A port city, Guayaquil is the most important city for commerce in Ecuador. It was founded on July 25, 1534 by Francisco de Orellana. Nicknamed Perla del Pacífico (Pearl of the Pacific), it often gets overlooked in the shadow of the capital, Quito, where most tourists go. Tourists, however, will be pleasantly surprised at this booming city of 2.5 million and all it has to offer.
Malecón Simón Bolívar (Malecón 2000)
This boardwalk streches 2.5 km along the shores of the Guayas River. Restaurants, shopping malls, museums, a planetarium and small parks are just a few of the things on the Malecón. While here, one can take a ride along the Guayas River on the pirate ship Morgan. In tribute to the days when pirates would attack the city, the rides travel along the old routes the pirates used to take. The boat ride lasts one hour. It is especially beautiful at dusk, when the skyline of Guayaquil is reflected in the dark river waters.
At the northern end of the boardwalk there is an IMAX theater, along with the museums of the Central Bank of Ecuador. Continuing north, one will run directly into the traditional neighborhood of Las Peñas and Cerro Santa Ana.
La Rotunda
Located in central downtown Guayaquil, this historic monument celebrates the famous meeting between Simón Bolívar and José de San Martin. Nearby one will find the arabic-style Clock Tower and the Aurora Obelisk, donated by the government of China.
Las Peñas
Because much of Guayaquil's original architecture was destroyed by the fires which rampaged the city's past, there is little evidence of the Spanish colonial era in the city. The few buildings which escaped the flames are being restored, however, and many of them are found in the traditional neighborhood of Las Peñas, making it a popular place for tourists. Painted in bright pinks, greens, and blues, the picturesque houses of Las Peñas line steep alleyways and passages and are home to restuarants, shops and art galleries. At the top of the hill is the Lighthouse and a church from which one can enjoy a fantastic view of the city.
Parque Seminario
An adventure in nature within an otherwise bustling city, Parque Seminario (Calle Chile between 10 de agosto and Clemente Ballén) is home to wild iguanas. This small park provides a break from the concrete sidewalks and traffic of downtown and is a popular place to view the "wild" iguanas that inhabit its trees.
A great time to visit the city is during the anniversary of its foundation, celebrated in the weeks leading up to July 25. Parades, dances, and other cultural events such as art exhibits and theatrical presentations are must-sees for both locals and tourists.
