Guayaquil — The Largest City in Ecuador

Guayaquil (officially: Santiago de Guayaquil) is Ecuador's largest city with around 3 million inhabitants, its most important port, and the economic heart of the country. For a long time, the humid port city was considered faceless and dangerous — but a massive urban renewal has transformed Guayaquil over the past two decades. Today, the city is a surprisingly pleasant stopover, especially if you're flying to the Galápagos (most flights start here).

Highlights

• Malecón 2000 — The 2.5 km long waterfront promenade along the Río Guayas is the centerpiece of the new Guayaquil. Gardens, fountains, museums, restaurants, and the IMAX tower "La Perla" with panoramic views. Lively and safe in the evenings. Free of charge.
• Las Peñas & Cerro Santa Ana — The oldest district of the city, completely restored. 444 colorful steps lead up the hill, past galleries, cafes, and bars. At the top, a lighthouse awaits with a 360-degree view over the city. The most beautiful place in Guayaquil.
• Parque Seminario (Iguana Park) — A small park in the center where dozens of green iguanas (up to 1.5 m long) roam freely. They lie on benches, climb trees, and eat from your hand. Surreal and free of charge.
• Parque Histórico — An open-air museum on the outskirts with restored colonial houses, mangrove forests, and wildlife (crocodiles, macaws, monkeys). Perfect for families. Entry: free of charge.

Dining in Guayaquil

Guayaquil is Ecuador's culinary capital. The coastal cuisine is richer and more diverse than the highland food:

• Encebollado — THE national dish of the coast: a hearty fish soup with tuna, yuca, onions, and tomatoes. Eaten for breakfast or as a hangover cure. Available at every Hueca (street kitchen) for 3–5 USD.
• Ceviche — Ecuadorian ceviche is quite different from the Peruvian: shrimp or fish in a tomato sauce with lime, served with roasted plantains (patacones) and popcorn (!). A delight.
• Bolón de verde — Fried or boiled green plantain, mashed and filled with cheese or Chicharrón. The breakfast of the coast.

Climate: Guayaquil is hot and humid — year-round 28–34°C with high humidity. Air conditioning is your friend. The rainy season (December–May) brings heavy tropical showers, the dry season (June–November) is more pleasant.