Best hotels in Guayaquil

Sitting within the verdant gardens of the Parque Historico, Hotel del Parque is as handsome and elegant as they come. Once located in the centre of the city, the estate was moved brick by brick from its original home to the beautiful park, and has held onto its historic past while stepping with a flourish into the 21st century. Designed by Julio Vinueza, the interiors are uber-chic with plush, purple rugs, vivid artworks and swanky rooms. The location however is magnificent and you'll wake to the call of parrots in the gardens and the soft babble of the Daule River, whilst the gently meandering nature trails are mere steps away. A true oasis in the heart of the city.

Looking out across the Pacific Ocean to the Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil is Ecuador's largest city, and successfully combines the beauty of the past with a modern pizazz. Amongst the hubbub of the city, Hotel Oro Verde is a shining gem. Behind swathes of glass, its interiors are bright and spacious with acres of white walls, plush lounges and tons of style. When you fancy exploring the city, there isn't far to go. Wind your way along the scenic Malecon 2000 for the best of the museums and markets, get a view from the top of South America's largest ferris wheel, or take in the architecture of downtown Guayaquil.

Somewhere between the Pacific and the Andes, amongst the cacao plantations and rolling green hills, Hacienda la Danesa is a slice of the simple life. Sitting on a working farm, where everything from chocolate to honey is produced, the family has created a 'deep green' space to immerse yourself in and become reacquainted with nature. You'll get an inside look at rural living in Ecuador (try making your own chocolate!), explore the fields and further on horseback, and wander through the grounds where lime-green parrots flutter from branch to branch. Dinner can be in the secluded location of your choice, lit by a billion stars.

The Hilton lives up to its world-famous reputation with pristine interiors, mod design choices and plenty of space to breathe. It also happens to be only 10 minutes from Guayaquil's sprawling Malecon 2000, where you can take in the river views, pop into a museum or two, and snack on the best local cuisine. At the hotel, you'll never order the same thing twice thanks to the bevy of dining spots serving anything and everything from grilled seafood by the pool to scrumptious northern Italian dishes. Rooms are plush and cool, styled with the same finesse that runs throughout the hotel. Whether it's a stopover on your way to the Galapagos or a longer sojourn, the Hilton has you covered.

Navigate the waters of Ecuador in a stylish – and sustainable – luxury motor yacht. Take to the M/Y Kontiki Wayra for a boutique sea expedition that provides a feast for the senses. Be it a relaxing spa treatment, an invigorating kayaking adventure, or a hand-crafted cocktail, this state-of-the-art floating resort can cater to your every need.