Ecuador's largest city and Pacific port, known for the Malecón 2000 waterfront, Las Peñas neighborhood, and Galápagos departure point.

About Guayaquil City Center

Guayaquil is Ecuador's economic engine and largest city, a tropical Pacific port straddling the Guayas River. The centerpiece of the revitalized downtown is the Malecón 2000, a 2.5-km waterfront boardwalk with gardens, monuments, museums, restaurants, and river views. At its northern end, the colorful hillside neighborhood of Las Peñas features 444 steps lined with art galleries, cafes, and colonial wooden houses.

Parque Seminario (Iguana Park) in the center is famous for the dozens of land iguanas that roam freely among park-goers. The Palacio Municipal, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Museo Municipal surround the park. The bohemian Cerro Santa Ana neighborhood connects to Las Peñas, offering panoramic city views from the lighthouse at the top.

Guayaquil is the primary departure point for Galápagos Islands flights, with LATAM and Avianca operating daily services. Most Galápagos travelers spend at least one night in Guayaquil. The city's culinary scene revolves around fresh seafood, particularly ceviche and encebollado (tuna soup).

Nearby Landmarks

Malecón 2000 Las Peñas Parque Seminario Cerro Santa Ana Metropolitan Cathedral

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Exit arrivals and take an official airport taxi from the designated stand. The ride along Avenida de las Américas to the city center takes 10-20 minutes. Alternatively, use Uber for a slightly cheaper fare.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Airport taxis operate 24/7. A nighttime ride costs $5-8 to the city center. Uber works in Guayaquil and is safe and affordable. There are no public buses from the airport at night. The Malecón and Las Peñas areas are generally safe for evening walks but exercise caution after midnight.

Luggage Tips

Taxis from the airport have trunk space. The short distance makes any transport mode luggage-friendly. If heading to a Galápagos flight the next morning, stay near the airport—several hotels on Avenida de las Américas offer free shuttles.

Accessibility

José Joaquín de Olmedo Airport has wheelchair assistance. Taxis can accommodate folded wheelchairs. The Malecón 2000 is fully wheelchair accessible along its main path. Las Peñas and Cerro Santa Ana involve steep stairs and are not wheelchair accessible. The Metrovía BRT has limited accessibility.