It all started as a spontaneous trip to visit my dear friend Duque, a Venezuelan actor I met while teaching in Quito back in 2016. We were both expats navigating the rhythms of a new country, and over time, we became close friends. After Duque left Quito, I missed our regular hangouts and long conversations, so when he invited me and my sister to Guayaquil to watch him perform in a play, I jumped at the chance. Not only was it a perfect excuse to escape the city for a bit, but it was also a much-needed reunion.
The journey to Guayaquil was long—a solid eight hours on the bus, with nothing to do but sleep and listen to music. But the anticipation of seeing Duque again kept me going. When we finally arrived, the heat hit me like a warm embrace, a welcome change from the cooler Quito weather. Starving after the long ride, we made a beeline for the nearest cafeteria. Even though it was just food court fare, I must say it was better than what I’d had in Quito. Guayaquil had already won me over, and we hadn’t even left the bus station.
After navigating the somewhat chaotic bus system, we made it to Duque’s apartment. A quick nap and a shower later, and I was feeling like a new person, ready to take on whatever adventure the weekend had in store. With limited time, we decided to start with Las Peñas, a historic neighborhood known for its colorful houses, artistic vibe, and, of course, those infamous steps.
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The Climb to Las Peñas
Now, let me tell you something: I should have asked more questions before setting out on this adventure. Like, do I need more sunscreen? Should I bring an umbrella? Am I forgetting something crucial, like oxygen and an extra pair of legs? Because, damn, that walk up the steps of Las Peñas was no joke.
We’re talking 488 steps, y’all. Four hundred. And eighty-eight. My legs were screaming by the time we reached the halfway point. My sister and Duque were faring slightly better, but we were all feeling the burn. It didn’t help that the midday sun was relentless, beating down on us as we trudged upward. I was sweating like a hog, water practically pouring off me like a broken faucet. But every time I thought about turning back, I remembered that at the top was a view of Guayaquil that I couldn’t miss—and, more importantly, that this was time spent with Duque, the kind of quality time we hadn’t had in years.
So, we pushed on. I complained with every step, cursing my lack of fitness and promising myself I’d hit the gym when I got back to Quito (spoiler: I didn’t). But despite the discomfort, there was something exhilarating about the climb. The higher we went, the more the city below came into view, and the more I appreciated the vibrant energy of Las Peñas. The houses lining the steps were painted in bright colors, each with its own unique charm. Local artists had adorned the walls with murals, turning the neighborhood into an open-air gallery.
Finally, we reached the top. The three of us collapsed onto the ground like we had just conquered Everest. We were weary, hot, and completely out of breath, but the view made it all worth it. Guayaquil sprawled out below us, the river glinting in the sunlight, and the city bustling with life. It was a moment of triumph, not just because we had made it to the top, but because we were there together, sharing an experience that would become another story in our friendship.
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr Las Penas – destiny travlr 
Las Penas – destiny travlr
Exploring Las Peñas
After catching our breath, we wandered around the hilltop, taking in the sights and snapping a few photos. Las Peñas is not just about the climb; it’s about the history and culture that permeate the area. This neighborhood is one of the oldest in Guayaquil, dating back to the 16th century, and it has played a significant role in the city’s development. Walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets felt like stepping back in time.
From the hilltop, we descended towards the Malecon 2000, a boardwalk along the Guayas River. Along the way, we stopped by an old ship docked at the foot of the hill—a relic from another era, now serving as a museum. The ship was a fascinating detour, but our growling stomachs soon reminded us that it was time to eat.
We headed to a nearby restaurant, where we indulged in some of Guayaquil’s local cuisine. The food was delicious, and as we sat there, reminiscing and laughing, I realized just how much I had missed moments like these. Hanging out with Duque was exactly what the doctor ordered—a perfect blend of nostalgia, adventure, and good company.
A Weekend to Remember
Las Peñas may have been the highlight of our sightseeing, but the real treasure of the weekend was reconnecting with an old friend. The climb was tough, the heat was intense, but the memories we made were priceless. If you ever find yourself in Guayaquil, I highly recommend a visit to Las Peñas—not just for the views, but for the experience of walking through a place where history, culture, and personal stories converge.
As for me, I’ll be hitting the stairs a bit more often—if only to make sure I’m ready for the next adventure.
Have you climbed the steps of Las Peñas? What was your experience like? Let me know in the comments below, and if you’re planning a trip to Guayaquil, I’m happy to share more tips on what to see and do!
