Top Things to Do in Guayaquil

About the City

Ahoy, amigos! Welcome aboard the virtual tour of the vivacious city of Guayaquil, Ecuador's own port-side gem where the vibes are bustling and the heat is sizzling. Nestled by the swooshing waters of the Rio Guayas, this city is a carousel of color, where market streets radiate a rainbow of fruits, and the smells of encebollado – oh, that stew will hook your soul – play tug of war with your senses. But beware, the warm embrace of the tropics might leave you sweltering, for the heat can be a mischievous imp, especially in the thick of summer's hug. The city pulses like a party that never ends, where the Malecón 2000 boardwalk parades a pageantry of locals and travelers alike, all soaking in the serene river views. Yet, let's not don our rose-tinted glasses too tight. Guayaquil dances a delicate tango with the troubles of any big city. Traffic can be a confounding maze, to which the city says, 'Hah, good luck!' and some spots have a bit of a reputation, so you'd do well to stick to the tourist-friendly quarters after dark. Nonetheless, Guayaquil doesn't just open its arms; it beckons with a flamenco flair. From its historic Santa Ana Hill with kaleidoscope houses, to the sounds of iguanas and chatter in the Parque Seminario, there's a curious charm in both the manicured and the wild. So, sip on your freshly-blended jugo while you can, for Guayaquil is life in motion, a place too spirited to stand still.

Things to Do in Guayaquil

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La Chiva

Outdoors

Hop on and snap a ride! Our colorful Chiva buses are a symbol of Ecuadorian culture and a must-capture moment for any traveler. Take a photo in front of or inside these iconic vehicles and share your ...

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Take a picture of this iconic monument

Sights Outdoors

Snap a photo with a symbol of Guayaquil's pride! The iconic Parrot Monument, also known as 'PAPAGAYO GUAYAQUIL', is a must-visit attraction in the city. This vibrant and colorful sculpture is a tribut...

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Dream catcher at Dreamkapture

Sights

Get ready to capture a dream! Our vibrant mural is a work of art that tells the story of adventure, freedom, and creativity. Snap a photo in front of this stunning masterpiece and become a part of the...

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The colors of Guayaquil

Sights

Vibrant colors and vibrant culture! Capture the kaleidoscope of colors at our handycraft market in Guayaquil or snap a photo of your unique handcraft purchase. Share the beauty of Ecuadorian craftsman...

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Guayaquil de mis amores

Sights Outdoors

Take your adventure to new heights! Capture the breathtaking views of Guayaquil from the top of our Ferris wheel: LA PERLA. Snap a photo as you soar above the city and make unforgettable memories.

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Toquilla Straw Hat

The Unexpected Sights

Top off your adventure with a classic Ecuadorian look! Try on a traditional Toquilla straw hat and snap a photo to remember your time in Guayaquil. This iconic hat is a symbol of Ecuadorian culture an...

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Spread your wings!

Sights

Strike a pose with our vibrant parrot friend! Our stunning mural is a work of art that will leave you in awe. Snap a photo in front of this colorful masterpiece and capture the essence of your adventu...

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Iguana time

Outdoors

Snap a selfie with a scaly friend! Guayaquil's parks are home to these amazing iguanas, and they're waiting for you to capture their prehistoric charm. Get up close and personal, and remember to respe...

Glide with the Pirates on the Guayas River

The Unexpected

Ahoy matey! Sneak aboard a pirate-themed boat ride where you can channel your inner Jack Sparrow right on the Guayas River. Feel the breeze, dodge the spray, and keep a sharp eye for treasures along t...

Snap a Selfie with Iguanas at Parque Seminario

The Unexpected

Ready to meet some prehistoric pals? Yessiree, you can strut into Parque Seminario and mingle with the resident cool cats—except they're not cats, they're giant, lounge-tastic iguanas. Wander around, ...

Feast on Exotic Fruits at Mercado Caraguay

The Unexpected

Ready to tickle your taste buds with some fruitilicious fun? Dive into the colorful chaos of Mercado Caraguay and let the symphony of exotic flavors bounce around your palate! From the spiky intrigue ...

Taste the Sweetness of 'Salprieta' on the Side

Food & Drink

Give your taste buds a little shake-up with some 'Salprieta' – a crunchy, savory condiment made of roasted corn, peanuts, and a kick of spices. It's the unsung hero of side dishes, turning any meal fr...

Sneak a Peek at the Wildlife in Manglares Churute

Outdoors

Ready to play hide and seek with nature? Sneak through the Manglares Churute Ecological Reserve where you might spy some sneaky otters or hear the distant hoot of a howler monkey. This place is a real...

Chow Down on a Classic 'Churrasco Ecuatoriano'

Food & Drink

Get ready to fall for the charmed 'Churrasco Ecuatoriano' – a plate heaped with sizzling beef steak, a perfectly fried egg, and all the carbs you could dream of, with rice, fries, and avocado. It's co...

Bite into an Empanada de Verde

Food & Drink

Feast on an Empanada de Verde, a twist on the classic empanada using green plantain dough. It's crispy on the outside with a heart of cheese or meat. Just follow the alluring smell to find them at str...

Relish a Sweet Slice of Tres Leches Cake

Food & Drink

After exploring Guayaquil's sights, treat your sweet tooth to a cloud-like slice of Tres Leches Cake. This 'three-milk' dessert is a sponge cake gone wild, soaked in evaporated, condensed, and cream m...

Indulge in a 'Corviche' - The Coastal Delight

Food & Drink

Dig into a 'Corviche', a coastal treasure of fried green plantain dough hugging a heart of fish or other succulent fillings. Imagine the crispy-soft combo as you bite into this tubular taste of heaven...

Unleash the Music Buff Within at the Music Museum

The Unexpected

March to the beat of your own drum and discover Ecuador's musical heritage at the Museo de la Música Popular. Strut through halls filled with tunes of yesteryear and watch your toes tap to the melodie...