Guayaquil , Ecuador

Best Highlights in Guayaquil

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(96 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour offers a complete vision of the most emblematic places in Guayaquil, combining history, culture and natural beauty in an unforgettable experience.

Available options

Best Highlights in Guayaquil

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Specialized Pro Guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We begin the tour in the famous Seminario Park, also known as Iguana Park. This small but emblematic park is home to numerous iguanas that roam freely among visitors. Here you can observe these fascinating reptiles up close, feed them and even take some photos with them.

Mayor's Office and Administration Square:
We continue our tour towards the Administration Square, where the Guayaquil Mayor's Office building is located. This place is an administrative center and an important historical point of the city. The square is adorned with statues and gardens, and is a great place to learn about local history and admire the neoclassical architecture of the Municipal Palace.

Guayaquil Cathedral:
A few steps from Parque Seminario is the imposing Cathedral of Guayaquil, officially known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Pedro. This neo-Gothic style church is one of the main Catholic temples in the city. Its interior, adorned with stained glass and impressive architectural details, offers a space of tranquility and devotion.

Moorish Tower:
Walking a little further, we reach the Moorish Tower, also known as the Public Clock. This tower, with its distinctive Mudejar style, is one of the most recognized icons of Guayaquil.

Stop 5

Malecon 2000:
Next, we head to Malecón 2000, an extensive recreational and tourist area that extends along the Guayas River. Here you will find a combination of green spaces, historical monuments and entertainment areas. It is an ideal place for a relaxing walk, with stunning views of the river and the city. We will visit the Hemicycle of the Rotonda, where the statues of Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín are located.

Las Peñas Oldtown:
We end the tour in the Las Peñas neighborhood, the oldest sector of Guayaquil. This picturesque neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and colorful colonial-style houses, is a historical and cultural gem. Climbing the steps from Numa Pompilio Llona Street to Santa Ana Hill will allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the city and the river. Along the way, you'll find art galleries, cafes, and craft shops that make this area a lovely place to explore.

What's not included

Lunch

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

22 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

74 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Guayaquil

Guayaquil is Ecuador's largest and most populous city, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and strategic location along the Pacific coast. It serves as the country's main port and offers a mix of urban energy, colonial charm, and natural beauty with the nearby Pacific beaches and the Guayas River.

Top Attractions

Malecón 2000

A modern waterfront promenade along the Guayas River, featuring shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It's a great place to enjoy the city's skyline and river views.

Architecture/Entertainment 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Sembradores Park

A beautiful urban park with lush gardens, walking paths, and a lake. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Santa Ana Hill

A historic neighborhood with colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and a hilltop church offering panoramic views of the city.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free (church donation optional)

Guayaquil Zoo

A zoo housing a variety of animals, including jaguars, monkeys, and flamingos. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.

Nature 2-3 hours $3-$5

Salado Beach

A popular beach located about 20 minutes from the city center, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Beach Half-day to full day Free (rentals and facilities may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

A dish made with fresh raw fish cured in fresh citrus juices, typically lime, and spiced with ají or chili peppers. It's often served with side dishes such as sweet plantain, popcorn, or boiled corn on the cob.

Appetizer Contains seafood, gluten-free if prepared without soy sauce

Encebollado

A hearty soup made with flaked albacore fish, yuca, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. It's a popular hangover cure and comfort food in Ecuador.

Soup Contains seafood, gluten-free

Arroz con Mariscos

A flavorful rice dish cooked with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, squid, and mussels. It's a staple of coastal Ecuadorian cuisine.

Main course Contains seafood, gluten-free

Humitas

A traditional dish made from fresh corn mixed with butter, eggs, and sometimes cheese, wrapped in corn husks and steamed. It's a popular snack or side dish.

Side dish Vegetarian, gluten-free

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Hiking Wildlife watching Beachcombing Sunbathing Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

June to November (Dry season)

This is the best time to visit Guayaquil with pleasant weather, less rain, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

22-32°C 72-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Ecuador Time (ECT, UTC-5)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Guayaquil is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Be cautious of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas
• Use common sense and trust your instincts. If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated or poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal Terrestre de Guayaquil

Getting around

Public transport

The Metrobus system is efficient and covers most of the city. It's affordable and widely used by locals and tourists alike.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown (Centro Histórico) Urdesa Samborondón

Day trips

Puerto López and Machalilla National Park

200 km (124 miles) from Guayaquil • Full day to overnight

Puerto López is a charming coastal town and the gateway to Machalilla National Park, which offers beautiful beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife.

Balcázar

100 km (62 miles) from Guayaquil • Half day to full day

Balcázar is a small town known for its historic church and traditional crafts. It's a great place to experience authentic Ecuadorian culture and enjoy local cuisine.

Santa Elena Peninsula

120 km (75 miles) from Guayaquil • Full day to overnight

The Santa Elena Peninsula offers stunning beaches, clear waters, and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a popular destination for relaxation and adventure.

Festivals

Guayaquil International Fair (Feria Internacional de Guayaquil) • October Carnaval de Guayaquil • February/March (before Lent) Fiestas de Guayaquil (Guayaquil Festivities) • July

Pro tips

Visit the Malecón 2000 waterfront promenade for stunning views of the Guayas River and the city skyline
Explore the Santa Ana Hill neighborhood for a glimpse into the city's colonial past and panoramic views
Try local street food from vendors along the Malecón 2000 and in the Mercado del Arte
Take a day trip to the Santa Elena Peninsula for beautiful beaches and outdoor activities
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to help you communicate and connect with locals