At 3,371 metres above sea level, Alcazaba is not quite as high as the neighbouring peaks of Mulhacén and Veleta. However, it is more remote, and the ascent is steeper and more challenging. Even so, in high summer you don’t need any technical equipment to get to the top, and the views and scenery are breathtaking. On your way you will pass the beautiful mountain tarns and meadows of Siete Lagunas.
Level The route is long, with a significant amount of climbing at high altitude. The higher sections are on rocky terrain where there are no distinct paths. You should only do this hike if you are a good navigator, and we recommend that you also take a GPS with the trail loaded onto it.
When to go The route is only possible in summer and early autumn. The mountains are snow-capped in winter, and most years the snow does not melt until June or even July. There can be patches of snow even in midsummer. It is worth checking at the information kiosk in Capileira for advice on the latest weather conditions. Even in summer it can be cold at the top (particularly in cloudy and windy conditions) so take warm clothing.
Water You can get water at the Refugio de Poqueira and from streams around the Siete Lagunas.
Location: Alpujarras, Capileira
This hike starts from the Refugio de Poqueira or from Alto del Chorillo, above the village of Capileira.
Transport
The hike starts from the Refugio de Poqueira, where you can stay overnight. See our Acequias del Poqueira walk for details of how to walk to the Refugio from Capileira.
You can also take the special bus service from Capileira to Paraje del Cascajar, and join the walk at Alto del Chorrillo. We recommend booking the bus in advance. Click here for details.
To get to Capileira:
By Car: From Granada, take the E-902/A-44 towards Motril. Take exit 164 and take the A-348 towards Lanjarón. Carry on past Lanjarón and after about a further 8km turn left onto the A-4132, marked towards Trevélez (the turning is just after you enter Órgiva). Follow this road until you get past Pampaneira, then turn up to the left following signs for Bubión and Capileira.
By Bus: Capileira is served by Alsa services from Granada bus station (4 per day). Click here for more details.