or joining a tour from Malaga. Each option has its advantages depending on your budget, schedule, and how much planning you want to do.

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

Getting to Caminito del Rey: Your main options

There are three main ways to get to Caminito del Rey, depending on your budget, schedule, and how much planning you want to do.

Here’s what each option looks like in more detail:

1. Getting there by car (most flexible)

Driving is the most flexible way to reach Caminito del Rey, especially if you want full control over your schedule.

The journey from Malaga takes about 1 hour, and roads are straightforward to follow. However, you’ll need to plan where to park, as the Caminito is a one-way route.

Most visitors park at the Visitor Centre or near the north entrance and use the shuttle bus after the walk.

2. Getting there by train (from Malaga)

Taking the train is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to reach Caminito del Rey without driving.

Trains run from Málaga María Zambrano to El Chorro, which is located at the end of the route. From there, you’ll need to take the shuttle bus to the north entrance before starting the walk.

This option works well if you plan your timing carefully around your entry slot.

3. Getting there by tour from Malaga (easiest option)

If you prefer a stress-free experience, joining a tour from Malaga is the simplest option.These tours include transportation and often a guided visit, so you don’t need to worry about train schedules, parking, or logistics.

This is the best choice if you want everything organized for you.

On site: How the shuttle bus works

The shuttle bus connects the key points of Caminito del Rey and is essential for most visitors, especially because the route is not a loop.

It runs between:

• El Chorro (south exit)
• Visitor Centre
• El Kiosko (near the north entrance)

Most people use it after the walk to return to their car or starting point.

Entrance access (North vs South)

Caminito del Rey is a one-way route from north to south, starting near Ardales and finishing near El Chorro.

Important: You must enter from the north access point, even if you arrive from the south side.

This is why planning your parking or transport in advance is important.

What’s the best way to get to Caminito del Rey?

The best way to get to Caminito del Rey depends on how you like to travel and how much planning you want to do.

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

By car: best for flexibility

Driving is the best option if you want full control over your schedule. This option is best for independent travelers who want flexibility.

• Ideal if you have a rental car
• Easier to combine with other stops in the area
• Requires planning for parking and shuttle

By train: best for budget travelers

Taking the train is a good option if you want a simple and affordable way to get there without driving.

• Direct train to El Chorro
• Requires shuttle to reach the start
• Limited schedule → needs planning

With a tour: easiest and most comfortable

A tour from Malaga is the easiest way to visit Caminito del Rey. It’s a stress-free experience with everything organized.

• Transport included
• Often includes a guided visit
• No need to plan logistics

So, which one should you choose?

• Want maximum freedom → go by car
• Want a cheap and simple option → take the train
• Want zero hassle → choose a tour

Most first-time visitors prefer either driving or booking a tour, depending on their travel style.

Tours from Malaga: The easiest way to visit

If you prefer not to deal with transport, parking, or timing, booking a tour from Malaga is the simplest way to visit Caminito del Rey.

These tours typically include:

• round-trip transportation
• organized schedule
• often a guided visit

Everything is planned for you, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

This is the best option if you want a stress-free visit without worrying about logistics.

Tips for planning your trip

No matter how you choose to get there, a bit of planning will make your visit much smoother.

• Match your transport with your entry time to avoid rushing or waiting
• Allow extra time for parking, shuttle, or transfers
• Arrive early, especially during weekends and high season
• Plan your return journey in advance (train schedules or driving time)
• Bring water and essentials, as services are limited in the area

A little preparation goes a long way, especially since access to Caminito del Rey is strictly timed.

Tickets and planning: What to do Next

Once you know how you’ll get to Caminito del Rey, the next step is to book your tickets and finalize your plan.

Most visitors choose to book tickets in advance and organize their transport around their selected time slot.

If you want a more complete experience, you can also choose a guided visit, which includes explanations along the route.

And if you prefer to avoid logistics entirely, booking a tour from Malaga is the easiest way to visit.

FAQ: Getting to Caminito del Rey