A hike that was once considered ‘the world’s most dangerous’ is a breathtaking and dramatic route that’s suspended 100 metres above a huge gorge – and it’s a must for thrill seekers
The walk was once considered the ‘world’s most dangerous’ hike(Image: Getty Images)
If you love adventure, then you’ll want to check out this walk that was once considered the “world’s most dangerous hike”. The UK is full of challenging hikes, from scaling some of the highest peaks in Wales to embarking on 268-mile treks through the Pennines, but if you want something that will really take your breath away, you’ll need to travel a bit further afield.
There are plenty of dangerous hikes in the world that either include extreme cliffsides, like Angels Landing in the US or the Mount Huashan plank walk in China, or carry risks because they’re incredibly remote and have extreme weather risks. But there is one “dangerous” hike that any thrill-seeking tourist can embark on – and it’s much closer to home in Europe.
The Caminito del Rey is an 8km (5-mile) aerial walkway over a narrow gorge in El Chorro, in the province of Malaga, Spain. The path was once considered the most dangerous in the world because of the condition of the bridges and pathways, but the route has since been restored, and it is now much safer.
A hiker named Conor Carter shared a video of Caminito del Rey on his TikTok account, where he described it as “one of the most breathtaking walks” he has ever been on.
He said: “This was once known as ‘the world’s most dangerous hike’. Welcome to El Caminito del Rey, Málaga, Spain.
“It’s one of the most breathtaking walks I’ve ever done! Suspended 100 metres above a dramatic gorge, this iconic trail takes you along narrow boardwalks carved into the cliffside before crossing an incredible suspension bridge.”
The Caminito del Rey walk boasts “unforgettable” views, and although it’s safer now than it used to be, the official tourism website for Spain says that the “unique experience” of walking over footbridges built into the gorge.
The website states: “The Caminito del Rey walk is spectacular from start to finish, as it winds its way through gorges, canyons and a vast valley. Wander through the landscapes of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Nature Reserve, a gorge carved out by the River Guadalhorce, with walls reaching depths of 700 metres.”
The unique location is also home to a wide variety of animal species, and if you’re lucky, you could witness birds like the Egyptian vulture, the griffon vulture or the golden eagle soaring over your head as you walk. You can also spot wild boar and mountain goats on the trail.
The aerial walkway dates back to the early 20th century, and was built between the Gaitanejo and El Chorro waterfalls to aid the transport of materials to and from the local hydroelectric power station.
The route is linear and follows a one-way downhill path from north to south. On average, it takes around three to four hours to complete, and there is a shuttle bus service that can take you back to the car park once you’ve finished your walk.
You must purchase a ticket before you embark on the walk, which you can do online via the official website or in person at the northern entrance of the walk.
General admission costs €10, or you can book a spot on an official guided visit in either Spanish or English for €18. A spot on the shuttle bus costs €2.50, and parking costs €2. Children under the age of eight cannot access the Caminito del Rey, and those over eight may be asked to show ID to verify their age.
For more information, visit the Spanish Tourism website.
