This morning’s comprehensive introduction to Guayaquil includes visits to Parque Histórico, the waterfront promenade Malecón 2000 and Museo Municipal de Guayaquil, with its fine pre-Columbian archaeological finds.

Begin your day with a 45-minute drive from the pier to the appealing Parque Histórico Guayaquil. See what life was like here in the 1800s—a replica of a 19th-century suburb stands in a setting of native flora and fauna. A traditional hacienda replicates daily farm life with displays of old equipment, a small bakery serves tempting treats, a restored trolley rattles along the track. Spend about an hour exploring the past in this miniature nature reserve. Your guide will familiarize you with the plants and animals during your visit.

Drive on through the city to the foot of Cerro Santa Ana for a look at Malecón 2000, the modern waterfront promenade built to commemorate the Millennium. The attractive riverside development features shops, restaurants and monuments in a park-like setting, replacing decaying piers in what was a rather unsavoury neighbourhood.

Your last stop is at the Museo Municipal de Guayaquil, the oldest museum in Ecuador, where your tour is hosted by a local university professor. This museum houses a great collection of archaeology, remains of very advanced civilizations in Ecuador’s coast, plus areas of history, Colonial Art and Modern Art of Guayaquil. View authentic reduced human heads (tzantzas) and as you move through the museum, you will learn about colonial history, the independence movement, the republic, and the 20th century.

Continue your drive as you head back to the pier, about 45 minutes away, depending upon traffic.

PRICE:

$ 50 25-29 participants

$ 60 20-24 participants

$ 70 15-19 participants

W2: Moderate activity. Requires intermittent effort throughout, including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and/or on steps.