Manso Boutique Hotel

Top choice in Guayaquil


The unrivaled malecón location aside, Manso is both a hostel and boutique hotel, housed in an atmospheric period property. Rooms vary in comfort and style – the best being bright, with high ceilings, framed artwork, and a splash of color. There's a bohemian vibe, with wooden sculptures, photography exhibitions and occasional readings and rooftop music, and an appealing pescatarian restaurant.

Self-caterers can use the (somewhat shabby) kitchen facilities, and guests should be cat-friendly – there's a resident feline. Bicycle rentals are also available, as are free DVD rentals. Ricardo, the friendly owner, also offers ecotours of the city's Afro-Ecuadorian communities (with marimba and maybe boxing lessons!) and a local farming community. An artesanal chocolate shop, De Cacao, is onsite, as well.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Guayaquil attractions

2. Sucre Monument

0.07 MILES

This monument commemorates Antonio José de Sucre, the 19th-century general who played a pivotal role in helping Ecuador gain its independence from Spain.

3. Yacht Club

0.07 MILES

A point of reference on the malecón, this club dates back to 1928, and has a permanent meeting spot here.

4. Museo Nahim Isaias

0.08 MILES

Nahim Isaias, located in the Plaza de Administración building, exhibits more than 2000 pictorial and sculptural works, paintings and artifacts from the…

5. Palacio Municipal

0.09 MILES

Across the street from the malecón is the ornate, gray Palacio Municipal building, home to the Municipal Council and the mayor's office. The elaborate…

6. Torre Morisco

0.12 MILES

Where Calle 10 de Agosto hits the malecón you’ll see this famous 30m-high Moorish-style clock tower, which was completed in 1931. It's a memorable sight…

7. La Rotonda

0.13 MILES

Around halfway along the malecón you’ll soon come to one of Guayaquil’s more impressive monuments, particularly when illuminated at night. Flanked by…

8. Malecón 2000

0.15 MILES

One of the most extensive urban-renewal projects in South America, Malecón 2000 is made up of monuments, playgrounds, sculptures, gardens and river views…