Since 2009, the hostel scene in Colombia has exploded with new offerings. The best hostels in Colombia offer safe, comfortable, and fun atmospheres to base yourself in.
Colombians are some of the most hospitable, funny, and sexy people on the planet. You are bound to have a good time exploring the culture and salsa dancing your way as you move from city to city.
We have broken down your favorite destinations around the country to bring you the best hostels in Colombia. Here are a few of our favorites.
Best Hostels in Colombia
Best Hostel in Bogota
Masaya Bogota Hostel - From $10 per room (6 beds)
Masaya Bogota Hostel is located in the historic center of La Candelaria and offers history and culture lessons around every corner.
It is one of the more unique hostels in the city, not only for its location but for the various events it offers. The hostel is located in an old colonial house with beautiful architecture and traditional furniture.
The Masaya Bogota Hostel offers a range of extra activities such as salsa classes, live music, exhibitions of local artists, and three large terraces to get out of the hostel. But don't worry, the party never stays on too late, making it the perfect place to sleep well at night.
Check availability: Hostelworld
See our full list of recommended hostels in Bogota.
Best Hostel in Medellin
Los Patios Hostel Boutique - From $16 per night (4 beds)
As one of the most expensive cities in Colombia, Medellin can be challenging to find a reasonably priced hostel in. However, this place is worth the extra dollars. Los Patios Boutique Hostel is one of the most complete hostels in Medellin.
A shared workspace, numerous lounge areas, high-quality kitchens, a gym, a rooftop bar with beautiful views, an ecological garden, and a Spanish-language school are all available at Los Patios.
The hostel is just a few blocks from the large market square and Poblado metro station, which means that it is also excellently situated between good restaurants and nightlife. If you are looking for a place where you can feel at home for days or weeks, this is the place.
Check availability: Hostelworld
See our full list of recommended hostels in Medellin.
Best Hostel in Cartagena
Zion Beach Hostel - From $14 per night (8 beds)
The Zion Beach Hostel is designed for beach dwellers who want to get away to a quiet beach in Cartagena. The hostel also offers beginner courses in kitesurfing. So, Zion Beach Hostel not only allows you to relax but also to practice kitesurfing.
In the evening, the Zion Beach Hostel offers barbecues, poker tournaments, local football matches, and much more to keep you busy.
It's not only a great spot to watch the sunset but also a perfect place for travelers who like to travel day by day and take in every second of the visit while relaxing in complete comfort.
Breakfast is included in the dorm price, and the room has beautiful sea views.
See our full list of recommended hostels in Cartagena.
Best Hostel in Santa Marta
El Rio Hostel - From $10 for a dorm (18 beds)
In 2018, El Rio Hostel was recognized as the best hostel in Colombia and given special consideration for the best hostel in all of Latin America, so it is no wonder we have a particular taste for El Rio Hostel.
Not only does this place have a great social atmosphere and awards that do the talking, but it is also less than half an hour's drive from the entrance to Tayrona National Park.
Though the significant advantage is its proximity to Tayrona, El Rio is gorgeous and deserving of its success (especially during the peak travel season).
The accommodation is located in the middle of the jungle with table tennis, basketball, volleyball, a billiards table, and a large bar with fresh mojito, gin and tonic, maracuya vodka soda, and much more.
Check availability: Hostelworld
See our full list of recommended hostels in Santa Marta.
Best Hostel in Barranquilla
The Meeting Point Hostel - Dorms from $8 (6 beds)
Being the only hostel in Barranquilla for so long, The Meeting Point Hostel has gained a reputation through word of mouth.
Now, there are a few other hostels in town, but without nearly the recognition. The hostel is in the heart of town -- near anything you could need and in a safe neighborhood.
The hostel has a fully equipped kitchen and the common areas are always spotless, but the electrical outlets are few and far between, which is frustrating.
Check availability: Hostelworld
Best Hostel in San Andres
Republica Hostel San Andres - Dorms from $13 (6 beds)
Though San Andres is commonly left off of backpackers' Colombia itinerary, it has so much to offer, and Republica Hostel San Andres is the perfect place to take it all in.
Built in an eye-catching multi-story colonial home, it is in an excellent location to catch your island vibe, as it is only a five-minute walk to the beach.
They also boast the largest pool on the island with multiple lounges and bars, so, as you can imagine, it is a pretty good time. The breakfast buffet they offer is a plus for those on a tight budget.
Best Hostel in Cali
Casablanca Hostel - Dorms from $5 (6 beds)
Casablanca Hostel is well located in the Santa Monica neighborhood, the cool new city center.
It is also only several minutes on foot from the main bus terminal, supermarkets, and plenty of bars and restaurants. It's in a quiet area but not far away from the nightlife on La Sexta (Sixth Avenue).
They regularly host free salsa dance lessons for their guests, and the teacher is excellent. There's also a movie room upstairs and a nice patio for congregating.
Check availability: Hostelworld
Conclusion
Colombia is a country hot on the South American backpackers' trail and, because of that, you will find some of the best hostels in Colombia are genuinely unique.
It has transformed from a once-violent, scary place for travelers into a country with many extraordinary things to offer international travelers.
More Hostels in Colombia
- Best Hostels in Bogota
- Best Hostels in Medellin
- Best Hostels in Santa Marta
- Best Hostels in Cartagena
