Caminito del Rey Day Trip: Costa del Sol Pickup & Cliff Walk

Summary

Malaga to Caminito del Rey by coach for wild cliffside paths

You’ll walk narrow cliffside paths on this Caminito del Rey day trip from Costa del Sol, starting with a local breakfast in Ardales and guided by someone who knows every twist in the trail. Feel your heart race on suspension bridges and glass viewpoints before relaxing by El Chorro reservoir—this one sticks with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is how the bus windows fogged up as we left Malaga — everyone sort of quiet, half-awake, clutching coffee. Our guide, Marta, had this way of making us laugh about her own fear of heights (not reassuring at first!), but it broke the ice. We stopped in Ardales for breakfast — the air smelled like fresh bread and something sweet I couldn’t name. There’s a white church that catches the morning sun just right. I tried to order “tostada con tomate” and totally mangled it; the guy behind the counter grinned anyway.

The Caminito del Rey day trip from Costa del Sol really starts at this restaurant called Kiosko — not fancy, but everyone gathers there before heading out. The entrance tunnel was longer than I expected; cool air and dripping walls, echoey footsteps. Marta pointed out these weird rock formations (“tafoni,” she said — I still can’t pronounce it). You start to hear water rushing below before you see anything. The cliffs are so close you could touch them if you wanted to risk scraped knuckles.

There’s this part called the chocolate staircase — honestly, no idea why they call it that, but it stuck with me. The highlight was crossing the suspension bridge in Gaitanes Gorge. My hands were sweating so much I almost dropped my phone (don’t recommend taking selfies here unless you’ve got nerves of steel). Someone ahead of us started singing quietly and it echoed all around — gave me goosebumps. It’s safe now, nothing like its old reputation, but your legs will still feel wobbly when you look down through the glass viewpoint.

Afterwards we ended up by El Chorro reservoir — blue water and silence except for birds. Everyone was tired but sort of giddy; even Marta looked relieved we’d all made it across. On the ride back to Malaga, people swapped photos and stories like we’d known each other longer than a few hours. I keep thinking about that feeling when you’re halfway across a cliff and realize you’re actually doing it — not just looking at pictures online.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Caminito del Rey day trip from Malaga

• Pick up in Malaga city center
• Stop for breakfast in Ardales village
• Start walk near Caminito del Rey entrance
• Walk through tunnels, bridges, and viewpoints
• Enjoy views from Chorro reservoir

Top questions

Is pickup included from Malaga or Costa del Sol?

Yes, pickup is included from central Malaga and select points along Costa del Sol.

How long is the Caminito del Rey walk?

The route covers about 7.7 kilometers from start to finish.

Is breakfast included on this tour?

No, breakfast is not included but there is a stop in Ardales where you can buy your own.

Are children allowed on this tour?

No children under 7 years old are allowed on this Caminito del Rey day trip.

What should I bring for the Caminito del Rey walk?

Comfortable shoes and water are recommended; umbrellas and walking sticks are not permitted.

Is this suitable for people afraid of heights?

If you suffer from vertigo or severe fear of heights, this tour is not recommended.

Are tickets to Caminito del Rey included?

Yes, admission tickets for Caminito del Rey are included in your booking.

Is there an English-speaking guide?

Yes, your driver/guide will speak English during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Malaga city or selected Costa del Sol points by air-conditioned coach, entry tickets for Caminito del Rey itself, plus a friendly driver-guide who stays with you throughout the journey—so all you need to worry about is keeping your balance on those cliffside walkways before heading back with new stories to tell.