Things to do in Guayaquil

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Guayaquil
Guayaquil
Guayaquil
Guayaquil
Photo by Ronald Wilson

Guayaquil Attractions

Santiago de Guayaquil, more commonly known as just Guayaquil, is the largest and most populous city in Ecuador. Situated on the western shores of the Guayas River, Guayaquil is a popular destination for its storied neighborhoods, pulsing waterfront scene, and urban-renewal projects that breathe a new and artistic life into the city. From the picturesque barrio of Las Peñas to the massive Guayaquil Historical Park, Guayaqul is filled with amazing things to discover and experience. Explore the thriving nature of Ecuador outside the city in the Churute Mangroves Ecological Reserve, or just soak in the sun and the vistas from the buzzing Malecón 2000 boardwalk.


Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.


What to do in Guayaquil

Free Things to Do in Guayaquil

Vacationing in Guayaquil on a budget? The following can be experienced for zip.

Nahim Isaias Museum - Crammed with thought-provoking displays and objects, this gallery is a paradise for knowledge-hungry minds.

Higher Polytechnic School of the Litoral - This popular local landmark is a wonderful backdrop for some selfies.

Santiago de Guayaquil Catholic University - If you'd like to explore the history of the region through its landmarks, mark this one down on your to-do list.

Plaza del Sol - Discover for yourself why visitors and locals alike gravitate toward the charm and character of this place.

Santa Ana Port - Well known among the locals, this site is worth taking a look at.

Church of La Merced - Connect with your spiritual side or just savor the serene atmosphere at this site of worship.

Santa Ana Hill - Be prepared for views that'll render you speechless at this natural marvel.

Antonio Neumane Park - Cultivate your green thumb and admire the wide range of plants on show.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Guayaquil

Originally built up in the 16th century, Guayaquil has served as Ecuador's commercial heart for centuries. Thanks to recent urban regeneration efforts, the modern city is a stunning place that combines history and beauty from the peak of Santa Ana hill to its bustling shores.

Malecón 2000 - Malecón 2000 is a modern boardwalk overlooking the Guayas River. An update to the original Simón Bolívar boardwalk, Malecón 2000 stretches for 1.5 miles (2.5 km) on the river's west shore and features several historic monuments, gardens, and recreational areas. See the Moorish Tower, or Public Clock, the Carlos Alberto Arroyo del Rio monument, and the La Rotonda monument, and walk through the Malecón Gardens. The north section of the promenade is home to the Museo Antropológico (Museum of Anthropology).

Las Peñas - The first neighborhood of Guayaquil, Las Peñas is over 400 years old. Located at the base of Santa Ana Hill, the area is characterized by narrow, cobbled streets that are lined with colorful and romantic architecture. Las Peñas serves as the artistic center of the city, with many of its historic buildings having been converted into art galleries.

Guayaquil Historical Park - Learn about the history, culture, and natural heritage of Guayaquil in the Parque Histórico, or Guayaquil Historical Park. The 20-acre (8-ha) park, built on the banks of the Guayas River, is divided into 3 parts: the Wildlife Zone, where you can encounter endemic and exotic flora and fauna, the Urban Architectural Zone that recreates flourishing Guayaquil of the early 20th century, and the Traditions Zone, which showcases rural life highlights the "Pepa de Oro" cocoa boom of the region.

What to See in Guayaquil

Guayaquil has no shortage of beautiful sights to see, from the monuments that line the waterfront Malecón 2000 to the splendid parks throughout the city. The city's largest park is Centenario Park, which features the Column of the Founding Fathers that commemorates Guayaquil's independence at the end of the 19th century. Visit Seminario Park, also called Iguana Park for the outstanding number of iguanas that inhabit the area. Explore the development and history of the city at the Municipal Museum of Guayaquil, which features archaeological pieces and artifacts from early inhabitants of the region.

Sightseeing in Guayaquil

Guayaquil's location on the Guayas River and its long, nuanced history make it a city worth taking the time to explore. Wander through historic Santa Ana Hill, around which Guayaquil was born in the 16th century, and climb the 444 steps of the Diego Noboa Staircases to catch a view over the rest of the vibrant city. Get to know the artistic side of Guayaquil by visiting the galleries of the quaint Las Peñas neighborhood, or stop by Mercado Artesanal, a heritage market where you can find handmade crafts and unique jewelry. The city is filled with vibrant and detailed murals-just wandering the streets will take you past impeccably crafted works of art, such as the Mural Gardens overpass that displays Guayaquil flora and fauna, or the Estampas de Guayaquil Antiguo mural, which depicts scenes of the city in the past. Outside of Guayaquil, get to know the natural heritage of southern Ecuador by visiting the Churute Mangroves Ecological Reserve. A mix of mangroves and dry tropical forests, the 123,553-acre (50,000-ha) reserve is home to a spectacular range of flora and wildlife that can be witnessed by paddling through the waterways aboard a canoe. The Cerro Blanco Protected Forest, just outside Guayaquil by the Chongon-Colonche mountain range, offers more opportunities to get in touch with the nature of the region.

Things to Do in Guayaquil with Kids

You'll find plenty of great things to do in Guayaquil with the youngsters. Create new memories together with these family friendly experiences:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Guayaquil? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Guayaquil

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Guayaquil

Default Image

Ecuador

Though Ecuador might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like C.C. Riocentro Sur and Mall del Sur.

Ecuador
By the riverside

Downtown Guayaquil

Travelers come to Downtown Guayaquil for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Central Market and Sports Federation of Guayas while you're in town.

Downtown Guayaquil
With more than 400 years old, Las Peñas was the first neighborhood of Guayaquil, which took its name from the cliffs and limestone rocks that formed the Hill back then when the Spanish settled in the XV century. In 1982 the neighborhood was declared Cultural Heritage of Ecuador.

Puerto Santa Ana

Well-liked for its restaurants and river views, you might stop by Santa Ana Hill and La Perla while you're exploring Puerto Santa Ana and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Puerto Santa Ana
Just Cacao! The best chocolate is here

Kennedy

4/5(48 area reviews)

Unique features of Kennedy include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by San Marino Mall or World Trade Center while you're exploring the area.

Kennedy
Default Image

Urdesa

4/5(6 area reviews)

Urdesa is well-liked for its restaurants. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Guayaquil area, you might plan a trip to World Trade Center or San Marino Mall.

Urdesa
Love from Guayaquil :)

Simón Bolívar

If you're spending some time in Simón Bolívar, Mall del Sol Shopping Center and Plaza del Sol are top sights worth seeing.

Simón Bolívar

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Guayaquil

Frequently asked questions

Is Guayaquil worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Guayaquil is explore La Perla. Check this leading sight off your to-do list, then experience more of the area's culture and history.
How do I spend a day in Guayaquil?
After you've visited leading attractions like La Perla and Municipal Museum of Guayaquil, spend the rest of your day enjoying the retail and food options in Guayaquil.
What is the top tourist attraction in Guayaquil?
La Perla is one of the top tourist attractions in Guayaquil and deserves a spot on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Guayaquil?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city sights, such as La Perla, Guayaquil Metropolitan Cathedral and Teatro Sanchez Aguilar. The average stay in Guayaquil is two days. If you have the time to extend your vacation, Puerto Santa Ana isn't far away.
Is Guayaquil a walkable city?
That depends on what you want to see and do in Guayaquil. Several key sights, such as Churute Mangroves Ecological Reserve and Mall del Sol Shopping Center, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Guayaquil's neighborhoods, Simón Bolívar is 3 miles away from downtown, while Garzota is 3 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Guayaquil with kids?
What to do in Guayaquil for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or thrill seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Guayaquil for adults including Numa Pompilio Llona Street and Barco Morgan.
Are there free things to do in Guayaquil?
In Guayaquil, Guayaquil Metropolitan Cathedral is a must-see spot for anyone planning to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Guayaquil.