Guayaquil is generally safe for travelers, but it’s wise to be extra cautious.
Though Old Guayaquil has discouraged some tourists in the past, the city is more than just a stopover. It’s worth seeing beyond the unfavorable reputation that sometimes surrounds Ecuador’s most populous city.
Guayaquil, or Santiago de Guayaquil, sits on the Guayas River about 250 kilometers southwest of Quito and is one of Ecuador’s fastest-evolving areas. The city has been actively working to overcome its past reputation for violence and attract more visitors. We spent a day and a half in Guayaquil, so here’s my take.
Personally, I recommend joining a city tour or one of the free walking tours—it’s a safer option than exploring on your own.
Safety in Guayaquil
Guayaquil’s reputation for crime has turned away some potential visitors. But, as with any major city, if you exercise caution and avoid standing out too much, you should have a great time exploring Guayaquil.
I recommend sticking to safe areas like the Malecón 2000, which is a lovely neighborhood with visible security presence. Booking a hotel in this area is a good choice for added safety—we stayed at the Wyndham Guayaquil and had an amazing experience, with a secure, pleasant neighborhood around us.
Here are some warnings and possible dangers in Guayaquil that can help tourists plan their visit.
Public Transportation and Taxis
Public transportation in Guayaquil isn’t entirely safe, especially late at night. It’s better to take a taxi when moving around the city after dark.
Avoid sitting in the front passenger seat, and ensure the taxi meter is running. If there’s no meter, agree on the fare before you get in.
For peace of mind, ask your accommodation to call a reliable taxi or arrange an Uber instead—this is what we did, and we had no issues.
Pickpockets and Theft
In Guayaquil, pickpocketing is a common issue, so it’s essential to keep your belongings secure.
Leave valuables in your hotel and only bring essentials on tours. I carried a theft-resistant backpack, which was helpful. Be especially cautious at crossings, as thieves on mopeds may snatch bags right out of your hands.
Pickpockets are most active in tourist areas, airports, restaurants, bus terminals, and public markets. Always stay vigilant, keep your belongings close, and avoid leaving them unattended.
A common scam here involves thieves splashing a liquid on you, pretending to clean it up (often called the condiment scam), while an accomplice picks your pockets or grabs your bag.
At one point, I felt a bit paranoid when I noticed a suspicious person following us. After turning around a few times, he eventually disappeared, but it’s a reminder to stay aware.
Scams
In Guayaquil, one of the most common scams involves con artists trying to sell fake tours and excursions to tourists. Cab fares can also be misleading, so make sure the meter is running, and watch out for counterfeit bills if you receive change in cash. It’s best not to cut corners here; instead, book tours through a certified provider like Viator for peace of mind. Stay aware of your surroundings to avoid falling victim to these common scams.
Mugging
Armed robberies are relatively common in Guayaquil, so it’s best to avoid wearing expensive jewelry and instead carry just enough cash for the day.
Keep your original passport safely stored at your hotel and carry a photocopy, including the entrance page, when you’re out. Avoid wandering alone or at night in the city.
We chose to leave our valuables at the hotel, keeping cash and phones in an anti-theft bag while out. It may sound overly cautious, but in Guayaquil, it’s better to prioritize safety.
Terrorism
While Ecuador has never experienced a terrorist attack, its proximity to Colombia means the possibility can’t be completely ruled out. Occasionally, there can be unrest in Guayaquil, so it’s wise to avoid crowds and political gatherings to stay safe.
Natural Disasters
Ecuador lies in a region prone to natural events like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. It’s a good idea to check the current risk level for these threats before your visit and take any necessary precautions to stay prepared.
Is Uber Safe in Guayaquil?
In Guayaquil, Uber was our go-to choice for getting around. Booking a ride through the app was easy, and we found it really convenient. Prices varied a bit depending on the time of day and distance, but overall, it worked great for us. We used Uber almost exclusively and didn’t run into any issues—it made exploring the city a lot more relaxed.
Is Guayaquil Safe for Women Travelers?
Generally, Guayaquil is safe for women to visit, but it’s best to avoid walking alone, especially at night.
The city feels fairly safe during the day, but it’s wise to stay off the streets after dark. You may also notice some unwanted attention from local men, so being mindful of your surroundings is helpful.
Is Guayaquil a Safe City for Visitors?
Guayaquil isn’t the safest city to visit, as it has a relatively high crime rate with issues like theft, assault, drug trafficking, and vandalism. For tourists, extra security precautions are essential.
In Ecuador, crime can be a problem, and even small valuables can attract unwanted attention. Never leave personal items, especially anything valuable, unattended. Unfortunately, recovering lost or stolen items is rare, so it’s best to be proactive with your belongings.
Pickpocketing, phone and wallet theft, and even theft from moving vehicles are fairly common in Guayaquil. Always lock valuables in hotel safes, and if possible, leave credit cards there rather than carrying them around.
To stay safe, remain alert and aware of your surroundings, and know the addresses and contact numbers for nearby hospitals and embassies. Avoid wandering the streets at night, even in a group, and if you’re driving, keep car doors locked and windows rolled up.
Conclusion
Despite its reputation, Guayaquil is still a worthwhile destination in Ecuador, with plenty to explore. Instead of just passing through, consider spending one to three days discovering the city’s vibrant spots. That said, if safety is a major concern, rest assured Ecuador has countless other incredible destinations to enjoy.
While Guayaquil isn’t the safest city in Ecuador, it does have some marvelous spots that make it worth a visit. We’d highly recommend hiring a guide or joining one of the free walking tours. Unfortunately, we didn’t book in advance, so availability was limited, but having a local guide would add both insight and peace of mind.
It’s way safer and funnier (and cheap):
Just like in any other city, staying vigilant and prepared is essential in Guayaquil. Thieves and pickpockets are a common concern here, so keeping these safety tips in mind will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Guayaquil, Ecuador!
Thank you for being so candid and stating facts. Always good to get first hand news from people who have experienced the journey.
Take care and enjoy your future journeys.