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15 Best Things to Do in Guayaquil Ecuador: Travel Guide & Important Tips

May 18, 2023 By John Widmer 25 Comments

What to do in Guayaquil, Ecuador?

This city can make for an excellent stopover during a trip to Ecuador, as there are so many fun things to do in Guayaquil. As long-term travelers in Ecuador, we decided to write this detailed Guayaquil travel guide to show why it’s worth the stop, reveal all the best things to do in Guayaquil, and further provide some Guayaquil travel & safety tips.

Is Guayaquil Worth Visiting?

• Best Things to Do in Guayaquil
• Is Guayaquil Safe?
• Guayaquil Travel Tips

Guayaquil is a popular transit hub for travelers, as it’s home to Ecuador’s second busiest international airport, is the only connection to the Galapagos Islands, and has a major bus terminal for those traveling throughout Ecuador and into Peru. Therefore, Guayaquil is often a place that travelers stop into when taking a trip through Ecuador.

Hence many visitors bound for somewhere else find themselves passing through this city and wondering “ Is Guayaquil worth visiting?”

We see this question come up constantly in social media posts and travel forums.

So what’s the answer to all of these inquiries? Is Guayaquil worth visiting?

We say “sí, sí, sí!”

That’s a big “yes,” of course. Guayaquil is most definitely worth visiting in our opinion. There are actually a good number of really fun things to do in Guayaquil to keep curious travelers busy for a few days.

We’ll concede that there may be more worthwhile places to visit within Ecuador. After all, this is an amazing country that holds the Andes, the Amazon, the Galapagos, colonial cities, and great beaches. For anyone visiting Ecuador with extremely limited time, bypassing Guayaquil might make sense. Yet those on a short Ecuador trip will be missing out on all the awesome things to do in Guayaquil.

For anyone transiting through the city, Guayaquil can definitely be well worth staying for a day or two to discover all of the charms of Ecuador’s largest city.

Why Guayaquil Is Worth Visiting

Guayaquil has recently gone through a resurgence. Many successful renewal projects have been implemented throughout the city, in addition to an assortment of new attractions. What once may have been considered a big grimy city, now boasts upscale dining districts and sparkling clean waterfront promenades. It’s a changed place!

In the past decade alone, Guayaquil has developed the creative architecture of Ecuador’s tallest building, erected the largest ferris wheel in South America, opened up many trendy entertainment complexes, and introduced a handful of brand-new tourism initiatives.

These efforts have all brought so many interesting things to do in Guayaquil in recent years.

Guayaquil is a city that is clearly modernizing and making a concerted effort to appeal to travelers.

Yet Guayaquil still manages to maintain historic charms too. Established in 1538, this port town is one of the oldest cities in Ecuador . Some of the colorful architecture from centuries past can still be seen today while wandering around the hot and steamy city streets.

This is the tropics after all!

Yet the warm climate can come as a pleasant break for anyone having come from the high Andes running through Ecuador’s midsection. And despite the toasty weather, thankfully most establishments throughout Guayaquil have great air-conditioning systems and aren’t afraid to use them!

The warm weather adds to Guayaquil’s tropical character just as much as the broad River Guayas scenically lining the city’s shore. It’s this position on the briskly flowing river that greatly contributes to the city’s uniqueness and even provides a few things to do in Guayaquil.

Guayaquil is also a bargain travel destination to visit right now.

We found that almost all the main things to do in Guayaquil are completely free , or very inexpensive. Guayaquil is a particularly budget-friendly city in South America and it’s easily possible to explore Guayaquil on a budget. Know that all of the recommendations throughout this Guayaquil travel guide come with prices listed that all budgets can afford.

We’ve crafted this informative travel guide not only to show why Guayaquil may be worth a stop but also to help make the most of a short visit when passing through the city. Guayaquil has something for everyone to do, whether you’re into nature, culture, history, food, family-friendly activities, or nightlife.

Before reading on for all the details on what to do in Guayaquil, be sure to check out the video below. It puts into motion all of the highlights of the best things to do in Guayaquil to give some idea of what all of Guayaquil’s attractions are like.

Best Things to Do in Guayaquil Ecuador

The following list is what we found to be the 15 best things to do in Guayaquil! All of the points of interest discussed in this article are listed on the map below.

1) Stroll the Malecón 2000

If you were to do only one thing in Guayaquil, our suggestion is to take a leisurely stroll along the Malecón 2000. This pleasant 2.5-kilometer riverfront promenade not only takes in excellent views of the River Guayas, but winds its way through gardens, monuments, museums, restaurants, and shopping complexes.

While in Guayaquil, you’ll hear the boardwalk referred to as Malecón dos mil , which translates to  Malecón two-thousand , the year the new waterfront stretch was opened.

The Malecón 2000 is often touted as one of the most successful revitalization projects in South America. What was once a dilapidated riverfront only a few decades prior, is now a thriving waterfront that’s filled with attractions and things to do.

The Malecón 2000 takes on different personalities depending on when visited. During a weekday it’s possible to enjoy the sprawling promenade almost entirely to yourself. Yet on a pleasant weekend afternoon, expect to find thousands of local families gathering for a day of fun on the river. It’s a nice scene to soak in and great people-watching.

There’s really a lot to do along the Malecón 2000 for both locals and visitors alike. In fact, many of the subsequent recommendations of things to do in Guayaquil can be found right along this malecón.

• MAAC – Museum of Anthropology (covered separately in this travel guide: #7)
• Cinema Malecón – Arguably the best movie theatre in Ecuador, with an IMAX theatre and 3D
• Museo de Miniatura – Guayaquil’s history is revealed through informative miniature displays
• La Perla – Giant ferris wheel (covered separately in this travel guide: #2)
• Malecon Garden – Park-like section of Malecón 2000 with gardens, coy ponds, and trees that attract birds
• La Rotunda – Rotunda monument to Guayaquil Independence
• Torre de Roloj – Iconic clock tower that is lit up at night.
• Guayas River boat cruise – Take a short boat tour on the Guayas River (covered separately in this travel guide: #4)
• Centro Comercial Malecón 2000 – Shopping mall, also known as C.C. Malecón
• Plaza Gastronomica Mercado del Rio – Indoor, upmarket food hall with nearly two dozen offerings ranging from international to Ecuadorian
• Patio de Comidas – Outdoor patio with quick-serve food stalls ranging from local seafood to KFC
• Palacio de Cristal – Vacant old South Market built by representatives of Gustav Eiffel
• Mercado Artesanal – Artisan market with Ecuadorian products to buy locally-produced souvenirs

💲 Cost : Free to stroll

🕒 Hours : 7:00 am-Midnight, although shops and restaurants may not open until after 11:00 am.

⌚ Length of visit : 1-4 hours, or more depending on attractions stopped at

📍 Location : 2.5-kilometers along the River Guayas, midsection: here .

🔗 Official Website : Malecon 2000

2) La Perla: Take a Ride One of South America’s Largest Ferris Wheels

One of those attractions to check out along Malecón 2000 is definitely La Perla! “The Pearl,” as it translates to in English, was completed in 2015, becoming what was touted as the largest ferris wheel in South America upon opening.

While its height has since been surpassed by a ferris wheel in Brazil, La Perla remains the largest Ferris Wheel in Ecuador and soars to a height of 57 meters (187 feet) high above Guayaquil!

During the 12-minute rotation into the air, the giant ferris wheel offers incredible views of the river, the boardwalk, and the city skyline. Each gondola is air-conditioned too, which comes as a relief while walking around the hot city. And we found there to usually be surprisingly few people riding La Perla. So a lack of queuing and a private ride can be an added bonus to the experience.

You’re even more likely to avoid any crowds on a weekday visit. It’s then that prices of La Perla drop from a mere $5 to the bargain price of $3.50.

Be sure to bring a camera, as the pods on the ferris wheel provide some great photo opportunities when in a high position. And since La Perla is located on the northern end of Malecón 2000, the giant ferris wheel also has some of the best views of the colorful hillside community known as Cerro Santa Ana, which is another must-see place in Guayaquil, as we show in the next thing to do in Guayaquil.

💲 Price : $3.50 Mon-Fri, $5 Sat, Sun, and holidays

🕒 Hours : 10:00-22:00 Sun-Thurs and ‘til Midnight on Fridays & Saturdays

⌚ Length of visit : 12-minute ride

📍 Location : Northern end of Malecon 2000: here .

🔗 Official website : La Perla

3) Las Peñas: Climb the 444 Steps of Cerro Santa Ana

On the northern fringe of Malecón 2000 is where to find what is arguably the most beautiful neighborhood in Guayaquil , Las Peñas. It’s a historic neighborhood that dates back over 400 years!

The colorful hillside enclave of Cerro Santa Ana has retained the allure of bygone eras. Quaint homes are perched down narrow alleyways as family-run neighborhood bars offer a most-welcomed reprieve while climbing up the 444 steps leading to the top of Santa Ana Hill.

If there’s any doubt about how far you’ve ascended in Guayaquil’s heat, each step is numbered to provide a gentle reminder.

There are plenty of benches and quaint plazas along the way to pause and catch your breath. About every few dozen stairs will be a vendor selling water to help keep you cool and hydrated as you make your way to the top. Reaching step #444 provides a visual reward for the sweaty effort, by offering panoramic views of the Guayaquil and the river down below.

Also in the Las Peñas area at the base of Santa Ana Hill is a scenic cobblestoned street known as Numa Pompilio Llona . It’s a famous street in Guayaquil that really shows off its wooden colonial architecture . Behind the colorful wooden doors are many artsy stores to pop into.

But that colorful neighborhood is at the bottom of the hill.

You’ll want to be sure to climb the stairs from there to reach the top of Cerro Santa Ana. That’s where there’s a small church and the “El Faro” lighthouse is located. It’s possible to go inside this hilltop lighthouse for 360-degree panoramic views down below.

Lining the top of this hill are also canons that were once used to protect Guayaquil from pirates. Look beyond the canons and out onto the Guayas River and you may even see a pirate ship floating by. And that’s another great thing to do in Guayaquil!

💲 Price : Free

🕒 Hours : El Faro (lighthouse) is open 10 am – 10 pm

⌚ Length of visit : About an hour or so

📍 Location : Just north of Malecon 2000. Start walking the main stairway at step #1:  here .

4) Take a Guayas River Cruise

After spending much time admiring the River Guayas from shore, it’s almost a necessary thing to do in Guayaquil to get out onto that river and experience it! Boat rides down the Guayas River cruise along the malecon offering a fun way to see Guayaquil’s sites.

Boat trips along the Guayas River cruise by the colorful Las Peñas enclave and also past the southern reaches of Malecón 2000. On the opposite side of the river, the ship voyages past a tranquil island known as Isla Santay, which is actually yet another fun thing to do in Guayaquil!

We suggest going around 6:00 pm to be able to see Guayaquil in the dwindling sunlight as the city begins to light up and the night sky takes over.

The Henry Morgan Pirate Ship has been a fun and popular way to tour the Guayas River but has been temporarily closed during the past few years. Rumors swirl that this pirate ship will be returning to Guayaquil. In the meantime, there are now other Guayas River boat trips to pursue along the Malecon.

RiverDock offers an hour-long Guays River trip on a catamaran for $10/person, Thursdays through Sundays. Additional tours and parties are also available.

Transporte Kacique operates a double-decker boat with 40-minute tours up the Guayas River for a mere $4 per person (weekday prices). To get an idea of what to expect on their boat tours, you can check out their Instagram .

On weekends Kacique’s two-hour boat tours include a trip to Isla Santay, which is another great thing to do in Guayaquil, detailed next in this Guayaquil travel guide!

• Riverdock: $4 for a 40-min Guayas River tour, $6 for a 2-hour Isla Santay tour – weekends only
• Kacique: $10 for the hour tour
• Riverdock: Thurs-Sun: 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM
• Kacique: Tuesday-Friday: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Saturday-Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM 

⌚ Length of visit : depends on the tour – 40 minutes to 2+ hours

📍 Location :

• Riverdock: Located here , on the northern side of Cerro Santa Ana
• Kacique: Northern end of Malecon 2000, right here . Look for the Popeye statue and signs for “ Paseo de Lancha ” (Boat Ride).

5) Go Cycling around Isla Santay

Just across the river from the traffic and honking horns on the busy streets of Guayaquil lies a tranquil island that feels worlds away from the city’s urban sprawl. It makes for a fantastic escape into nature from so close to the city.

There are no cars at all found on Isla Santay, as a long pedestrian bridge only allows walkers and cyclists onto the island. Alternatively, boats also ferry people from Guayaquil’s Malecon 2000 to Isla Santay. Or visitors can simply walk. Yet we suggest renting a bike to get across the bridge and around Isla Santay.

The pedestrian bridge spanning over the River Guayas is 850 meters long . Once across, visitors will transition to a network of boardwalks and pathways that weave through a mangrove swamp, tropical forest, and palm canopies filled with hundreds of birds. In fact, over 100 different species call this island their home! The biodiversity on the island further extends itself to 65 different plants and even 25 mammal species.

It’s a fairly easy and pleasant stroll of nearly a kilometer across the bridge, plus an extra two kilometers further along the island’s boardwalks. Whether cycling or walking, plan for 6 kilometers (less than 4 miles) round trip. We found Santay Island to be a particularly nice place to experience from behind the handlebars! At the base of the pedestrian bridge is a bike rental station with plenty of bikes and helmets to send you on your way, $4 for a 3-hour bike rental.

On Santay Island, the winding trails lead to a small fishing village consisting of 235 people that make up 56 families who live in modest homes built up on stilts. Each home includes a living room, dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms, a bathroom, potable water, and solar power.

Within the eco-village, there’s also a small museum to learn about the nature of the island and the people who live here. There’s even a short boardwalk with platforms to view crocodiles.

A few snack bars greet visitors at the entrance of the village. But we recommend holding out for the barren open-air restaurant within the village that offers local dishes at inexpensive prices. For example, you can sit down to a lunch of seco de pollo for $2.50.

Near the village entrance, visitors can locate the trailhead of the Huaquillas Trail . That’s a half-kilometer walking trail that ventures more into the tropical forest canopy and where the most birds can be found. Mosquitos are thick on this trail too, so plan accordingly if you’re going to take the short trek.

Between this interesting little village and the nature found throughout the twisting pathways, Isla Santay is all literally a breath of fresh air so close to the big city!

💲 Price : Free to enter Santay Island.

🚲 Bike rental info : It’s $4 for 3 hours, including helmet and bike lock. IDs are needed as collateral for bike rental. At the entrance to the village, there’s a bike rack to lock up your bicycles while walking around.

🕒 Hours : Hours: 6:00 am – 5:00 pm.

⌚ Length of visit : 2-3 hours

📍 Location : Approximately 2 kilometers further south after Malecon 2000 ends, right here . Take a taxi or Uber.

⚠️ Note : There were once two different bridges connecting to the island, but the bridge from Duran to Santay Island was knocked down by a ship accident and is still out of use, as of January 2024. So be sure to use the Santay Island bridge , located here .

6) Visit the Parque Histórico for Culture, History, and Animals

Parque Histórico is one of the Guayaquil’s top attractions . The “Historic Park,” as its name translates, is much more than just a park about history, although that’s a part of it. This Guayaquil attraction is set on sprawling grounds that contain three separate areas  that flow into one another:

• Wildlife Zone,
• Urban Zone, and
• Traditional Area.

It’s another great thing to do in Guayaquil. Parque Histórico only has a modest entrance fee ($4), although you will need to budget an extra $5 for the Uber/taxi to reach this attraction, located about 15 minutes from the downtown/Malecon area. Yet we found it to be worth the short trip to spend a few hours exploring each of the different zones.

The Wildlife Zone gives a glimpse into local Ecuadorian fauna while meandering across a boardwalk trail. It’s essentially a zoo of sorts, but the animals are living in fairly spacious recreations of their natural environments, rather than in cages.

The Urban Zone is like a living history museum, full of beautiful architecture from Ecuador’s colonial heydays of the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Some of the buildings are recreations while others are historic dwellings that were moved to the Parque Histórico and restored. On weekends, costumed performers have been known to amble about the historical buildings, adding to the charming historic atmosphere.

Of Parque Histórico’s three sections, we found the Urban Zone to be the highlight.

For anyone looking on Guayaquil, then consider stopping into the onsite 5-star restaurant, Casa Julian , located within Parque Histórico’s Urban Zone. This notable restaurant boasts an ultra-elegant atmosphere with high-end gastronomic delights to match the unique setting.

Finally, the Traditional Area gives a glimpse into Ecuador’s rural life and agriculture. Recreations of farm plots and cocoa plantations are found in the Traditional Area.

These three zones of Parque Histórico all add up to a must-visit Guayaquil attraction that we recommend venturing beyond downtown to experience.

💲 Price : $4 for adults, $2 for children up to 12 years old.

🕒 Hours : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm on Wednesday-Sunday

⌚ Length of visit : About 2 hours or so

📍 Location : It’s about a 15-minute Uber ride (~$5) from downtown Guayaquil or Malecon 2000. Located here .

7) Check Out the Museum of Anthropology and Contemporary Art

While strolling along the Malecon 2000, the Museo Antropologico y Arte Contemporaneo, abbreviated as MAAC, should be a compulsory stop when traveling to Guayaquil.

Admission to MAAC is entirely free, it’s well air-conditioned, and in a convenient location on the Malecon 2000. But the real reason to check out the museum is for the Ecuadorian archeology on display and the funky art exhibits.

Soon after entering the modern MAAC building with tall ceilings, visitors are first pointed to the contemporary art half of the museum. There are a few different halls filled with peculiar, interesting, and thought-provoking pieces of modern artwork.

The Anthropological half of the MAAC displays dozens of ancient artifacts that well predate the Spanish arrival. Many elaborate ceramic pieces on display were found throughout Ecuador.

It’s a nice collection. Those who can’t read Spanish should realize the signage does not have translations. To learn more about these exhibits, consider downloading a visual translation app, like Google Translate (free: Android , iPhone ), to have the ability to translate the informative plaques when visiting MAAC.

Of the half-dozen museums we’ve visited in Guayaquil, we found the MAAC to not only be the biggest but also the best. It certainly is well deserving of being one of the 15 best things to do in Guayaquil.

🕒 Hours : Tues-Fri 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Weekends 10 am – 4 pm.

⌚ Length of visit : 1-2 hours

📍 Location : It’s on the northern end of the Malecon 2000. Located here .

8) Find the Iguanas in Parque Bolivar  

Parque Bolivar is a quick yet quintessential and iconic stop on any Guayaquil itinerary. It’s here where you can find Guayaquil’s resident land iguanas lazily hanging out right in the middle of the otherwise busy city. That’s why the park is also known as Parque de las Iguanas , or Iguana Park.

This city square with iguanas is also referred to as Parque Seminario, but don’t let the multiple different names confuse you. It’s all the same place. This is where to find the iguanas in Guayaquil.

For those who have come to the iguana-fill park after visiting the Galapagos, you may not be overly impressed by the reptilian residents.

But do know that this is a different species of iguana than what is found on the islands. And for anyone heading to the Galapagos, this Iguana Park can be a great precursor of what’s to come.

It’s a nice yet small park that’s centrally located downtown and only three blocks away from the Malecon 2000. The iguanas are wild, roaming around the park as they please. Yet they are very tame, as locals come to feed them vegetables and flowers, sometimes even by hand.

Guayaquil’s Iguana Park is in a pleasant setting, located right in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral. The many benches throughout the park can make for a nice place to take a break and watch the reptiles.

🕒 Hours : Open 24 hours, but best to go during daylight

⌚ Length of visit : About 15 minutes

📍 Location : It’s three blocks west of the Torre Morisca on Malecon 2000. Located here .

9) Explore Downtown Guayaquil

The Iguana Park isn’t the only place in downtown Guayaquil worth straying off the Malecon for. That may be the most popular attraction amidst Guayaquil’s downtown, but it’s worth taking a wander further throughout downtown Guayaquil to explore other parks, monuments, churches, and architectural gems. It’s a safe bet to do this during the day.

Below are a few suggestions on points of interest to see in downtown Guayaquil, all of which are also marked on the map we made to use with this travel guide:

• Arosemena Passage – Ornate passageway running through the Municipal Palace
• Metropolitan Cathedral – Grand cathedral in front of the Iguana Park (bottom right in photo below)
• Iglesia San Francisco – Beautiful colonial church (upper left in photo)
• Avenida 9 de Octubre – Main commercial corridor of Guayaquil full of department stores and shops
• Parque del Centenario – The largest park within downtown Guayaquil contains many monuments (upper right in photo)

For those who may desire more information about each of these places or don’t feel comfortable wandering around downtown Guayaquil on your own, consider taking a guided tour of Guayaquil.

This Half-Day Guayaquil City Tour has 9 am and 2 pm pick-ups and is a great way to get acquainted with the city. It’s a perfect overview for anyone new to Guayaquil or someone with only a day in Guayaquil who wants to see the main sights.

This city tour visits all of the downtown highlights and then continues further to the Las Peñas neighborhood and Cerro Santa Ana. Check Viator for current availability and up-to-date prices .

10) Roam around Guayaquil’s Other Boardwalk: Malecón El Salado

Malecón 2000 gets all the love in Guayaquil. And deservingly so, as it’s a very enjoyable waterfront promenade. But it’s actually not the only malecón in town.

Malecón El Salado is Guayaquil’s other malecón and sports a different vibe compared to the main Malecón 2000.

Walking the entire length of the Malecón El Salado gives visitors glimpses into working-class neighborhoods that are a contrast to the built-up and more polished downtown area and Malecón 2000. Yet these neighborhoods lining Malecón El Salado carry their own special charm.

Malecón El Salado can be nice for a sunset stroll too, given its westward-facing location.

There are also snack bars and casual open-air restaurants to stop at, all along Malecón El Salado. These snack food stalls are open in 2024, some with lively music on weekend evenings.

The Plaza de Mariscos (Seafood Plaza) makes for a particularly inviting outdoor patio to pause along the boardwalk. As of Jan 2024, this section of casual eateries is still temporarily closed. So check the status during your visit if you want to try local fish in the open-air environment or simply enjoy some cervezas.

And while Malecón El Salado makes for yet another nice place to stroll in Guayaquil, there are a few other things to do here that deserve separate mentions of their own. The next few recommendations on this list of things to do in Guayaquil can be found on Malecón El Salado.

🕒 Hours : 6:00 am – 9:00 pm

⌚ Length of visit : An hour or so, depending on if you’re stopping to eat, drink, or partake in one of the subsequent recommended activities.

📍 Location : Along the Salado Estuary. A good central point to have a taxi or Uber drop you off is on the South end near Aguirre, here .

11) Go Row-boating around the Estero Salado

There’s a small rowboat rental pier along the Malecón El Salado, right nearby the Plaza de Mariscos . You get a workout by paddling around the river on your own. Or opt to hire a paddler to do the work for you, to instead enjoy a romantic and leisurely row around the estuary.

Mangroves line one side of the riverbank and the boardwalk lines the other. Additional rowboats fill this section of the skinny river, as does the occasional fisherman.

The thirty-minute paddle takes 1-4 passengers under a few bridges and past the Monumental Fountain of Dancing Waters, which is another Guayaquil attraction of its own merit.

💲 Cost : $4 per boat (not per person) + $2 for a rower

🕒 Hours : Go during daylight hours, no official hours posted.

⌚ Length of visit : It’s a 30-minute paddle

📍 Location : The small pier is in front of the Seafood Plaza. Located at this point . Look for a blue sign in front of the ticket booth that reads “Embarcaciones Recreativas” (Recreational Boats).

12) Watch the Monumental Fountains of Dancing Waters

This dancing fountain display is an awe-inspiring attraction in Guayaquil. The fountains blast up 40 meters (131 feet) high in the air. Although the fountains are on during the day, it’s most special to visit them in the early evening.

When night falls in Guayaquil the fountains light up and become choreographed to music. It’s really quite the spectacle and more impressive than we had envisioned. The music ranges from Italian opera to local tunes specific to Guayaquil.

It’s comparable to Vegas’s famed Bellagio Fountains, albeit slightly smaller in size. Yet Guayaquil’s fountains go on to dance much longer.

There’s a platform adjacent to the fountains for an up-close view. Yet we recommend watching them from the Malecón El Salado on the opposite side of the river. There’s a snack bar selling beers, empanadas, and more. And the tables set up on the upper level make for an inviting place to sit back with a cerveza and enjoy the show.

If you’re in Guayaquil on a weekend evening, don’t miss seeing the Monumental Fountain of Dancing Waters come to life.

💲 Cost : Free

🕒 Hours : Weekends at 7:00, 7:30, and 8:00 pm.

📍 Location : The fountains themselves are here . We suggest watching from across the river on the upper platform, located here .

13) Eat Cangrejo Criolle – That’s Crab!

If you only have one night in Guayaquil consider making dinner plans to enjoy one of the city’s most iconic dishes: cangrejo criollo , or creole crab! The experience of eating cangrejo criollo is really one of the best things to do in Guayaquil. And it is an experience!

These red mangrove crabs are a local favorite in Guayaquil. After the crabs are boiled, it’s upon you to do the rest of the work. That’s half the fun!

Mallets are brought to the table to help reach the crab meat after tearing into the claws and legs with your bare hands. The entire restaurant is filled with a symphony of people pounding away on the tables. Bibs help to protect from the inevitable resulting splatter. But these crabs are every bit as delicious as they are messy to eat.

These red crabs are boiled up in a big pot of beer after all, along with spices like cumin, oregano, and garlic to perfectly flavor the delicate crab meat. It takes some time and energy to crack into each of the crab legs, yet each tasty bite will remind you that it’s definitely worth the effort!

So where’s the best place in Guayaquil for cangrejo criollo? That’s a matter of opinion, of course. And there’s no shortage of crab restaurants or opinions about the matter.

Here are just a few suggestions among the dozens of crab restaurants in Guayaquil:

• Red Crab is recommended in many popular guidebooks and has three locations, all north of downtown.
• Los Cangrejos de Pepito Loza receives the highest ratings on TripAdvisor among restaurants serving cangrejo criollo , located a bit northwest of the airport.
• La Pata Gorda was most often recommended to us by locals and has a central position near Iguana Park, among other locations.

Whichever creole crab restaurant you choose, just slap on a bib and get cracking!

💲 Cost : Varies by restaurant. The cangrejo criollo at La Pata Gorda costs $12.77 (2024 prices)

🕒 Hours : Check with each restaurant.

14) Drink Pilsener Right Where the Beer Was Born

Pilsener is Ecuador’s national beer, which can easily be found all throughout the country. Yet Guayaquil presents a unique opportunity to drink this cerveza right where it originated in Guayaquil’s colorful Las Peñas neighborhood, having been brewed here since the late 1800s!

What began brewing up in an icehouse on the colorful hill way back in 1887 has become Ecuador’s most popular beer. Pilsener is particularly celebrated in Guayaquil and even a riverfront plaza has been named in its honor.

The Pilsener Brewery had its origins along the base of Cerro Santa Ana near the Plaza Pilsener . The original 1800s brewery is long gone, yet there are plenty of places in this area, and all throughout Guayaquil, to enjoy this longstanding Ecuadorian brew.

While you can order a Pilsener at virtually any bar or restaurant across Guayaquil, we’d suggest walking up the steps near Plaza Pilsener, where a nice family will serve you Pilsener in a giant cup from the bottom floor of their apartment. It’s here you can gaze down onto the location of that original riverfront brewery.

Also nearby, is a small beer museum, Museo de la Cerveza , where you can learn a bit more about Pilsener and the history of beer in Ecuador. It’s certainly not a must-do, but perhaps a quick stop if in the area and are enthusiastic about beer.

But how is this Ecuadorian Pilsener beer?

Although not as complex or tasty when compared to some of Ecuador’s better artisanal beers, Pilsener just hits right as a nice thirst-quencher in Guayaquil’s tropical heat. Ironically, this beer is not a true pilsner as the brand name would suggest; but rather a pale lager beer (like Budweiser, Corona, etc). Whatever the case, Pilsener is always welcomed and refreshing after a day of roaming around Guayaquil.

💲 Cost : Beers in Guayaquil tend to be priced at $1 on the low end, and $4 on the high end.

📍 Location : The small beer museum is here , right next to where the original Pilsener brewery once stood. Our secret little overlook with big cheap Pilsener beers is located here on Callejon Del Galeon .

15) Take a Day Trip from Guayaquil

For those who are staying in Guayaquil for more than a few days, consider taking a day trip or two to fill the extra time after checking out all the other aforementioned things to do in Guayaquil. From Guayaquil there is an interesting train trip to take, a few different eco-tours to pursue, and even cocoa plantations to visit!

Here are a few suggested Guayaquil day trips to consider.

🛶 Manglares Churute – This is Ecuador’s largest mangrove reserve that is particularly known for the endemic birdlife that abounds here. Trips to Manglares Churute usually include a walk around the dry forest and a small motorized canoe ride around the mangroves for birdwatching.  This small-group tour of the mangroves includes those experiences, in addition to a chocolate tasting at a cocoa plantation along the way! Check availability and prices .

🐒 Bosque Protector Cerro Blanco – This dry tropical forest is known for its bird and wildlife, particularly the resident monkeys. A series of guided hikes are offered up the hilly terrain that is best pursued on the weekend, as people visiting during the week have been turned away. It’s located about 30 minutes away from downtown Guayaquil and can be reached by public bus or even Uber. Or consider this guided tour of Cerro Blanco .

🐬 Puerto El Morro – Approximately 90 minutes from Guayaquil, towards the coast is a series of waterways known for its wildlife and particularly dolphins. Taking a small boat tour here usually reveals the wild dolphin residents in addition to endemic birds in the tropical setting. Try this Puerto El Morro tour on Viator .

🚂 Tren de la Duraza – (temporarily closed, expected to reopen) The “Train of the Sweetness” from Guayaquil to the town of Bucay has not been operating during the past few years. Government officials announced that Ecuador’s tourist trains (including this train from Guayaquil) would return in 2023. Yet as of January 2024, there still has been no official announcements regarding opening dates. So check back to see if this train route may have returned, to see farming plantations while learning about cocoa and sugar production before ultimately arriving in the cloud forest environment of Bucay for a waterfall trek.

Travel Tips and Guayaquil Safety

In addition to all the things to do in Guayaquil, we want to impart some tips and safety advice to make this Guayaquil travel guide complete.

Many travelers ask “ Is Guayaquil safe? ” So we’re here to shed some light on that topic.

  Is Guayaquil Safe?

Guayaquil sometimes carries an unsafe reputation and crime has been increasing in recent years. The situation on the ground is changing rapidly. Travelers to Guayaquil must carefully research the current situation and make a personal risk assessment.

Despite ongoing issues and safety concerns, we found Guayaquil to be a welcoming city in which we did not witness such threats in the areas mentioned throughout this guide where tourists go. Guayaquil has come a long way over the past few decades to increase safety in Guayaquil and make tourists feel safe. And we do.

Guayaquil is largely a big, beautiful, friendly, and modernizing city. The tourist areas of Guayaquil are places where children play freely and families come out of their apartments to enjoy life. Plentiful tourist police in touristic areas help to ensure that. We wouldn’t let safety concerns prevent a visit to Guayaquil.

That said, there are precautions to be aware of while roaming around Guayaquil.

There are bad neighborhoods in Guayaquil that are easily avoided, like most major cities around the world. Gang violence has flared up in Guayaquil during the past few years. Yet such incidents have been largely away from Guayaquil’s tourist areas mentioned throughout this travel guide.

Recent government warnings have warned of an increased risk of crime south of Portete de Tarquí Avenue, which is away from the things to do listed throughout this travel guide. Locals in Guayaquil have warned us against venturing into this area too, particularly close to the port. It’s easily avoided.

Meanwhile, in the touristic areas of Guayaquil, perhaps the biggest safety concern is simply petty theft . There have been reports of pickpockets targeting tourists. It’s not rampant and widespread, but it has been known to occur. Personally, we’ve never noticed pickpockets in Guayaquil, as we have observed in Quito and other parts of South America.

Yet a threat of pickpockets and theft does exist in Guayaquil. This should be no cause for major concern or paranoia when walking around the city. But it’s a good idea to simply be aware and keep vigilant of your pockets and belongings, particularly when in any crowds.

And while Guayaquil’s tourist areas are typically considered safe for travelers, it can be possible to stray off the beaten path and into trouble. It’s best to stick to the main tourist areas, particularly so at night.

There’s also a known scam in Guayaquil involving false taxis. We recommend only using registered taxis. Better yet, use Uber which is trackable, has security features, and is largely deemed as one of the safest ways to get around Guayaquil.

Really, to stay safe in Guayaquil is simply to use common sense tactics that travelers would use in any large city. Don’t get involved with drugs. Don’t get into a stranger’s car. Don’t wear flashy jewelry. Be vigilant of your surroundings. Don’t carry large sums of money. Stick to the tourist areas. Don’t get drunk. Stay clear of bad neighborhoods.

That’s our two cents about safety in Guayaquil, based on our experience in the city. For a more objective outlook, check the up-to-date government warnings your home country advises. Here are the official government safety warnings for Ecuador from the following countries:

🇺🇸 US Department of State – Travel Advisory for Ecuador 🇬🇧 UK Foreign Travel Advice for Ecuador 🇨🇦 Government of Canada: Ecuador Safety & Security 🇦🇺 Australia Smart Traveller Safety & Security Advice 🇳🇿 New Zealand Safe Travel: Ecuador

Guayaquil Travel Tips You Need to Know

Before packing your bags, consider the following Guayaquil travel tips.

🏨 Where to Stay in Guayaquil

Visitors should consider staying around downtown Guayaquil and near Malecon 2000. This is the location of the majority of the things to do listed throughout this Guayaquil travel guide. Hence staying in this area will be the most convenient and many locations will be walkable from your hotel. If staying outside of this area, you’ll need to take many Ubers or taxis. So be sure to factor that into your decision.

Within the downtown area of Guayaquil, there is a wide range of accommodations, from hostels and budget hotels to higher-end luxury hotels. Whether a cheap place or upscale, we found that most hotels around Guayaquil offer good value for the price.

With nearly 400 Guayaquil properties listed, we’ve found that Booking.com has the most hotels to choose from and usually the best prices too. Search Guayaquil hotels during your travel dates to find the perfect place for your trip.

☀️ Beware of the Sun

Guayaquil is hot, hot, hot. Don’t forget to pack sunglasses and a hat. Also, be sure to pack sunscreen with you since it tends to be much more expensive in Guayaquil compared to US prices. Use at least SPF 50. So snag a good price for sunscreen on Amazon before getting on the plane to Ecuador.

☔  Know the Rainy Season in Guayaquil

If traveling through Guayaquil between January through April, be sure to pack a good rain jacket or a compact travel umbrella like this . This is the rainy season. While it doesn’t rain all day, every day during those months, it will likely rain at some point during a Jan-April visit.

🆔  Carry your ID around Guayaquil

It’s not only the law in Ecuador. Your ID will be required for most of the free things to do listed in this Guayaquil travel guide. Also, bars often require an ID upon entry regardless of age. IDs are further required for any credit card purchases.

💸  Cash is King in Guayaquil

More and more places are beginning to accept credit cards in Guayaquil, but cash is more often the norm. The currency in Ecuador is the US dollar and ATMs are frequent to withdraw.

💵  Use Small Bills

Almost anywhere in Guayaquil won’t accept $50 or $100 bills. Come with smaller change as you’ll otherwise have a very difficult time breaking that $100 note. Even twenties can sometimes be cumbersome to break.

🚱 Don’t Drink the Water in Guayaquil

The tap water in Guayaquil is generally not safe to drink. Use bottled water only. Also, consider traveling with this compact LifeStraw . We have one and it’s come in handy a few times during our travels when water wasn’t drinkable and stores were closed.

💦 Stay Hydrated

You’ll likely sweat a lot more in Guayaquil than you’re accustomed to at home. Make it a point to stay hydrated and drink lots of water. It’s easily found all over the city.

🚽 Know Where To Go in Guayaquil

After drinking all that water, you’ll certainly need to pee. Thankfully, there are many free public toilets all throughout both malecons and most of Guayaquil’s tourist areas. You’ll just need a dime (10 cents) to buy some toilet paper. And remember, in Ecuador, used toilet paper goes in the bin, not in the toilet.

🦟 Keep Mosquitoes Away

Being the tropics, mosquitos are buzzing around Guayaquil. Zika has almost disappeared from the region, although the rare case still pops up. It’s best to protect yourself from those pesky disease-carrying mozzies. You can use the heavy-duty stuff with DEET but we find that this natural Repel Lemon-Eucalyptus repellent works well, isn’t as harsh on your skin, and is better for the environment, particularly if you’re going in the water.

💬 Learn Some Basic Spanish

There’s not much English spoken along the streets of Guayaquil, so it can be a great idea to learn some basics before a trip here. Even simple pleasantries can go a long way with pointing and a smile. We like to use Babbel as an easy, fun, and inexpensive way to learn Spanish. With each lesson just 10-15 minutes, it’s something we can always work into the day and the associated app even lets us use it on-the-go. Right now you can use this discount link to save 25% off a 6-month or longer subscription.

⚠️  Important: Be Sure to Have Travel Insurance in Guayaquil

You never know what could go wrong during a trip to Guayaquil, from a minor incident like lost luggage or flight cancelation to a major disaster like an earthquake or a tsunami. Travel insurance will not only come to your rescue to help you out of a jam but will also cover those unexpected costs.

Whether you get into a car accident or get pickpocketed along Guayaquil’s malecon, travel insurance will come to the rescue. We always use travel insurance while roaming around Ecuador and recommend it. We like World Nomads , which has what we’ve found to have the best price and coverage combination (particularly for longer trips).  Enter the dates for your trip   to get a quick estimate.

💼  What to Pack for Guayaquil

Pack for Guayaquil as you would for any hot weather destination. We recommend plenty of dry-wicking clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check out our Ultimate Travel Packing List for all our packing tips and travel gear ideas.

Traveling to Guayaquil, Ecuador?

We hope this Guayaquil travel guide has helped to show all of our favorite things to do in the sprawling city in Ecuador. If you’ve used this guide to help plan a trip to Guayaquil, please let us know in the comments, as we always love to hear from people who may have stumbled across our posts.

Or if you have any questions as you plan a trip to Guayaquil, feel free to ask and we’ll try to answer.

Finally, if you’ve been here and have your own favorite thing to do in Guayaquil, let us know so we can check it out next time and keep this post up-to-date!

Where to Next in Ecuador?  

If you found this Guayaquil Travel Guide helpful, then you may be interested in other travel guides we’ve published about Ecuador.

 🇪🇨 For a comprehensive round-up on traveling Ecuador, be sure to check out our article that sums up the best experiences and shows exactly where to go.

Read : 20 Best Things to Do in Ecuador & Interesting Places to Visit

🐢 Did you know that you don’t have to take a pricey Galapagos tour? You can actually visit the Galapagos independently for cheap! This post reveals exactly how it’s possible.

Read :  How To Afford the Best of the Galapagos: Budget Travel Tips

⛪ Cuenca is Ecuador’s third-largest city and a colonial gem in the Andes that’s been designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site. The city is nicknamed the “Athens of Ecuador” for its history and culture, yet lots of adventure also abounds in the mountains that surround it. And it’s all less than a 4-hour drive from Guayaquil!

Read: 20 Best Things To Do in Cuenca Ecuador: Travel Guide

🚠 Like Guayaquil, many people tend to bypass Quito . But there is lots to do. There is even more going on in Quito than in Guayaquil! So check out our big fat Quito Travel Guide:

Read: 20 Best Things To Do in Quito Ecuador: Travel Guide

🏔️ From Guayaquil, it’s a 4-5 hour bus up into the Andes to Riobamba. This city sits at the base of Ecuador’s tallest mountain and offers so many adventures into the Andes.

Read :  Riobamba Ecuador Travel Guide: Best Adventures & Things to Do

Publishing note: This article about the best things to do in Guayaquil was originally written in January 2019 and most recently updated in January 2024, to reflect current conditions and up-to-date info.

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February 19, 2023 at 12:17 PM

Ciao guys! I jumped off a yacht in Galapagos and was only going to transfer through Guayaquil then read your amazing post!!! Thanks an absolute million. Guayaquil is fantastic….I’m in a hostel overlooking the mighty Rio Guayas and Los Penas, the lighthouse and Santa Ana all just incredible and super quiet on a Sunday. Tourism hasn’t bitten here yet but it should!!! Extraordinary place….so thanks so much for inspiring me to stay!!!

January 3, 2023 at 8:21 PM

Quite glad I stumbled upon your post. I love planning trips and reading your commentary on some of the things we’ve planned (and some that we hadn’t yet added) is reassuring. We’re heading to Guayaquil for a six day city-break in Feburary and then on to Montanita for a while. Really looking forward to checking out all that the city has to offer.

July 22, 2022 at 4:18 PM

Thanks for this very informative and helpful guide. As a solo female traveler, I never felt unsafe in Guayaquil, and I used the local buses at night. One thing you may need to update though, is that Parque Historico is no longer free – it cost me $4 to get in. I was a bit disappointed, given the entry fee and the cost to get there and back by taxi.

September 6, 2022 at 5:46 PM

Thank you for letting us know. It’s comments such as this that help us to keep these articles up-to-date. I’ve just updated this post to reflect the $4 pricing. The park recently changed hands and is now run by the municipality of Samborondón, which began charging admission in July 2022.

July 2, 2022 at 4:15 PM

January 12, 2020 at 4:16 PM

So glad I stumbled on this! Planning a trip in March 2020 to Ecuador and this is the perfect resource! Well laid out and informative! Thanks so much!

October 23, 2019 at 9:25 PM

My daughter is planning on going to azoques in December to meet her boyfriend and his family. She will be traveling alone and they will pick her up from the airport travel around and all fly home together. Do you think the airport is safe for a 19 year old girl?

October 28, 2019 at 2:54 AM

Yes, she should be just fine. We’re not aware of any safety issues at the airport. The airport is very secure. It’ll just be good if she has a firm plan in place to meet the people picking her up, so there’s no missed connection.

September 11, 2019 at 4:39 PM

John, Once again thanks for your blog. This is really nice and informative. I am planning to be in Guayaquil for 3 days at the end of September and then Salinas. I am planning to stay at the Sheraton hotel which is adjoining to the Mall del Sol. Would you mind telling me which hotel you all stayed in Guayaquil and how you got around to see so much in the Malecón area? Was it walking? Tour using car/van/bus? Taxi? Thanks in advance for the information as I want to prepare to cover a lot of the same areas you all went when I am there with my wife. Thank you!

September 14, 2019 at 6:53 PM

So glad it has proven helpful! 🙂 We stayed at the hotel Rio Guayas. It’s a budget-friendly hotel just south of where Malecon 2000 ends. It worked fine as a cheap place to stay, decent location, and was great for the price ($20/night). But ultimately we may consider staying somewhere when we come back. As for getting around the Malecon – we simply walked. The Malecon 2000 area is easily walkable. When needing to go further or late at night, we simply used Uber, which works quite well in Guayaquil, just so long as you have a phone with data that works in Ecuador. Hope you have a great trip!

June 26, 2019 at 12:08 PM

Thank you so much for this guide. I plan to visit Guayaquil in August and this information is very helpful.

July 1, 2019 at 10:20 AM

So glad to hear this has proved helpful – have a great trip next month!

February 5, 2019 at 5:11 PM

Your post has just convinced me. Guayaquil is worth of a stop. The wooden colonial architecture of Numa Pompilio Llona is simply stunning! And I wouldn’t mind climbing the 444 steps to the top of Cerro Santa to reach “El Faro” lighthouse to enjoy the 360-degree panoramic views down below.

February 6, 2019 at 12:06 PM

It’s so worth a stop! 🙂 And tackling those 444 steps is worth the views from the stop, yet is also just a fun experience onto itself. Well, once you catch your breath, hehe!

February 4, 2019 at 2:07 PM

Guayaquil sounds like such a charming place to visit. So many of these things appeal to me. The pirate ship at sunset would be such a great way to end a busy day. A bike ride around Isla Santay to see the colorful fishing village would be dreamy. For sure I would love to see all the wildlife. If we every get to go to the Galapagos, I will be sure to plan in several days in Guayaquil.

February 6, 2019 at 12:14 PM

Yeah this big city in Ecuador ending up being so much more charming than we had ever expected! 🙂 It was great to see so much plentiful birdlife/wildlife on Isla Santay, so close to the city itself. What a great little refuge that island is!

February 4, 2019 at 7:09 AM

Good to know that Guayaquil has improved its infrastructure, makes it more attractive. Las Peñas looks stunning with its colorful facades! Row boating seems such a fun option there. Great place to holiday.

February 4, 2019 at 12:09 AM

Since we are travelling as a family, I’d go for a Ferris Wheel ride and the Boat Cruise as our priority when going to Guayaquil. My kids would also love to see the Dancing Fountain Waters and my husband would surely love the Big Crab! Great precaution tips, it’s very helpful and a heads-up for all travellers.

February 6, 2019 at 12:18 PM

Come to think of it, Guayaquil makes for a particularly nice place for families. There are lots of things to do in Guayaquil with kids! The Ferris Wheel and Pirate Cruise would for sure appeal to niñas and niños traveling to Guayaquil. Also, not mentioned in this post, there are many kiddie rides, adventure parks, and arcades spread across the Malecon 2000 too.

February 3, 2019 at 2:28 PM

I didn’t even know there was so much to do in and around Guayaquil/ Had always heard of the place only in respect to Galapagos. The Guayaquil Riverfront and Parque Historico are such great places to experience the town! Plus I love quirky neighborhoods and those pictures of Las Peñas stole my heart!!

February 3, 2019 at 2:42 PM

We hadn’t realized there was so much to do there either! 🙂 It was a pleasant surprise discovering all the city has to offer, which was motivation to write this post. 🙂

February 3, 2019 at 10:05 AM

We have South America on the books for 2020 so I am starting to make my list of things to see and do. It looks like Quayaquil looks like a spot worth visiting. I did not know that there is the biggest ferris wheel in South America in Quayaquil. Love when cities have lots to see and do that are free or cost very little. We would definitely want to go to the top to get a panoramic view over the city. Love all those colourful buildings. Thanks for introducing Quayaquil.

February 3, 2019 at 2:44 PM

Yes, Guayaquil is a great place for budget travel, as there is so much to do here without having to spend much on any single activities. There are so many free things to do, it’s really nice! The colorful buildings throughout Cerro Santa Ana are lovely indeed! 🙂

February 2, 2019 at 5:02 PM

Sounds like you spent a fair amount of time in that region. I was in Quito a few days before going to the Galapagos and missed Guayaquil completely except for changing planes. We went up to Ibarra after. Loved exploring Ecuador and I appreciate your precautions. I never felt unsafe but it does pay to be smart about your belongings and stay out of bad neighborhoods no matter where you are in the world. Great post.

February 3, 2019 at 2:49 PM

We had initially did the same thing a few years ago when we simply transferred through Guayaquil from the Galapagos. So upon returning to Ecuador we wanted to take the time to explore the city and see what it may have to offer and were so pleasantly surprised! 🙂 Hence this post. We should be heading back towards Quito later this month and look forward to potentially visiting Ibarra for the first time ourselves.

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Guayaquil, Ecuador: Travel Guide to Ecuador’s Coastal Capital [in 2024]

It’s among the largest cities in Ecuador , and one of the most visited places in the country, yet little understood or properly explored by travelers. The sprawling Guayaquil, the country’s unofficial business and finance capital, has a number of things working against it that make it less than a tourist destination in Ecuador.

In this ultimate traveler’s guide to Guayaquil, you’ll find our top recommendations for making the most of your trip to the “Pearl of the Pacific.” Whether you’re looking a way to spend a few hours before jumping on your Galapagos cruise or are considering a longer visit to the city, we’re sharing our top tips for things to do, places to go, and where to stay in Guayaquil.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Quito is Ecuador’s administrative capital, but busy Guayaquil is Ecuador’s unofficial financial and business capital, where major corporations have their headquarters . It’s one of the largest cities in South America and has a bustling feel unlike what you’ll feel anywhere else in Ecuador.

Guayaquil is by no means a major destination for travelers in Ecuador. Outside of a tiny historic area near downtown known as Las Peñas, it lacks almost any historic monuments or architecture to add charm. Travelers looking for this history will prefer Quito , Cuenca , and other Andean cities instead. Without any truly unique or impressive major attractions, many travelers are happy to leave it off their itineraries.

While Guayaquil isn’t a big destination itself, a lot of travelers will find themselves here during their visit. Whether traveling for work or using the city as a gateway – usually to the Galapagos Islands or the charming beach towns that lie north along the coast – many visit, but few spend the time to explore.

Meanwhile, there is a lot to enjoy here. Adding a full day in Guayaquil or even two to your Ecuador itinerary can be a great choice if you’re looking to experience a totally different side of Ecuador. Delicious local food (the country’s best seafood), the charming Malecón 2000 riverwalk with shops, museums, and restaurants, and the charming Las Peñas neighborhood with its quaint and colorful buildings can end up becoming highlights of a trip.

Plan a Trip to Ecuador

• 38 Best Things To Do in Quito (A Local’s Guide)
• 10 Things To Do in the Galapagos
• Where to Stay in Quito + Best Quito Neighborhoods

Is It Worth Going to Guayaquil?

Guayaquil may be worth adding to your Ecuador itinerary, despite it not being a major tourist destination in Ecuador and not having the charm of Ecuadoran cities like Cuenca and Quito .

Most travelers will just pass through Guayaquil, either on their way up Ecuador’s coastline or before departing on a cruise in the Galapagos. If this sounds like you, see if you can add a half-day exploring Guayaquil to your itinerary. You may be surprised to find the city has a lot to offer.

Read More: 10 Best Beaches in Ecuador

Is Guayaquil Safe?

Guayaquil has a reputation for being a relatively unsafe city and among the most unsafe destinations in Ecuador. It’s a sad truth but a statistical reality. With this being said, most of the issues with crimes are concentrated in the city’s poorer neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city, in areas that most visitors have no reason to travel to.

For travelers considering visiting Guayaquil, I’d say take perhaps more precaution here than you would elsewhere, especially when it comes to what you bring out of the hotel with you, like cash and technology.

However, if you stick to the main areas of the city, like downtown, avoid walking on the streets at night, and take precautions against pickpockets, you should have a perfectly uneventful and safe trip.

Read More: Is Ecuador Safe? Safety Guide + Tips from a Local

What To Pack for Ecuador

Check out our  Ultimate Ecuador Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Ecuador and what we never travel without.

Things To Do in Guayaquil

1. stroll the malecón 2000.

One of Guayaquil’s premier attractions, the Malecón 2000 is a riverfront pedestrian walkway that lines the Guayas River along the city’s downtown center. Packed with spaces for parks, playgrounds, entertainment, small museums, and public art, the Malecón 2000 is actually one of our top recommendations for tourist attractions in Ecuador .

At the top end of the Malecón 2000, nearest to the historic Las Peñas neighborhood, the La Perla Ferris Wheel offers great views over the entire city . The ride last around 15 minutes and is a great way to get your bearing before exploring the rest of Guayaquil.

Spend an hour or two tracing the length of the walkway and enjoy all that it has to offer and enjoy plenty of opportunities for people-watching. Make sure to work up an appetite to enjoy a meal at Mercado del Rio at the southern end of the Malecón: this upscale open-air food court has numerous stalls selling both local favorites and international cuisine.

Read More: 25 Best Things To Do in Ecuador

2. Spot Iguanas in Parque Seminario

Located in the heart of downtown Guayaquil, Parque Seminario has the particular distinction of being home to dozens of iguanas that have made their homes here. You’ll see these large green iguanas hanging out in trees, under benches, and sunning on walkways. They’re quite harmless, but avoid bringing food with you to the park – you’ll make some *friends,* who might want to get a little closer than you’re hoping.

Guayaquil’s cathedral – Catedral Católica Metropolitana de Guayaquil – faces the park and is worth a visit if it happens to be open when you’re at the park.

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, at home or abroad. 

3. Sample Ecuador’s Coastal Cuisine

Ask any local and they’ll tell you that Ecuador’s unique coastal cuisine is some of the country’s best food, and there’s no better way to sample it all than by eating your way through Guayaquil. The city isn’t a true culinary capital, but its numerous local hole-in-the-wall spots offer an incredible way of dishes to try.

These are the highlights of Ecuadorian coastal cuisine you can’t miss:

• Encebollado – Guayaquil’s own dish, a soup made of onions and white fish like bacalao, sounds a bit strand but is incredibly delicious. It’s a must-try.
• Encocado – This style of cooking stews seafood in coconut milk for ultra-rich, incredibly delicious plates, usually served with rice and fried plantains. This is a MUST!
• Ceviche – Ultra-fresh ceviche, Ecuadorian style, is a bit different from Peruvian ceviche and well worth a try.
• Bolón – Boiled, mashed plantains rolled into balls and studded with cheese and pork rinds.
• Tigrillo – Mashed plantains are mixed with egg and milk to create a scrambled egg-type consistency for this dish, a breakfast staple on the coast.

4. Climb to El Faro de Guayaquil

Located in the heart of Guayaquil’s hilly Las Peñas neighborhood, El Faro de Guayaquil – Guayaquil’s lighthouse – is a beautiful attraction with great views that makes the climb through the historic streets of Las Peñas totally worth it.

The climb through the streets of Las Peñas is a taxing 444 steps, though it’s a doable journey if you take time to check out the galleries, cafes, and little museums that line the street. Keep in mind, the climb to the top of the lighthouse is an additional 52 steps on top of those you’ll take to get to the platform at its base!

Don’t head out on your adventure without comprehensive travel insurance! Good travel insurance may cover lost or stolen gear, medical emergencies, delayed or canceled flights, and more.  Check out the policies available from  SafetyWing or compare plans using  Visitors Coverage .

Where To Stay in Guayaquil

Most travelers will either want to stay in Guayaquil’s downtown center, with its proximity to the best things to do in Guayaquil, or near the airport if they’re just visiting as a stopover. However, there are some nice places to stay in historic La Puntilla as well.

These recommendations cover where to stay in Guayaquil, no matter your travel budget and how long you plan to stay in Guayaquil.

Manso Boutique Guesthouse ($)

Located directly facing Guayaquil’s Malecón 2000, Manso Boutique Guesthouse is one of the best places to stay in Guayaquil for backpackers or budget-conscious travelers. Dorm rooms all have lockers and don’t pack in guests like sardines, as you’ll see elsewhere. Or, go with one of the private rooms. It’s a great basic but affordable option for travelers in the heart of the city.

Reviews and Bookings: Manso Boutique Guesthouse

Oro Verde Guayaquil ($$)

I unexpectedly spent the night at Oro Verde Guayaquil after a flight was canceled on a trip to Peru – and it actually ended up being a surprisingly fantastic place to stay in Guayaquil that I still recommend to this day. Modern, comfortable rooms and affordable prices, plus amenities like a pool and eatery, make it a great place to stay. The downtown location is great and very walkable to the best things to do in the city.

Reviews and Bookings: Oro Verde Guayaquil

Sheraton Guayaquil Hotel ($$)

Our top recommendation for a hotel near the airport in Guayaquil is Sheraton Guayaquil Hotel . Super safe, secure, and convenient for travelers, it feels like a more elevated airport hotel experience and is a great place to unwind before or after a Galapagos trip . The rooms are spacious, modern, and comfortable, and the breakfast buffet is excellent.

Reviews and Bookings: Sheraton Guayaquil Hotel

Hotel del Parque ($$$)

Located in a gorgeous and historic area of La Puntilla along the water, Hotel del Parque is a beautiful mix of history and refined luxury, making it easily the best place to stay in the city. This boutique historic hotel feels like quite a special place to stay among the more modern, cookie-cutter hotels you’ll find throughout the rest of the city.

Make sure to eat at Casa Julian adjacent to the hotel if you’re staying here or even just exploring the area – it was voted one of Latin America’s best restaurants in 2022!

Reviews and Bookings: Hotel del Parque

Where To Eat in Guayaquil

Guayaquil might not be a renowned culinary capital per se, but WOW, does it have some delicious food! Here you’ll find the best of the best of Ecuadorian coastal cuisine, which heavily features fish and seafood, plantains, and coconut for some truly incredible dishes.

These are some of the best places to eat in Guayaquil to enjoy the best the city has to offer:

Casa Julian

Casa Julian is a must if you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience in Guayaquil. This restaurant is located in an endlessly charming and historic section of the La Puntilla neighborhood and was named among one of the best restaurants in Latin America by 50 Best in 2022.

If you’re looking for the full culinary experience, go for the tasting menu, though the a la carte options here are impressive as well. Both the interior spaces and the patio seating surrounding this historic building are lovely – you really can’t go wrong here.

Mercado del Rio

Located on Guayaquil’s Malecón 2000, Mercado del Rio is an absolute must for travelers visiting the city. This food market has stalls selling both local dishes and international favorites , so you can sample a bit of everything as you explore.

Comedor Manabi is a great spot for local dishes from the northern coastal region of Ecuador – this is our number one recommendation here, but you really can’t go wrong with whatever you choose. The waterfront seating along the river makes for a great dining experience. We highly, highly recommend it!

Picanteria La Culata

Little more than a hole in the wall near Guayaquil’s downtown center, Picanteria La Culata is the best of the *local* spots in Guayaquil. You can’t go wrong with the rice dishes like arroz con camarones (fried rice with shrimp), super fresh ceviche, or Guayaquil’s own encebollado (pictured above), which is a fish soup with onions – it sounds weird but is incredibly delicious.

The best thing about this spot is that there are many more just like it in Guayaquil – the best places to eat in Guayaquil are really these tiny local spots with well-done Ecuadorian food, which is incredibly affordable and supremely delicious.

Le Croissant

Le Croissant is a cute cafe located on one of downtown Guayaquil’s central thoroughfares, offering a range of options for coffee and lunch. It’s all international food here, with sandwiches, salads, and some great pastries and desserts. Prices are quite affordable, and the location just a block off the Malecón 2000 is super convenient.

Getting to Guayaquil

Guayaquil airport.

Guayaquil’s international airport – José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport – is perhaps the best-served airport in the country , with daily flights arriving from destinations across the Americas and Europe. For many travelers, it’s their introduction to the country, and they stick around at an airport hotel like the Sheraton Guayaquil Hotel before heading to the Galapagos.

Quito to Guayaquil

Travelers will find daily flights between Quito and Guayaquil, which is an easy way to cut down on the 9-10 hour bus ride descending from the Andes Mountains to the country’s coastline. While the bus ride isn’t bad – we’ve taken it several times – it’s well worth springing for the relatively cheap connecting flight if you can.

Buses depart from Quito’s north and south bus stations – Carcelén and Quitumbe. For most travelers, it will be easier to catch the bus at Quito’s Quitumbe terminal, where there are more frequent departures and more bus companies operating. All buses arrive at Guayaquil’s central bus terminal, just north of downtown.

Plan a Trip to Quito

• Old Town Quito: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide
• 2 Days in Quito: Ultimate Itinerary

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

12 Best Things to Do in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Known as the gateway to the Galapagos Islands and Pacific Beaches in Ecuador, Guayaquil is a large port city located on the banks of the Guaya River that attracts a variety of visitors year-round. There are many enticing things to do and see in Guayaquil, Ecuador, including a scenic esplanade walk, museums, churches, parks, nature reserves, historic areas, and nearby beaches and resorts. Whether you're looking to experience Ecuadorian food and culture or you'd rather relax on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, you're sure to enjoy your trip to Guayaquil any time of year.

Walk Along the Malecón 2000

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One of the most prominent and popular destinations in Guayaquil since it was constructed in the mid-1800s, Malecón 2000 is the name for the waterside boardwalk where locals and visitors alike spend their evenings enjoying the cool breezes of the river, strolling through the parks, and admiring its many sculptures.

Malecón 2000 stretches one and a half miles from the Mercado Sur in the south to Cerro Santa Ana and Las Peñas in the north. Along the way, you'll find a number of sculptures and monuments including the semicircular La Rotonda, which honors the historic meeting of Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín, who together shaped the revolutionary movements of Ecuador's fight for independence from Spain.

Visit Las Peñas Neighborhood

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With over 400 years of history, Las Peñas is one of the oldest residential areas in the country. Located on Santa Ana Hill in Guayaquil, the neighborhood is full of beautifully-restored and brightly painted houses placed along cobblestone streets.

Stroll along Numa Pompilio Liona Street to the Plaza Colon, where cannons overlooking the river are a reminder of earlier defenses against pirates attacking the city's original inhabitants. Alternatively, stop by boutique shops and local restaurants where you can sample Ecuadorian chocolates and other tasty treats of the city.

Explore the City's Museums

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As one of the major cultural centers of Ecuador, Guayaquil is home to several of the best museums in the country, which explore topics from art and science to history and culture in the region. Visitors can spend their entire trips visiting all of the anthropological and archaeological museums in the city, but some of the highlights include:

• Museo Municipal : Located in the center of town, this museum holds a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and religious art from the Colonial Period as well as exhibits explaining the history of Ecuador, Guayaquil, and the surrounding region. 
• Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo : The Museum of Anthropology and Modern Art (MAAC) has an extensive collection of local tribal artwork and ancient pottery as well as a variety of temporary exhibits of visiting artists.
• Museo del Bombero Ecuatoriano : This museum is dedicated to the firefighters of Ecuador and around the world and contains an extensive collection of antique firefighting gear, equipment, and machinery.
• Museo Naval Contemporáneo: Dedicated to the naval and military history of the country, which is centered around its largest port in Guayaquil, this modern museum is a must-see for history buffs.

Learn About Local Customs at Guayaquil Historical Park

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Located in northeastern Guayaquil across the Daule River in the La Puntilla parish of Samborondón, the Guayaquil Historical Park is a multi-purpose public park that's separated into three main sections: The Wildlife Zone, the Urban Architectural Zone, and the Traditions Zone.

Touring the Guayaquil Historical Park is a great way to spend the day getting to know some of the city's history and a little of the coastal region's culture. The wildlife zone recreates the habitats of over 50 native species of Ecuador and allows guests to explore it via elevated paths. The Architectural Zone, on the other hand, recreates early 1900s life in the region, when the cocoa boom brought business and developments to the city. Meanwhile, the Traditions Zone teaches guests about the cultural development of the city, its inhabitants, and their life on the cocoa farms through a variety of historical displays and recreations.

Spend the Day at Other Parks

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Whether you're in the mood for a picnic or you want to get some exercise, Guayaquil has a number of expansive parks that are free for visitors and locals alike to enjoy.

Parque Bolivar—also known as Iguana Park for the large iguanas who like to rest on tree branches there—is a small park located in the Chimborazo neighborhood and centered around an octagonal pavilion surrounded by sculptures. The city's largest park, Parque Centenario, is a showcase for many monuments including the Columna a los próceres del 9 de Octubre , which is dedicated to the heroes of Ecuador declaring its independence from Spain in the city in 1820. For something completely different, head out to Isla Santay. Located in the middle of the Guayas River just west of Guayaquil, this small island is home to a number of museums, monuments, and even residences for over 50 families that have lived there since the 1950s.

Pay Respects at the Churches of Guayaquil

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Roman Catholicism and Christianity have both played an important role in the history of Guayaquil. As a result, a number of historic churches dating back as early as the 1500s still remain in the city today. The modern Iglesia Episcopal del Ecuador cathedral and the impressive San Francisco church, both restored after a devastating fire in 1896, are among the most-visited churches in the country. Also stop by the vibrant white and gold Santo Domingo, also known as the Church of Saint Vincent, which was the first church built in the city in 1548.

Take a Gateway to the Galapagos

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No matter where you come from in the world, you have to pass through mainland Ecuador before visiting the Galapagos Islands. In fact, flights and cruises to the Galapagos used to be the main reason visitors went to Guayaquil. The quickest way from Guayaquil to the Galapagos is by booking a flight directly from the city, but there are also a number of charter boat services and cruises that run to the islands.

Get Lost in the Botanical Garden

Orchids, water, fountains, and thousands of plants offer a welcome respite from the bustling city of Guayaquil at the Botanical Garden. Located in the northern Pascuales parish of the city on Francisco de Orellana Avenue, the Botanical Garden is home to five hectares of wildlife native to the region. There are approximately 324 plant species, 73 bird species, and dozens of mammal and fish species that call the Botanic Garden home. Open Mondays through Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. year-round, this unique collection of wildlife is a must-see for nature enthusiasts visiting the city.

Take a Tour of the Ruta del Sol

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From Guayaquil, the Ruta del Sol (Sun Route) takes you to great beaches at Playas, Salinas, Punta Blanca, Montañita, Ayampe, Ayangue, Olon, and Puerto López—among many others. Embark on a minivan or bus tour departing from Guayaquil and spend the full day exploring the many attractions along this historical road. Services run between Salinas and Guayaquil every hour between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily throughout the year, and you can pay a little extra to be dropped directly outside your hotel.

Venture to the Bosque Protector Cerro Blanco

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Despite being bordered by Guayaquil’s almost three million inhabitants, the protected forest of Bosque Protector Cerro Blanco harbors populations of jaguar, ocelot, agouti, peccary, and other mammal species. Cerro Blanco is a great day-trip outside the city of Guayaquil. Easily accessible by bus, visitors can take advantage of a self-guided tour along their two trails or request a trained guide for a more educational experience.

Take a City Tour of Guayaquil

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Discover Guayaquil on a guided tour of the city which will take you to see all the must-see places as well as some amazing surrounding scenery, tropical plants, wildlife, and cultural establishments. A number of different tour companies offer services around Guayaquil, but the Guayaquil City Tour offers three hours of sightseeing and education about the many facets of city life.

Take an Excursion to Salinas Beach With Lunch

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Get away from the city and take a tour to Salinas beach where you can choose to relax all day or something a little more active—fish! See some amazing scenery and interesting wildlife, including the stunning Pink Flamingo, or just spend the day lazily lounging on the sand. Salinas is easily accessible by bus, minivan tour service, or rental car, but is located about 88 miles west of Guayaquil on Via a la Costa.

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Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city, before Quito , and it has approximately three and a half million inhabitants. The city is situated in the Guayas province, on the west side of the Guayas River, and it is not far from some of the buzzing coastal towns that tourists enjoy visiting. It is all too common for Guayaquil to be overlooked as a tourist destination, which is a shame, as there is quite a bit to see and do here. If your Ecuador trip is going to include some time in Guayaquil Ecuador, then this Guayaquil travel guide is for you. Here we will talk through the highlights of Guayaquil, when to visit and more, to help you make the most of your time there. In terms of how many days to spend in Guayaquil, one will generally be sufficient, and two at the most.

Guayaquil Highlights

One of the main highlights of Guayaquil is the excellent view of the city that can be gained from the top of the Santa Ana Hill in the Las Penas neighborhood of Guayaquil.

Another very enjoyable highlight of any time spent in Guayaquil is the delicious food that can be experienced here. Guayaquil tends to have a reputation for innovation in its food, so there are some very interesting gastronomic tastes to try.

By Ecuador & Galapagos Insiders

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10 Best Things To Do in Guayaquil Ecuador That You Should Try

Are you planning a trip to the Galapagos island with Guayaquil as your launching point? That may be a disservice to this vibrant and thrilling city of Guayaquil Ecuador. 

One of the most diverse Ecuadorian cities, Guayaquil is also the largest, with the metropolis sprawling over 1,000 square miles (2,590 square kilometers) and the most populous, with 2 million people. This South American city is usually considered a stepping stone, or a gateway, to the Galapagos Islands and beaches on the Pacific side of Ecuador and has improved its reputation as a tourist-friendly spot in the past decade. 

Visited by millions of people every year, Guayaquil is an excellent place to plan a short trip of a few days, offering many exciting experiences. It is now filled with exciting activities, creative architecture, and modern infrastructure, such as the Malecon 2000 riverside boardwalk. Home to the largest Ferris wheel in South America, Guayaquil is an ideal spot to spend vacations with your family.

Let’s zero in on these memorable sceneries and adventures for travelers to this remarkable port city. 

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do in Guayaquil Ecuador – Activities 

1. la perla ferris wheel.

La Perla stands for “The Pearl.” It was built in 2015, introducing the largest Ferris wheel in South America, and became one of the main tourist attractions of Guayaquil. The Ferris wheel is around 57 meters high above the city. 

If you choose to ride on the giant Ferris wheel, the mesmerizing views of the river, city skyline, and boardwalk will keep you busy for the entire 12-minute rotation. Every gondola is equipped with air-conditioners, which is a relief from the hot weather outside. 

The whole activity would cost only around $5; if you visit during weekdays, it can get as low as $3.50.

2. Guayas River Cruise

If you want to get the ultimate experience of the Guayas River, get on the Henry Morgan pirate ship . The cruise is usually an hour long, but the views will make sure you won’t get bored. We recommend taking the riverboat ride at 6:00 p.m. to enjoy the sunset. 

Drinks and food will be served during the whole trip. However, to improve the overall experience, pay an extra $8 on top of the $7 ticket price to get access to a free-flowing open bar.

3. Cycling at Isla Santay

Isla Santay is a small island located near Guayaquil. It is a great escape from heavy traffic and crowded city areas. The pedestrian bridge connects the city to the island, where no cars can pass. 

You can walk or cycle to the island through a 2,789-foot-long (850 meters) bridge. 

Upon reaching the island, you will find amazing sights and plenty of activities. There is a tropical forest, a mangrove swamp, and palm canopies filled with more than a hundred different birds. After passing through the bridge, you will have to walk around 2 more kilometers to reach the island’s main area. 

The entrance to the island is free. However, renting a bike would cost around $4 for 3 hours. 

4. Explore Downtown

Exploring the whole downtown area requires at least a day. There are many places, such as the Municipal Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, Iglesia San Francisco church, and Parque Del Centenario. The half-day city tour is also available if you want a guide to help you along the way. 

It starts at 9:00 a.m. and costs around $18 per person. 

Best Things To Do in Guayaquil Ecuador – Sights 

5. malecon 2000.

Malecon 2000 is undoubtedly the best place to visit in Guayaquil. With a 1.6 mile-long (2.5 km) riverfront, this charming promenade is an amazing spot to spend some time admiring the beauty of the river Guayas. There are gardens, museums, monuments, shopping complexes, and much more. 

If you want everything in one place, Malecon is the place to be. 

6. Las Peñas

As Guayaquil’s oldest neighborhood, Las Peñas is quite popular among tourists for its 444 steps ascending to the top of Santa Ana Hill. The treat for completing all 444 steps is the amazing views of Guayaquil and the Guayas river. 

Numa Pompilio Llona is a scenic cobblestoned street flanked by colorful heritage homes that the government reconstructed early in the previous century. Revel in its colonial ambiance as you enjoy a stroll along this historical street.

7. Parque Historico

Parque Historico is for people who want to learn about Guayaquil’s heritage, culture, and fauna. The park’s entrance fee, $4 for adults and $2 per child, will be well worth it.

The park is divided into 3 sections: Wildlife zone, Urban zone, and Traditional area. You can enjoy Ecuadorian fauna roaming near the boardwalk trail in the wildlife zone. The Urban zone is where you can find the museum and old architecture restored to make it more attractive. 

Lastly, the Traditional area will give you an experience of rural Ecuadorian life. 

8. Parque De Las Iguanas

As the name suggests, Parque de las Iguanas is famous for its large iguanas roaming in the park. The place has multiple names. It is also known as Park Bolivar or Parque Seminario. 

Parque De Las Iguanas is only 3 blocks away from Malecon 2000 and is a great spot to spend a few hours. 

Best Things To Do in Guayaquil Ecuador – Food and Drinks

9. cangrejo criollo.

Cangrejo Criollo is the local crab dish. Local Ecuadorians love to eat it for dinner. The best place to try the dish is in Pata Gorda restaurant, which serves the crab at around $12. 

10. Pilsener

Pilsener is the national beer of Ecuador. You can enjoy the drink at almost any restaurant in Ecuador, but the place to enjoy it is Casa Pilsener, a Pilsener-themed restaurant with a great atmosphere.

How To Get to Guayaquil Ecuador

There are 3 ways to get to Guayaquil, Ecuador: by bus, plane, and car.

Bus is the easiest and most fun way to travel to the city. If traveling from Quito , head to the main terminal. Buses leave every half hour for an 8-hour trip to Guayaquil. 

Other popular cities, such as Cuenca , also have bus services. 

The total trip from Cuenca costs around $5.35. 

If you want to travel by air, you can fly to the main international airport of Guayaquil , Jose Joaquin de Olmedo. It is located only a 10-minute drive away from the Guayaquil downtown area. Air travel would be quite affordable if you travel from within the country. 

Flights to Guayaquil from Quito and Cuenca cost around $60 to $90, depending on how long in advance you book.

To get to Guayaquil by car from the capital Quito, head towards the Pan-American Highway until you reach the Alóag route. From there, move west towards Santo Domingo de Los Colorado. 

Now head to E25 south to Quevedo. The road will take you to Guayaquil through Babahoyo.

What is the Weather Like in Guayaquil?

Guayaquil has 2 kinds of weather throughout the year. It’s rainy from January to May and dry with hot sun from June to December. The best time to visit Guayaquil is late May to mid-October and enjoy the summer activities. 

Where To Stay in Guayaquil Ecuador

Malecon 2000 .

Malecon is part of downtown Guayaquil and is quite safe to stay in. The place is quite popular for its location, as you can get to almost anywhere without traveling long distances. The best hotels for you to stay in this area are as follows. 

Hotel del Centro

Hotel del Centro is located within a 5-minute walk or 164 feet (50 meters) of local restaurants, bars, shops, and other entertainment options. Accommodations include a double room with two single beds, subject to taxes and charges.

Amenities include a balcony with a city view, air conditioning, a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, and free WiFi.

Hotel Ramada 

The Hotel Ramada is located in the center of downtown Guayaquil, a 4-star hotel overlooking the Malecón Gardens and the Guayas river. Hotel facilities include an indoor pool, solarium, sauna, and fitness center. 

Prices may vary according to the booking date and room type.

Guayaquil City Center

Guayaquil City Center gets the largest number of tourists in the city. It also includes the Malecon 2000. If you cannot find a hotel within Malecon 2000, staying in the nearby hotel within the city center is a great alternative. Some of the best hotels here include:

Hotel Alexander

The highly-rated GH Alexander Hotel is centrally located 0.62 mi (1 km) from the west bank of the Guayas River and close to many of the city’s main attractions, such as Biblioteca Municipal de Guayaquil, a 10-minute walk away. 

A superior double or twin room with a choice of a large double bed or 2 single beds comes with air conditioning, flat screen TV, en suite bathroom, and free WiFi.

Unipark by Oro Verde Hotels

Unipark by Oro Verde Hotels is a 5-star hotel that offers more popular amenities, including free WiFi, a pool, and an on-site restaurant. 

A standard queen room for 2 adults features a large double bed and free breakfast.

Las Peñas, located northwest of downtown Guayaquil, is another great place to stay. You will be close to many great restaurants, museums, and, best of all, Santa Ana Hills. The best accommodation options in this area are: 

Hotel Boutique Mansion del Rio

The elegant mansion from the 1920s transformed into a Hotel Boutique Mansion del Rio , which features luxurious marbled interiors and panoramic terrace views of the Guayas River. 

Hotel Wyndham Guayaquil

If you want to get the celebrity treatment with world-class service, book this 4-star Hotel Wyndham Guayaquil , located around 50 mi (80 km) from the Montañita Beach area and 3 mi (4.8 km) from the Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport. 

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Guayaquil Ecuador – Safety Concerns

Safety has been a major issue in Guayaquil in the past decade. The threat still roams the streets, but you can avoid them by taking certain precautionary measures. 

Pickpocketing and scamming are the 2 most common crimes in the city. To reduce the chances of getting targeted by criminals, ensure you do not walk alone on the streets at night, ask your hotel to call a taxi, and avoid flashing your valuables. 

Important Tips To Enjoy Guayaquil Ecuador

Here are the 5 most important travel tips you should consider while visiting Guayaquil, Ecuador:

• Guayaquil Independence Day is celebrated in October. Visit during this month to enjoy Ecuador’s most artistic and cultural events. 
• If you love shopping, stay in the area of Malecon 2000. 
• Guayaquil is less safe than other cities in Ecuador, so keep your valuables at home while visiting areas with few crowds. 
• Use Uber and Cabify for travel around the city. They are much safer than other transportation. 
• Consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing , which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Guayaquil Ecuador

Is guayaquil safe for tourists.

Guayaquil, Ecuador, is not the safest place in Ecuador. However, if you stick to the right areas and take all the precautionary measures, you can escape any unwanted situation.

What Is Guayaquil Ecuador Known For?

Guayaquil is known for its reconstructed colonial structures for the Malecon 2000 riverfront promenade, among other attractions. It is also quite famous for its large iguanas, which can reach up to one meter in length, some of which are on view at downtown Seminario Park. 

You can also take day trips or overnight excursions from Guayaquil to nearby destinations, such as Galapagos Islands , Cotopaxi National Park , or Cuenca Cathedral .  

What Is the Crime Rate in Guayaquil, Ecuador?

Guayaquil’s crime index (71.80) is higher than Quito’s (61.49), considered one of Ecuador’s safest cities. However, as big cities, they share similar concerns, like the prevalence of petty crimes, especially in certain neighborhoods. 

Traveling safely in Guayaquil can be a breeze if you take the basic precautions to protect yourself against crime. 

Does Guayaquil Have a Beach?

No, Guayaquil has no beaches of its own since it is not located along the coast. The nearest beach outside the city is Playas de General Villamil in Guayas province, which is 60 mi (96 km) away on a 1.5- hour car drive. 

If you love water sports like parasailing and surfing, Punta Carnero in Salinas is a good destination as it is a regular venue for surfing competitions.

Conclusion – Guayaquil Ecuador

Whether you’re looking for the best ceviche in town, seeking to experience the treks to its famous nature reserves, or simply wanting to chill on the nearby beaches, Guayaquil has it all for you. 

With this overview of what this must-visit city offers, you may be packing up for an extended vacation now. Safe travels, and enjoy Ecuador!

Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources

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Booking.com is my ultimate lodging partner. It offers many accommodations worldwide and simplifies my travel experiences with its user-friendly platform and unbeatable deals.

Get Your Guide is my go-to for personalized travel experiences, enriching my journeys with unique tours and activities curated to my interests, making every adventure unforgettable and tailored to my preferences.

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Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter

Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents. Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University. Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.

Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.

Guayaquil is not only the beating commercial heart of Ecuador but a vibrant sprawling city, growing ever more confident. A half-dozen high-rises give it a big-city profile, and several hillsides are engulfed by colorful favelas, but it’s the Río Guayas’ malecón (the riverfront town square) that defines the city’s identity.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo

Marking the end of the riverfront is the modern MAAC, a museum of anthropology and archaeology that hosts a superb permanent collection of pre-Colombian…

Malecón 2000

One of the most extensive urban-renewal projects in South America, Malecón 2000 is made up of monuments, playgrounds, sculptures, gardens and river views…

Cerro Santa Ana

One of Guayaquil's most iconic sights is this hillside enclave, which is dotted with brightly painted homes, cafes, bars and souvenir shops. Follow the…

Plaza Lagos

One of Guayaquil's most charming and upscale settings for a bite or a drink is Plaza Lagos, a handsomely designed complex of restaurants, designer…

Parque Histórico Guayaquil

Colonial history meets the animal kingdom at this large site across the Puente Rafael Mendoza Aviles Bridge, east of Río Daule. The park is divided into…

Numa Pompilio Llona

This historic street, named after the well-known guayaquileño poet (1832–1907), begins at the northern end of the malecón, to the right of the stairs that…

Balcon Mirador Cerro Paraiso

If you'd prefer to get away from the crowds at Santa Ana Hill, this little known viewpoint offers staggering views over Guayaquil, including downtown, the…

You can climb the spiral staircase inside the lighthouse for spectacular 360-degree views of the city and its rivers. It's 444 taxing steps up through…

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Guayaquil Travel Guide

Guayaquil, Ecuador: Our 2021 detailed guide from how to get there, where to stay, what to do and much much more!

Guayaquil, Ecuador Brief Summary

• It is the largest city in Ecuador, with over 2 million people.
• It is the chief port of the country and an important industrial center.
• Located on the Guayas River, which empties into the Pacific Ocean nearby.
• Its name comes from the indigenous leader Guayas and his wife Quila.

Guayaquil Guide Contents:

• How To Get To Guayaquil –  Compare transportation options.
• Must See In Guayaquil –  The sights you cannot miss.
• Arts & Culture In Guayaquil–  Best museums and areas with cultural art.
• Nightlife In Guayaquil –  Good places to go for a drink.
• Souvenirs & Shopping in Guayaquil –  Places to get your gifts for back home.
• Guayaquil Safety Tips –  Safety issues to be aware of.
• Where To Stay In Guayaquil –  A few of the best options in Guayaquil.

Below, we have created our extensive guide to Guayaquil based on our expert local knowledge and experience transporting countless people in Ecuador each year.

HOW TO GET TO GUAYAQUIL

As Ecuador’s largest city, there are many daily flights to Guayaquil both from Quito as well as from international destinations. The downside to flying is that you’ll miss out on seeing some of Ecuador’s hidden gems by skipping from city to city. For that reason, it’s highly recommended to take Ecuador Hop’s unique hop on hop off service so that you can experience a bit of the real Ecuador on the way.

MUST SEE IN GUAYAQUIL

MALECÓN 2000

This is Guayaquil’s famous boardwalk overlooking the Guayas River and the city’s port. Along the 2.5 kilometer long path, you’ll find many of the city’s most important landmarks and some of its best shopping, restaurants, museums, and parks. A stroll on the Malecón 2000 is an essential part of any trip to Guayaquil.

GUAYAQUIL HISTORIC PARK

The Guayaquil Historic Park lets visitors take a walk through the city’s history, with a number of classic and restored buildings on display. The park also acts as a refuge for much of the area’s native wildlife, so nature lovers will love a visit here as well. The Guayaquil Historic Park is one of Guayaquil’s most popular places to visit and should be considered a must-see attraciton.

CERRO SANTA ANA

Cerro Santa Ana is home to one of the the best views in Guayaquil, and the colorful neighborhood of Las Peñas which lies at the foot of the hill is one of the city’s most iconic and picturesque areas. Make sure to set aside an afternoon during your visit to explore this charming part of town.

BOSQUE PROTECTOR CERRO BLANCO

This important conservation area protects a large area of tropical dry forest near Guayaquil which is home to monkeys, jaguars, peccaries, butterflies, lizards as well as hundreds of species of birds. A visit to the Cerro Blanco Forest is a great way to experience some native wildlife of the region without having to travel too far from the city.

ART AND CULTURE IN GUAYAQUIL

MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY AND CONTEMPORARY ART:

This sleek modern museum invites visitors to experience 10,000 years of Ecuadorian history through excellent displays of pre-Columbian and modern art. All displays here are in Spanish, so be sure to hire an English-speaking guide if needed in order to get the full experience.

Address: Malecón Simón Bolivar 206

CITY MUSEUM (MUSEO MUNICIPAL):

The main historical museum for the city of Guayaquil showcases artifacts from every period of the city’s history, from ancient times to the modern day. Admission is free, making this one of the most economic ways to learn about this fascinating city!

Address: Calle Sucre between calle Chile y calle

NIGHTLIFE IN GUAYAQUIL

This relaxed bar is located in Las Peñas, a beautiful classic neighborhood in Guayaquil populated with many artists and creatives. Come here for a cocktail and enjoy the laid-back bohemian atmosphere.

DIVA NICOTINA:

This hip bar welcomes a young crowd of locals and travelers who come to enjoy the affordable drinks and live music. Diva Nicotina is a great place to enjoy a night out and meet some new friends.

CALI SALSOTECA:

If you’re a fan of salsa music, this bar in Guayaquil’s Zona Rosa is perfect for you. Spend a night out here to enjoy some excellent live salsa music and watch some really talented dancers.

Address: Panamá 418

SOUVERNIRS & SHOPPING IN GUAYAQUIL

Souvenirs & shopping in guayaquil:.

If you want to bring something special to your loved ones from your visit to Ecuador, make sure you stop by these wonderful places in Guayaquil that are loved by locals and visitors alike.

MERCADO ARTESANAL LOJA:

This excellent market features traditional crafts from all over Ecuador all in one place. Make a stop here to shop for traditional goods at reasonable prices and bring back the perfect souvenir!

Address: Baquerizo Moreno

MALECÓN SIMÓN BOLÍVAR:

This modern shopping center makes up one section of the city’s popular malecón, or boardwalk. Here you’ll find all the trappings of a typical mall, with a food court, clothing stores, and movie theater. Head here for to enjoy a pleasant walk and get some shopping done!

Address: Malecón Simón Bolívar

GUAYAQUIL SAFETY TIPS

• Avoid using ATM machines during nighttimes hours if possible.
• Keep your passport and credit cards stored safely in a locker and don’t bring them out unless necessary.
• Be careful when stopping a taxi on the street. It’s best to arrange a trusted taxi service through your hotel or hostel.
• Take the advice of our Ecuador Hop guides, who are here to help you with any questions or concerns you might have!

WHERE TO STAY IN GUAYAQUIL

This area of colorful historic homes is known as the city’s main bohemian district. Here you’ll find hipsters galore as well as some of the city’s best art galleries, music venues, bars, and trendy restaurants. Las Peñas is located near several different hostels and hotels, if you’re interested in staying near one of Guayaquil’s liveliest areas.

The neighborhood surrounding the malecón, or boardwalk, is one of Guayaquil’s top places to stay, with easy access to some of the city’s most well-known attractions. Make sure to take advantage of the nearby shopping and the many top notch restaurants in the area.

CITY CENTER

Guayaquil’s City Center contains the majority of the city’s major tourist attractions and sightseeing. If you’re someone who likes to be in the middle of it all, staying in the City Center might be the right decision for you. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the most transportation options from here.

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Guayaquil Travel Guide

What's unique, guayaquil travel blogs.

Guayaquil Travel Guide: Explore this Gateway to the Galapagos

Guayaquil is Ecuador's largest city and seaport. Travelers are most likely to visit Guayaquil on the way to the beaches on the Pacific coast or the Galapagos Islands .

While the city can be skipped altogether, should you have a free day to spend here, there are some noteworthy things to do and some decent dining and nightlife.

In our Guayaquil travel guide, we'll cover the basics of how to get around the city, where to stay, and what's worth seeing.

Table of Contents

Short Term Housing

Couchsurfing, malecon 2000, parque seminario, regional dishes, restaurants, bars & clubs.

Where is Guayaquil?

Guayaquil is located in southwest Ecuador along the banks of the Guayas River, which flowers into the Pacific Ocean.

How safe is Guayaquil?

Guayaquil continues to bear the reputation as Ecuador's most dangerous city and should be approached cautiously.

Whenever possible, use Uber or private taxi services, which often use black SUVs with tinted windows.

If using a taxi, have your hostel or hotel call for you, and get a business card from the driver to contact them on your own as needed.

The prices are higher at night. However, you're at less risk of being robbed than if you hail the yellow taxis on the street.

When walking around, stay aware of your surroundings to protect against pickpockets. Common street crime is the biggest risk to the average traveler in Guayaquil. 

So, is Guayaquil safe for tourists? Yes, the bottom line is as long as you exercise safety precautions typical of any large Latin American city.

Getting There & Away

The new Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport  (GYE) is one of the best in South America and as nice as any U.S. airport.

If you're entering the country through Guayaquil, the Immigration and Customs process is organized and efficient. Flights are available to/from a variety of major cities throughout North and South America .

The airport is located in the northeast part of the city, adjacent to the new international bus terminal. Taxis to the northern suburbs, or the hotels near the Malecon, cost $3-$5.

Guayaquil's new bus station is located next to the airport and is very well-organized and easy to get around.

Ticket booths for the buses are located on the first floor, along with a mall. Departures occur on the 2nd and 3rd floors.

Buses in Guayaquil leave for cities around the country day and night. The bigger the city, the more frequent the departures.

Buses to/from Quito and Cuenca depart hourly. A direct bus to Cuenca is $8.25 and takes 3.5 hours. A direct bus to Montanita is $6 and takes 2.5 hours.

Getting Around Guayaquil

While Guayaquil is a major urban center, the relatively few points of interest for tourists are all within walking distance in the downtown area.

You're generally safe to walk within (the fenced part of) the Malecon (boardwalk) day and night, as there are plenty of security guards present.

Avoid walking around elsewhere at night, especially if you're alone.

Uber should be your first choice for getting around the city as you'll know the cost of your trip up-front, and there's an electronic record of your whereabouts, journey, and who drove you.

Take an Uber if you need to go more than a few blocks.

Taxis are relatively inexpensive, but they're not metered, making it easy for foreigners to be ripped off. 

Get an estimate from a local, and do your best to negotiate before entering the cab.

Whenever possible, use a private taxi service. Ask your hostel or hotel to call.

Unfortunately, yellow taxis are much more prone to robberies, many of which involve taking the victims to an ATM where they're forced to withdraw the largest amount allowed.

Sample Costs

• $4 – daytime ride between the bus terminal or airport and hotels near Malecon.
• $8  – late-night ride in a private taxi (SUV) from bars and clubs in northern suburbs to hotels around Malecon.

Metrovia is a modern bus in Guayaquil that can help you get around the city for much less than Uber or taxis. The main routes run North-South and East-West. Single rides cost $0.25.

The local bus system is another option, with single rides costing about 25 cents as well.

Related: How to Protect Against Petty Theft

Where to Stay in Guayaquil

Guayaquil's lack of tourist attractions means far fewer hostels catering to budget travelers and backpackers than in Quito and Cuenca.

The two ideal places to stay are in the downtown area, within a few blocks of the Malecon, or in the northern suburbs, where you'll have easy access to the bus terminal, airport, and shopping malls.

Regardless of which neighborhood you choose, you can always hop in an Uber to get to the other.

Quick Recommendations

• Social Atmosphere —  Manso Boutique Guesthouse
• Partying —  Hostel Nucapacha
• Amenities —  Casa Michael
• City Entertainment —  Dreamkapture Hostel
• Cheap Stay —  Villa Maria

Related: Best Hostels in Guayaquil and Ecuador

Hotel Plaza St. Rafael (Editor's Pick) – Av. Chile 414 y Clemente Ballen. Excellent location adjacent to the Parque Seminario (Iguana Park) and a short three-block walk to the Malecon.

The city's Zona Rosa, several blocks of bars and discotecas, is about a five-block walk. A private room with a bath is $35/night. Breakfast included. Good Wi-Fi in rooms.

If you plan to spend a few weeks or months in the city, then you'll want to rent a room or apartment. Try negotiating a rate with your hostel, or Airbnb, or asking around for rooms or apartments for rent.

Couchsurfing is also an option in Guayaquil and can allow you to stay with a local in a part of the city you might not otherwise experience.

Things to See & Do

We'll keep this short, like most people's time in Guayaquil.

At the north end of the Malecon is a hill with old, colorfully painted buildings. Walk the 400 steps to the lighthouse at the top for excellent views of the city.

The neighborhood is filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, and art galleries. It's especially fun on a Friday or Saturday night and is relatively safe.

This massive urban development project has brought new life to the riverside in Guayaquil's city center.

At 1.5 miles long, it's best to walk in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

Along the way, you'll see a shopping mall, small restaurants, parks, playgrounds, and an IMAX theater.

Located at 10 de Agosto Ave & Chile Ave. From a distance, this park looks like any other, filled with fountains and trees; however, once you walk inside, you'll notice the abundance of iguanas hanging out.

It's an odd sight to see such giant iguanas in an urban environment among more common pigeons.

Related: 24 Hours in Guayaquil

Food & Drink

As Ecuador's largest city, Guayaquil has no shortage of restaurants to suit all budgets.

The modern malls in the northern suburbs feature high-end options, while typical meals can be had on a budget just about anywhere.

• Ceviche – A coastal favorite throughout Latin America, ceviche consists of raw seafood (fish, shellfish, etc.) marinated in citric juices, such as lime juice.
• Churrasco – Grilled steak seasoned with chimichurri and served along with plantains, rice, French fries, a fried egg, and avocado.
• Encebollado – Fish stew containing cassava and red onion.
• Pan de Yuca – Bread made of cassava starch and cheese.

La Canoa –  Chile & 10 de Agosto, inside the Hotel Continental. A good place to sample classic Ecuadorian dishes. Moderately priced.

Noe –  Francisco de Orellana, Centro Comercial San Marino. Located in the northern suburbs, this is a well-rated sushi restaurant.

Pique y Pase   (Editor's Pick) – Alejo Lascano 1617 & Carchi. Typical Ecuadorian food and excellent ceviches.

What Guayaquil lacks in tourist attractions, it makes up for with nightlife options.

However, when given a choice, many of Guayaquil's partiers prefer escaping the city altogether on the weekends for the beach scene in Montanita.

Kennedy Mall – Ave. Francisco de Orellana, in Kennedy Norte district. A handful of bars and discotecas to choose from here.

Las Penas (Editor's Pick) –  Neighborhood on the hill at the north end of Malecon. An assortment of restaurants, bars, and clubs make this a fun area to experience the local nightlife. Relatively safe too.

Zona Rosa – A strip of bars and discotecas that runs parallel to the northern section of the Malecon but about two blocks west. Any taxi driver or hostel/hotel reception can give you precise directions.

As you can see from our Guayaquil travel guide, Ecuador's largest city is short on must-see places. However, that doesn't mean you can't find a good time here.

However, most backpackers and travelers that come here are en route to the Pacific beach towns like Montanita or the Galapagos Islands.

Last Updated on April 17, 2023 by Dave Lee

Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio . He's been to 66 countries and lived in Colombia and Peru. Read the full story of how he became a travel blogger.

Monday 25th of April 2016

Do you know of a private safe car company with vans or SUVs that I can take from the sea port terminals to a hotel across from Iguana Park?

Thursday 28th of April 2016

Not off hand, no. you can try lining up private transport in advance by checking a company like Viator.com or searching Google.

Sunday 17th of April 2016

How can one get from the airport in Guayaquil to the bus station in Guayaquil? Even though they are next to each other, is it better to walk or to get a taxi? Can someone from the airport call a proper taxi? Do you even have to leave the airport or is it just a matter of walking through the airport and then there is the bus station across the street? I am trying to do this the safest way possible as I am traveling alone. Have already been robbed by knife in Quito and do not want to experience anything remotely like that again. Any advice is much appreciated.

Friday 22nd of April 2016

The metro bus goes from airport to bus terminal which is like .25 or .35 cent. Be careful with taxi services out front of bus station and airport as they are rip off merchants! A taxi shouldn't be anymore than $3, less given a trip across the city is $3-4 so make sure you barter the best price.

Guayaquil travel guide

Guayaquil tourism | guayaquil guide, you're going to love guayaquil.

Modern, clean, and distinctly South American: that is Guayaquil. From the moment you touch down to the moment you take off again, this beautiful city will ensnare your senses and envelope you with its decadent cuisine, rich history, and vibrant streets.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Guayaquil

1. check out the malecon simón bolivar.

This lush park is situated right by the Rio Guayas and has great views of the river and downtown core of Guayaquil along with a gardens and an IMAX theater.

2. Trek the Santa Ana and El Carmen Hills

For breathtaking views of the city, you can brave 400 steps or so up a hill, right? Come during sunset for a natural spectacular show and rest at the top with some ice cream.

3. Visit the Parque Histórico

True to its name, this park features a historical re-creation of life in the early 20th century in Guayaquil.

4. Stroll about La Bahia

With its interesting street vendors and outdoor markets, La Bahia is the place to go for a stroll as well as bargain hunting.

5. Relax at Salinas or General Villamil Playas

When you've had your fill of the view and the parks, head to one of these picturesque beaches to relax, unwind, and work up a tan. Besides great food and nightlife, there is also the chance to whale-watch from June to September.

What to do in Guayaquil

1. parque histórico de guayaquil: the strand of the pacific's pearl.

Situated just 2° south of the Equator on Ecuador's sultry Pacific coastline, the port city of Guayaquil is Ecuador's teeming commercial hub, its largest and most modern city, and humanity's sole transit point to the awe-inspiring nature of the Galápagos Islands. From Guayaquil's colonial era to the early 20th Century cocoa boom -- which was fundamental in the development of Ecuador's economy -- to the vast wildlife, unique traditions, culture, crafts and architecture of this low-lying city on the Guayas River, Parque Historico is a tranquil 20-acre park/zoo that beautifully links the deep historical significance of "La Perla del Pacifico" to its expansively modern future.

2. Cerro Santa Anna: She's Hoisted the Jolly Roger!

Back in the day, an approaching ship flying the black flag was sighted first from the vantage point of Cerro Santa Anna, or Santa Ana Hill: an iconic, 200-foot enclave offering a panoramic view of the city's surroundings. The site of the original Guayaquil settlement, you can follow the winding pathways dotted by shops, galleries and colorfully-painted hillside houses as you climb to the ancient fortifications and river-facing cannons that gallantly once tried to suppress those buccaneering cutthroats from the sea.

3. Malecon 2000: Ah, That Breeze!

The ideal place to catch a cool evening breeze on an after-dinner stroll, Malecon 2000 is a modern urban park and 1.5-mile riverside boardwalk featuring ornate gardens, fountains, museums, playgrounds and a small commercial center where you can grab a mean sangria, a delightful cup of domestic coffee or a delicious plate of cheesy, golden-brown potato patties called llapingachos.

4. La Rotonda: Too Big for Peru

Halfway along the Malecon stands Guayaquil's most impressive monument La Rotonda, which iconically depicts the mysterious 1822 Guayaquil meeting between Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín. Flanked by handsome fountains and brilliantly illuminated at night, the monument celebrates two leaders who shared the broad aim of liberating South America from Spanish control. Yet nothing is known about their discussions in Guayaquil. After their conference, Bolivar triumphed with the creation of sovereign states in Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Panama, while San Martin quietly slipped out of Guayaquil and history's limelight forever. One can only surmise that together the two giants of South American independence were too big for Peru.

5. Barco Pirata Morgan: Brave Captains and Fine Crews

Be part of a fine crew by taking a scenic, hour-long river cruise on a replica of the schooner captained by the infamous, swashbuckling privateer Henry Morgan. As the kid-friendly cruise takes in Guayaquil's most emblematic sites such as Barrio las Peñas, Malecon and Puerto Santa Ana as well as dancing, shows and open bar, Capt. Morgan's immortal words from the 1940s movie The Black Swan may even come to mind: "You do not vote pirates off the seas. You engage them, rake, and scuttle them. My lords and gentlemen, we have ships, brave captains and fine crews."

Where to Eat in Guayaquil

A local favorite that's also easy on the pocket, La Parrilla del Ñato is always packed. Enjoy authentic Ecuadorian dishes like grilled meats for around USD$10.

When to visit Guayaquil

Beginning in May and continuing through to December, Guayaquil experiences truly pleasant weather. Temperatures reach a peak of 82.4 in July. January to April is also warm but it's mostly rainy.

How to Get to Guayaquil

If you're going to be landing at Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), you're in luck: it was voted the best South American airport. To get to the city center, take a taxi for around USD$3.

Taking a train to Guayaquil is less about speed than it is about the actual journey. From Quito, for example, the journey includes meals and fares start at USD$50.

Getting from Mancora to Guayaquil takes around seven hours in all. Use the Panamericana Nte. and Highway E25.

International operator Cruz Del Sur runs rides from other major cities and countries like Peru. A trip from Peru to Guayaquil is around USD$93, but from Mancora to Guayaquil, it is significantly cheaper, with prices around USD$28.

Airports near Guayaquil

Airlines serving guayaquil, where to stay in guayaquil.

The Grand Hotel Guayaquil will mesmerize you with its hanging gardens and waterfalls. For comfort on a dime, check in to La Fontana. Budget travelers will appreciate the hospitality at El Manso.

Popular Neighborhoods in Guayaquil

Prosperina - a residential neighborhood with smaller, local restaurants and beautiful vacation homes.

La Bahia - right on the banks of the Rio Guayas is La Bahia, a picturesque port neighborhood with gorgeous parks like Parque Seminario and Parque Centenario.

Urdesa - a hub of trendy and upscale shopping malls, bars, restaurants, and clubs, Urdesa is lit up and alive at all times.

Where to stay in popular areas of Guayaquil

Most booked hotels in guayaquil, how to get around guayaquil, public transportation.

Locals rely on the Metrovia, a rapid bus transit system. A single adult fare is USD$0.25 and a monthly pass is USD$10.

Taxis in Ecuador are recognizable as "standard" yellow cabs or "taxi amigos", which are a pre-booked service. If it's not metered, make sure to agree on a price before getting in. Metered fares start at USD$1 and it's USD$0.62 per mile thereafter.

Car rentals in Ecuador are readily available from companies like Ace Rent A Car and Alamo, with per-day prices starting at USD$18 to USD$29 for a compact, economy rental.

Best car rental deals in Guayaquil

2 Adults, 2 Bags

The Cost of Living in Guayaquil

Shopping streets.

Within the Urdesa neighborhood, there are plenty of upscale shopping spots such as Aventura Plaza and Mall del Sol.

Groceries and Other

A quart of milk costs USD$1.13 and a dozen eggs will run you about USD$2.

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Cityscape of Santa Ana Hill Church with colorful colonial housing, Las Penas district, Guayaquil, Ecuador.

Things to Do in Guayaquil: A Guide to Top Activities, Attractions, and Hidden Gems

Guayaquil, Ecuador’s bustling port city, is a vibrant blend of modernity, history, and tropical charm. For those pondering things to do in Guayaquil, strolling along the Malecón 2000, a riverfront promenade lined with gardens, monuments, and entertainment venues, and exploring the historic Las Peñas neighborhood, with its colorful houses and art galleries, are top activities.

Parque Seminario, also known as Iguana Park, is a unique urban space where dozens of iguanas freely roam amidst visitors. Nearby, Santa Ana Hill offers a panoramic view of the city, with its lighthouse and 444-step climb providing both a vantage point and a glimpse into the city’s history.

Beyond its urban attractions, Guayaquil is a gateway to the Galápagos Islands and the Pacific coast’s beaches. For those seeking the best places to visit in Ecuador , Guayaquil’s blend of urban energy, historical sites, and strategic location makes it a pivotal destination for travelers.

Table of Contents

Attractions & Things to Do in Guayaquil, Ecuador

1. malecón 2000.

Stretching for several kilometers alongside the Guayas River, Malecón 2000 is a modern boardwalk with attractions, shops, restaurants, and museums. It provides locals and visitors with a refreshing space to walk, jog, or admire the panoramic views of the river.

Travel Tip: Visit during sunset for a picturesque view and a more relaxed atmosphere, as Guayaquil can get hot midday.

2. Parque de las Iguanas

Located in the heart of Guayaquil, this unique park is famous for its large population of iguanas that freely roam among visitors. It’s a serene oasis amid the urban hustle, where people can observe these creatures up close and feed them.

Travel Tip: Do be cautious and avoid touching the iguanas. They’re generally peaceful but can be startled if disturbed.

3. La Rotonda Monument

This iconic monument in Guayaquil commemorates a historic meeting between the liberators Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín in 1822. The monument is a testament to the city’s rich history and is surrounded by well-maintained gardens.

Travel Tip: Consider hiring a local guide or reading up on the history before visiting to appreciate the monument’s significance truly.

4. Santa Ana Hill (Cerro Santa Ana)

Offering a panoramic view of the city, Santa Ana Hill is a must-visit. With its colorful houses, narrow streets, and 444 steps leading to the top, where the Chapel of Santa Ana and a lighthouse are located, it’s both a cultural and historical attraction.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable climbing shoes and bring a water bottle. The view from the top is worth every step.

5. Historical Park (Parque Histórico Guayaquil)

This park combines history, culture, and nature, offering visitors an insight into Ecuador’s coastal traditions and lifestyles. It features exhibits, including traditional houses, wildlife zones with native animals, and performances showcasing regional dances and music.

Travel Tip: It’s an expansive area, so ensure you’ve set aside a few hours to immerse yourself in the experience truly.

6. Artisan Market (Mercado Artesanal)

For those interested in local crafts, arts, and souvenirs, the Artisan Market in Guayaquil is the place to go. There’s plenty to explore and buy, from handmade jewelry and clothing to traditional Ecuadorian crafts.

Travel Tip: Bargaining is common practice, so don’t hesitate to haggle a little for the best price.

7. Las Peñas Neighborhood

The oldest neighborhood in Guayaquil, Las Peñas, is a vibrant area with colorful colonial-style houses, art galleries, and bars. Its cobbled streets and artistic atmosphere make it a favorite for locals and tourists.

Travel Tip: Visit in the early evening when the area comes alive with music and local activities. Don’t forget to check out the art galleries showcasing the work of Ecuadorian artists.

8. Guayaquil Botanical Garden

A true green escape within the city, the Guayaquil Botanical Garden houses various native plants from all over Ecuador . It’s a great place to learn about the country’s diverse flora and spot local wildlife.

Travel Tip: Carry insect repellent with you, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season. The gardens are lush, which can attract mosquitoes.

9. Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo (MAAC)

Situated on the Malecón, this museum is a testament to the region’s ancient and contemporary arts. With exhibits spanning pre-Columbian artifacts to modern art pieces, it provides a comprehensive look into the area’s cultural evolution.

Travel Tip: Try to visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, allowing you to enjoy the exhibits leisurely.

10. Catedral Metropolitana de Guayaquil

Standing tall in the city’s heart, this beautiful neo-gothic cathedral is one of Guayaquil’s prominent religious landmarks. The architecture and stained-glass windows inside are awe-inspiring.

Travel Tip: Ensure you dress modestly when visiting any religious site in Ecuador. It’s respectful to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees.

11. Manglares Churute Ecological Reserve

Located a short drive from Guayaquil, this reserve is a haven for nature lovers. From mangrove forests to tropical dry forests, it provides a habitat for diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys and various bird species.

Travel Tip: Consider taking a guided boat tour through the mangroves to gain deeper insights into the ecosystem and enhance the chance of spotting wildlife.

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Guayaquil, Ecuador: Ratings

Kid-Friendly Activities in Guayaquil: 7/10 – Guayaquil offers several family-friendly attractions, such as the Malecon 2000 waterfront promenade, which includes playgrounds, gardens, and the IMAX Theater. The city also features the Parque de las Iguanas, where children can see iguanas up close, and the Guayaquil Historical Park, which provides educational and interactive exhibits.

Nightlife in Guayaquil: 7/10 – Guayaquil has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues, particularly in areas like Las Peñas and Urdesa. The city offers a mix of traditional salsa clubs, modern dance clubs, and casual bars, catering to diverse tastes and providing a vibrant evening atmosphere.

Sport in Guayaquil: 7/10 – Guayaquil provides various opportunities for sports enthusiasts, including facilities for football, basketball, and tennis. The city’s coastal location makes it a great spot for water sports such as sailing and kayaking. Outdoor activities like jogging along the Malecon and visiting nearby natural reserves are popular.

Culture and Attractions in Guayaquil: 8/10 – Guayaquil is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the iconic Malecon 2000, the historic neighborhood of Las Peñas, and the Parque Histórico Guayaquil. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes museums, theaters, and festivals, reflecting its dynamic heritage.

Gastronomy in Guayaquil: 8/10 – The culinary scene in Guayaquil is diverse, featuring traditional Ecuadorian dishes such as encebollado, ceviche, and arroz con menestra. The city offers a range of dining options from street food vendors to upscale restaurants, providing a rich culinary experience that highlights local flavors.

Shopping in Guayaquil: 7/10 – Shopping in Guayaquil includes modern malls like Mall del Sol and San Marino Shopping, as well as traditional markets such as Mercado Artesanal and the Central Market. The city offers a variety of products, from fashion and electronics to local crafts and souvenirs, providing a comprehensive shopping experience.

Prices in Guayaquil: 8/10 – Guayaquil is generally affordable, with reasonable prices for accommodation, dining, and shopping. The city offers good value for money, making it accessible for budget-conscious travelers.

Average price for a hotel night: $50 Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $5 Price of a beer: $2 Price of a coffee: $1.50

Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Guayaquil, Ecuador

For those looking to explore beyond Guayaquil’s urban charm, top day trips near Guayaquil invite travelers to experience the beauty of Ecuador’s Pacific coast and its surroundings. The historical allure of Cuenca and the exotic wildlife of Isla de la Plata, often referred to as the mini Galápagos, are just a journey away, offering a taste of the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Guayaquil accommodations offer a variety of choices, from high-rise hotels with panoramic river views to boutique options in the heart of the city, ensuring visitors can find the perfect spot to relax and recharge.

FAQ About Things to Do in Guayaquil, Ecuador

What are the top attractions in guayaquil.

Some of the top attractions in Guayaquil include the Malecón 2000, Las Peñas neighborhood, Parque Seminario (also known as Iguana Park), and the Guayaquil Historical Park.

Is it worth visiting the Santa Ana Hill?

Absolutely! Santa Ana Hill offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the iconic Las Peñas neighborhood, known for its colorful houses and artistic vibe.

Are there any museums worth visiting in Guayaquil?

Yes, the Anthropological and Contemporary Art Museum (MAAC) and the Nahím Isaías Museum are two famous museums that showcase Ecuadorian culture and history.

Where can I experience local cuisine in Guayaquil?

The Mercado Caraguay is excellent for trying traditional Ecuadorian dishes, including seafood specialties like ceviche and encebollado.

Is Guayaquil a good starting point for exploring the Galápagos Islands?

Yes, Guayaquil has an international airport that offers regular flights to the Galápagos Islands, making it a convenient gateway for travelers.

Are there any parks or green spaces to relax in Guayaquil?

Certainly! Parque Samanes is a vast green space ideal for picnics, jogging, and family outings. Parque Seminario in the city center is also famous for its resident iguanas.

Can I take a boat tour in Guayaquil?

Yes, you can take a boat tour along the Guayas River, which offers a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and waterfront attractions.

Is the Guayaquil Botanical Garden worth a visit?

Definitely! The Guayaquil Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis showcasing various native plants and wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guayaquil https://www.getyourguide.com/guayaquil-l532/

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.

David Zacik

I like to travel and I run a website about interesting places, food, countries and customs, sharing practical tips and inspiring others. Follow me on YouTube and Instagram .

Ecuador: Journey Through the Equator's Diverse Beauty

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Things to do in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Welcome to our backpacking Guayaquil travel guide.

Most who come to Ecuador rarely spend time in Guayaquil, instead focusing more on the Andes and northern coast.

However, not all is doom and gloom in this coastal city , and as we’ll see later in this guide, there are actually quite a few worthwhile gems to explore here!

From its picturesque malecón to a colorful neighborhood situated in the hills, we believe that Guayaquil deserves at least a two-day stop between other major Ecuadorian destinations.

What's in this guide?

Backpacking Guayaquil, Ecuador

In this guide, we’ll explore some things to do in Guayaquil, including important landmarks to see, the best places to stay as well as our own top tips.

Why Travel to Guayaquil?

To be completely honest, when I was traveling through Ecuador (George), I kind of had to visit Guayaquil, since it was on the way to Montañita in the north.

I only spent a day and night there, but there were actually some worthwhile things to see and do, and the area I stayed in (the centre near the Malecón 2000) was also safe to walk around in.

The Malecón 2000 is one of the best attractions, with this long boardwalk running adjacent to the Río Guayas that connects to the Pacific Ocean. Here you’ll find the letters and other historical monuments along the way.

Also visit the Parque Seminario, where you can spot Iguanas climbing in the trees , as well as visit the beautiful Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil.

The climate is also a nice change from the cooler Andes, making the evening walks up to La Peña and around the city much more comfortable, regardless of when in the year you visit.

How to Get to Guayaquil

Guayaquil is the other major city in Ecuador, with most already aware of the capital of Quito. Thankfully, this means getting here is pretty easy.

The international airport welcomes direct flights from all over the continent, and also with some from further flung areas like Europe too.

As well as booking your hostel in Guayaquil , we recommend booking flights around 4 months in advance if coming from here, since you’ll save on costs.

If you are already in Ecuador, then you can also take the bus to reach this coastal city. From Quito the trip will take roughly 8 hours, whilst it will take 5 hours from nearby Cuenca in the south.

Those heading onwards to Cuenca from Guayaquil can pre-book their private transport here , which includes a stop at the stunning Cajas National Park.

Things to do in Guayaquil

Now that we’ve covered some of the basics about Guayaquil, let’s take a look at the very best things to see and do here.

Malecón 2000

Inaugurated in 1999, this boardwalk was first made as part of an urban renewal project, and has since become one of the most popular attractions in the city.

Stretching for 2.5km along the Guayas river , you’ll find many monuments such as the Rotonda and the Civic Plaza. You’ll also find a mall with many nice restaurants and shops too for those looking for a more relaxed day out.

Those who are short on time in Guayaquil will want to head with this half-day tour , where you’ll visit all of these top highlights.

Parque Seminario

Also known as Parque Bolívar, this is the main park in Guayaquil, and is a great place to come for a stroll. Although there are many benches to sit on, you may find the sides are already taken up by the local residents – the iguanas!

They roam free here in this park , and can also be seen swinging in the trees up above. Here you can also see the stunning Catedral Católica Metropolitana, as well as some historical landmarks such as the statue of Simón Bolívar himself .

You will find that this organized tour is a great way to explore the park and nearby attractions, with a knowledgeable guide on-hand to teach you all about the history of Guayaquil.

This district is perched on top of the Cerro de Santa Ana hill, and is the true colonial capital of Guayaquil.

Whilst most of the city is painted in more dull shades, here you’ll find brightly colored houses on every street, along with cute cobblestone pathways.

As well as walking around this safe area and getting to know gems such as El Fortín Museum and the Chapel of Our Lady of Mercy, you’ll also have some awesome views over the rest of Guayaquil.

Gateway to Ecuador’s Pacific Coast

When backpacking South America and you’re intent on relaxing on some beautiful beaches, know that these are a stone’s throw away from Guayaquil!

Most move on to Montañita, however, there are some beaches that can be visited as a day trip whilst staying within the big city.

General Villamil Playas is a popular choice among locals, with the drive taking just an hour to reach. Another great option are the beaches in nearby Salinas , which is a couple of hours away.

Now if you’re ready to leave Guayaquil and are not sure where to next base yourself in, we highly recommend coming to Montañita, which is the undisputed king of beach destinations along the western coast of South America!

Also remember, safety starts with the place you stay, so choose a hostel or hotel in a safe area and be sure to take out travel insurance for protection on the road.

Where to Stay in Guayaquil

This section is one of the most important, so please read up. Guayaquil is pretty unsafe in many parts , especially along the north and in other neighborhoods.

The only real safe area is near the Malecón 2000 and by the Parque Seminario. We recommend staying at the Hotel Rizzo , which has some affordable private rooms. The location is also good, right next to the park in a safer area of the city.

Best Time to visit Guayaquil

Guayaquil has a pretty distinct dry and wet season which can vary the kind of experience you’ll have.

The dry season begins in June, and lasts until November . This is the so-called “coolest” time for a visit, however average daytime temperatures still hover between a pretty warm 75-77°F.

Highs can reach up to 86°F, with lows of down to 69°F. Here you can expect just 0-0.5 inches of rainfall each month, making it a great time for daytime exploring.

The rainy season begins in December and carries through until late May . Average temperatures are slightly warmer this time of year, with averages of between 79-81°F. Highs can rise as high as 87°F, with evening lows of down to 71°F.

This season sees a higher amount of rainfall, with anywhere from 1-8 inches falling throughout each month (with February and March the overall wettest). If heading during the wet season, be sure to bring this quality Poncho to keep yourself dry.

Guayaquil Backpacking Tips

Now we’ll share some of our best tips for exploring Guayaquil, based on our own experience here.

• As already mentioned, Guayaquil is not the safest city around, and you’ll want to raise your guard (especially if you’ve recently been in more tourist-friendly areas like Baños and Montañita). We suggest staying near the Parque Seminario , and to carry a waistpack (or equivalent) and avoid bringing valuables with you when out and about.
• We recommend spending 2-3 days in Guayaquil . This will give you enough time to see all of the best sites and visit a nearby beach, before moving onwards to Ecuador’s coast or more in-land.
• Check out Hostel Nucapacha if you’re looking for a safe and cosy place to stay in while you spend time in this chaotic city.
• The overall best time to visit Guayaquil is between the months of July and October . Temperatures are nice and warm this time of year, but not overbearing like it can be during other times of the year. There’s also hardly any rainfall too, so your plans won’t be interrupted by unexpected showers.

Got travel insurance for Guayaquil?

And that’s all for our backpacking Guayaquil guide!

One of the lesser popular destinations to visit in Ecuador, Guayaquil tends to be skipped by most travelers bombing around this South American nation.

However, having stayed here, we’ve found that this city has many worthwhile things to see. These range from the colorful neighborhood of Las Peñas and the picturesque Malecón 2000 to the iguana-infested Parque Seminario.

In this guide we’ve covered everything you’ll need to know about Guayaquil. This includes the best things to see and do, the best time to visit, where to stay and much, much more.

We hope you enjoyed reading this guide! If you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

See our backpacking Ecuador itinerary for more ideas on where to go here.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

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GUAYAQUIL was for years regarded as one of Ecuador’s most dangerous cities, but following major regeneration programmes and public safety campaigns it has dramatically improved, with the central district now an unthreatening and surprisingly likeable place. When strolling the sparkling waterfront, it’s hard to imagine among the whisper of fountains and leafy walkways that not long ago the area was considered completely out of bounds. The improvements aren’t just cosmetic either: a reinvigorated cultural scene, thanks largely to important new exhibition spaces, and an ambitious overhaul of public transport point to an enduring and far-reaching transformation. Add all this to Guayaquil’s natural energy and intensity and you have a winning combination. Still, beyond the heavily patrolled attractions and glittering renovations, shades of the city of old continue to lurk; never take valuables onto the streets and always use a taxi after dark.

Bars and clubs

Guayaquil fiestas, las peñas and cerro santa ana, the malecón 2000.

Away from downtown, the several upmarket residential suburbs (mostly gated communities with plenty of armed guards to keep the numerous poor and slum districts at bay), reflect Guayaquil’s status as the country’s wealthiest city, thanks mainly to its massive port that handles major national exports, including bananas, shrimp, cacao and coffee. It’s also Ecuador’s largest city, with a population of more than 2.3 million people to Quito’s 1.6 million, and there is a deep-seated rivalry between the two cities. As far as historical attractions go, Guayaquil lags far behind the capital, with only a smattering of colonial buildings still standing (most of the others having been destroyed in a 1942 earthquake). Nonetheless, Quito has nothing like Guayaquil’s gleaming riverside development, the Malecón 2000 , which incorporates gardens, shopping centres, restaurants, a landmark museum, cinema and gallery and several of the city’s most famous monuments; it links downtown to the Cerro Santa Ana , a once-dangerous slum now ingeniously reinvented as a beacon of urban renewal, and Las Peñas , the city’s most charming historic district. The effect of the regeneration projects cannot be underplayed; the city is no longer a place visited out of necessity, but a destination in its own right.

Brief history

Conquistador Francisco de Orellana founded the city as Santiago de Guayaquil on July 25, 1537, its name supposedly honouring the local Huancavilca chieftain Guayas and his wife, Quil , who killed themselves rather than be captured by the Spanish. From its earliest years it was the most important entry point into Ecuador (known then as the “Audiencia de Quito”) and quickly grew into a flourishing little port. Its fortunes were held back by the repeated attacks of pillaging British, French and Dutch buccaneers , regular fires engulfing its timber buildings and the deleterious mix of tropical climate and inadequate sanitation , which made it a hotbed of smallpox, yellow fever and typhoid. Nevertheless, during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries Guayaquil gradually took on the shape of a proper city, with new roads, bridges, schools, hospitals and markets, mostly funded by burgeoning exports of cacao , fruit and wood .

On October 9, 1820, it became the first city in Ecuador to declare its independence from Spain, and it was from here that General Sucre conducted his famous military campaign, culminating in the liberation of Quito on May 24, 1822. Shortly afterwards, Guayaquil went down in history as the site of the legendary meeting between the two liberators of South America, Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín , whose campaigns from opposite ends of the continent were then drawing together in the middle. In the decades following independence, Guayaquil grew rapidly and asserted its considerable role in the new republic – Ecuador’s first bank was founded here in 1859, soon followed by a major public library and university. The tide of success turned in 1896, when the worst fire in its history wiped out seventy percent of the city in 36 hours.

Guayaquil was quickly rebuilt and became prosperous once more in the twentieth century, aided by the dramatic banana boom , which began in the late 1940s. The city’s pivotal role in the country’s international trade (and the huge increase in commerce at that time) funded new port facilities in 1963 and the construction of the massive three-kilometre Puente de la Unidad Nacional , the largest bridge on the Pacific coast of South America. In the last couple of decades numerous shanty towns have emerged on the city’s periphery, as thousands of people have migrated from the countryside in search of work; crime levels soared to the point where, in 1998, a state of emergency and nightly curfews were imposed for several months. These measures, along with a stronger police presence, have improved security in downtown areas such as the Malecón 2000, but vigilance is still required.

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Guayaquil is packed with hotels , but few are geared towards tourists. Top-end establishments attract mainly corporate clients and nearly all have separate, much higher, rates for foreigners; single rooms are also hard to come by. The lower-end hotels are very good value but often double up as “motels” – places where couples are charged by the hour, but they’re usually clean and safe. Many of the cheaper hotels only have cold-water showers, while air conditioning is offered in all expensive and most mid-priced hotels. Given the cacophony of Guayaquil’s streets, it’s always worth asking if there are any back, or even internal, rooms available.

Much of the city’s nightlife goes on in the more affluent suburbs north of the centre, though if you’re on the Malecón after sundown a stroll up Cerro Santa Ana or Las Peñas will reveal clusters of inexpensive drinking holes, good spots for bar hopping.

Downtown restaurants fall into two broad categories: those serving cheap and simple almuerzos , and those (usually attached to the smarter hotels) offering good-quality, but overpriced, menus. A more concentrated collection of restaurants, as well as bars and nightclubs, lines Avenida Estrada, the main drag of the affluent suburb of Urdesa ; take buses #52 and #54 from the Malecón, #10 from Parque del Centenario, or go by taxi (20min; $3–4). You’ll find plenty of fast-food outlets at the CC Malecón mall, including several taco and seafood bars, as well as others at the northern end of the promenade. The big shopping centres like Mall del Sol feature huge food courts with dozens of familiar international fast-food chains.

The city’s biggest fiestas are July 24, Simón Bolívar’s birthday, and July 25, the foundation of the city, celebrated together in a week of events and festivities known as the fiestas julianas , complete with processions, street dancing and fireworks. Another important bash is October 9, for the city’s independence , which is combined with the Día de la Raza on October 12, commemorating Columbus’s discovery of the New World. New Year’s Eve is celebrated with the burning of the años viejos , large effigies, on the Malecón at midnight.

The Malecón ends in the north at the picturesque barrio of Las Peñas , itself at the foot of Cerro Santa Ana. There’s little more to it than a short, dead-end road – Numa Pompilio Llona – paved with uneven, century-old cobblestones, but the colourful wooden houses here make this one of the prettiest corners of Guayaquil. Many of the houses have been beautifully restored, but part of the area’s charm derives from the flaking paint and gentle disrepair of those that haven’t. A couple of cannons standing by the entrance point towards the river, honouring the city’s stalwart resistance to seventeenth-century pirates, and the street is dotted with a few small art galleries; the best is the Casa del Artista Plástico of the Asociación Cultural Las Peñas.

Rising above Las Peñas, the Cerro Santa Ana was a very dangerous slum until a regeneration project transformed a swath of its ramshackle buildings into an eye-catching sequence of brightly painted houses, restaurants, bars and shops built around a winding, 444-step staircase to a viewpoint at the top of the hill: the Plaza de Honores , home to a colonial-style chapel and lighthouse modelled after Guayaquil’s first, from 1841.

With its discreet balconies, ornate lampposts and switchback streets leading from intimate plazas, the development does a fair job of evoking the image of a bygone Guayaquil – despite the plastic “tiled” roofs, heavy presence of armed guards and large locked gates blocking out the slums at its margins. Yet the spectacular views from the Plaza de Honores and the top of the lighthouse are definitely worth a visit, particularly after a day on the Malecón as the sun dips on the seething city below. Just below the Plaza de Honores, the open-air Museo El Fortín del Santa Ana holds cannons, seafaring paraphernalia, the foundations of the fortress of San Carlos , built in 1629 to defend the city from pirate attacks, and a reconstructed pirate ship, half of which is a bar. Further below, down by the river, the Puerto Santa Ana is the city’s latest regeneration project, currently being developed as a marina complete with waterside cafés, restaurants and apartments.

The busy Malecón Simón Bolívar skirts the western bank of the wide, yellow-brown Río Guayas; it always heaves with traffic but the long pedestrianized section by the waterfront, known as the Malecón 2000 , is the most pleasant place to stroll in town. Skilfully designed, diligently maintained and the most beloved public space in the city, it features a large, paved esplanade filled with trees, botanical gardens, contemporary sculpture and architecture, shopping malls and restaurants. It also connects some of Guayaquil’s best-known monuments along a promenade , which security guards regularly patrol, enclosed by railings and accessed only at guarded entrance gates – making it one of the safest places to spend a day in Guayaquil.

Its centrepiece is the Plaza Cívica , reached by gates at the end of 9 de Octubre or 10 de Agosto. As you enter the gates, you’re faced with La Rotonda , an imposing statue of South America’s liberators, José de San Martín and Simón Bolívar, shaking hands against a background of tall marble columns topped by billowing South American flags. The monument, which looks stunning when illuminated at night, commemorates the famous encounter between the two generals here on July 26 and 27, 1822. It’s designed so two people whispering into the two end pillars can hear each other – though the din of the traffic somewhat undermines the effect.

South of La Rotonda are sculptures dedicated to the four elements, with fire and earth doubling up as timber-and-metal lookout towers crowned by sail-like awnings. The views from the top are striking: on one side the urban sprawl stretches to the horizon, while on the other the low, fuzzy vegetation across the river lies completely free of buildings. Looking north, the huge bridge of Puente de la Unidad Nacional stretches across to the suburb of Durán, from where the famous Quito–Guayaquil trains used to leave. Beyond the sculptures and past the Yacht Club, the 23-metre Moorish clock tower marks the southern end of the Plaza Cívica.

South of the clock tower is the CC Bahía Malecón shopping centre and the dignified Plaza Olmedo , dedicated to statesman and poet José Joaquín de Olmedo (1780–1847), the first mayor of Guayaquil and a key agitator for the city’s independence. At the southern end of the promenade, the Mercado Sur , a splendid construction of glass and wrought iron, is floodlit at night to dazzling effect and is a wonderful space for temporary exhibitions and events. Opposite, indigenous flower sellers surround the elegant Iglesia San José , and south of the Mercado Sur lies a small clothes and artesanía market , though you’ll have to bargain hard to get a good deal. The real clothes bargains are to be found over the road from the Malecón at the sprawling Las Bahías market , sited on several blocks around the pedestrianized streets on both sides of Olmedo, near the bottom of the Malecón 2000.

North of the Plaza Cívica is a succession of sumptuous botanical gardens , fountains, ponds and walkways; each garden is themed on a historical period or Ecuadorian habitat, such as the Plaza de las Bromelias, a lavish concoction of cloudforest-like trees swathed in mosses and bromeliads. At the northern end of the promenade is an IMAX cinema; http://www.imax.com/theatres/t/imax-malecon-2000/. Below it, in the same building, Guayaquil en la Historia displays the evolution of the city, with fourteen beautifully crafted miniature reconstructions of various scenes, accompanied by information in English.

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Travel Guide of Guayaquil in Ecuador by Influencers

Guayaquil, officially Santiago de Guayaquil, is the largest city of Ecuador. It is also the nation's main port. The city is the capital of Guayas Province and the seat of Guayaquil canton.

Travel Guide of Guayaquil in Ecuador by Influencers and Travelers

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The Best Things to Do and Visit in Guayaquil

Travelers top 3 :.

• Malecón 2000
• Museo El Fortín
• Trekking | Guayaquil

1 - Malecón 2000

Malecón 2000 is the name given to boardwalk overlooking the Guayas River in the Ecuadorian port city of Guayaquil. An urban renewal project focusing on the old Simón Bolívar boardwalk, it stands along the west shore of the river for an approximate length of 2.5 km.

2 - Museo El Fortín

3 - Trekking | Guayaquil

Set off on an adventure amongst the waterfalls and the cloud forest of Bucay, Ecuador on this full-day tour from Guayaquil. Discover the tropical flora on a hike and rappel down a 30m/98ft waterfall.

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Guayaquil is one of Ecuador's main tourist destinations. Partly because it is the entry point to the Galapagos Islands, since its airport is the main connection center to the archipelago. There will be no shortage of things to do in Guayaquil. If we talk about Guayaquil, we inevitably have to mention the Malecon 2000, its main attraction! It is a 2.5-kilometer river walkway surrounded by gardens, monuments, shopping malls and restaurants. They turned a simple river walk into a thriving place where you can do a lot of activities. In fact, many of the best attractions to see in Guayaquil are located right there or nearby, which is why it is the most visited place in the city! You can't leave the city without climbing the largest Ferris wheel in South America, and the first in Ecuador! From the top you will have a privileged view of the city. Also climbing the curious lighthouse of Faro Cerro Santa Ana will allow you to enjoy a 360º panoramic view. If you want to relax and connect with nature inside this big city, you may want to check out and visit the Seminario de Guayaquil, one of the oldest and most emblematic venues in the city where you will find more than 300 iguanas hanging in the trees, walking alongside tourists or posing for a picture. To get into the heart of Guayaquil's culture, nothing better than tasting a typical dish such as “encebollado” fish which is the favorite dish of the locals. Founded definitively in 1547 by the conquistador Francisco de Orellana Guayaquil, the city served as a shipyard and commercial port to the service of the Spanish Crown, and still holds a lot of historical and economic importance even to this day. The "Pearl of the Pacific", as Guayaquil is now known, has a lot of natural places to recharge your batteries and make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers planning a trip to Guayaquil

The Metrovia is a modern bus in Guayaquil which can help you get around the city for much less than Uber or taxis. The main routes run North-South and East-West. Single rides cost approximately $0.25.

Some of the most popular attractions to visit in Guayaquil are: -Guayaquil Historical Park -Malecon 2000 -Las Peñas -Hacienda La Danesa -Santa Ana Hill

Usually, two or three days in Guayaquil can be enough to visit the city's most emblematic and popular attractions.

Guayaquil can be visited any time of the year, as it is a city that has no extreme temperatures. It has two climatic seasons: Rainy or winter (January to May) and dry or summer (June to December). In winter the city has a warm and humid temperature during the day.

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Essential Tips for Staying Safe in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Galapagos Travel , Ecuador Travel

Essential tips for guayaquil safety.

Guayaquil is a magnificent city, a tourist destination attracting thousands of visitors every year. Many visit this destination before heading off to the Galapagos Islands or exploring the rest of the unique country of Ecuador. South American countries have very different approaches and perspectives surrounding safety, and its important to learn how to blend in to avoid becoming a target. Before you visit, you must be aware of the Guayaquil safety best practices to avoid an unfortunate event. This article will give you crucial tips on how to be safe in Guayaquil and Ecuador in general.

Be Street Smart / Maintain Awareness

Walking around the city with your phone in your hand checking out a map is commonplace in the many parts of the world, but is a big nono in Guayaquil and most Ecuadorian cities. If you must check your phone, step into a store before taking your phone out. When walking around, its a good practice to keep your eyes up and check your surroundings occasionally. Thieves become much less likely to target you if you have your eyes on them and can identify them.

Additionally, do not walk around in the wide-open with a DSLR or a nice camera. These items are very valuable, and the prices can sell for double the price in the country. Make sure to use your phone only on guided tours outside of the city, and maintain the camera in a backpack (Not a camera bag)

Walking around with your phone in your hand. Big nono!

Be Careful on or Avoid Public Transportation

Watch your belongings on Quito’s buses!

Before hopping onto a bus, ask yourself if savings $2-8 is worth the tradeoff of a $500-1,000 smartphone. Buses in Guayaquil can become extremely overcrowded during the busy hours, especially during the weekends. This means being pushed together like sardines, the perfect opportunity for a thief to get to your phone.

Unfortunately, these pickpockets are extraordinary at their job, and you will be off the bus blocks away before noticing it is gone. Whether it is in your pocket, or in your bag, the item is generally not safe .

If you do decide that you want to use a bus, keep your valuable items in an interior pocket, like the inside pocket of a jacket. However, Guayaquil is often quite hot, and you won’t want to wear a jacket. In this case, keep your hand inside your pocket on top of the valuables. Can’t pick a pocket if a hand is inside! Another top Guayaquil safety tip: make sure to keep cash down to a minimum on the bus.

Public Transportation Best Practices

Download Cabify or Uber. This is without a doubt the safest option to get to your destinations promptly. Moreover, drivers are typically friendly. Most service providers have temporary international plan options. Alternatively, you can unlock your phone before travel and set up a local sim card, which will cost much less.

Watch Out For Scams

This is one of the most important Guayaquil safety tips.  If you are walking down the street and somebody begins talking to you, your best bet is to keep walking. The general best practice in Guayaquil is to not let anybody get close enough to touch that you don’t know. Below is one of the scams found in this guide of 17 common travel scams , one that I would have likely fallen for if I didn’t know any better.

The Bird Poo Scam

• Opening : A person squirts mustard or ketchup resembling bird poo on your clothes without you realizing it. They stop you, draw attention to it, and help you clean up.
• Set-up : What he is doing is trying to pick your pockets, or distract you so an accomplice can steal your unattended bag.

The general price will be $1.50-3 for short trips and $4-7 for longer trips.

The airport trip will cost you $20-25.

The minimum price during the day is $1.50, and 2.00 at night, despite what the taximeter reads.

However, it is important to follow these safety tips to reach the destination safely and to be aware of scams.

There are tons of cabs, but not all of them are legitimate.

If you don’t use this advice, you may find yourself in a taxi that will up-charge the rate significantly, or worse an unsafe driver with bad intentions.

Here are some tips to make sure you get into a secure taxi:

• The first step is finding a properly licensed taxi. Licensed cabs have their taxi registration number in 5-inch lettering on the windshield or the door or a 4 digit sticker on the window. Check for a license plate in the front and back, and a company name on the side of the car.
• Insist taxi drivers use the taxi meter, while is required by law during the day. (“por favor, usa el taximetro” in Spanish). If they resist, find another.
• If you are in a restaurant, bar, or hotel, the staff will be happy to help hail a cab for you.
• If you are alone at night, call a friend or pretend to be on the phone while in the taxi. Always a good safety tip in taxis
• Write down the registration number and get a good look at the driver. Another great preventative measure.
• Keep an eye on the taxi meter. If it magically jumps 50 cents in a few seconds, time to get out of the cab.

Use Caution If Walking at Night 

Walking around at night is always a risk when in Guayaquil. Your best bet is to Uber directly to the destination of interest, such as a hotel, and once finished head directly back to the Hotel or next safe area.  

Parts of Guayaquil can go from very safe to very dangerous in a short period, and unless you are familiar, your best bet is to stick to a safe itinerary. There are cases of visitors being threatened with knives and guns. If that happens, always hand over whatever you have. A best safety practice is to avoid joining stranger groups, getting in their car, or visiting their household.

Ask the hotel which parts of Guayaquil are safe at night!

Sexual Assault – Guayaquil Safety

During the nighttime, women should be extra cautious of their surroundings, avoid walking around at night and always keep their alcoholic beverages in hand to avoid spiking. Other Guayaquil safety best practices to avoid sexual assault include staying in large friends/family groups, not mingling with strangers, and taking Ubers everywhere.

Be Cautious of Ayahuasca  

Ayahuasca, a spiritual and hallucinogenic experience is currently a very appealing activity in Guayaquil and Ecuador in general. However, it is important to know the risks and beware of possible scams. Some characters may pose as spiritual Ayahuasca guides or Shamans, but in reality, are scammers that may take advantage of you in a vulnerable state and take your belongings. A top Guayaquil safety recommendation in this topic is to make sure that if you are going to do this, the guide has credentials and many recommendations from other guests.

If you go on this spiritual journey, make sure its legitimate

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Guayaquil Travel Guide

Things to do in Guayaquil

Parque Seminario

Malecon 2000

Catedral Católica Metropolitana de Guayaquil

El Faro de Guayaquil

Parque Historico Guayaquil

Museum of Anthropology and Contemporary Art

Botanical Garden

Presley Norton Museum

Amazon Rainforest

Where to stay, ibis styles el malecon guayaquil, courtyard guayaquil, holiday inn guayaquil airport, hotel palace guayaquil, sheraton guayaquil hotel, hilton colon guayaquil, wyndham garden guayaquil, gh galeria hotel, unipark by oro verde hotels, tryp by wyndham guayaquil airport, grand hotel guayaquil, ascend hotel collection, oro verde guayaquil, what to eat.

Lo Nuestro Cafe - Restaurant

Tratoria Piccolo Mondo

Crepes Del Nino

Marrecife Marisqueria

Cristobal Bolon

Caracol Azul

El Cangrejo Criollo

Guayaquil moments: through travelers' eyes.

Best of Guayaquil

Top 4 premium hotels in guayaquil.

Wyndham Guayaquil Puerto Santa Ana

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Oro Verde Machala

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Popular attractions in guayaquil, popular ranked lists, popular restaurants in guayaquil, popular destinations, recommended attractions at popular destinations, popular travel types, more things to do in guayaquil.

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Travel tips

Nov 29, 2020 • by nictinky

Tips to Travel to Ecuador

The first you need to know is which city are you going? Quito or Guayaquil. Once you decide where, then you can book an accommodation. I do recommend the hotel Radisson, Oro verde in Guayaquil, in...

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Guide to Guayaquil Ecuador Weather (Rainfall, Temperature, Humidity…)

Planning a trip to Guayaquil? Here’s what you need to know about Guayaquil weather – including rainfall, average temperatures (monthly / annual), rainy days, humidity and daylight hours.

Guayaquil Weather: Annual Climate Chart

When you get off the plane in  Guayaquil – there will be no doubt that you are in a tropical climate ( tropical savanna climate, to be precise ). You’ll feel the wall of hot air on your face as you exit the plane and walk across the tarmac to the terminal.

Questions about the weather in Ecuador are super common. As you plan your trip (or relocation) to Ecuador, it’s pretty important to know what to expect in regard to rainfall and average temperatures. It’ll affect what you bring and even what you can do.

To help answer those questions, we researched and are publishing the monthly/annual averages for Guayaquil: highs, lows, and precipitation .

Charts are divided by imperial and metric measurements. I’ve also included rainfall, average temperatures (monthly/annual), days with rain, humidity and daylight hours.

Want to learn more about Guayaquil? Here are 34 of our favorite photos of Guayaquil Ecuador .

Altitude of Guayaquil Ecuador

Guayaquil is located at 30 feet (9 meters) above sea level.

The lower altitude means more stable weather – compared to the Andean cities of Cuenca and Quito , where thunderstorms can appear (seemingly) out of thin air.

Annual Weather Chart for Guayaquil Ecuador (Fahrenheit / Inches)

*Humidity refers to Average Relative Humidity

Annual Weather Chart for Guayaquil Ecuador (Celsius / Millimeters)

Data is based on an assortment of charts from across the web.

Guayaquil Weather: Planning Your Trip

What do we learn from the charts? It can be a little confusing to sort out the specifics. Here are a few tips for visiting Guayaquil.

• Best time of the year to visit Guayaquil: If you aren’t a fan of rain, you might consider visiting during the months of July through November . The cooling effects of the Humboldt Current keeps rain to a minimum.
• When is the rainy season in Guayaquil? It can rain a lot during January through April in Guayaquil. The rain can make it a little harder to see the city on foot – and don’t forget that the rain brings an increased level of mosquitos.
• Temperatures don’t vary much through the year. What does change is the rain – and the resulting humidity levels.

Guayaquil is a popular stopover city for travelers to the Galapagos or other parts of Ecuador. Guayaquil hasn’t developed its tourism offering as well as other areas of Ecuador.

Many visitors spend a maximum of 2 days before heading off to another part of the country. Read more about Guayaquil’s international airport .

Don’t forget to check which Ecuador holiday overlaps with your travel plans. Some of the larger holidays can fill up hotels, flights, and tourist attractions.

Interested to learn more about the weather across the country? Check out our Guide to Ecuador Weather: Climate Charts for all 4 Regions

When are you planning on visiting Guayaquil? What part of the city will you be visiting? Have a tip to share? Join us in the comments!

Hi, I'm Bryan Haines . And I'm a co-founder of Storyteller.Travel . I'm a traveler and photographer.

I also blog about photography on Storyteller Tech .

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Its true, its hot and very humid, but I don’t let it get to me. I quickly adapt and its so good for my dry skin. Walking around helps to quickly shed off some extra pounds too. Since they eat almost always at the same time periods- breakfast, almuerzos (lunch), merienda (dinner) and I’d dare say most eat all 3 meals plus snack on delicious fruits or Ecuadorian yogurt with pan de yuca, its amazing I didn’t meet many obese people. Surprisingly, I-lost-weight!! The city is colorful. There are parks with iguanas. The many mangroves and rivers serpentine throughout the city. Some have promenades that provide family entertainment with restaurants and kiosks. The malls are comparable to U.S. malls and its a great escape from the heat. Guayaquil supports the local and international arts. Therefore, throughout the week there is always something fun to do at a museum or theater. People are polite and if you befriend them it’ll be hard to leave them. Guayacos, as they are known, are affectionate and love to party. Most enjoy conversing and know their politics very well. I obviously only gave my positive perspective. I’m sure there are negative aspects as well.

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How you can get money back if your travel is still being impacted by the Crowdstrike outage

Travelers continue to feel the impact of the Crowdstrike outage that shut down systems worldwide on Friday.

While a lot of the airlines are pretty much back to normal, one of the major carriers has continued to struggle on Monday.

"Delta continues to have problems. More than 700 cancellations already as of midday today," said Sean Cudahy, The Points Guy.

Delta said its crew scheduling and tracking software is impacted. So what can consumers do?

"If you decide that you don't want to travel, if your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, under US Department of Transportation Policy, you are entitled to a refund back to the original form of payment," said Cudahy.

Not a voucher, a credit, a waiver, or frequent flyer miles -- Cudahy emphasized that you are entitled to a refund if you want it.

"Request a refund for the unused portion of your ticket and rebook with another carrier if you're on a carrier like Delta that has been so, so heavily impacted," added Katy Nastro of Going.com.

Also be aware the DOT has determined that the Crowdstrike outage was "within the airlines' control," which is good news for consumers.

If you incur expenses for things like meals, hotel, or rides, you may be able to get out of those costs.

"According to the Department of Transportation, the airline should be on the hook for these costs. Delta has said it's already providing some of these benefits to passengers," said Cudahy.

Make sure you keep and submit your receipts for reimbursement. Also, check the credit card you used to pay for the trip.

It may offer travel delay insurance that provides money back.

"That credit card might actually reimburse you even faster than the airline will for those unforeseen expenses," said Nastro. "It really can add that extra layer of protection that you didn't already know you had."

Finally, if you're looking to re-book with your original airline but want a backup plan, see if you can get a reasonable mileage ticket on another carrier.

You can cancel mileage tickets any time before departure and get your miles back.

If you have questions about what your airline is willing to cover, you can check flightrights.gov .

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The Ultimate Guide to Paris, According to Parisians

Whether you’re headed to the 2024 Olympics or watching from home, get to know the city like a pro.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Paris is all about blending the old and the new. It can be hard to choose from all of the exciting restaurant openings and museum exhibits, but don’t discount the landmarks, either. Is a visit to the City of Light really complete without stopping by the Eiffel Tower? Ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games, we compiled a list to help you plan the perfect trip, from a century-old cabaret to a contemporary French bakery where “haute couture meets pastry.” These recommendations include a mix of classic and avant-garde selections, something for everyone—and for every occasion. There’s an endless amount to see and do (and eat), and that is all part of this city’s allure. One thing is for sure: You will never be bored in Paris. Discover some of our favorite spots, and enjoy the fashion capital like a true local:

Bakeries, Ice Cream Parlors, and a Chocolaterie

Bars and clubs, vintage and boutique shopping, spas, salons, and perfumeries, workout classes and gyms, fashion museums and olympic exhibits.

Restaurants and Cafés

On the third floor of the Bourse de Commerce-Pinault Collection, chefs Michel and Sébastien Bras invite you to discover a cuisine linked to the history of the building, the former “Halle aux blés.” The restaurant-café showcases a vibrant spirit, both through the design and tablescapes.

Mosuke 11 Rue Raymond Losserand

Mory Sacko is the new prodigy of fusion cuisine in France, and recently received the 2021 Young Chef Award from the Michelin Guide. His menus range from four to six courses. Don’t forget to book a table in advance.

Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond 24 Rue de la Grande Truanderie

Travel back in time with traditional French dishes in this Art Nouveau restaurant, which is listed as a historic monument. Opened in 1879, it doesn’t get more classic than this. Enjoy their boeuf bourguignon or confit de canard. Arrive early (or late): There is often a queue, and no reservations. Service is offered from midday until midnight.

Rivié 30-32 Rue du Sentier

This all-day lively brasserie on the ground floor of The Hoxton serves modern, creative French cuisine in an elevated setting—with a superb glass roof and terrace to boot. The beef tartare is excellent, and a particular favorite is the ice cream.

Le Train Bleu Gare de Lyon, Place Louis-Armand hall 1 Le Train Bleu, the iconic French restaurant at Gare de Lyon, is a majestic place steeped in history. The cuisine is gastronomic, and the portions are generous. Perhaps above all, the service in the dining room is a real spectacle, with flambéing and carving carried out with precision and care by a team of maîtres d’hôtel.

Berthillon 31 Rue Saint-Louis en l'Île Established in 1954, Berthillon is the city’s most famous ice cream parlor and widely regarded as one of the best in the world. The shop is located on the Ile Saint-Louis, and serves up a host of delicious pastries, sorbets, and homemade flavors.

Stohrer 51 Rue Montorgueil Stohrer is the oldest pastry shop in Paris, founded by Nicolas Stohrer, King Louis XV’s pastry chef, in 1730. Its sumptuous décor is listed as a historic site.

Aux Merveilleux de Fred 24 Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe

Aux Merveilleux de Fred is a divine dessert spot founded by artisan pastry chef Frédéric Vaucamps, who serves up merveilleux, a French-Belgian speciality. Discover his impressive craftsmanship with layered meringues encased in varying flavors of whipped cream. Choose from the minis as well as whole cakes to share, or try the popular cramique brioche.

Pierre Hermé 72 Rue Bonaparte Pierre Hermé is famous for his macarons and is considered the Picasso of pastry. His boutiques are a world of discovery. Another favorite is the Ispahan, which boasts rose, raspberry, and lychee flavors. Expect a master class in taste.

L’Éclair de Génie 122 Rue Montmartre Where haute couture meets pastry—and the éclairs should not be missed. This patisserie and chocolaterie offers fun, contemporary takes on French classics, in both flavor and design with made-in-France products.

Cravan 165 Boulevard Saint-Germain In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this new multifaceted venue, with exquisite décor by Ramy Fischler, houses three cocktail bars—each with their own theme and feel (the menu changes as you climb the floors). There is a Rizzoli bookshop and rooftop showing feature-length films projected onto the wall of the neighboring building.

Gossima Ping Pong Bar 4 Rue Victor Gelez Whether you’re standing with a racket, a beer, or a cocktail in your hand—sitting on a sofa or around a table—you’ll enjoy a unique moment in a place that combines conviviality and good food. Conceived by former table tennis champions, this unique bar is the first of its kind in Paris.

Hotel Rochechouart 55 Boulevard Marguerite de Rochechouart This Art Deco hotel sits at the foot of Montmartre. Its rooftop offers an exceptional 360-degree view, with the Sacré Coeur taking pride of place on the skyline. Open until midnight, with no reservations, be sure to arrive just in time for golden hour.

Matignon Paris 3 Avenue Matignon

The menu is pricey at Matignon Paris, but it is worth it for the décor by Jacques Garcia. The music in the dining room is upbeat, and by the time your meal is over, you will be dancing and singing. But that’s no problem, because just downstairs there is a club, designed by Charles Tassin, that opens around 11 P.M.

Maxim’s de Paris 3 Rue Royale

For 120 years, Maxim’s was the mecca of Parisian nightlife, the place to be for socialites, cocottes, politicians, kings, and celebrities from all over Paris. Closed since 2010, this legendary address has just reopened. The iconic Art Nouveau interiors have been reimagined by Cordelia de Castellane. The menu includes frogs’ legs with parsley, Henri IV chicken, and American-style lobster, to name a few items.

Goodjo 8 Rue Dupuytren

An excellent vintage shop focused on luxury pieces, Goodjo has treasures from all the top fashion houses, including Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, and Celine. For those who can’t wait, peek at what’s on offer on its website beforehand.

Jérôme Dreyfuss 111 Rue de Turenne

Famous for their soft shape and lightweight, Jérôme Dreyfuss bags and accessories are specifically designed to suit the Parisian woman’s lifestyle. With the principal material being leather, the artisanal bags are long-lasting and will evolve as you live with them.

Petite Mendigote 74 Rue du Cherche-Midi

Petite Mendigote is a French designer with the desire to enable her customers to go from work to dinner in the same outfit. The pieces are very feminine, and there’s a second-hand store online, too.

Repetto Paris 22 Rue de la Paix

Handcrafted in France, with a background in the world of dance, Rose Repetto first created shoes for her son, Roland Petit, a choreographer and ballet dancer at the Paris Opera. The brand’s iconic shoes include the Cendrillon ballerina, originally created for Brigitte Bardot, and the Zizi, worn by Serge Gainsbourg his whole life. They feel like a second skin. (Trust us.)

Rouje 11 bis Rue Bachaumont

Rouje makes women’s clothing, and everything is designed by women. Brought to life by Parisian It-girl Jeanne Damas, it’s the ideal wardrobe for us all. For those visiting Paris, this is the place to go. It is so chic and Parisian in every way. The designer has revamped many ’90s styles and is also not afraid to experiment with colors and patterns.

Maison de Beauté Carita 11 Rue du Faubourg St-Honoré

This iconic Parisian beauty spot has recently reopened, featuring a hair salon helmed by John Nollet. It also happens to be the ultimate destination for beauty treatments. In the stunning marbled house, book a private consultation for expert advice, and enjoy luxury treatment rooms that use cutting-edge technologies and professional formulas.

Spa Clarins & myBlend Hôtel Raffles Le Royal Monceau 37, Avenue Hoche

With its spectacular 23-meter pool bathed in natural light, this luxurious spa offers a unique experience from a range of made-to-measure treatments, high-tech tools, and highly concentrated myBlend products. You’ll also find the essential Clarins range of body treatments, massages, and facials for both men and women.

Delphine Courteille 28 Rue du Mont Thabor

Hairdresser Delphine Courteille has worked with Jennifer Lawrence, Sofia Coppola, Inès de la Fressange, Juliette Binoche, and Robin Wright. She captures the latest trends in her intimate, boudoir-like haven, listening to your every need.

Nose 20 Rue Bachaumont

Nose is an avant-garde beauty concept store, with a twist. Blindly trust, literally, the team of perfumers to guide you through an olfactory diagnosis: a short questionnaire followed by blind-testing fragrances. Dedicated to niche perfumes, and finding the scent that is truly you, they also advise on candles and diffusers for your home.

OH MY CREAM! 51 Rue de Saintonge

Dedicated to providing customers with clean beauty routines and personalized expert advice, OH MY CREAM! is innovating the beauty scene. Across its 14 boutiques dotted around Paris, you’ll find a wide selection of leading beauty brands, plus a few treatment cabins. Book a consultation, and get started with a healthier and more sustainable approach to skin care.

Dynamo Cycling 5 Rue Dupin

Dynamo is the Parisian leader in indoor cycling. You choose your limits and style, from the signature session combined with dumbbells and abs, to a yoga-inspired session, to the extreme “dynamo hero.” No membership fee, just reserve your choice of class and coach.

La Montgolfiere 25 Rue Yves Toudic

Flooded with natural light through the towering glass roof, this airy space offers all kinds of classes. You can test out all the different ones with a day pass. After your workout, there is a relaxation area, with two saunas and two hammams. For post-relaxation, head to the café.

Outboxe 13 Rue de la Sourdière

Outboxe is an all-muscle rigorous workout, with classes open to all abilities. Opt for either a “wall spot” or a “bag spot,” depending on your preference. First-timers benefit from a pack of two classes, which can be shared with a friend. Do not forget to wear boxing wraps (you can purchase them on-site). There is also a concept store and juice bar on the first floor.

Yuj 11 Rue Edmond Valentin

Yuj is the first-ever yoga studio in France to use infrared light. Inspired by the discoveries of Dr. Tadashi Ishikawa in Japan, this unique practice heats up muscular tissue to help cleanse the body of toxins and improve flexibility. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, it hosts classes for all levels in cozily-lit studios.

La Galerie Dior 11 Rue François 1er

With its unique narrative and scenography, La Galerie Dior symbolizes the spirit of Parisian haute couture and bears witness to the bold vision of Christian Dior and his six successors. After the tour, enjoy a “filet au poivre frites du défilé” (the couturier’s favorite post-show meal) at the Monsieur Dior restaurant (led by Jean Imbert, just next door).

Musée Marmottan Monet 2 Rue Louis Boilly

Paul Marmottan’s magnificent mansion, with its well-preserved décor, houses his Haute Époque (paintings, sculptures, illuminations) and Empire collections. It is home to the world’s largest body of works by Claude Monet and Berthe Morisot, and functions as a major center for Impressionism. Don’t miss its special exhibit “En Jeu! Artists and Sport (1870-1930),” on display from April 4 until September 1. It traces the visual history of sport between 1870 and 1930, all the way to the advent of Cubism.

Monnaie de Paris 11 Quai de Conti

From March 27 until November 3, Monnaie de Paris, one of the oldest French institutions, will show an exhibition dedicated to the Olympic medal: “Gold, Silver, and Bronze. A History of the Olympic Medal.” Since 1896, when the first medal was produced by Monnaie de Paris, these accolades have been awarded to the world’s best athletes. Have you seen an Olympic medal up close? Here is your chance.

Musée Nissim de Camondo 63 Rue de Monceau

Discover this secret museum, an 18th-century aristocratic residence, on the edge of the pretty Parc Monceau. Moïse de Camondo was a passionate collector who brought together furniture, paintings, carpets, tapestries, porcelain, and silverware of exceptional quality.

Musée Yves Saint Laurent 5 Avenue Marceau

The Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris exhibits the couturier’s work in the historic setting of his former fashion house. The newest fashion exhibition, “Sheer: The Diaphanous Creations of Yves Saint Laurent,” is open until August 25. On display will be archival pieces, including the iconic 1968 “see-through blouse” accessories, sketches, photographs, as well as works by other artists that echo the designs.

Produced in collaboration with ELLE International. Additional r eporting by Jimmy Adam-Yamps, Ana Afonso, Simon Balloch, Linda Bergmark, Lisa Calas, Charlotte Deffe, Sophie Duarte, Alice Govart, Caroline Gremillot, Johanna Jegou, Maximillian Kletzlen, Nicolette Noce, Caroline Pardigon, Sylvie Pelc, Yannick Selva, and Cassandre Viger.

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