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National Unity Bridge
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Landmark
The National Unity Bridge (Puente de la Unidad Nacional) is a vital bridge complex connecting the city of Guayaquil with the neighboring cantons of Samborondón and Durán. It spans the mouths of the Daule and Babahoyo rivers, where they merge to form the mighty Guayas River. The original section of the bridge was inaugurated in 1970 and was considered an engineering masterpiece of its time, providing better access between the isolated coastal region and the country's interior. Today, the complex consists of several parallel bridges for different traffic directions to handle the enormous daily volume of over 60,000 vehicles. Stretching approximately 2,000 meters, it is one of the longest bridges in Ecuador. It plays a strategic role in the national economy by enabling the transport of goods between Guayaquil's major port and the agricultural hinterlands. At night, the illuminated structure provides an impressive sight over the broad rivers. The bridge symbolizes the progress and infrastructural transformation of the region over the past decades. It is more than just a roadway; it is a landmark of Ecuador's unity and modernization.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Monumento a los Niños Jugando · Las Garzas · Puente Rafael Mendoza Avilés
- Nearby: Daule (15 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 National Unity Bridge is a bridge complex connecting the cities of Guayaquil, Durán, and Samborondón. It can be crossed by vehicle or on foot via the pedestrian walkways.
Typical hours
As public roadways, the bridges are open 24/7. For a photo stop, morning light is clearest, evening has city lights.
Photography
Photography is possible from the walkways, but watch for heavy traffic. Good shots can be taken from the nearby riverside promenades.
Time needed
A quick drive or a 20-minute walk is enough to experience the bridge. Those wanting to stop and take photos should allow 30 minutes.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the Malecon 2000 in Guayaquil. The districts of Durán and Samborondón each have their own attractions.
Getting there
The bridges are easily accessible via Guayaquil's road network. Use a taxi or bus to reach the different bridge sections.
Insider tip
Drive across the bridge at night to see the impressive lighting of the complex. Be aware of heavy commuter traffic during peak hours.
Geography
Facts
- Inauguration: October 9, 1970
- Total length: approx. 2,000 meters
- Connects Guayaquil, Samborondón, Durán
- Over 60,000 vehicles daily
- Spans Babahoyo and Daule rivers
- Most important coastal traffic artery
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 National Unity Bridge (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the bridge connect?
It connects Guayaquil with the towns of Samborondón and Durán.
Which river does it cross?
It crosses the Daule and Babahoyo rivers, which form the Guayas River.
Can you cross it on foot?
There are pedestrian paths, but it's uncomfortable due to noise and wind.
Are there tolls?
Currently, there are no tolls on this bridge.
How long is the bridge?
The entire bridge complex is over 2 kilometers long.
National Unity Bridge: where is it located?
National Unity Bridge is located in Ecuador.
National Unity Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monumento a los Niños Jugando, Las Garzas, Puente Rafael Mendoza Avilés.
National Unity Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
National Unity Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The National Unity Bridge (Puente de la Unidad Nacional) is a vital bridge complex connecting the city of Guayaquil with the neighboring cantons of Samborondón and Durán.
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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
Guayaquil Historical Park
A theme park that combines historical architecture, the traditional way of life, and the native wildlife of the coastal region.
The Point Building
An iconic, spiral-shaped skyscraper on the banks of the Guayas River, representing the symbol of modern Guayaquil.
Cerro Santa Ana Lighthouse
A picturesque lighthouse at the top of Cerro Santa Ana, reached after climbing 444 steps.
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MAAC Museum
The anthropological and contemporary art museum of Guayaquil, known for its sail-like architectural design.
La Perla Ferris Wheel
A massive Ferris wheel on the Malecón 2000 offering spectacular views over the Guayas River and Guayaquil.
Malecón 2000
A famous boardwalk along the Guayas River, showcasing both the modern and historical faces of 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.
Nature
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An inland port in Durán specializing in the handling of bulk cargo such as grain and fertilizers.
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Fortín de la Planchada
An old colonial fort in Guayaquil built to defend against pirate attacks.
La Rotonda
A significant monument commemorating the meeting between Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín in Guayaquil.
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.
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.