Los Cahorros Canyon Hike with Hanging Bridges & Waterfalls Granada
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Overview
This guided hike takes you into Los Cahorros de Monachil, a narrow canyon in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, only a short drive from Granada. Round-trip transport from Granada, a local guide, hiking poles, water, an energy snack and insurance are included. You cross hanging bridges, squeeze through a cave-like tunnel and climb to panoramic viewpoints on a circular route of about six kilometres. It suits active travellers, families with children who are used to walking, and anyone who wants nature close to the city.
Highlights
- Circular hike of about 6 km through the Los Cahorros de Monachil canyon
- Crossing the hanging bridges over the Monachil River
- A narrow, cave-like tunnel and a panoramic viewpoint above the canyon
- Round-trip transport from Granada, with a 20-30 minute drive each way
- Local guide, hiking poles, water, an energy snack and insurance included
- Suitable for children who can comfortably walk six kilometres
Full Description
Monachil and the start of the trail
Monachil is a small white village at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, about a 20 to 30 minute drive from Granada. It is the gateway to the Los Cahorros gorge, and the trail begins just outside the village, following the Monachil River upstream.
Since the transfer is included, you avoid the question of how to get to Los Cahorros from Granada, which can be tricky by public transport. Your guide picks you up in Granada, drives you to Monachil and back, and briefs you before the walk. The whole outing, including the transfers, takes around four hours.
The canyon of Los Cahorros and its hanging bridges
Los Cahorros is a gorge carved by the Monachil River through the limestone of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Its walls close in to a few metres apart in places, and the path follows the river, at times along ledges and over wooden and metal bridges that hang above the water.
The hanging bridges are the best-known feature of the trail and the reason many people search for the Los Cahorros hike. They sway a little, which adds to the fun, but they are sturdy and used every day. Your guide stops at the best moments for photographs and gives you the pace you need for the crossings.
The narrow tunnel, the waterfalls and the panoramic trail
Later in the hike the gorge narrows and you pass through a tunnel-like passage where you may have to crouch, so good mobility and confidence on uneven ground are recommended. After the narrowest part, a less-known path climbs to the upper edge of the canyon.
From the top you see the whole gorge and the mountains behind it, and in wetter months there are small waterfalls and natural pools along the river. The trail is circular, with an elevation gain of around 270 metres, so you see different landscapes on the way out and back.
The best time to hike Los Cahorros and how to prepare
Los Cahorros is good all year round. In summer start in the morning, when the shade of the trees along the river keeps it cool. Spring brings green vegetation and birdsong, autumn brings rich colours, and winter has mild temperatures and peaceful trails without the crowds.
Wear hiking shoes with good grip, take water and sun protection, and bring a small backpack so that your hands are free on the bridges and rocks. The route is not suitable for people with mobility problems or for pregnant women. Children are welcome as long as they are used to walking and can complete six kilometres.
Itinerary
- Pickup in GranadaMeet your guide at the meeting point in Granada and board the vehicle.
- Drive to MonachilAbout 20 to 30 minutes to the village at the foot of the Sierra Nevada.
- Hike along the Monachil RiverWalk into the canyon and cross the hanging bridges with your guide.
- Narrow tunnel and upper trailPass through the cave-like passage and climb to a viewpoint above the canyon.
- Snack break with Sierra Nevada viewsRest with an energy snack and water in a scenic spot.
- Return to GranadaComplete the circular route and drive back to the meeting point.
What's included
- Round-trip transportation from Granada to Los Cahorros
- Local guide (English)
- Hiking poles
- Accident and liability insurance
- Drinking water
- Energy bar
Not included
- Food and other drinks
- Tips
Is this right for you?
Great for
- Families with children — a child price for ages 0–12
- Nature and wildlife lovers
- A half-day plan — about 4 hours
- Travellers who want a proven choice — rated 4.9/5 by past travellers
Think twice if
- You need hotel pickup — you meet at the meeting point
- You want a private tour — this one is shared with other travellers
- Walking is difficult for you — expect active parts
Not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- People with mobility impairments
- Children who are not used to walking or cannot complete six kilometres
- Travellers who are not comfortable on narrow trails, bridges and uneven ground
Meeting point
The tour starts at a meeting point in Granada that we confirm with your booking, together with the departure time for your date. Round-trip transport to Monachil is included. Please arrive a few minutes early and wear your hiking shoes.
Important information
- Bring hiking shoes with good grip, sun protection, water and comfortable clothes that can get dirty.
- A small backpack is recommended to keep your hands free.
- Trail: about 6 km, an elevation gain of about 270 metres, roughly 4 hours in total including stops and the drive.
- Some sections are narrow and you may need to crouch for a short distance.
- Good mobility, balance and confidence on uneven terrain are recommended.
- Dress for the weather and season.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the Los Cahorros hike cost?
The price depends on the option you choose and the group size. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for each option.
Is transport from Granada included?
Yes. Round-trip transport between Granada and Monachil is included, with a drive of about 20 to 30 minutes each way.
How long is the hike?
The trail is about six kilometres and the whole outing takes roughly four hours including the transfers and stops.
How difficult is Los Cahorros?
It is a moderate hike with an elevation gain of around 270 metres. Some parts are narrow, so you need reasonable mobility and balance, but you do not need climbing experience.
Is the hike suitable for children?
Children are welcome as long as they are used to walking and can comfortably complete six kilometres. Younger, older and teenage travellers have their own passenger types in the booking panel.
What should I wear and bring?
Hiking shoes, sun protection, water, comfortable clothes that can get dirty, and a small backpack. Poles, water and an energy snack are provided.
What is the difference between the options?
The standard option is a guided hike with transport from Granada. The private option is for your own group of up to six people, with the pace and duration adapted to you.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
If places are open, yes. The booking panel shows only the dates that are currently available.
Are there really hanging bridges and waterfalls?
Yes, the trail crosses hanging bridges over the Monachil River, and in wetter months there are small waterfalls and natural pools.
What is the best time to hike Los Cahorros?
Any season can work. Spring and autumn are especially beautiful, summer mornings are cooler under the trees, and winter is mild and quiet.
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