We discovered that Parque Seminario, also known as Parque Bolivar or Parque de las Iguanas, is indeed a delightful surprise in the heart of bustling Guayaquil. This small, green haven is famed for its unique inhabitants — and no, it’s not just the usual pigeons you’d expect in a city park.
If you’re in Guayaquil and seeking a free activity, we highly recommend adding Parque Seminario to your itinerary. It’s a perfect spot to take a break from the city’s fast pace while enjoying a bit of nature right in the middle of town.
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How to Get to Parque Seminario, Guayaquil
By Taxi/Uber
For our visit to Parque Seminario, we opted for an Uber, which felt like the safest and most convenient option. If you’re staying nearby, though, a leisurely walk is definitely doable. Many hotels can also help arrange a cab for you, ensuring you get to the park hassle-free.
We found it super easy to get there and felt comfortable the entire time — especially since we were able to relax and enjoy the park without worrying about transportation.
By Car
Parque Seminario is conveniently situated right in front of the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral, at the corner of 10 de Agosto Avenue and Chile Avenue. We found it easy to navigate, especially since we used Waze to guide us there. If you’re driving a rental or hired a private car for your Guayaquil trip, just pin “Parque Seminario, Chimborazo, Guayaquil, Guayas” on the app, and you’ll get there smoothly.
By Bus
While it’s technically possible to reach Parque Seminario by bus, I wouldn’t really recommend it, especially if you’re new to Guayaquil. Locals themselves advised us against it due to the risk of pickpockets targeting tourists on public transport.
We found that taking a cab or an Uber was much safer and more convenient. But if you’re determined to try the bus, you can find routes that pass near Parque Seminario online or ask a local for guidance. Just be sure to stay vigilant with your belongings!
The Inhabitants of Parque Seminario
Hundreds of iguanas roam freely in Parque Seminario, creating an almost surreal atmosphere. Located right across from the Metropolitan Cathedral, it’s a popular stop for local families coming from the church.
When we arrived, my wife and I couldn’t help but rush around like excited kids, trying to snap as many pictures as possible. The iguanas are surprisingly approachable, and it was easy to get some close-up shots. They aren’t frightening at all and you can get quite close to them since they’re practically everywhere.
We saw them lounging on branches, cooling off in the shade, basking on the Monument of the Boar, and even digging around in the flower beds. Just be careful if you’re standing under the trees—one of those iguanas might surprise you with an unexpected shower!
The whole place felt like an open zoo, with iguanas wandering freely within the park. And it’s not just iguanas! There’s also a pond filled with snapping turtles and flocks of hungry pigeons. If you bring any food, be prepared for an enthusiastic welcome from the park’s feathered and shelled residents!
Tips for Visiting the Iguana Park in Guayaquil
We were frequently reminded in Guayaquil to be extra cautious about pickpockets, so my wife and I decided to leave most of our valuables back at the hotel. It was a wise choice since it allowed us to explore more freely without worry.
When we reached Parque Seminario, we noticed that many people were taking photos inside the small fenced park, and we felt secure doing the same. The visible presence of security and police officers added an extra layer of reassurance.
That said, it’s still best to play it safe. We avoided wearing any jewelry or taking out flashy gadgets while exploring the city, just to be on the safe side. It’s always better to blend in and minimize attention when walking around.
Bottom Line
Visiting Parque de las Iguanas, also known as Parque Seminario, was definitely worth it for us. Although the park is relatively small, the unexpected sight of so many iguanas roaming freely made our visit truly memorable. It’s the kind of quirky experience that you don’t usually come across anywhere else!
We couldn’t help but think how much kids would enjoy this place too. The little ones would surely be captivated by the mix of wildlife—from the iguanas lounging everywhere to the fish pond teeming with turtles, fish, and even squirrels darting about. It’s a spot that would definitely leave an impression on them.
So, if you’re planning a city tour in Guayaquil, don’t miss out on Parque Seminario. It’s one of those unique experiences that truly adds a special touch to your trip!
