Day trip to the Caminito del Rey from Benalmádena

Complete Guide: Day Trip to the Caminito del Rey from Benalmádena (2026 Edition)

Are you staying in Benalmádena and looking for an unforgettable adventure beyond the beaches? The day trip to the Caminito del Rey from Benalmádena is, without a doubt, the most breathtaking nature experience you can have in the province of Málaga.

Once considered one of the most dangerous trails in the world, today the Caminito del Rey is a completely safe route, famous for its suspended walkways more than 100 metres above the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes.

In this guide, we explain how to get there, which option suits you best (car vs. organised tour) and how to secure your tickets before they sell out.

What is the Caminito del Rey and why should you visit it?

The Caminito del Rey is an almost 8-kilometre-long footpath clinging to the walls of a rugged canyon in the municipalities of Ardales and Álora.

A day trip from the Costa del Sol will allow you to cross its famous suspension bridge, photograph breathtaking vertical landscapes and learn about the history of this 20th-century feat of river engineering. It’s the perfect getaway to break away from the sun-and-beach routine in Benalmádena.

How to get from Benalmádena to the Caminito del Rey: Options

Option 1: Organised tour from Benalmádena (Highly recommended)

If you don’t want the hassle of driving or the tedious search for official tickets (which usually sell out

months in advance), the best option is to book an all-inclusive tour.

Advantages: Includes return transport by air-conditioned coach, guaranteed entry to the Caminito del Rey and a certified bilingual guide.

Pick-up points: The buses usually have strategic stops in Benalmádena Costa (near Puerto Marina) and in Arroyo de la Miel.

TRAVEL TIP: Places on this tour are limited. We recommend booking your official trip to the Caminito del Rey from Benalmádena here, with free cancellation, to secure your place.

Option 2: Drive there yourself

If you have a hire car, the distance between Benalmádena and the North Entrance to the Caminito del Rey (in Ardales) is around 60 kilometres.

Route: You’ll need to take the A-7 motorway and join the A-357 towards Cártama / Ardales. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

The main drawback: You’ll need to buy your tickets yourself on the official website well in advance. If they’re sold out, your only option to gain entry will be to book an.

visita guiada oficial con entrada incluida

Quick comparison: Car or organised tour?

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Practical information for the walk

Walking time: The walking route is one-way and takes between 2.5 and 3 hours to complete.

Minimum age: Children under 8 years of age are strictly prohibited from entering, even if accompanied or carried.

Compulsory equipment: You must wear the safety helmet provided at the entrance. You must wear closed-toe sports or hiking shoes (flip-flops, sandals and heels are not permitted)

Prohibitions: Selfie sticks, drones, umbrellas and walking sticks without rubber tips are not permitted.

How long does the whole excursion last?

If you opt for the coach tour, the excursion lasts around 7 or 8 hours in total. You’ll set off early in the morning from Benalmádena, walk through the gorge at a comfortable pace and be back on the Costa del Sol by mid-afternoon, in time for dinner or to enjoy the sunset on the beach.

Book your trip to the Caminito del Rey at the best price

Don’t leave your visit to chance. As it is one of Andalusia’s most visited natural landmarks, daily visitor numbers are strictly regulated to protect the environment.

Book a Full Day Bus Tour from Benalmádena (ideal if you don’t have a car).

Book Entry Only + Guided Tour (Ideal if you’d prefer to drive yourself).