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Historic neighborhood · Guayaquil, Guayas
Barrio Las Peñas y Cerro Santa Ana
The oldest neighborhood in Guayaquil, with colorful wooden houses on the slopes of Cerro Santa Ana, and the climb of 444 steps up to the lighthouse, the chapel and the viewpoint over the river.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Barrio Las Peñas y Cerro Santa Ana
Las Peñas is the neighborhood where Guayaquil was founded in the 16th century, at the foot of Cerro Santa Ana, at the northern tip of the Malecón. The name comes from the cliffs the hill had when the Spanish arrived. Originally inhabited by fishermen and artisans, the neighborhood gained wooden houses of wealthy families during the cacao boom at the start of the 20th century, many of which still stand on Numa Pompilio Llona street.
The climb up Cerro Santa Ana is made via a staircase of 444 numbered steps, among brightly painted houses, small plazas, cafes, art galleries and craft shops. The staircase was restored in the 2000s and is one of the city's most popular walks.
At the top are the lighthouse, about 18 meters high, which can be climbed for a 360-degree view, a small chapel and the Fortín, an open-air naval museum with cannons from the time the city defended itself against pirate attacks. From the viewpoint you can see the Guayas River, the city and the Unidad Nacional bridge.
At the foot of the hill, near the river, there are also some small museums and the street of old houses.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1.5 to 2 hours, including the climb, the lighthouse and the descent.
Best time
In the late afternoon, to see the sunset from the top of the lighthouse, or in the morning when it's cooler. At night, the bars on the stairs get lively.
How to get there
It's at the northern end of Malecón 2000, about 20 minutes on foot from downtown, or by taxi to the base of the stairway.
Tip
Count the steps: each one is numbered, and the last is 444. Climb the lighthouse for a 360-degree view and bring water for the ascent.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Barrio Las Peñas y Cerro Santa Ana
How many steps does Cerro Santa Ana have?
There are 444 numbered steps from the base to the lighthouse.
Can you climb the lighthouse?
Yes, the lighthouse at the top of the hill has an internal staircase and a 360-degree viewpoint over the city and the river.
What is rua Numa Pompilio Llona?
Las Peñas street with the neighborhood's oldest and best-preserved wooden houses, on the riverbank.