2025 Guayaquil Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

Guayaquil, the charming capital of Ecuador, is like a dazzling pearl inlaid on the Pacific coast. This city is full of vitality and exudes a unique charm. The Malecon 2000 is a landmark of Guayaquil. Stretching along the Guayas River, the 2.5-kilometer trail is equipped with all modern facilities. As you stroll along, you will see the sparkling river with boats shuttling back and forth on one side, and a garden full of colorful flowers with lush tropical plants on the other side. The wonderful performances of street performers added a lot of joy to the journey. Mount Santa Ana is the highest point in the city. Climb up more than 400 steps and you will see the towering lighthouse on the top of the mountain. Here, you can see the entire city and the vast Pacific Ocean, and the magnificent scenery is intoxicating. The Las Peñas district at the foot of the mountain is filled with a strong historical atmosphere. The colonial buildings are scattered around, with colorful walls, quaint doors and windows, and every detail tells stories of the past. There is also the ancient Church of Santo Domingo, which is solemn and dignified, quietly witnessing the changes of time. Guayaquil welcomes visitors from all over the world with its hospitality and diversity.

In downtown Guayaquil, there is a small hill called Santa Ana Hill, which is one of the must-visit attractions for tourists. Although this hill is not big, it has a unique charm and magnificent scenery. Here, you can experience the joy of free hiking, free sightseeing, and free photography, and feel the mystery and beauty of nature. 1. Ascending the Steps, Exploring Santa Ana Hill To climb Santa Ana Hill, you need to walk up a path paved with 444 steps, one step at a time. This process requires your full attention as you ascend step by step. Although it seems simple, it is also an experience to be enjoyed. During the climb, you can admire the scenery along the way and feel the breath of nature and the vitality of life. During the climb, you don't need to worry about safety issues, as there are police officers protecting you along the way. They will ensure your safety. At the same time, please do not take detours to avoid getting lost or having accidents. 2. The Lighthouse and Church on the Summit When you reach the top of the hill, you will be amazed by the scenery before you. Here, you can see a lighthouse and a church on the summit. The lighthouse is one of the landmark buildings of this hill, and its unique appearance and magnificent scale are amazing. The church, on the other hand, gives people a solemn and respectful feeling, making one feel a mysterious power and a peaceful atmosphere. Overlooking downtown Guayaquil from the top of the hill, you can see the cityscape and the colorful houses①. These colorful houses sparkle in the sunlight, like a beautiful painting. Here, you can fully appreciate the beautiful scenery and feel the magnificence and mystery of nature. 3. Free Hiking, Sightseeing, and Photography Santa Ana Hill is a free attraction where tourists can hike, sightsee, and take photos for free. The entrance fee is free, but that doesn't mean the beauty and magnificence here are cheap. On the contrary, the beauty and magnificence here are worth cherishing and protecting. You can leave your footprints and photos here, but please do not damage the environment and landscape. During the photo-taking process, you can freely choose your favorite angles and scenes. The natural scenery and cultural landscape here add infinite possibilities and imagination to your photos. Here, you can fully enjoy nature's gifts and beauty. In short, Santa Ana Hill is a must-visit place in downtown Guayaquil. Here, you can experience the joy of free hiking, free sightseeing, and free photography, and feel the mystery and beauty of nature. No matter where you come from or who you are, you can find your own happiness and emotion here.

🏘️Hotel Introduction: Holiday Inn Guayaquil Airport is located in Guayaquil, Ecuador, less than a minute's walk from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport. It is an ideal choice for business and leisure travel with extremely convenient transportation. The 7-story hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor terrace with a swimming pool and hot tub, a fitness center overlooking the city, a business center and free high-speed Internet access to meet your needs. 🚗Transportation Guide: - From the airport to the hotel: The hotel provides free airport shuttle bus service. You can easily find the bus stop as soon as you leave the airport and arrive at the hotel conveniently. If you choose to take a taxi, the journey takes less than 1 minute and costs about US$3-5. - City transportation: There is a taxi stand near the hotel, making travel convenient. You can also use local taxi-hailing apps to call a taxi, and the prices are relatively transparent. If you want to experience the local customs, taking the bus is also a good choice, but you need to know the routes and stations in advance. 🏕️Nearby attractions: - Malecón 2000 Waterfront: About 15 minutes’ drive from the hotel, there is a beautiful riverside promenade with restaurants, shops, museums and playgrounds along the way. It is a good place to experience local life and enjoy the river view. - Cerro Santa Ana: There is an old lighthouse on the mountain, which overlooks the whole city of Guayaquil. It is about 15-20 minutes drive from the hotel. - Mall del Sol: The hotel provides free shuttle bus to the shopping center, where there are many brand stores, restaurants and cinemas to meet your shopping and entertainment needs. 💰Per capita consumption: - Accommodation: Prices vary depending on room type and season, and are approximately RMB 300-800 per person per night. Booking in advance or during the off-season may result in better prices. - Dining: The Connexion Bistro bar in the hotel offers specialties from the coastal area of ​​Ecuador and international cuisine, with an average cost of about US$15-30 per person; the average cost of dining in surrounding restaurants is about US$8-20 per person. - Tickets: Entrance to the Malecón 2000 waterfront and Santa Ana Hill is free, and there is no entrance fee to the Mall del Sol shopping center. 💗Other tips: - The hotel check-in time is after 4pm and the check-out time is before 12pm. If you have any special needs, you can communicate with the hotel in advance. - The hotel provides free high-speed Wi-Fi, allowing you to access the internet at any time. - The hotel features a fitness center and outdoor swimming pool, where you can keep fit and relax during your trip. - The hotel allows pets, but some fees may apply. Please inform the hotel in advance if you are bringing your pet. - The hotel accepts various credit cards such as Maestro, Mastercard, Visa, American Express. Cash payments are not accepted.

Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city, is a dazzling pearl nestled along the Pacific coast. With a warm and humid climate year-round, temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C, it's a perfect destination any time of year for soaking up the sun and sea breeze. Follow this guide to embark on your incredible Guayaquil adventure! Must-See Attractions 1. Cerro Santa Ana: Climb the 444 steps to the top, admiring the vibrantly colored colonial architecture and rich historical atmosphere along the way. From the summit, take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Guayaquil, especially stunning at sunset as the city glows golden. 2. Malecón 2000: Stroll along this modern boardwalk on the Guayas River, featuring beautiful gardens, a lively children's play area, diverse shops, and various restaurants. Enjoy the river views, relax, and experience local life. 3. Parque Seminario: Also known as "Iguana Park," this park is home to numerous adorable green iguanas and flocks of pigeons. Observe these creatures up close and enjoy some fun interactions. 🐢 4. Parque Histórico de Guayaquil: This park recreates Guayaquil life in the early 20th century and includes a small zoo showcasing local fauna. Delve into the city's history and culture. Culinary Delights Guayaquil's cuisine centers around seafood, with fresh ingredients and unique cooking styles that will tantalize your taste buds. • Ceviche: Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice, onions, and chili peppers creates a refreshing, tangy, and appetizing dish—a must-try. • Encebollado: This hearty soup features fish, shrimp, shellfish, and other seafood simmered with yuca, onions, and cilantro, offering a delicious and warming experience. • Plátanos Fritos: Sliced and fried plantains, crispy on the outside and soft inside, are a perfect side dish or snack. Travel Tips • Language: Spanish is the primary language. Learning basic phrases like "Hola" (hello) and "Gracias" (thank you) will enhance your trip. • Safety: Like many large cities, Guayaquil has some safety concerns. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and avoid walking alone in secluded places at night. • Currency: Ecuador uses the US dollar. Small shops and markets may not accept large bills, so carry small denominations. • Transportation: City traffic can be congested. Taxis or buses are good options. Use reputable ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging. Come to Guayaquil and experience the unique charm of this coastal city! 🌊

Below is a travel guide for Guayaquil, Ecuador: 1. Main Attractions: • Parque de las Iguanas: Here you can see a variety of tropical plants and animals, especially iguanas. It is perfect for nature lovers. Rated 4.9. • Malecón 2000: Ideal for strolling and enjoying the city scenery, especially charming at night. • Plaza de la Administración: A landmark in the center of Guayaquil, surrounded by many historical buildings and shops. 2. Food Recommendations: • La Boheme: A restaurant rated 4.6, offering authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at a moderate price. • L'Italiano Ristorante: If you want to try Italian food, this restaurant is an excellent choice. It is also rated 4.6, but the average cost is slightly higher. 3. Accommodation Suggestions: • Holiday Inn Guayaquil Airport: Located in the city center, it offers convenient transportation, complete facilities, and free airport shuttle service, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. 4. Transportation Guide: • Guayaquil has a well-established public transportation system, including buses and taxis. It is also very convenient to get from Guayaquil Airport to the city center, either by taxi or hotel shuttle service. 5. Important Notes: • Ecuador uses the US dollar as its currency. Please exchange currency in advance. • Be sure to keep your personal belongings safe, especially in crowded attractions and public places. • Respect local culture and customs to avoid unnecessary trouble.

Under the azure sky, EI Faro de Guayaquil stands on the coastline of Guayaquil, like a guardian of time, quietly telling its story. Guayaquil, the commercial and cultural center of Ecuador, is renowned for its unique geographical location and rich history. I set foot on this land with curiosity and longing for the unknown, and began my journey of exploration. The first ray of morning sunlight pierced through the thick clouds, casting a golden glow on the ancient lighthouse, creating a stark contrast with its white structure. EI Faro de Guayaquil is not just a lighthouse guiding ships, but also an iconic building of Guayaquil. Its presence has witnessed Guayaquil's transformation from a small fishing village to the prosperous city it is today. Entering the lighthouse, a spiral staircase leads me upwards. Each step seems to echo the footsteps of history, making one imagine the lives of the lighthouse keepers who once worked here. The old photos on the walls record the historical changes of the lighthouse and also witness the development and transformation of the city of Guayaquil. When I finally stood at the top of the lighthouse, a magnificent scene unfolded before my eyes. The Pacific Ocean's waves surged, seagulls soared freely in the sky, and the distant city skyline met the sea, forming a beautiful picture. The sea breeze gently brushed by, bringing the salty taste of seawater and a sense of freedom. Overlooking Guayaquil from such a height, a sense of indescribable tranquility and satisfaction welled up in my heart. EI Faro de Guayaquil is not just a tourist attraction; it is also a source of pride for the people of Guayaquil. The lighthouse's existence not only provides direction for distant ships but also brings hope and dreams to the city. Here, every visitor can feel the unique charm and vitality of this city. As the sun slowly set in the west, the lighthouse was once again bathed in the golden glow of the sunset. Standing under the lighthouse, looking back on this journey, my heart was filled with emotion. EI Faro de Guayaquil, this ancient lighthouse guarding Guayaquil, not only allowed me to appreciate the city's scenery but also made me feel the depth of history and the richness of culture. As I left, I couldn't help but think that every city has its unique symbol, and for Guayaquil, EI Faro de Guayaquil is undoubtedly its most shining emblem. It is not just a lighthouse but the soul of Guayaquil, illuminating the path of the past, present, and future. This travel experience gave me a deeper understanding and affection for Guayaquil. EI Faro de Guayaquil, in its unique way, told me stories of courage, hope, and dreams. As I embarked on my return journey, I knew that everything here would be deeply etched in my memory, becoming a precious part of my life's journey.

🛌 Dreaming of a comfy bed and a warm welcome in Guayaquil? Look no further than the Sheraton Guayaquil Hotel, where traditional charm meets modern convenience. 🏨 🛍️ Nestled right opposite a bustling shopping center, this gem offers more than just a place to rest your head. With friendly security that prioritizes your safety, you'll feel right at home. And foodies, rejoice! A smorgasbord of dining options awaits just steps away. 🍽️ ✈️ Business traveler or leisure seeker, the Sheraton's got you covered. Zipping to and from the airport is a breeze, and the hotel staff is always on hand to hail you a ride. 🚖 🎨 While the rooms may boast a classic decor with a hint of mahogany, they don't skimp on comfort. Plus, the breakfast is the talk of the town - a perfect start to your Guayaquil adventures. 🍳 📍Find your slice of tranquility at GAES Guayaquil Sol, Avenida, Joaquín José Orrantia González, Guayaquil, Guayas, 090150, Ecuador. #Guayaquil #GuayaquilHotel #GuayaquilTravel

Beautiful coastal city - Guayaquil||| 1-6 is Cerro Santa Ana, a total of 444 steps, with colorful houses on both sides, there are homes, grocery stores, restaurants, very lively. After reaching the top, you can see the blue and white lighthouse, which is also a landmark of Guayaquil. You can go up the tower before two o'clock in the afternoon, and you can see the river scenery all the way. Walking to the other side, you can see picture 6, the colorful houses on the mountain are very healing. 7-10 is Parque Seminario, a beautiful church, you can go in for a visit. Across the road is the Lizard Park, with hundreds of lizards on the path, on the grass and on the trees. There are also many turtles sunbathing in the pool. 11-15 is the riverside corridor, some very good-looking landmarks can be checked in on the roadside. 15-18 is the cable car across the river, 3 dollars can buy a card, fly over the river, just meet the sunset, it's simply too beautiful. Guayaquil

The Amazon rainforest is the world’s largest rainforest, covering over 6.7 million square km! Stretching across eight different countries including Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, this HUGE area is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. It’s home to over 3 million species so you’ll have plenty of wildlife-watching opportunities here! Not only that, but this sprawling rainforest is home to the Amazon River. At nearly 7,000 km long, it’s the longest river in the world, and naturally one of the best ways to explore it is by going on a boat cruise! During your time here, you’ll have the chance to spot a wide variety of animals including anacondas, jaguars, river dolphins, sloths, and plenty of monkeys The BEST part about exploring the Amazon is that it can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. If you're looking for great places to travel this year then I can highly recommend the Amazon rainforest! Best time to visit: This will differ depending on where and why you’re visiting! Weather-wise, the best time to visit is July to December, whilst January to June offers better wildlife-watching opportunities. #placetosee #stunningbeach #beachparty #beachlovers #topbeach #placetovisit #bestbeach #travel #perfectbeach #localescapes #helloautumn #beachvacation #hotelstaycation

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