Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador. It is on the west margin of the Guayas River. It is a sea port, and its personality derives much from that fact. Also, the climate is very hot. These two factors give the city a 'Caribbean soul', where foreigners are usually well received, tropical music rules and seafood is a staple.

Tourist Offices
The most helpful tourist information office is in the train car on the Malecón. There is another office in the town hall.

Sightseeing
The Malecon 2000 is a long park beside the Rio Guayas, with shops, an IMAX theatre, gardens, and a beautiful view of both the river and downtown. Santa Ana & El Carmen hills, you can see almost the whole city from here. You can walk up the 400 odd steps to the top from the Malecon 2000. There is a lighthouse, a museum, a small chapel and a park at the top. Along the stairs, vendors sell water, ice cream and other snacks. Visit the "Parque de las Iguanas" downtown, which is home to hundreds of tame iguanas, some fish in a pond and a black squirrel or two.

Getting there
Guayaquil's bus terminal is well organised, but still keep an close eye on your belongings. There are frequent connections to almost every destination in Ecuador.

Getting around
If you are planning to visit the Galápagos Islands, Guayaquil is the cheapest place to take a flight from. Taxis range from "taxi amigos" (unmarked taxis you call to pick you up) to the standard yellow cabs. Taxi drivers will try to over charge tourists.