Let us assist you with the best hostels in Ecuador as you prepare for adventures in a land known for mystic mountains and centuries-old steeple churches. Ecuador is a country full of Andean and Amazonian cultures and epic landscapes.
Many overlook Ecuador on their backpacking trips through South America, or only go through Ecuador to the renowned Galapagos Islands. However, there is much more to see than the Galapagos. Save some time planning your trip with our guide to the best hostels in Ecuador!
Table of Contents
Best Hostels in Ecuador
Here we highlight the best hostels in the most popular stops along the backpacker trail.
Best Hostels in Quito
Community Hostel - From $10 for a dorm (10 beds ensuite). Community Hostels in several major cities of Ecuador have abundant things to do in each of them. Quito, in particular, is our favorite Community Hostel because it is incredibly easy to meet and befriend other guests.
The hostel offers a laundry list of social events and activities unique to Quito. The large communal table is an excellent central gathering place for conversations, sharing day adventures, and having a few drinks with company. The rooftop BBQs, salsa nights, pub crawls, and Anthony Bourdain-style food tours garner a crowd. Check availability: Hostelworld
El Hostelito - From $10 for a dorm (6 beds). El Hostelito is a fun place situated in the lively neighborhood of La Floresta. It is only fifteen minutes away from almost any Quito attraction. However, it is not just El Hostelito's location that we like. Our favorite part was their free Sunset and Graffiti Food Tour.
In addition, the hostel offers complimentary breakfast, a pool table, a ping-pong table, and a rooftop to chill out on. Nightly happy hour can also be fun with a crowd and local craft beer on tap. Check availability: Hostelworld
Best Hostel in Banos
Hostal Athene Moon in Banos - From $9 for a dorm (12 beds). Hostal Athene Moon in Banos is only two blocks from the main square -- great for sightseeing and not too shabby for a good night's rest.
The owners are two of the most knowledgeable people you can ask about Banos and the rest of Ecuador (the rest of South America).
There is also a local flair, as it doubles as an art museum, with paintings and sculptures by local artists scattered throughout the building. For its convenience, we suggest it. And for its character, we love it! Check availability: Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Cuenca
Mallki Hostel - From $6 for a dorm (8 beds). If you are in a pinch for travel cash, you can't go wrong with Mallki Hostel in Cuenca. It is not far from the city center and riverfront -- where all the attractions and nightlife of Cuenca are.
It is one of the only hostels we've ever noted being pet-friendly. Though most backpackers don't travel with their pups, you will see a pet in there from time to time.
The hostel's garden and BBQ area/ balcony bar are great social points, and the family dinners are perfect for meeting other travelers. The complimentary breakfast is nothing spectacular, but a bonus for those trying to save a few bucks for the rest of their trip. Check availability: Hostelworld
AlterNative Hostels - From $8 for a dorm (5 beds). Just a short walk from Cuenca's city center, staying at AlterNative Hostel puts you in the middle of the city buzz. It sits at the corner of Celle Larga, and Avenida Huayna Capac is the central spot for Cuenca's nightlife. The area always has a pulse.
Many late-night eateries and a fresh produce market are near the hostel. You can pick up some healthy food at the market and prepare meals in the hostel kitchen. AlterNative is a fine place to stay if you can handle a little noise. Check availability: Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Guayaquil
Manso Boutique Guesthouse - From $11 for a dorm (8 beds). The high ceiling and sophisticated arches of the Manso Boutique Guesthouse and its five balconies overlooking Guayaquil's riverfront make the hostel unique.
Located directly in front of Riverside Park in Malecon 2000, it is a perfect spot to stay in the city. The other popular neighborhoods of Las Penas and Cerro Santa Ana are not too far away. However, you may find this area of Guayaquil has more than enough to keep you busy. Check availability: Hostelworld
Casa Michael - From $8 for a dorm (8 beds). Casa Michael is in the Alborada neighborhood, one of Guayaquil's up-and-coming tourism developments. Though nothing extraordinary stands out about Casa Michael, we like that it ticks every box you could ask for in a hostel.
The location is OK compared to the attractions around the city. There are eateries and malls nearby, and it even has all the facilities you could want in a hostel, like laundry and a fully equipped kitchen. Check availability: Hostelworld
Honorable Mention
Erupcion Backpackers (Banos) - From $7 for a dorm (7 beds). Located just two blocks from Banos's most popular bars and clubs, Erupcion Backpackers is the place for the partiers visiting Banos.
The lounge and courtyard at Erupcion Backpackers stay open all night, and travelers can sip beers at almost any time of day or night.
Hammocks hang all around, and there is an in-house theater for movie nights. It is a fun place to stay a few nights and meet some exciting people to continue your travels. Check availability: Hostelworld
Conclusion
Ecuador is a country of many surprises. Although it is not large geographically or the first destination you think of traveling to in South America, it packs a punch for hiking, adventure sports, and wildlife viewing.
Now that you know some of the best hostels in Ecuador, it will be easier to witness the parts that make the country so unique.