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Best Hostels in Guayaquil: Where to Stay in 2019

Las Penas offers plenty of bars and clubs to explore on the weekends

Las Penas offers plenty of bars and clubs to explore on the weekends

The biggest city in Ecuador has seen a rise in tourism in recent years, and some of the best hostels in Guayaquil are in the middle of all the action.

Guayaquil is one of two jumping-off points for flights to the Galapagos Islands (the other being Quito), so as tourism to the islands continues to rise, so to do visitors to Guayaquil.

It's the heart of business in Ecuador, with several skyscrapers lining a growing cityscape.

Hillsides dotted with vibrant favelas, a thriving theater, film, and art scene, eccentric bars and nightlife, and old parks are being improved across the city. 

Like Quito, you'll likely pass through here while traveling in Ecuador, though you may not stay more than a night. Here are our picks for the best hostels in Guayaquil

Quick Recommendations

What to Look For

Guayaquil is a rejuvenated city with lots of young locals, due in large part to several universities which spark life in the city.

Parks, squares, and commercial districts are being revamped, and backpackers can choose to stay in the middle of it all.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when deciding where to stay in Guayaquil.

Best Neighborhoods

Cerro Santa Ana used to be one of the most poverty-stricken areas of the whole city but has recently been renewed as the city focuses on attracting tourists. Its centerpiece is a large staircase, which has become a popular place to hang out.

There are plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants in the area to keep you entertained.

Las Penas is another favored area among backpackers. It is the colonial Old Town of Guayaquil where centuries-old wooden architecture still stands. Again, there is plenty of food and shopping for all kinds of travelers.

Perhaps, the best area to stay while in Guayaquil is Malecon 2000 — one of the safest neighborhoods in the entire city.

Malecon 2000 is home to the city's most modern architecture and its boardwalk and waterfront.

There's a lot of foot traffic in this area, and deservedly so, as it is lively day and night.

Staying in either of these three neighborhoods is a great way to make the most of your time in Guayaquil.

See also: Cost of Travel in Ecuador

Colorful Las Penas as seen from the Malecon

Colorful Las Penas as seen from the Malecon

Best Hostels in Guayaquil

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and discuss the best hostels in Guayaquil. Below, we have highlighted some of the best places to stay in Guayaquil.

Best Hostel for a Quiet Night — Villa64

From $27 for a dorm (Standard Single Private)

Villa64 is one of the most affordable spots in the city to relax in comfort.

Though more expensive than a typical dorm-style accommodation, you will be afforded the luxury of privacy, which is rare while backpacking.

Villa64 is located just blocks away from the lively 9 de Octubre Avenue and only a short bus ride (or walk) from our favorite area in Guayaquil, Malecon 2000.

Enjoy a glass of wine in the hammock or a good meal in the communal area of Villa64 and get the much-needed rest you deserve.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Best Hostel for Social Atmosphere — Manso Boutique Guesthouse

From $11 for a dorm (8 beds)

The original architecture (fancy arches and high ceilings) at Manso Boutique Guesthouse will blow you away.

The entire place has been renovated to modern standards on the inside including five balconies which overlook the riverfront and Malecon 2000 Riverside Park.

As it's the most popular area in Guayaquil, you're near shopping and restaurants as well as other bustling neighborhoods like Las Penas and Cerro Santa Ana.

Manso Boutique offers a cafe with many healthy and innovative options, including a vegetarian menu, and there is a bar after your long day of touring.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Best Hostel for Party-Goers — Hostel Nucapacha

From $14 for a dorm (7 beds)

Hostel Nucapacha, though not necessarily a party hostel, offers a great place to socialize and have poolside drinks.

Nucapacha offers free breakfast to its guests every morning and a nice area for an evening BBQ.

Also, there are several common areas which most people in the hostel tend to hang out in (and watch Netflix).

The staff are friendly and will help you organize an itinerary if you ask, but please note — there is no air-conditioning or hot water in Hostel Nucapacha.

One of the things we appreciated most about Nucapacha, however, was the oversized lockers which allowed guests to fit their entire backpack inside them. 

P.S. — If you are a dog-lover, you will love cute little Nacho who stays at the hostel!

Check availability: Hostelworld

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

Best Hostel for Amenities — Casa Michael

From $8 for a dorm (8 beds)

Located in a reasonably safe neighborhood called Alborada, Casa Michael brings about a very homey feeling from the minute you arrive.

Make use of the fully-equipped kitchen and laundry facilities and enjoy the common area with a large screen TV, air-conditioning, speedy WiFi, and even a piano!

The location is nearby almost any fast food joint you can imagine with names you'll recognize. Not to mention, it is in a good spot for shopping — three malls are within a short bus ride.

This is a great little hostel to settle down for a few days while organizing yourself and seeing the city.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Best Hostel for City Entertainment — Dreamkapture Hostel

From $4 for a dorm (8 beds)

Dreamkapture Hostel is the perfect place for a layover before heading out to the Galapagos.

Not only is the staff incredibly friendly, but they are also super helpful when filling your time in Guayaquil and planning further adventures.

The atmosphere in the hostel is a bit flat at times, as most people are busy preparing for a Galapagos tour.

Dreamkapture has a licensed travel agency that can help you book tours, or you can go through a different company — either way, the hostel staff will still help you equally.

It is located in an odd place as it relates to tourist attractions; however, it is safe and nearby several markets, ATMs, banks, malls, restaurants, and pharmacies.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Best Cheap Hostel — Villa Maria

From $4 for a dorm (10 beds)

Guayaquil tends to be a bit more expensive when it comes to accommodation than the rest of Ecuador. So, any place like Villa Mariahich you can get a bed for $4 per night is handy.

There are nice common areas — an outdoor terrace and TV room. The equipped kitchen can help you save a few bucks on meals, too, especially since there are many markets located near the hostel.

The hostel is nothing fancy, but it is clean and a great place to spend a few nights when in a pinch for cash. It is also close to the airport for those on a layover.

Check availability: Hostelworld

Conclusion

Guayaquil is best known as a waypoint for travel to/from the Galapagos and other parts of Ecuador. Make the most of what's a typically short stay by booking one of the best hostels in Guayaquil. 

More Ecuador Hostels

Last Updated on August 30, 2019 by Dave Lee