Advance booking is essential for Caminito del Rey. The walkway limits access to just 1,200 visitors per day, and places typically sell out 4-6 weeks ahead during weekends and peak season (April-June, September-October). Don’t expect to buy tickets on arrival – same-day availability is extremely rare, with only 5-10% of capacity released from last-minute cancellations.
Tickets Without Guide
For independent exploration, three main platforms offer entry:
| Option | Price | Book Here |
|---|---|---|
| Official Site | 10€ | Book Official |
| GetYourGuide Entry | from 14€ | Book GetYourGuide |
| Tiqets Entry | from 18€ | Book Tiqets |
Official site tickets are cheapest at 10€ but sell out fastest. GetYourGuide and Tiqets charge 14-18€ but offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before and better last-minute availability.
All three grant access through the North entrance in Árdales.
Guided Tours & Day Trips
Tours with transport eliminate parking and shuttle bus concerns:
| Tour Type | From | Book Now |
|---|---|---|
| Guided Walk from El Chorro | 28€ | Book Tour |
| English-Speaking Guide | 45€ | Book English |
| Full-Day from Málaga | 54€ | Book Málaga |
| Private Tour (1-8 people) | 189€ | Book Private |
| Málaga + Ronda Day Trip | 119€ | Book Combo |
| Via Ferrata Experience | 60€ | Book Adventure |
Guided options range from 28€ (basic Spanish guide) to 189€ (private exclusive). Tours from Málaga (54-79€) include round-trip transport and are excellent value for Costa del Sol visitors.
When to Book
- High season (April-June, September-October): Book 4-6 weeks ahead. Weekend morning slots disappear first.
- Summer (July-August): Book 3-4 weeks ahead. Early morning essential due to heat.
- Low season (November-March): Book 2-3 weeks ahead. More flexibility but check weather.
- On-the-day tickets: Almost never available. Official site may release 5-10% from cancellations, but don’t rely on this.
Shuttle Bus
The shuttle connects El Chorro (South exit) with Árdales (North entrance). Cost: 2.50€ cash only. Runs every 30 minutes, 15-20 minute journey.
You need the shuttle if you:
- Park in El Chorro village
- Arrive by train at El Chorro station
- Don’t have transport
No advance booking needed – pay the driver.
Official Site vs Booking Platforms
Official website:
- Cheapest: 10€
- Sells out 4-6 weeks ahead
- No flexible cancellation
- Spanish interface primarily
GetYourGuide / Tiqets:
- 14-18€ per person
- Better last-minute availability
- Free cancellation up to 24h before
- English customer support
- Instant mobile confirmation
The 4-8€ premium buys flexibility and peace of mind.
Booking Tips by Season
- Peak season strategy: Book exactly 6 weeks ahead when bookings open. Set a calendar reminder.
- Mid-season: 3-4 weeks sufficient for weekdays. Weekends need 5-6 weeks.
- Winter visits: 2 weeks usually enough, but weather can force closures. Book platforms with free cancellation.
- Sold out? Check GetYourGuide and Tiqets – they often have availability when official channels show full.
Cancellation Policy
Platform bookings (GetYourGuide/Tiqets):
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Full refund for weather closures
- Easy rebooking
Official site:
- Refunds only for official closures
- No personal cancellations
Entry Requirements
Before booking, note these rules:
- Minimum age: 8 years (strictly enforced)
- Mandatory: Helmet (provided free), closed shoes
- Prohibited: Large backpacks (over 30L)
- One-way path: No turning back after entry
Price Comparison: Is It Worth Paying More?
Official tickets at 10€ are tempting, but consider:
For 4€ extra (GetYourGuide at 14€):
- Free cancellation insurance
- Better availability
- English support
- No Spanish website navigation
For tours from Málaga (54€):
- Round-trip transport (saves ~15€ train + 2.50€ shuttle)
- No parking stress
- Guide included
- Total cost similar to independent visit
Last-Minute Availability
- Official site: 0-5% same-day availability from cancellations
- GetYourGuide: Better last-minute stock, especially 3-7 days before
- Tiqets: Similar to GetYourGuide
- Best strategy: Book 4-6 weeks ahead regardless of season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I book?
4-6 weeks for weekends and high season. 2-3 weeks for weekdays in winter.
Can I buy at the entrance?
Extremely rare. Only 5-10% released from last-minute cancellations.
What if sold out everywhere?
Check daily - cancellations happen. Consider weekday visits or off-season dates.
Are children allowed?
Yes, from age 8. Under 8s not permitted for safety.
Do I need to be fit?
Moderate fitness sufficient. Path is 7.7km total, 3-4 hours. No climbing required.