Via Ferrata Caminito del Rey: zip line & cable bridges

A zip line hangs 30 meters over the gorge, and you cross it tethered to the rock.

Via ferrata climbing on the Caminito del Rey near Málaga is a guided rock climb through the Gaitanes Gorge with views over the Encantada reservoir. You wear a harness, helmet and gloves, clip into anchors along the route, and navigate two cable bridges and a zip line over the void. The route takes about four hours and suits climbers with moderate fitness who have no experience with rock climbing.

The Experience

What makes the Caminito del Rey different from a hiking trail is that you're clipped to the rock the whole time. A guide leads you through the gorge, and you clip your harness into fixed anchors as you move along the face. The route follows the Gaitanes Gorge with views down to the Encantada reservoir, and it's designed so climbers with no experience can do it—the holds are there, the anchors are there, and the guide talks you through the moves.

The two cable bridges are the part most people remember. You walk across them tethered to a cable, suspended over the gorge below. Then comes the zip line, which runs for more than 30 meters across the void. It's the moment the route builds toward, and it happens near the end of the four hours, so you've already warmed up on the easier sections of the climb.

You'll need moderate fitness and no fear of heights—the activity is not suitable for travelers with spinal injuries, cardiovascular issues, mobility problems, or children under 14. The guide speaks English or Spanish, and the helmet, harness, gloves and anchors are all included. You can book for one person or a group of up to six, and the guide adjusts the pace to the group's level.

What’s included

• Helmet, harness, gloves and anchors.
• guide in English or Spanish.
• access to the Caminito del Rey route with views over the Encantada reservoir and the Gaitanes Gorge.
• the two cable bridges and the zip line over 30 meters.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Sendero Sur Aventura

Is this one for you?Book a private group of two to six if you want the guide to move at your pace and spend time on the sections that challenge you most. The open group option works if you're comfortable climbing alongside other travelers and want a set departure time.

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Top questions

What is the Caminito del Rey via ferrata like if I've never climbed before?

The Caminito del Rey is designed for climbers with no rock experience. The route follows the gorge with fixed anchors and holds in place, and the guide walks you through each section. You clip into the anchors as you go, so the rope is always between you and the rock.

How long does the via ferrata take?

The activity runs about four hours from start to finish, including the time to put on the harness and helmet, the climb through the gorge, the cable bridges, and the zip line.

What's included in the price?

The helmet, harness, gloves and anchors are all included. The guide is included, and you choose English or Spanish when you book.

Can I do this if I'm afraid of heights?

The via ferrata is not recommended for travelers with a fear of heights, since the cable bridges and zip line both cross the gorge with open space below.

What group sizes can I book?

You can book for one person, or for a group of two, three, four, five or six people. You can also join an open group if you prefer to climb with other travelers.