Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Belgium
Denmark
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Sweden
Switzerland
Plaza · Guayaquil, Guayas
Parque Seminario
Guayaquil's former plaza de armas, in front of the cathedral, known as Parque de las Iguanas: hundreds of iguanas roam freely among the trees and benches.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Parque Seminario
Parque Seminario, also called Parque Bolívar or Parque de las Iguanas, is a small, tree-lined square in downtown Guayaquil, in front of the cathedral. It was the city's Plaza de Armas during the colonial era and today has in its center a monument to Simón Bolívar, surrounded by gardens and benches.
What makes the square well known are the green iguanas, which live freely in the trees and on the ground, come down to bask in the sun, cross the paths and share the space with visitors. There are hundreds of animals of various sizes that have become accustomed to people. There is also a small pond with turtles and fish.
The iguanas should not be fed or touched, and it's advisable to watch the trees, as they sometimes fall from them.
The square lies on the route between the cathedral and the Malecón, and is a quick stop on a walking tour of 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
20 to 40 minutes.
Best time
In the morning, when the iguanas come down to bask, or in the late afternoon when it's cooler.
How to get there
It's in downtown Guayaquil, between Chile, Chimborazo, Clemente Ballén and Diez de Agosto streets, about 5 blocks from the Malecón.
Tip
Combine the square with the cathedral across the street, then walk to the Malecón along Avenida Diez de Agosto.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Seminario
Are the iguanas at Parque Seminario free-roaming?
Yes, they live free-roaming in the square, in the trees and on the ground. Do not feed or touch the animals.
Why is the park called Seminario?
Because of the old seminary that used to stand beside it, near the cathedral. It is also called Parque Bolívar, after the central monument.
Is the park near the Malecón?
Yes, about five blocks away, a short walk along avenida Diez de Agosto.