Guayaquil

Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and busiest port with a very different character to Quito. Until recently, Guayaquil was notorious for its crime and pollution, a reputation still held by many in the highlands who warn travellers to avoid the city. In reality however, Guayaquil is a surprisingly likeable and bustling city full of energy, with charming colonial buildings hidden amongst the skyscrapers and modern developments. Over the past decade Guayaquil has put a lot of investment into renovating some of the poorest areas of the city, benefiting not just visitors but also helping the residents. New cafes, restaurants and shops are now springing up in places that ten years ago were not safe for tourists to enter, and residents of Guayaquil are very proud of their achievements.

Guayaquil has several grand colonial churches amongst the malls and shopping streets of downtown, including La Merced and the Cathedral. In the heart of the downtown and a couple of minutes walk from the Grand Hotel, Parque Bolivar has the unique attraction of being home to a colony of tame land Iguanas whose prehistoric appearances contrasts wonderfully with the surrounding shopping malls. Nearby, the Malecon is a waterfront park skirting the wide, sluggish Rio Guayas which was rebuilt in 2000 and is now home to modern shops and cafes.

At the north end of the Malecon, Las Penas is the oldest part of the city and until recently was one of its most derelict areas. Recent renovation has brought life and colour to the old wooden houses that line the main streets, and cafes and restaurants line the streets leading to the lighthouse at the top of the hill. It is a steep climb up, but worth it for the panoramic views of the city.

Guayaquil stays open until late, and you can shop along the main avenue Octobre 9th until late into the evening. The Malecon has several modern restaurants, while more traditional fare can be found in Las Penas. Many restaurants can also be found in the Urdesa suburb, a $4 taxi ride from downtown, with everything from traditional Ecuadorian meals to excellent sushi.