Meet the Iguanas: Exploring Guayaquil, Ecuador's Iconic Iguana Park

Growing up my dad worked at the zoo and he would always take me to work with him on the weekends and let me roam around the park solo. You could always find me at the reptile exhibit, so when I went to Guayaquil I knew this park was a must visit for me. 

Nested in the heart of Guayaquil, Ecuador, Parque Seminario is a public park with lush greenery and offers the perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Located just a short walk from the bustling Malecón 2000.  I was excited to visit this park for my love of nature and greenery. I heard they had huge iguanas there and I had to grand see them for myself.

Arriving at Parque Seminario

As I approached the park, I was greeted by the sounds of chirping birds and beautiful rainforest like greenery. A nice welcome from the busy streets of the city. the park looks very unassuming at first but then you notice the flocks of pigeons and hidden amongst them in the greenery are HUGE iguanas. 

Once called Bolivar Square for the Simon Bolivar statue that sits centrally in the park. The Guayaquil Metropolitan Cathedral sits right behind it and if you have time to go inside, it's a sight to be seen.

The IGUANAS

Once in the park, you'll start to notice the iguanas everywhere ranging from various sizes and lengths. Iguanas perched on tree tops, benches, bushes, and casually lying around. TIP: DO NOT STAND UNDER ANY OF THESE TREES you do not want to get drenched by what you may think is a rain shower. The iguanas are completely unbothered by visitors as they just want to bask in the sun and get fed, so don't be afraid to get close to them.

SAY CHEESE!

Around the park you'll see locals with pigeon fed and lettuce to feed the pigeons and iguanas. You can purchase the food to feed the pigeons for a nominal price and take epic photos while doing it. 

PACK THE REPELLENT

The weather during my visit to Guayaquil in the spring was hot and humid so I suggest spraying yourself liberally with mosquito repellant before visiting this park. You can pick up repellent at a local Ecuadorian pharmacy if you do forget to pack some. 

LOCATION OF THE IGUANA PARK

Parque Seminario

Rocafuerte Chimborazo

Guayaquil, Ecuador 090313

+593 98 789 3035