Puente Peatonal Isla Santay
A stunning swing bridge connecting Guayaquil to Isla Santay, offering scenic river views and a gateway to nature.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Puente Peatonal Isla Santay
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning swing bridge connecting Guayaquil to Isla Santay, offering scenic river views and a gateway to nature.
"A lovely little bridge and walk! Would be fun to see the draw bridge in action."
🚗 Parking Availability
Street parking is usually available near the bridge entrance. :car:
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
Essential for a comfortable visit, especially during warmer hours. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Pedestrian Bridge
Connecting Guayaquil to Isla Santay
A stunning swing bridge offering scenic river views and a gateway to nature.

Isla Santay Nature Reserve
Santay Island
Escape the city bustle for a peaceful walk or bike ride amidst natural surroundings.

Bike Rentals
Near the bridge entrance
Rent a bike for an enjoyable 2.6km ride to the island's village and crocodile sanctuary.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Access & Island Exploration
Island Essentials: Water & Sun Protection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Availability
Street parking is usually available near the bridge entrance.
:car:💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
Essential for a comfortable visit, especially during warmer hours.
:droplet: :sunwithface:🦟 Don't Forget Bug Spray
Recommended for a more pleasant experience on the island.
:bug:🚲 Bike Rental Info
$5.00 fee, passport required as deposit.
:moneybag: :bike:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Street parking is usually available near the bridge entrance.
:car:💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
Essential for a comfortable visit, especially during warmer hours.
:droplet: :sunwithface:🦟 Don't Forget Bug Spray
Recommended for a more pleasant experience on the island.
:bug:🚲 Bike Rental Info
$5.00 fee, passport required as deposit.
:moneybag: :bike:🚢 Drawbridge Awareness
Be aware of potential boat transport back if bridge is raised for ships.
:ship:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Puente Peatonal Isla Santay for its beautiful design and the relaxing experience of walking or cycling across it with scenic river views. It's seen as a great escape from the city. However, some recent observations point to a decline in the island's maintenance and infrastructure, with concerns about abandonment.
"It is at the end of a street but there is parking near by usually on the street. Bring water and bug spray if you are planning on going to the Isla Santay. Also you need your passport they hold it until you return the bike if doing bike rental. $5.00 for bike rental. The bridge is a draw bridge we were told if a big ship was crossing we might have to take a boat back across but we did not have that issue but just be aware."
Scott Metcalfe
"Great place to do exercise away from the city. There is a parking lot close to the entrance. The walk or bike ride (they rent bikes) is 2.6km to the "cocodrilera", village and restaurant."
Felipe Murtinho
"A lovely little bridge and walk! Would be fun to see the draw bridge in action but no luck on the day we went haha!"
Luke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The bridge is located at the end of a street in Guayaquil. Street parking is usually available nearby.
You can also reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. The walk or bike ride across the bridge to the island is approximately 2.6km.Yes, there is parking available, often on the street near the entrance to the bridge.
Absolutely! The bridge is pedestrian-friendly, and it's a pleasant walk to the island. It takes about 2 hours to walk the entire 2.6km path to the village.
While the bridge itself is the main access point, you can reach the Guayaquil side of the bridge via local buses or taxis.
You can either walk the 2.6km bridge or rent a bicycle for a quicker journey.
Some visitors also mention the possibility of taking a boat back if the drawbridge is raised.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no ticket required to cross the pedestrian bridge to Isla Santay.
The bridge and island are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local information for any specific timings, though it's often open for exploration.
There is no entrance fee for Isla Santay itself. However, bike rentals do have a fee.
Your passport is required if you plan to rent a bicycle, as it's held as a deposit until you return the bike.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own bicycle to explore the island.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride, visit the 'cocodrilera' (crocodile sanctuary), and explore the small village. There are also rest areas on the bridge to relax and enjoy the views.
There is a village on the island that includes a restaurant.
Restroom facilities may be available in the village area.While the island offers a natural escape, some TikTok videos highlight concerns about its upkeep and potential for abandonment in certain areas.
It's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings.The island is known for its natural environment, and visitors can potentially see wildlife, including crocodiles in the 'cocodrilera'.
The bridge is generally well-maintained and wide, making it suitable for strollers. Accessibility for wheelchairs would depend on the specific design and any potential inclines.
📸 📸 Photography
The pedestrian bridge itself offers stunning architectural shots with the river as a backdrop.
The natural scenery on the island and views of Guayaquil from the bridge are also great for photos.The bridge provides a unique vantage point to capture the sunset over the Guayas River, with the city lights of Guayaquil in the distance.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of residents and any private areas.
A versatile lens for landscapes and some telephoto for wildlife would be useful. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge's expanse.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Active Travelers & Cyclists
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Puente Peatonal Isla Santay
Constructed to promote eco-tourism and provide access to the island's natural beauty, the bridge has become a symbol of connectivity and sustainable development. The experience of walking or cycling across it, with the river flowing beneath and the city stretching out before you, is often described as incredibly relaxing and visually stunning. It's more than just a bridge; it's a gateway to nature and a testament to innovative urban planning.
Exploring Isla Santay: Nature and Community
However, recent social media content has highlighted concerns about the island's upkeep and the state of some facilities, with mentions of abandonment and theft. Despite these challenges, the island remains a valuable green space for recreation and a unique destination for those looking to experience a different side of the Guayaquil metropolitan area. Visitors are advised to be prepared with essentials like water and sun protection, and to be mindful of their surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit