A hive of activities in the city

Lush gardens with a variety of flowers and a 450m lagoon are just two of the many elements that make Parque Forestal a great attraction for visitors of all ages. Its great variety of vegetation makes it possible to see everything from wildcats to iguanas and ducks.

The 10 hectares of parkland is also home to the Plaza of Arts and Crafts, which includes an experimental theater for the exhibition of paintings and other artworks on special dates and public holidays.

Within the plaza stands the “La Patria Joven” monument, a well renowned work of Oswaldo Guayasamín, the famous Ecuadorian sculptor and painter. The monument is considered one of the most important examples of modern art in Guayaquil. Likewise, here you can take a look at the elaborately decorated column that was erected in tribute to the Heroes of the Independence of the Pearl of the Pacific.

On one side of the plaza is the Eloy Alfaro Civic Center Theater where recitals, concerts, plays, and dances are held, mainly at night time. The theater often plays host to the Guayaquil Symphony Orchestra, as well as student graduations and entrepreneurial fairs.

The theater can accommodate up to 1,000 people and impresses with its original contemporary design, specifically the geodesic domed iron roof that can be seen from the lagoon, covering the entire building. The interior is made up of two floors and includes a main hall, two mini theaters, and several multipurpose rooms.

The large outdoor space that the park provides draws in young people of all ages, with activities such as boating, feeding the fish or simply enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. You can also take advantage of the park for ambling walks with family or friends, picnics, playing football, hiking, cycling or enjoying a good book. Parque Forestal is an ideal spot to take the little ones, as it has children’s games, a trampoline, carousel and more.

For just $ 4.00 you can rent a paddle boat for two adults and a small child, to explore the lagoon for a half hour; a relaxing and tranquil way to fit in some healthy physical activity. The boats are available on weekends from 6am to 8:30 pm, and from Tuesday to Friday from 6am to 7:30 pm On weekdays there is the option of a shorter 15 minute ride, for just $2.50.

Parque Forestal is the largest park in southern Guayaquil. When the breeze starts to build it is perfect for flying kites of all sizes, which you can bring with you or buy on the spot for $ 2.00. For those who prefer to just watch, the cheerful and multicolored show that unfolds in the sky is sure to be very entertaining.