The Gaitanes Gorge is a canyon carved by the Guadalhorce River in Jurassic limestone and dolomites, with about 3 km long, walls that reach about 300 meters high and very narrow passages, at some points less than 10 meters wide. Its abrupt relief forms one of the most spectacular fluvial lakes in the province of Malaga and a clear example of karstic and fluvial modeling. From the viewpoints and sections that can be visited, the verticality of the cliffs can be appreciated, as well as the river's confinement at the bottom of the valley and the relationship between the geology of the gorge and the historical and current infrastructures of the environment, especially the route of the Caminito del Rey. The interest of the landscape lies in the combination of walls, suspended walkways and panoramic views over the riverbed and nearby reservoirs. It is protected as a Natural Site since 1989 and is part of the natural area associated with the Caminito del Rey, one of the best known routes in Andalusia. The area is also highlighted in geological inventories for its geomorphological and stratigraphic value. The visit is especially attractive with good visibility, in spring and autumn, when temperatures are milder and the light enhances the contrast between the rock and the riverbed. In summer it is advisable to avoid the central hours due to the heat and the exposure of the terrain.
