Plizio Visual Lab
La Perla Ferris Wheel
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
La Perla is an impressive Ferris wheel located on the Malecón 2000 boardwalk in Guayaquil, holding the title of the tallest in Ecuador. Standing at approximately 57 meters (187 feet) high, it provides visitors with sweeping panoramic views of the Guayas River, the historic Santa Ana Hill, and the city's expanding skyline. Since its opening in October 2016, it has become a centerpiece of the city's tourism industry and a symbol of urban revitalization. The wheel features 36 climate-controlled cabins, each capable of carrying up to six passengers, ensuring a comfortable experience in the tropical climate. A full revolution takes about 12 minutes, allowing ample time for photography and scenic observation. The structure is built with high-grade steel designed to withstand coastal weather conditions and seismic activity. At night, La Perla is particularly striking as it is illuminated by a sophisticated LED lighting system that displays lively colors and patterns. It represents a successful public-private partnership aimed at enhancing the recreational offerings of Guayaquil's waterfront, making it a favorite destination for both locals and international travelers.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Casa del Artista Plastico · Museo del Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Guayaquil · Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo
- Nearby: Durán (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 123 | 215 | 212 | 126 | 38 | 10 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 24 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The 'La Perla' Ferris wheel is located on the Malecón 2000 and is accessible for a fee during opening hours. The ride provides a spectacular panoramic view of the Guayas River and Guayaquil.
Typical hours
The Ferris wheel is typically operating daily from about 10 am to 10 pm. Exact times may vary by season and weather conditions.
Photography
Photography during the ride is allowed, but due to motion and height, best with a steady camera hold. From outside, the illuminated structure features great shots at night.
Time needed
A complete ride on the Ferris wheel takes about 15-20 minutes. Allow extra time for queuing and a stroll on the Malecón.
Combine with
The Malecón 2000 itself provides many restaurants, playgrounds, and the 'Museo del Banco Central'. Historic neighborhoods of Guayaquil, such as Las Peñas, are within walking distance.
Getting there
The Ferris wheel is at the southern end of the Malecón 2000, easily reachable on foot from the city center. Parking garages are available nearby, but public transport is convenient.
Insider tip
Go in the evening when the city and river are aglow with lights. Book tickets online to avoid queues at the counter.
Geography
Facts
- La Perla was officially inaugurated on October 25, 2016.
- The Ferris wheel reaches a peak height of 57 meters (187 feet).
- It features 36 enclosed, air-conditioned cabins for passenger comfort.
- One full rotation of the wheel takes approximately 12 minutes.
- The total capacity of the wheel is 216 people per cycle.
- The lighting system uses programmable LEDs to create various visual effects.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town La Perla Ferris Wheel (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is the La Perla Ferris wheel?
La Perla is 57 meters high and is the largest Ferris wheel in South America.
Where in Guayaquil is it located?
It is located at the northern end of Malecón 2000, right by the Guayas River.
How much does a ride on La Perla cost?
A standard ticket costs about 3.50 USD per person.
Are the cabins air-conditioned?
Yes, all 36 cabins are air-conditioned for passenger comfort.
How long does one rotation take?
A ride takes about 10 to 12 minutes for one complete rotation.
La Perla Ferris Wheel: where is it located?
La Perla Ferris Wheel is located in Ecuador.
La Perla Ferris Wheel: what is there to see?
Highlights include Casa del Artista Plastico, Museo del Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Guayaquil, Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo.
La Perla Ferris Wheel: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
La Perla Ferris Wheel: why is it worth visiting?
La Perla is an impressive Ferris wheel located on the Malecón 2000 boardwalk in Guayaquil, holding the title of the tallest in Ecuador.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Ecuador →
Nearby cities
Guayaquil
The largest city in Ecuador and the main economic center on the Pacific coast.
Durán
An industrial city connected to Guayaquil by a bridge over the Guayas River.
Daule
Known as the rice capital of Ecuador due to the enormous production of this grain.
Milagro
The sweetest city in Ecuador, named after its extensive sugarcane production.
Velasco Ibarra
Commonly known as El Empalme, it is a strategic transport hub between three provinces.
Balzar
Center of cattle breeding and teak production in rural Guayas.
Naranjito
A lively small town characterized by extensive banana and cocoa fields.
Naranjal
The starting point for excursions to indigenous communities and the hot springs of Churute.
General Villamil Playas
A very popular beach destination that flourishes due to its proximity to Guayaquil.
Yaguachi
An important religious pilgrimage site for the veneration of San Jacinto in Ecuador.
Samborondón
A wealthy suburban community known for its exclusive residential complexes and historic rice fields.
History & landmarks
🗺️
MAAC Museum
The anthropological and contemporary art museum of Guayaquil, known for its sail-like architectural design.
Malecón 2000
A famous boardwalk along the Guayas River, showcasing both the modern and historical faces of Guayaquil.
Cerro Santa Ana Lighthouse
A picturesque lighthouse at the top of Cerro Santa Ana, reached after climbing 444 steps.
The Point Building
An iconic, spiral-shaped skyscraper on the banks of the Guayas River, representing the symbol of modern Guayaquil.
Crystal Palace
A striking iron and glass building in Guayaquil that once served as a market and now hosts art exhibitions.
Gazebo of Seminario Park
An ornate wrought-iron gazebo in Guayaquil's Iguana Park, serving as an elegant focal point of the square.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil
A neo-Gothic cathedral facing Iguana Park, characterized by its impressive twin towers.
Guayaquil Historical Park
A theme park that combines historical architecture, the traditional way of life, and the native wildlife of the coastal region.
Nature
More places
La Rotonda
A significant monument commemorating the meeting between Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín in Guayaquil.
Fortín de la Planchada
An old colonial fort in Guayaquil built to defend against pirate attacks.
Torre del Reloj
The Moorish Clock Tower is one of the most famous historical buildings along the Malecón in Guayaquil.
Monumento a Guayas y Quil
A monument in Guayaquil honoring the indigenous chief Guayas and his wife Quil, after whom the city is said to be named.
Guayaquil Historical Park
A park combining history, culture and nature, with a large area for native wildlife and agriculture.
Jardín del Río Port (Durán)
An inland port in Durán specializing in the handling of bulk cargo such as grain and fertilizers.
La Universal Confectionery
A traditional Ecuadorian brand that produces chocolate and confectionery, deeply rooted in the country's cocoa history.
Pilsener Brewery Guayaquil
The main production facility for Pilsener, the best-selling beer brand in Ecuador.