Colombia is one of the most highly sought after destinations in South America. A nation that is colorful, bright and welcoming, Colombia provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to escape into the jungles and immerse in small-town life or even big city living.
Colombia is a popular backpacking destination. That does mean, though, that there are lots of hostel options out there that aren’t up to scratch. This is why we created this epic insiders guide of the 35 best hostels in Colombia. So you can cut through the noise and book the perfect hostel for you.
Whether you’re game to boogie down in Bogota or escape to the coffee hills of Salento, there is so much to discover in Colombia. You can plan your whole trip here and now. This guide has been designed with you in mind, so take it all on board!
So, without further ado, let’s dive straight into the 35 best hostels in Colombia.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Colombia
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Colombia – Cacao Hostel – Santa Marta
- Best Hostel for Couples in Colombia – Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel – Salento
- Best Hostel in Colombia with Private Room – Macondo Hostel – San Gil
- Overall Best Hostels in Colombia – Rio Hostel Buritaca
- Best Cheap Hostels in Colombia – Fatima Hostel Bogota
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The 35 Best Hostels in Colombia
If you’re backpacking Colombia on a budget, your best travel hack to keep the costs low is to stay at hostels. That doesn’t mean living in little dirt holes, it’s actually quite the opposite. Colombia’s hostels are popular amongst travelers from all over the world and known for their friendly staff, great hospitality, and comfy beds.
We’ve listed the best hostels in Colombia down below. Don’t just randomly book your accommodation, make sure you know where you want to stay in Colombia first. If you already know which city you want to stay in, check out the detailed hostels guides for the most popular ones.
Cacao Hostel – Santa Marta – Best Hostels in Colombia for Solo Travellers
Cacao Hostel is the best hostel in Colombia for solo travelers. Open, friendly and with a heap of fun things to do, solo travelers will settle right into Cacao Hostel.
Solo wanderers can take some time out in a hammock, cool off in the pool or prop up the bar with the hostel fam. The free breakfast provides you with the ideal opportunity to get up, out and about mingling with fellow guests.
The beach is only a 10-minute walk away – that is reason enough to book your bed right now. This is a popular spot, you don’t want to miss out. It’s the perfect place to stay in Santa Marta.
Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel – Salento – Best Hostels in Colombia for Couples
Traveling as a couple can be fun but also hard work. Why not take some time out in Salento and reconnect. The best hostel in Colombia is Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel. With an up-market feel, this little gem is the perfect place for you and bae to take some time out on your travels.
The private rooms have more of a boutique hotel feel which is a total treat. The setting is perfect. Set on the outskirts of Salento this quiet neighborhood is surrounded by nature. Breakfast is included in your room rate and you can request a late check-out at no extra charge.
Macondo Hostel – San Gil – Best Hostels in Colombia with Private Rooms
Macondo Hostel in San Gil is the best hostel in Colombia with private rooms. The private rooms here are as cheap as dorm beds in other parts of the country. It’s insane value for money and you do not want to miss out.
The private rooms here all have air conditioning and free WiFi. You’re welcome to enjoy the jacuzzi pool until 11 pm at night. A pre-bed soak is a guaranteed way to have a good nights sleep.
This is a super chilled out hostel offering travelers the opportunity to experience San Gil in the most authentic way.
Rio Hostel Buritaca – Overall Best Hostels in Colombia
This is the best hostel in Colombia, hands down. Nestled in the jungle, Rio Hostel Buritaca delivers the ultimate Colombian hostel experience. Tubing down the river with Kevin the dog adds a whole new level of fun – she’s pure vibes.
The staff are absolute legends, from bartenders to reps, always up for a laugh. Plus, their espresso martinis are dangerously good. Sometimes, a 9am espresso martini is the only remedy for a nasty hangover (trust me, I’ve been there).
The parties at El Rio are wild, and the rooms are exactly what you need. With its stunning jungle setting, festival-meets-tropical vibe, and amazing food, an unforgettable time is guaranteed.
Fatima Hostel Bogota – Best Cheap Hostels in Colombia
When it comes to cheap hostels, Fatima Hostel Bogota is unbeatable. Located in a stunning colonial house in the heart of Bogota’s historical Candelaria district, it places you right in the midst of the city’s top cultural attractions – Botero Museum, the Gold Museum, Monserrate, Plaza de Bolívar, and more.
The value continues with free yoga and art classes, plus a fully equipped kitchen for those who prefer cooking their own meals. The on-site restaurant offers more than just food; it’s a hub for karaoke, playroom fun, and dancing classes, giving you a real taste of local life. With three different breakfasts served daily for just 15k, it’s an absolute steal.
The vibes here are pure boho-arty goodness. The place is covered in cool artsy graffiti, and the social spaces are perfect for a mid-afternoon hangout. The bartenders are legends and whip up some pretty epic cocktails. Making friends is effortless, and the staff go above and beyond to ensure you feel at home, helping with whatever you need.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REICasa Loma Minca – Minca
Offering both private and dorm-style accommodation, Casa Loma Minca is easily one of the overall best hostels in Colombia. This is an authentic, homemade backpackers hostel in rural Colombia and is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in this incredible country.
In terms of facilities, Casa Loma Minca is a little reserved. There is a bar and cafe, however, free WiFi and communal bathrooms that are kept sparkling clean. Who needs more than that?
If you like your hostels humble and homely, Casa Loma Minca is the best hostel in Colombia for you.
The Dreamer Hostel – Santa Marta
The Dreamer Hostel in Santa Marta is another of our best hostels in Colombia in 2024. This big scale hostel offers a whole heap of facilities and ideal room rates. We’re all game to spend a tiny bit extra to have access to a swimming pool, right?
This super sociable hostel has a great selection of rooming options and the dorms are surprisingly spacious. There is even a ceiling fan to keep you call cool.
Stuffy hostel rooms are a nightmare – not an issue at The Dreamer Hostel though. FYI – The Dreamer is the closest hostel to Tayona Park and gets booked up way in advance.
It’s close to the backpacker town of Palomino and the hostel is one of the best in the area
Hostel Rango Boutique – Medellin
Hostel Rango Boutique is an awesome youth hostel in Colombia. Located in marvelous Medellin this hostel is well worth the extra couple of dollars. For starters, the room rates include a free breakfast.
It’s actually a good free breakfast too. This is a great option for digital nomads too or just anyone who knows their going to need some online time while in Medellin. The WiFi is free, reliable and pretty fast by Colombian standards.
There is definitely a boutique feel to this hostel, as the name suggests. A cut above the rest in all senses, comfort, facilities, and atmosphere – Hostel Rango is a top pick.
Purple Monkey Hostel – Medellin
For solo travelers seeking a boozy Colombia backpackers hostel, Purple Monkey Hostel in Medellin is calling out for you. Believing that any time spend not partying is wasted time indeed, Purple Monkey Hostel is all about the good times. Ideal for solo travelers eager to connect and kick back in Colombia.
Every single bed comes with not one but four plug sockets, and a huge security locker. Isn’t it annoying when hostels only have secured lockers that size of a credit card? Here you can shove your whole pack in, lock and roll. Run by a British backpacker turned expat, Purple
Masaya Hostel – Bogota
Masaya Hostel is the perfect youth hostel in Colombia for laid-back solo travelers. This super chill hostel in Bogota offers solo travelers the opportunity to kick back and relax, catch up on all their life admin, and hang with a cool international crowd of fellow wanderers.
Located in the Candelaria district of the city, Masaya Hostel puts you at the heart of the historic center of Bogota. All the major must-visit landmarks are within an easy walking distance. The staff will be more than happy to help you create a bespoke Bogota itinerary that ticks all your boxes.
La Guaca Hostel – Santa Marta
La Guaca Hostel is the best budget hostel in Colombia. In your room rate you get your bed, obviously, but also a free breakfast, free WiFi, swimming pool access, the chance to hang out in their cute AF cafe and the beach is only a matter of steps away.
This spacious and open hostel gives you call the freedom you could ask for. There are private rooms for anyone who wants to retreat and there are some beautiful communal spaces that promote connection too.
For digital nomads who are starting out on a shoestring budget, La Guaca Hostel would be a top pick for you.
Finca Hostal Bolivar – Minca
If you are looking for a budget hostel in Colombia for when you reach Minca, take a look at Finca Hostal Bolivar. This super affordable hostel is an ideal for broke backpackers keen to explore the jungles surrounding Minca.
The garden alone is a reason to book your stay at Finca Hostal Bolivar. In fact, the jungle is on your doorstep and you can totally immerse yourself in nature.
Being so affordable means that you can give yourself some extra time in Minca. You won’t regret it. Finca Hostal Bolivar is a real home from home. You’ll love it.
Be Okay Hostel – Medellin
Be Okay Hostel in Medellin is a top hostel in Colombia for couples. Now, although there are no private rooms at Be Okay Hostel it is still a new hostel and is very rarely booked out.
The likelihood of you and your lover having a dorm to yourselves is reasonably good. You could always chat up the staff when you arrive to see if they can jiggle things around.
The rooftop terrace is a great place to hang out and meet fellow travelers. If you fancy a lazy morning in Medellin, this is where you should hang with a classic Colombian coffee…or two!
Wonderland – Cartagena
Wonderland is one of the coolest hostels in Colombia. This party palace hosts a pool party each and every night! How epic is that?!
The bar gets pretty pumping and the staff are always down for a good time. They arrange special events on a regular basis. Hosting local musicians and rising DJs, Wonderland is a top pick for party animals.
The dorms are just the right size and offer WiFi access and air conditioning too. Be sure to set your alarm and make the most of the free breakfast…then crawl back into bed!
Hostel Masaya – Santa Marta
Hostel Masaya is a top hostel in Colombia for digital nomads. Located in Santa Marta, the team here are so passionate about sharing their little pocket of the world with their guests. They also appreciate that the needs of travelers have changed.
Offering the perfect set up for digital nomads, you will feel a bit spoiled staying here. You can work in a cafe or in the common room. There are plenty of hammocks to go around, you know you want to fulfill the digital nomad stereotype.
There are private rooms available but the dorms are pretty darn perfect.
Finca Carpe Diem – Minca
Finca Carpe Diem in Minca is one of the coolest hostels in Colombia for digital nomads. Modern, forward thinking and bang on trend, Finca Carpe Diem is made for digital nomads. You can really seize the day here, polish off the workload and then get out and explore.
The WiFi is fast and reliable and there are common spaces open 24-hours for you to work in. Juggling time zones as a digital nomad is one of the most frustrating things but Finca Carpe Diem makes everything as easy as can be.
This is an eco-resort – yay to sustainable travel!
Black Sheep Hostel – Medellin
Black Sheep Hostel is an award-winning youth hostel in Colombia that is a must-book for digital nomads. This epic hostel offers everything digital nomads could dream of. An inspiring and focus-supporting environment, high levels of security, a sense of community and excellent WiFi.
Black Sheep Hostel also offers home comforts life a communal kitchen and laundry facilities too. Life admin can become a chore as a digital nomad but Black Sheep Hostel makes it as easy as can be to stay on the ball and smashing the digital nomad lifestyle.
Life is Good – Cartagena
Life is Good in Cartagena is a top hostel in Colombia offering private rooms. On top of this, they offer a cracking free breakfast for all their guests too. The whole building has air-conditioning and there are hot showers available.
Located within the super trendy neighborhood of Getsemani in Cartagena, Life is Good provides you with the chance to live like a local. There is so much to enjoy in this area of the city and the staff are always on hand to provide their local tips and tricks for making sure you have an awesome stay in Cartagena.
Mundo Nuevo Minca – Minca
Mundo Nuevo Minca is a fantastic youth hostel in Colombia that just so happens to offer private rooms. Each of the private rooms offers a private bathroom and plenty of space to relax in.
Featuring typically Colombian decor and a real sense of homeliness, you will feel totally relaxed at Mundo Nuevo Minca. The views from the bedroom windows are simply beautiful.
The hostel offers plenty of opportunities to socialize if you want to. You can also keep yourself to yourself too. The common room and the bar are the best places to get chatting with fellow guests.
Republica Hostel – Santa Marta
If you like your parties classy and your hostels flashy, get yourself a bed at Republica Hostel in Santa Marta. This flashpackers offers guests a modern and up-market hostel with a real sense of fun.
This is the kinda place where you can sip a cocktail by the pool and not feel in any way pretentious. This is a respectful and safe hostel. You can be 100% you.
The free breakfast sweetens the deal and you can spend as long as you like hanging by the pool. If you need a couple of days to just chill in Colombia, Republica Hostel is waiting for you.
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Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for your Colombia Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
Why you should travel to Colombia
So there you have it, the 35 best hostels in Colombia. There is so much to choose from. From Bogota to Cartagena and beyond, Colombia is a phenomenal destination to explore.
If you’re unsure where to start when it comes to where to stay in Colombia keep things simple for yourself. Remember that our best hostel in Colombia is Rio Hostel Buritaca – this is a great starting point.
Travel Safety Tips for Colombia
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Colombia has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Colombia for a wealth of info!
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate South America backpacking guide.
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