Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Ecuador law
Cannabis laws in Guayaquil follow Ecuador’s national law. Local cities generally do not set separate marijuana rules, so penalties are determined at the jurisdiction level.
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Medical cannabis is legal with appropriate authorization. Unauthorized possession or use can lead to legal penalties.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Legal
- Possession: Illegal without medical authorization
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Subject to the same laws as residents
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Legislative Background
Ecuador's 2008 Constitution includes provisions that have been interpreted to decriminalize possession of small amounts for personal use (up to 10 grams), distinguishing it from trafficking. Medical cannabis has been regulated since 2019, allowing access for approved therapeutic uses through authorized channels.
Law Enforcement
Smoking was visible at concerts and youth festivals and in some lower-income neighbourhoods. Some people smoked in cars or even at work. Private use seemed to draw less attention, and there were stories of officers taking a small amount and letting people go. Others mentioned demands for money. These encounters varied.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Cerro Santa Ana, Cerro del Carmen and Calle Riobamba were older downtown leads, with cheap weed and light bags a risk. Redevelopment made street deals less visible. Las Peñas and Santa Ana had a reputation for rip-offs. The names farther out were Urdesa Norte near the gym, behind Ciudadela de los Esteros in the south, and Los Ceibos or Samborondón for a phone number. Delivery was said to be easy to arrange. Private growers were where the higher-end flower came from.
Marijuana Prices
One set of ounce quotes ran US$10–300; another put the top end at US$200. Cheap Peruvian Skunk made for fat shared joints. Flower from Quito, Guayaquil, Vilcabamba and Montañita could cost more and was compared with B.C. quality.
Types of Marijuana
Mango, Punto Rojo, Chola, Skunk, hash and Colombian hydro all came up, alongside Peruvian and Ecuadorian flower. The standout was local chronic covered in crystals.
More Information
Nightlife names included Zona Rosa, the malecones, Garzocentro and Alborada, Entre Ríos and Samborondón, the salsa clubs of Guasmo, Kennedy Norte and Urdesa. An electronic festival or alternative rock show was a chance to meet a friendly crowd and follow the smell. After a long night, seafood places opened as early as 5 a.m. Try ceviche or encebollado.