Guayaquil

Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city and main port, sits along the Guayas River. The city has many points of interest, including the Malecón 2000 promenade with its 57-meter Ferris wheel, the colorful Las Peñas neighborhood with its 444 steps leading to a lighthouse, and Parque Seminario where iguanas roam freely. Guayaquil also serves as the primary gateway to the Galapagos Islands and provides access to nearby Pacific beaches.

Strolling Along Malecón 2000

The Malecón 2000 is a 2.5-kilometer promenade along Guayaquil's waterfront. As you walk, you'll see gardens, monuments, and museums while enjoying views of the Guayas River. You can stop at one of the many restaurants or cafes for a refreshment, or visit the IMAX theater for a movie. At the northern end of the Malecón, you can ride La Perla, the 57-meter-high Ferris wheel that gives you a view of the city and river from above.

Climbing Through Las Peñas

Las Peñas, Guayaquil's oldest neighborhood, has over 400 years of history. You can start at the base of Cerro Santa Ana and climb the 444 numbered steps to reach the top. Along the way, you'll see brightly painted wooden houses, many of which now contain art galleries and cafes. The narrow cobblestone streets have been walked by many famous visitors over the years, including Ernest Hemingway. At the summit, you'll find a small church and a lighthouse with views of Guayaquil and the Guayas River.

Encountering Iguanas at Parque Seminario

At Parque Seminario, also known as Iguana Park, you'll see dozens of land iguanas that move around freely. These large lizards rest in the sun on park benches, climb trees, and often approach visitors. The park also has a statue of Simón Bolívar and is next to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil. Visit in the morning or late afternoon when the iguanas are most active, and remember not to feed or touch them.

Exploring Guayaquil Historical Park

Guayaquil Historical Park is divided into three distinct zones focusing on wildlife, urban architecture, and traditional agriculture. In the wildlife area, you can see native species like jaguars, monkeys, and various birds. The urban architecture zone has restored buildings from the early 20th century, showing you what Guayaquil looked like in the past. In the traditional zone, you can learn about cacao production and other local crops that have been important to the region's economy. Plan to spend at least half a day here to see all the park has to offer.

Tasting Guayaquil's Coastal Cuisine

Guayaquil's food is influenced by its location on the coast. You can try cangrejo criollo, a local crab dish typically served with rice and avocado. Many restaurants serve this specialty, particularly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. For a variety of seafood options, you can visit La Pata Gorda restaurant, known for its fresh marlin, shrimp, and ceviche. Another local dish to try is encebollado, a fish soup often eaten for breakfast or as a hangover cure. For a quick snack, you can taste plantain chips or bolones, fried plantain balls filled with cheese or meat.

Getting Around Guayaquil

You can use Guayaquil's Metrovia, a bus rapid transit system, to move around the city. Three lines cover much of Guayaquil, with buses running frequently from early morning until late evening. For shorter trips or areas not covered by the Metrovia, you can use official taxis with orange license plates. Ride-hailing apps also work in Guayaquil and can be convenient. When walking, stick to well-lit, busy areas, especially after dark.

Staying Safe in Guayaquil

While in Guayaquil, take precautions to ensure a safe visit. Keep valuable items out of sight and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas or at night. Ask your hotel or hostel staff about which areas are safe to explore. Use reputable transportation options and avoid hailing taxis on the street. Instead, have your accommodation call a taxi for you or use a ride-hailing app. By staying alert and following these guidelines, you can enjoy Guayaquil with peace of mind.

Taking Day Trips from Guayaquil

If you have extra time, you can explore areas near Guayaquil. The beach town of Salinas, about two hours away, is on the Pacific Ocean. Here you can relax on the beach, swim, or try water sports like surfing and paddleboarding. For a nature-focused trip, you can visit Isla Santay, just across the river from Guayaquil. A pedestrian bridge connects the island to the city. On Isla Santay, you can walk trails through mangrove forests, see wildlife like birds and reptiles, and learn about local conservation efforts.