OCT 28 – NOV 1 – El Chorro (Spain) and the infamous Caminito del Rey

Backabush is heading to El Chorro in Andalucia in the south of Spain for some amazing hiking and to catch some last sunshine at the end of October!

During this 4 night mini-adventure we are planning to hike the infamous Caminito del Rey cliff-side path, once considered to be the world’s most hazardous footpath. The spectacular Caminito del Rey is a truly thrilling, cliff-side path on the edge of the famous El Chorro gorge, hanging 100m above the waters of the river Guadalhorce reservoir. The name derives from the original name of Camino del Rey (King's Pathway), abbreviated locally to el caminito. The walkway had fallen into disrepair and was partially closed for over a decade.

The entire route has been carefully restored, but although it's now much safer, one thing hasn't changed - the unique experience of strolling along walkways hanging over 100 metres up on a sheer cliff face. The views are unforgettable. The Caminito del Rey route is spectacular from beginning to end, running through cliffs, canyons, and a large valley. It crosses the landscapes of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a gorge carved out by the river Guadalhorce, with walls 700 metres high.

We will also enjoy some superb hiking in the rugged mountains surrounding the small village of El Chorro in the province of Malaga. This area is much loved by rock climbers for its vertiginous rock faces and stunningly beautiful turquoise coloured lakes bordered by pine forests.

The area is also inhabited by a wide variety of animal and plant species. With luck we might see highland birds like Egyptian vultures, griffon vultures, or golden eagles, and mammals such as wild boar and Iberian ibex.

Classic hiking routes around El Chorro include:

• The historic Arab staircase and Pico Huma (1191m)
• Tajo de la Encantada viewpoint and the Roman ruins of Bobastro

Optional activities can include:

• The El Chorro Via Ferrata - a thrilling 4h trip with a zip line and two Tibetan bridges
• Kayaking or paddle boarding on the El Chorro lakes
• Rock climbing
• Yoga classes

This trip does not involve technical mountaineering but the hikes on the islands can be quite challenging so you need to have a good level of hiking fitness. A head for heights is also necessary in the mountainous terrain.

Accommodation

We will be staying in lovely countryside accommodation just outside of the village of El Chorro. The property has an outdoor pool, pool table and yoga platform, set in a tranquil garden. It has lots of character and a relaxed atmosphere. A perfect retreat away from it all!

The beds are in shared rooms:

• Bunk beds (3-4 bed dorm rooms) - £334

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

• 4 nights accommodation.
• Full board: 4 breakfasts, 4 packed lunches and 4 dinners.
• Free WIFI.
• An itinerary of organised hikes.
• Caminito del Rey ticket with official guide.
• Two trip leaders.
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:

• Flights to Malaga – see recommended flights below.
• Transport – airport transfer by minibus for 20 passengers costs around 10 euros per person each way.
• Drinks – our accommodation has an honesty bar.
• Optional activities.
• Travel insurance.

Recommended flights:

Our recommended flights from London Gatwick to Malaga Costa del Sol airport are:

Outbound: Friday the 28th of October 2022
Easyjet EZY8607
Departs Gatwick - 12:15
Arrives Malaga – 16:10

Return: Tuesday the 1st of November 2022
Easyjet EZY8606
Departs Malaga – 13:00
Arrives Gatwick – 14:55

To confirm your place on this trip use internet banking. The account details are:

Account Name: BACKABUSH XPLORERS
Sort Code: 090127
Account Number: 22440622

Only payment secures your place. Your RSVP is not sufficient for us to hold a place for you. Please email backabushxplorers@yahoo.com as soon as you send payment so that we can confirm everything with you. Thanks. :)

IMPORTANT NOTES

The Spanish government currently requires all arrivals to Spain from the UK to present on entry a Health Control Form and one of the following: a negative COVID-19 test; or proof of vaccination. This might change so we will monitor the situation closely.

VISA: Please check with the Spanish embassy if you need a visa to travel to Spain. Spain is within the Shengen zone. It is your responsibility to obtain all necessary documents, including visa.