Guayaquil-"The Pearl of the Pacific"

Since I have spent so much time in Guayaquil I thought it would be fitting to create a post on the city's top attractions.  Of course my students have created a list for me of all places to visit. (Some of their suggestions were pure shopping centers to which we all laughed!)  However Guayaquil has its own charm and several places you can enjoy in just a one or two-day trip.  

I recommend you start out your day with a trip on the double-decker bus.  In two hours, you can visit the city's downtown, north, and southern adjoining neighborhoods.  Along the way you will be able to visit Parque Semanario or the Iguanas Park in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral where you can get off and visit the park and take photos with the adorable iguanas.  They usually expect visitors, but watch out! You shouldn't get too close!

Paradise Hill Lookout 

Ruminahui Statue in downtown Guayaquil 

View of the Ecudorian Flag on Americas Avenue

Next, stop by the colorful and adventurous Las Penas neighborhood!  During the day, you will see several locals walking or running up to the lighthouse of blue and white that rests on top.  It takes 444 steps until you reach the lighthouse which you can count as the steps are marked.  At the top of the lighthouse, you can take a photo with the popular cartoon character Juan Pueblo.   

View of Las Penas lighthouse

A colorful walkway on the Cerro del Carmen side

View of the walkway in Las Penas

Beginning at Step One

Ending at Step 444

View of the stairway, more steps to go!

Descending Las Penas, is a long stretch of boardwalk, Malecon 2001, where you can walk alongside the famous Guayas River and take a trip up its popular farris wheel, The Pearl.  You can often buy popcorn and eat coconut ice cream, eat a typical ceviche, and pass buy locales as you walk down this populated and fun boardwalk!

The Pearl/La Pearla Farriswheel on Malecon Boardwalk

Malecon 2001 Boardwalk

End your evening in Guayaquil with a night out of dancing or a wonderful seafood feast of crabs or whatever takes your fancy!

Enjoy Guayaquil's wonderful nightlife of Salsa, Music, and Criolla Food!