Are you looking for things to do in Guayaquil?
As tourism is on the rise you’ll find a mountain of things to do in Guayaquil if you do your proper research.
Guayaquil is a great solo travel destination, which is known for its hillsides, home to some of the most colorful favelas.
You’ll feel the hot and humid climate in this city. Also, Guayaquil is home to one of the main South American ports on the Pacific ocean.
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Things to do in Guayaquil
Did you know Guayaquil is one of the largest and the most populous cities in Ecuador?
This is a key location that makes a nice addition to an Ecuador itinerary that you may be planning.
Here I’m going to show you what to do in Guayaquil as if it’s your first time traveling to the city.
If you’re concerned about Safety in Ecuador or have some pre-ideas about danger, this article will save you time, so you’ll know which places are worth your precious time in the city.
Parque de las Iguanas
Are you a fan of reptiles? One of the great things to do in Guayaquil is to visit Iguana Park.
Here you’ll see Iguanas as you’ve never seen them before, wandering free and literally all over the place.
The good news is it’s free to enter, so it would be rude not to go and have a gander. Petting the Iguanas is also permitted but be careful; you don’t want an accident while traveling; it’s just not worth it.
Las Peñas – Cerro Santa Ana
Las Peñas gives a very interesting perspective of the city. It was the first place people started living in Guayaquil.
You’ll find some nice bars, typical housing, and right at the top, there’s a cute lighthouse known as the Faro and a little church.
Once you eventually reach the top after climbing the somewhat 400 steps, you’ll see an incredible view of the city town and the river.
The staircase starts at the end of the Malecon near the Museum of Anthropology and Contemporary Art.
💡Smart Travel Tip
Ensure you wear some comfortable shoes or footwear for this mini-hike as it can take its toll on your feet.
Malecon 2000
This is perfect for people-watching, day and night!
There are two ‘Malecons’ in Guayaquil, but the Malecon 2000, also known as Malecon Simon Bolivar, is the main one. Apart from the walk, you’ll see other attractions.
Without a doubt, the Malecon is a must-do in Guayaquil. You can take photos next to many statues or landmarks.
The Malecon is a safe place by day or by night, however, make sure you’re covered with decent travel insurance whenever traveling in Latin America with expensive camera gear.
💡Smart Travel Tip
There are places to eat at the Malecon, but they are more expensive than another close-by location.
La Rotonda
With so many places to visit in Ecuador, you can’t miss this as it’s one of the main attractions in Guayaquil.
Found along the boardwalk of the Malecon 2000, if you like taking selfies la Rotonda, it is a legendary monument that shows that you really were in Guayaquil.
The monument shows both South American independence heroes San Martín and Simon Bolivar, who both met in the city of Guayaquil.
On July 26, 1822, they held a famous conference to plan for the independence of Spanish South America.
Guayaquil Ecuador is a must-see city if you are traveling through Ecuador. Plus you can quite easily get to other hot spots in Ecuador such as Puerto Lopez by public transport.
Apart from being the largest city in Ecuador, you’ll find it has a modern feel in places as there are many international companies residing there.
Whether you love iguanas or not, you’re bound to find something to like, even if it’s just an evening stroll to feel the mountain breeze.
Travel Tips for Ecuador
Not only do you have a few ideas on things to do in Guayaquil, but you can also find some other travel recommendations below.
That way, you can weigh up all the options before you commit to anything.
With my travel guides, I try to add some useful tips that you can easily implement into your itinerary.
There are even amazing tours you can do with a professional guide.
Where to stay in Guayaquil
If you’ve read my book, The Latin Explorer, you’ll know my methods for finding the best places to stay in Latin America.
My strategy encompasses different accommodations to be able to get a fuller experience.
Maybe you’re on a backpacker’s budget and want to get some quick ideas of the best hostels in Guayaquil?
Places to stay in Guayaquil
- Casa De Romero → Centrally located hostel
- Manso Boutique Guesthouse → Close to Malecon
- Hostel Nucapacha → Best for Couples
If traveling further afield in Ecuador and want to know other great places to stay, read my post on hostel in Ecuador, for some great options.
Travel Insurance for Ecuador
I always recommend backpackers and travelers (no matter who you are) use World Nomads Insurance for fully comprehensive cover.
If you are due to travel soon, you can get a Get A Free Quote by clicking the link or the image above and filling out your details – that way you’ll get instant cover from the exact date that you choose.
On many occasions World Nomads has provided me with reliable insurance cover for travel in Latin America and the rest of the world.
If backpacking in Ecuador, make sure you take a look at my backpacking resources list as it could help you decide what to carry with you.
Things to do in Guayaquil
If you’re backpacking Ecuador and looking for more ideas on where to go, leave no stone unturned.
Head over to my guide, which looks at some of the best places to visit in Ecuador while you’re here.
I hope this short guide has given you a better idea of the things to do in Guayaquil.
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