Málaga is the perfect city for spending time outside. Most people come to enjoy a vacation on the beach, but drive inland to find some of the best places to go hiking in Málaga. From thrilling cliff walks to refreshing river hikes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are four iconic hikes near Málaga you have to check out if you love the outdoors.
Caminito del Rey
El Caminito del Rey is one of southern Spain’s most visited routes. Named after Spain’s King Alfonso 13th following his 1921 visit, the Caminito del Rey it’s nothing short of spectacular. Here you traverse a path built into a gorge 100 meters high culminating with a suspension bridge that takes you across the Guadalhorce River. The transparent floor of the suspension bridge definitely adds to the thrill of this route.
Because of this hike’s popularity, you’ll want to book your tickets in advance. When you arrive, you’ll be given a hard hat that must be worn through the hike for your safety. It’s about a 30 minute walk through the forest to the start of Caminito del Rey. The wooden walkway is built right into the side of the gorge and the walking is quite easy from there. Even with a fear of heights, I felt totally safe. The Caminito del Rey underwent serious renovations to increase safety measures that took a few years to complete. It reopened in 2015.
- Difficulty: Medium
- Length: 8 km
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Entrance: 10 euros (general) / 18 euros (guided)
El Torcal
El Torcal is another place to go hiking in Málaga that can’t be missed. Located near the city of Antequera in a natural park that’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s characterized by unique rock formations that feel other worldly. The route itself is quite easy with no elevation, which means you can take in the views of the unusual landscape at every turn. We visited in early January on a particularly foggy day. I have no idea if this type of weather is common, but it certainly added to the mystique!
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 1.5-3km
- Time: 45 minutes – 2 hours (various routes)
- Entrance: Free
Río Chíllar
Expect to get wet on this hike up the Chíllar river! This hike is open year-round and is one of the most unique hikes near Málaga. Conditions are best between March and October, and it’s great for cooling off on a hot day. As you make your way up the river, you’ll find beautiful cascades and waterfalls. Bring comfortable close-toed shoes you don’t mind getting wet (like an old pair of running shoes.) Although you can turn around at any point, be prepared to spend a few hours on the water. You’ll want sunscreen, a baseball hat, water, and a packed lunch. We ended up hiking 6.5 hours roundtrip! The crystal clear waters is ankle-level most of the way, reaching the knees at some points.
- Difficulty: Medium
- Length: 16 km roundtrip to Vado de los Patos (end of the route)
- Time: 6-8 hours roundtrip
- Entrance: Free
Pro tip: Avoid this hike on the weekend and opt for a weekday hike to beat the crowds in the summer months of July and August.
Pico Torrecilla
The second highest peak in the province of Málaga, this hike is full of beautiful views. You’ll begin your ascent in the forest, looking down on green fields below as you climb. You’ll continue the hike above the tree line, passing a cave with a religious statue inside (a great place to stop for a snack.) The most difficult part of the hike comes last. The only way up to the peak of Torrecilla is a steep scramble up exposed rocks. It’s a workout, but the payoff is big once you reach the top and take in the incredible 360 degree vistas. Eat your lunch at the top to regain your strength for the way back and don’t forget to snap some pics!
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Length: 8 hours
- Time: 14km roundtrip
- Entrance: Free
This post was updated on July 18, 2023.
Halley Rogers 