About
Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador and its main port, set in the Guayas province on the South American coast. Its nicknames, the Pearl of the Pacific and its full name, Santiago de Guayaquil, both point to the city's long connection with the water and with the trade that has moved through it.
What to see
- The riverfront boardwalk. The city's best-known public space runs along the river, giving visitors a long, open walk with views over the water and a steady sense of the city's daily life.
- Iguanas. The city is known for its iguanas, which are often seen around the waterfront and parks, and make for an unusual sight for many visitors.
Evenings and the city
Guayaquil is also known for its lively nightlife, so evenings are a good time to explore its bars, restaurants and streets. As the country's principal port, it carries the energy of a working city rather than a quiet resort, and many visitors find that this shapes the mood of a stay.
Guayaquil works well as a base for a few days of city walking, waterfront strolling and evening outings, and as a starting point for wider travel in Ecuador. Plan your visit around the riverfront and the nightlife, and allow time to simply wander the streets.
