Wednesday, May 28, 2025
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, a prestigious leader within IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle collection, has unveiled plans to expand its presence with a brand-new property in Ecuador. The InterContinental Guayaquil, slated to open in 2027, will mark the brand’s inaugural hotel in the country. This launch represents a major achievement for InterContinental as it enters one of South America’s most vibrant and rapidly evolving cities, offering a seamless blend of contemporary elegance and rich local heritage.
Situated in the upscale Samborondón district of Guayaquil, the forthcoming InterContinental Guayaquil is designed to be a peaceful retreat catering to both business professionals and leisure travelers. As Ecuador’s largest city and its primary economic and port center, Guayaquil provides an ideal setting for this new venture. The hotel’s prime location grants guests easy access to high-end shopping destinations, gourmet restaurants, international corporate offices, and leading healthcare facilities. Furthermore, its close proximity to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport ensures convenient connectivity for travelers arriving from around the world.
Designed with inspiration drawn from the region’s rich natural elements, the InterContinental Guayaquil will offer 101 elegantly appointed guestrooms. This includes 11 luxurious suites and a spectacular Presidential Suite, all thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and serenity. The hotel’s interiors will be crafted by renowned design firms SEMAICA, ODD Architects, and Adriana Hoyos Design Studio, ensuring a blend of contemporary style and cultural authenticity that reflects Ecuador’s unique heritage.
Guests at InterContinental Guayaquil can look forward to an array of exceptional amenities and experiences. The property will feature a specialty restaurant boasting panoramic skyline views, perfect for savoring gourmet dishes that highlight local flavors with international finesse. For more casual and social moments, a poolside lounge will offer a relaxed atmosphere ideal for unwinding. Health and wellness will take center stage with a resort-style rooftop pool, a full-service spa, and a cutting-edge fitness center designed to meet the needs of today’s travelers.
Leanne Harwood, SVP and Managing Director of Luxury & Lifestyle Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We’re delighted to bring InterContinental Hotels & Resorts’ first destination to Ecuador, while building upon our long-standing relationship with BPO Consulting. The InterContinental brand has long been celebrated for opening doors to new destinations around the world. With its strategic location, world-class amenities and tailored service, InterContinental Guayaquil is poised to offer an exceptional experience for both business and leisure travelers alike when it opens.”
BPO Consulting, expanded: “We are proud to announce this upcoming luxury property, which marks a significant milestone in our 15-year relationship with IHG. As developers of several IHG properties across various segments, we have witnessed first-hand the strength and support of IHG’s family of brands. This new venture not only reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality, but also underscores our shared vision for growth and market readiness. Together, we have navigated the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry in Ecuador and are excited to continue this journey with IHG as we elevate the guest experience in the luxury segment with an iconic legacy brand as InterContinental.”
For business events and social gatherings, the hotel will provide approximately 610 square meters of versatile meeting and event spaces. Among these, a grand ballroom capable of hosting up to 300 guests will be available, making it ideal for corporate conferences, weddings, or exclusive celebrations. Additionally, the hotel will feature the signature Club InterContinental lounge, offering an elevated hospitality experience for discerning guests seeking personalized services and privacy.
For more than seventy years, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has led the way in luxury hospitality, earning its reputation as the world’s first and largest international luxury hotel brand. Currently, the brand operates 229 hotels across the globe, with another 104 properties under development, steadily broadening its presence in key destinations worldwide. Recent openings in the Americas include InterContinental Indianapolis in the United States and InterContinental Presidente Monterrey in Mexico. Upcoming launches in the region feature InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores in Peru, InterContinental Orlando in Florida, as well as new Caribbean properties such as InterContinental Turks & Caicos and InterContinental Grenada.
The arrival of InterContinental Guayaquil represents an exciting opportunity for Ecuador to attract sophisticated travelers seeking refined accommodations combined with authentic cultural experiences. By bringing its signature luxury, impeccable service, and global standards to this bustling city, InterContinental aims to set a new benchmark in Ecuadorian hospitality. Guests will be able to explore Guayaquil’s vibrant waterfront, rich history, and dynamic urban life while enjoying the comfort and elegance of a world-class hotel.
As the travel industry rebounds and global tourism grows, the introduction of InterContinental Guayaquil is well-timed to meet increasing demand for luxury accommodations in South America. The hotel will not only elevate Guayaquil’s hospitality landscape but also contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting community engagement initiatives.
In summary, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts’ debut in Ecuador is a significant development, showcasing the brand’s commitment to growth and its dedication to delivering exceptional travel experiences. InterContinental Guayaquil will serve as a premier destination for travelers seeking to combine business, leisure, culture, and luxury in one vibrant city. With its strategic location, thoughtful design, and top-tier amenities, this new hotel promises to be a standout addition to the global InterContinental portfolio and a proud representation of Ecuador on the international luxury hospitality map.
