We decided to stay in Guayaquil for two nights on our way way to the Galapagos Islands so that it would allow us a full day to explore the city. We had seen pictures of the Cerro Santa Ana, the Numa Pompilio Llona and other parts of the city and felt that we’d enjoy spending some time seeing the sights.

We were not disappointed. Our hotel was in the Malecón 2000 area and we were able to walk to most of the sights. On the northern end is the colorful Las Peñas area with the famed 444 steps to climb to the top.

Guayaquil is hot, and we were initially hesitant to trek up the 400+ steps in the heat, but we were told by more than one source that the view at the top made the journey worthwhile.

The steps are numbered, so you can track your progress. There are also plenty of benches on the ways and beautiful little nooks to sit and admire the view.

The steps are used by the locals daily. We saw more locals than tourists on our way. There are houses on each side and little restaurants too should you feel the need for a bite.

We had read that it is possible to enter the lighthouse and climb to the top but on this particular day it was closed. There is, however, a cute little church across the lighthouse we were able to enter.

And then, the view of the colorful buildings in Cerro Santa Ana from the top.

The Numa Pompilio Llona is a historic street at the bottom of the Las Peñas area. It has a distinct vibe of its own – with a cobblestone ground and colorful houses on either side.

Some of these buildings house art galleries inside. We visited a couple and were able to see artists at work.