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Best Hostels in Bogota: Where to Stay in 2019

Plaza Bolivar - Bogota

Plaza Bolivar in Bogota

Explore the metropolitan city in the mountains and stay at some of the best hostels in Bogota while you do.

With over 8 million people, it is no wonder the Colombian capital exemplifies every trait of a big city. However, being at 8,000 feet above sea level means it never really loses its mountain-cool climate.

Chances are if you are backpacking in Colombia, you will spend some time in this dynamic city.

Below are some of our favorite hostels from around different parts of Bogota.

Quick Recommendations

Cathedral of Colombia

Cathedral of Colombia in Plaza Bolivar

What to Look For

Bogota is arguably the lifeblood of Colombia. Visitors are continually coming and going from this huge hub city.

Today, your accommodation options in Bogota are better and safer than ever before. Here are some tips to keep in mind when deciding where to stay.

Best Neighborhoods

You will find most tourists sprawling all over the historic district of La Candelaria, which includes the landmark Plaza Bolivar.

Here, there are plenty of hostels, and most tourist attractions and museums are within walking distance.

The area is generally safe, with a heavy police presence to give tourists peace of mind. However, the area is known for a high prevalence of street crime, specifically, theft.

If you choose to base yourself here, be extra vigilant. Don't use your smartphone in public, a rule that goes for all of Bogota, but especially in La Candelaria.

Alternatively, you can stay in the more upscale neighborhood of Chapinero in the northern part of town.

If safety is your primary concern, base yourself there and spend the extra pesos to visit La Candelaria during the day.

There are other neighborhoods, too, but you will find there is plenty to do and see in one of these two areas — especially La Candelaria.

Cost of Hostels

Bogota trends on the cheaper side of accommodation rates when compared to the rest of Colombia.

This could be because of its sheer size and competition hostels face — making things a little more budget-friendly for you.

With that being said, don’t anticipate hostels in Bogota to be as cheap as you would find in Thailand or other affordable travel destinations around the world.

South America is a different place entirely, but hostel rates in Colombia tend to be right on par with the rest of the continent.

Expect to see hostel prices in Bogota averaging between $8-11 for a bed per night.

See also: Cost of Travel in Colombia

A line forms outside La Puerta Falsa, one of the city's oldest restaurants

A line forms outside La Puerta Falsa, one of the city's oldest restaurants (La Candelaria)

Safety in Colombia

Colombia has been (and probably always will be) recovering from its reputation for danger leftover from the Escobar years of drug violence in the 1980s and early '90s.

However, the country's safety and support for tourism have come a long way in the last decade. 

Yes, you can safely travel to Colombia today, and that goes for Bogota as well. However, as with any major Latin American city, it's best to take extra precautions.

Use your judgment. Don’t wear flashy jewelry, watches, or apparel, and keep your valuables (including your smartphone) hidden as much as possible. 

Seriously, do not use your smartphone in the streets, taxis, or Ubers (especially at night). They are the most commonly stolen item and can be plucked right out of your hands. 

If someone does approach you and try to take your phone, give it up without resistance. Robbers are often armed, and may not show you what they're holding at first. If you resist, they may get violent and stab you to get the phone.

A robber with a gun will flash it immediately as a show of force. There's no confusion, and they're not messing around. Do NOT resist a robber carrying a handgun.

Stay calm, and hand over whatever you've got. Your odds of getting out of the situation unharmed are much higher than if you freak out, make a scene, or try to run.

See also: Visiting Colombia – Three Important Things to Know

20 de Julio by Fernando Botero

Painting by Fernando Botero hangs in the National Museum

Best Hostels in Bogota

Let’s see what the city has to offer. Below we have highlighted some of the best hostels in Bogota based on typical backpacker interests.

Best Hostel for a Quiet Night — Masaya Hostel Bogota

From $10 for a dorm (6 beds)

Located in the historic district of La Candelaria, Masaya Hostel Bogota will give you a lesson of history and culture all in itself. The hostel is out of an old colonial house with beautiful architecture and traditional decor.

Masaya offers a plethora of activities to go along with it such as salsa classes, live music, local artists expositions, and three great patios to socialize.

But don’t worry, the party never goes too late, which makes this a great hostel for a solid night’s rest.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Best Hostel for Social Atmosphere — Selina La Candelaria Bogota

From $9 for a dorm (12 beds)

Selina La Candelaria Bogota, located in the historic district, is the perfect place to meet friends and socialize.

Whether it is in the co-working space which Selina hostels are known for around the pool table with a few beers, it is Selina’s goal to connect fellow backpackers during your stay.

Not to mention, its location means you are never more than a skip away from many of Bogota’s top tourist attractions.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Best Hostel for Party-Goers — Casa Bellavista Hostel

From $7 for a dorm (10 beds)

Casa Bellavista Hostel is situated in the center of La Candelaria, near a bustling plaza filled with tons of tourists and young people partying the night away. For that reason, the hostel can get a bit loud, but all in good fun.

We love their philosophy that as a guest, you are a part of their Colombian family. The owners of the hostel are incredibly friendly.

* Bonus: If you are a dog lover, you will love little Maya — the hostel mascot.

Check availability: Hostelworld

See also: Colombia Nightlife – Bars, Clubs, and Dating Tips

Best Hostel for Amenities — Fernweh Photography Hostel

From $10 for a dorm (9 beds)

Started in 2015 by travelers, Fernweh Photography Hostel was made to be a place which combines two passions — photography and traveling.

We love the open photo gallery featuring backpackers’ best photos from their trips — the only photo gallery like it we’ve seen in a hostel.

Not to mention, the hostel is located in the heart of La Candelaria — only seven minutes walking to Bolivar Square — the city’s main square.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Best Hostel for City Entertainment — Botanico Hostel Bogota

From $10 for a dorm (8 beds)

Botanico Hostel Bogota is an architectural jewel and equally known for its beautiful green garden and amazing views of the city.

We chose it as best for city entertainment because of its itinerary of activities they have designed for guests both day and night, every day.

The free breakfast, garden hammocks, and fireplace are bonuses to this beautiful colonial home in the middle of La Candelaria.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Best Cheap Hostel — El Pit Hostel

From $6 for a dorm

Wonderful art galleries and restaurants surround El Pit Hostel, and it is the only hostel in the La Macarena neighborhood of Bogota.

Just one block away from the National Museum and a short eight-minute walk from the historical city center, it is also well-located for travelers — especially those lovers of art and gastronomy.

The hostel itself is inside a historic building and has a restaurant that is open to the public. It can serve as a great place to meet locals.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Conclusion

Bogota, being a hub for backpackers in Colombia, sees many foreigners and is a great place to make new friends on your trip.

At the best hostels in Bogota, you will have everything you need at your fingertips and every opportunity to learn about the city and country.

More Colombia Hostels

Last Updated on November 14, 2019 by Dave Lee