Guaro: things to see, festivals and getting there

Guaro is a white village in the Sierra de las Nieves region, in inland Malaga province. Surrounded by olive groves and almond trees, its old quarter has narrow streets and whitewashed houses to explore on foot. San Miguel Arcángel Church, the Olive Oil Museum and the candlelit evenings of the well-known Festival de la Luna Mora are among its main attractions.

The village is around 45 km by road from Malaga Airport, depending on the route. With Monda and Coin nearby, you can combine your visit with other villages in the surrounding countryside.

History of Guaro

People have lived in the area since prehistoric times, although the village's origins are linked to the period of Al-Andalus, when much of the Iberian Peninsula was under Muslim rule. One of its early settlements stood at the site known as Guaro Viejo, where life centred on the market gardens and farmland nearby.

Guaro came under the control of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand, in 1485, following the conquest of Coin. The Muslim population initially remained under Christian rule. Conversions to Christianity and the later expulsion of the Moriscos, the converted Muslims and their descendants, transformed the local community during the 16th century. The street layout and the importance of crops grown without irrigation help explain how the village developed.

Things to see and do in Guaro

A walk through the old quarter can start at the church and continue towards San Isidro Fountain and the Al-Ándalus Cultural Centre. For a longer walk, paths outside the village lead through olive groves and almond trees, with views towards the Rio Grande valley.

• San Miguel Arcángel Church: built in the early 16th century on the site of a former mosque, the church has undergone several alterations. Its façade, with a niche dedicated to St Michael, and its clock tower are two of its most recognisable features. (View map)
• San Isidro Labrador Fountain: on Avenida de Andalucía, this fountain reflects Guaro's farming heritage. Its former use as a watering place for animals made it a stopping point for farmers and muleteers. (View map)
• Al-Ándalus Cultural Centre and Olive Oil Museum: housed in a restored olive oil mill, the centre preserves machinery used in olive oil production. The building also houses the tourist information office and hosts exhibitions and cultural activities. Check opening times before planning a visit inside. (View map)
• Cruz del Puerto Chapel: this small chapel dates back to the 18th century and stands around 500 metres from the village. The surrounding area offers views of Guaro and the Sierra de las Nieves landscape.

Walking and almond blossom

The paths around Guaro pass through farmland planted with olive and almond trees. When the almond trees blossom in winter, they are one of the main reasons to explore the countryside around the village. The exact flowering period varies from year to year.

Waymarked walks include the Guaro–Monda stage of the GR 243, the Gran Senda de la Sierra de las Nieves long-distance walking route. Ask at the tourist information office about trail conditions and routes that suit your fitness level and the time you have available.

Fairs and festivals in Guaro

The local calendar brings together agricultural celebrations, village festivities and music. These are some of the best-known events:

• Día del Almendro, or Almond Tree Day: usually held in late January, with countryside walks and activities celebrating almond growing and its products.
• San Isidro pilgrimage: in May, pilgrims accompany the saint's image from the village to his chapel beside the Rio Grande.
• Guaro village fair: held in late August, with music, dancing and activities for different ages.
• Festival de la Luna Flamenca: part of the village's musical tradition, featuring flamenco singing, guitar playing and dancing, with a programme that varies each year.

Dates and activities for each edition are announced through Guaro Town Council.

Festival de la Luna Mora and candlelit evenings

In September, thousands of candles light the streets and squares of the old quarter during the celebration known as the Festival de la Luna Mora, advertised in recent editions as Festival Villa de Guaro. The programme combines music, crafts, food stalls and activities inspired by the culture of Al-Andalus.

If you would like to attend, check the programme for the relevant edition, including access routes, parking and any special bus services. Transport arrangements can change from year to year.

What to eat in Guaro

Almonds and olive oil play an important part in local cooking. Traditional dishes include rabbit in almond sauce, goat stew and galipuche, a soup typical of Guaro.

Almonds also feature in soups and sweet treats, while olives, honey and cured meats complete the range of regional produce. In the village's bars and restaurants, you can combine tapas with home-style dishes.

How to get to Guaro from Malaga

The drive from Malaga Airport to Guaro usually takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic and your chosen route. The village is reached via the A-7100, which connects with roads around Coin and Monda.

Visiting Guaro by car

A car lets you combine Guaro with Monda, Coin or other villages in the Sierra de las Nieves without relying on bus timetables. It also makes it easier to reach rural accommodation outside the village.

Car hire in Malaga

Taxi or private transfer

A taxi from Malaga Airport takes you straight to your accommodation. It is a practical option if you would prefer to spend a few days in Guaro without driving or are travelling with luggage.

Book a taxi

*No advance payment is required and cancellation is free. We therefore recommend booking ahead to secure your vehicle and price.

Getting to Guaro by bus

Avanza's L-80 bus connects Marbella, Ojen, Monda, Guaro and Coin. You can use it to travel from these towns and villages or connect with other bus services. Check timetables and stops on the official Avanza website, particularly when planning your return journey.

There is no direct bus from the airport to Guaro. One option is to travel to Marbella first and change there for the L-80, provided the timetables work for your journey. You can also check the bus connections from Malaga Airport to plan the first part of your trip.

Tourist information and contact details

The tourist information office is in the Al-Ándalus Cultural Centre at Avenida de Andalucía, 39. For municipal enquiries or information about local celebrations, contact the town council: