Guayaquil, malecon 2000
Guayaquil, Ecuador is not on a sea coast. Yet it has two separate waterfront boardwalks; malecons, in Spanish.
That’s because there is both a bay and a navigable river flanking the city from either side. Both provide ocean access for shipping. Both also provide lovely recreation areas for residents and tourists.
Malecon 2000 is so-named because of the year in which the latest reconstruction was launched. At that time, city planners envisioned a beautiful multi-use public space.
They succeeded admirably.
This multi-faceted waterfront park is more than 100′ wide in most areas. Along the mile or so that it stretches there are fountains, statues, quiet spaces, restaurants and bars, elevated towers, and interesting walkways. Malecon 2000 also has a museum, an events venue, space for impromptu vendors or public gatherings, benches, playgrounds, a small amusement park, and a host of other spaces for the public good.
One end of malecon 2000 terminates at the base of the hill at the top of which there is an old fortress, lighthouse, and historic church. This allows both the hill and the waterfront to blend seamlessly into one massive public space.
From the base of the hill, you can continue right up the 444 numbered steps to the very top. At the top are wonderful vantage points looking out over the city.
All of this space is free and open to explore.
