The resident green iguanas are not confined and move freely between the park's trees and surrounding streets.
The park was originally known as Plaza de Armas during the colonial era before its late 19th-century redesign.
The central statue of Simon Bolivar was a gift from Manuel Antonio Seminario to the city of Guayaquil.
The park serves as a protected urban habitat where the iguanas have become accustomed to human presence over decades.
The wrought-iron fence enclosing the park was imported from France during the late 1800s.
Parque Seminario, locally known as Parque de las Iguanas, is a historic urban park in downtown Guayaquil defined by its large, free-roaming population of green iguanas. The park features a central bronze equestrian statue of Simon Bolivar, erected in 1889. Landscaped grounds include manicured lawns, tropical trees, and a decorative koi pond. The iguanas are semi-tame, frequently resting on tree branches or walkways throughout the park. The site sits directly across from the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil. It serves as a green refuge within the dense commercial district of the city. The park was named after Manuel Antonio Seminario, who financed its renovation in the late 19th century.
The low-hanging tree branches near the center of the park provide the best close-up angles of the resting iguanas.
Keep a respectful distance from the iguanas, especially during mating or nesting seasons when they may be territorial.
The ground can be slippery near the pond, so wear shoes with good traction.
Visit during the morning hours to see the iguanas most active before the midday heat encourages them to retreat into the trees.
Do not attempt to feed the iguanas human food, as it is harmful to their health and disrupts their natural behavior.
Do not feed or attempt to touch the iguanas; maintain a respectful distance to avoid potential bites or scratches.
