Guayas

CULTURE

Guayas: Museums and Culture

Guayas offers you a tour cultural fascinating. In downtown Guayaquil, the capital, visit the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral, the Seminario Park, famous for its free iguanas, and the historic Plaza de la Administración. Walk along the Malecón 2000, where the elegant Palacio de Cristal, the emblematic Torre Morisca and spaces to walk along the river stand out. The Anthropological and Contemporary Art Museum (MAAC) captivates with ancestral history and current artistic expressions. And don't miss the National Cocoa Museum, which tells the history of cocoa from pre-Columbian culture to its global impact.

Climb Cerro Santa Ana for panoramic views and visit the Las Peñas neighborhood, a cultural heritage site full of art and tradition. Also visit the Presley Norton Museum exhibits valuable pre-Columbian pieces that connect with the ancestral history of the Ecuadorian coast. Experience the art, history and essence of Guayas at every step. Experience the art, history and essence of Guayas at every step.

Ecuadorian corridor: Heritage treasures declared by UNESCO

In Guayaquil, the Julio Jaramillo Popular Music Museum houses the history of the Ecuadorian pasillo and its greatest exponent, Julio Jaramillo, known as “the nightingale of America”. This traditional genre, with deep melodies and poetic lyrics, is part of the national soul. Declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, The pasillo reflects the identity, nostalgia and feeling of the Ecuadorian people. Come to Guayas and feel the living emotion of this musical treasure of Ecuador.

NATURE

Exploration and bird watching trails

Guayas offers unique routes to connect you with the nature. In the Samborondón Historical Park, walk through mangrove trails and observe bird species such as parrots. The Botanical Garden of Guayaquil fascinates with its collection of orchids, butterflies and native plants. In the Manglares Churute Ecological Reserve you can paddle a canoe through mangroves, go hiking and watch birds such as Semillero Piqui Grande and howler monkeys. Santay Island, a Ramsar site, offers biking and birdwatching such as the Whimbrel Curlew. Cerro Blanco completes the experience with hikes through tropical dry forest and a diversity of birds such as Black-crowned Hawks. Let yourself be amazed by these natural attractions.

Beaches and rivers: Water that creates and connects

In Guayas, enjoy unique natural experiences. In Playas General Villamil, relax on extensive beaches, ideal for resting and practicing water sports such as surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, among others. In turn, river tours along the estuary of the Guayas River offer a scenic tour overlooking the city of Guayaquil among mangroves, coastal birds and wildlife, perfect for photography and sightseeing. Enjoy different ways to connect with nature.

ANCESTRAL COMMUNITIES AND RURALITY

In Guayas, the Montuvian culture invites you to get to know the rural essence of the Ecuadorian coast. In cantons such as Daule, Balzar and Colimes, discover traditions linked to the countryside, rodeos montuvios, typical music and a strong agricultural identity. You can also find communities Afro-Ecuadorian communities that enrich urban life with their gastronomy, vibrant rhythms and unique cultural expressions. Living roots that reveal the diversity of the province.

Holidays:

Guayaquil celebrates its identity with enthusiasm throughout the year. From January to March, the Carnival fills its neighborhoods with music, parades and popular joy. In July, the Fiestas de Fundación illuminate the city with art, culture and tradition. And in October, the Fiestas Octubrinas turn Guayaquil into an epicenter of patriotic pride, with grand parades, cultural events and a vibrant energy that invites tourists to experience the city at its best.

GASTRONOMY

Cacao Arriba: Flavors of Origin and Tradition

Discover the authentic flavor of Cacao Arriba, the pride of Ecuador and grown in Guayas. On the Cacao Route you can visit traditional farms in Naranjal and Balao, participate in harvests, ferment beans, prepare handmade chocolate and enjoy tastings. You can also visit the Cacao Museum in Guayaquil and learn about its history. Live a unique sensory experience that combines tradition, culture and flavor in the cradle of the world's most renowned cocoa.

Traditional cuisine

Guayas is a true paradise gastronomic that invites you to savor the best of coastal cuisine. Highlights include dishes such as encebollado, a soup of albacore with cassava and onion curtido, considered a national symbol. Guatita, a tripe stew in peanut sauce, surprises with its creamy texture and intense flavor. And for seafood lovers, the cangrejada conquers with seasoned crabs served with patacones. From street stalls to gourmet restaurants, Guayas offers an unforgettable culinary journey.

CRAFTS

The province of Guayas, Ecuador, is known for its rich handicraft activity, which combines tradition and creativity. Products made of natural fibers and materials such as tagua, toquilla straw, wood, clay and leather, made by talented artisans, stand out. Guayas is the perfect place to acquire handicrafts Ecuadorian. In markets such as the Artesanal Guayaquil or the Pasaje Bahía Malecón, these spaces are ideal to take home an authentic souvenir full of identity of the local culture.