Before you set out
Carry water, shoes with good grip and the route downloaded on your phone. In summer start early and avoid the hottest hours.
Things to do
Hiking in Málaga: trails, mountains and gorges
The province of Málaga has plenty of nature close to the coast: mountains, rivers and gorges.
We collect the trails rated highest on Google, with what to know about difficulty, water and footwear.
Málaga city and the Costa del Sol
Ideas for this trip
River trails
In Tolox and Frigiliana you walk beside or in the river: check the flow and the weather, and do not go unprepared after rain.
Places to go
Indicative details only: check opening times, prices and minimum ages on each official website before you go.
El Torcal de Antequera
Area: Antequera
Best for: Rock scenery; a short route or about 2 hours
A landscape of rock formations with signposted routes: a short one (green) and a longer one (yellow, about 2 hours). Wear closed shoes; parking is limited, so arrive early.
Parque Nacional Sierra de las Nieves
Area: Serranía de Ronda
Best for: Mountain trails with views
A national park with several routes and great views. Avoid August because of the heat and bring plenty of water.
Caminito del Rey
Area: Ardales – El Chorro
Best for: Walkways over the gorge
A path of walkways over the gorge, very well rated. It needs a ticket: book ahead on the official website.
Sendero Charco de la Virgen
Area: Tolox
Best for: A river trail to a pool and waterfall
A well-rated trail along the river, with several crossings and a pool with a waterfall at the end. Shoes with good grip are needed. According to reviews, the real start is not where the map shows it.
Los Cahorros del Río Chíllar
Area: Frigiliana – Nerja
Best for: Walking in the river
A trail through the riverbed, rated for the scenery. In places the water reaches 40–50 cm and the bed is slippery: wear water shoes, and it is not a good idea with small children in cold months.
Want a tailor-made plan with a local guide?
This site is an information guide: it does not run tours or sell packs. If you want something personalised with a tour guide, email us and we will see how to help.
Need a car to get around?
Several of these places are outside the city. Compare your options for hiring a car.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about hiking and nature in Málaga.
Which trail is easiest to start with?
El Torcal has a short, signposted route suitable for almost everyone. Wear closed shoes and arrive early, as the car park fills up.
Are the opening times, prices and minimum ages reliable?
They are indicative. They change by season and by place, so always confirm on each official website before you go. This guide does not sell tickets or manage bookings.
Other traveller profiles
- Families with childrenParks, adventure, animals and plans for kids
- Travelling with a petPet-friendly routes and beaches in Málaga
- Couples / romantic getawaySunsets, wine and quiet routes
- Young people and groupsAdventure, beach and group plans
- Companies / team buildingTeam activity and downtime ideas
- Seniors / relaxed paceRelaxed pace, accessibility and comfort
- Beaches and beach barsCity beaches, snorkelling and seafront walks
- Eating in MálagaTapas, espetos, markets and mountain ventas
- Rainy-day plansMuseums, markets and caves for wet weather
- Flamenco: tablaos and peñasShows in the centre and peñas with a local feel
- Day tripsRonda, Antequera, Nerja and Frigiliana from Málaga
- Nightlife and live musicRooftops, cocktails and concerts in the centre