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Natural area · Guayaquil, Guayas
Isla Santay
Island of mangroves in the Guayas River, opposite Guayaquil, a protected area and Ramsar site, with an ecological village and boardwalks, connected to the city by a pedestrian and bicycle bridge.
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 Isla Santay
Isla Santay lies in the Guayas River, between Guayaquil and Durán, and has about 2,200 hectares of mangroves, floodplains and pastures. It is a Ramsar site, of international importance for waterbirds, and a protected area of Ecuador.
From Guayaquil's shore a pedestrian and bicycle bridge departs across the river to the island. From there, wooden boardwalks lead through the mangrove to the ecological village, where a few dozen families live in houses built for them, with simple restaurants serving local food, a small museum and a lookout.
Along the way it's common to see herons, socós and other birds, as well as crabs in the mangrove. Near the village there is an enclosure with crocodiles, animals native to the region.
The visit can be done on foot or by bicycle, which is usually rented near the bridge, and is a way to see the river and nature just minutes from the center.
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
About 2 to 3 hours, on foot or by bicycle.
Best time
Early in the morning or late afternoon, when it's cooler and there are more birds. The bridge and the island have operating hours and may close for maintenance: confirm before going.
How to get there
The bridge to the island departs from Guayaquil's south bank, about 3 km from the center by taxi. From the bridge to the village it's about 2 km on foot or by bicycle.
Tip
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent. A bicycle shortens the trip to the village and the walk along the boardwalks.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Isla Santay
How do you get to Isla Santay?
By the pedestrian and bicycle bridge that departs from Guayaquil's south bank. Confirm beforehand whether the bridge is open.
Can you go by bicycle?
Yes, the bridge and walkways are for pedestrians and bicycles, and there is usually bike rental near the entrance.
What animals can be seen on the island?
Mangrove birds such as herons and 'socós', crabs and, in an enclosure near the village, crocodiles.