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Beaches, deserts, colonial architecture, the Andes, the Amazon Rainforest – and let’s not forget Machu Picchu and a load of other Inca sights – Peru is a HUGE South American destination that’s as good for history buffs as it is for adventure sports enthusiasts.
Backpacking in these parts is relatively simple. But choosing a hostel isn’t always easy. Because backpacking IS so popular, there may be a lot of places to choose from, but there are also a load of hostels that aren’t gonna be up to scratch.
Solution? Our epic guide to the 35 best hostels in Peru.
Yep. You won’t be stuck hopping from ropey hostel to ropey hostel thanks to our insider guide. Instead, you’ll be fully prepared to backpack Peru like a pro.
So, less chat. Let’s dive right into the world of Peru’s top hostels!
Quick Answer – The Best Hostels in Peru
- Overall Best Hostel in Peru – Pariwana Hostel Lima
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Peru – Arequipay Backpackers Downtown
- Best Hostel in Peru with Private Rooms – Kokopelli Hostel Cusco
Photo: @willhatton__
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
The 20 Best Hostels in Peru
So you’re backpacking through Peru and now it’s time to find the right accommodation? Don’t worry, we’ve listed the best hostels for you. Make sure you choose wisely!
I think we can all agree that deciding where to stay in Peru can be a real struggle. There is so much to see and so much to do, but the country isn’t small. In order to tick off everything on your list, be make sure to inform yourself about accommodation before you start your travels. You don’t want to end up miles away from the hotspots you wanted to explore!
Photo: @willhatton__
Pariwana Hostel Lima – Best Overall Hostels in Peru
This hostel in Miraflores, Lima, nails it with its killer location near all the action, solid activities, and clean facilities. But let’s be real—the staff are what make this place stand out. They’re not just friendly; they actually make you feel like part of the crew. Ricardo, in particular, is a gem, going above and beyond to bring people together, sort out transport, and make sure the nights are full of good times.
The front desk crew is also on point, handling any request without hesitation. The atmosphere here is on fire, and meeting fellow travellers is a breeze. Rooms are clean, and the rooftop bar’s “beer o’clock” keeps things cheap and cheerful. If you’re looking for a hostel with a vibe and plenty of fun, this place’s got you covered.
MB Hostel Arequipa
This hostel in Arequipa nails it – hot showers, a killer location, and a super friendly vibe. The staff are legends, always helpful and welcoming, and it’s pretty much impossible not to make new mates here. Whether it’s beer pong or free shots, the bar is always buzzing with good times.
The location is epic, right by the main square, Plaza de Armas, so you’re in the heart of the action. The beds are comfy, though fair warning: the top bunks are quite the climb! They even let you store your luggage for free if you’re heading off on overnight canyon tours. But the real winner? The terrace. Stunning views and even better vibes – perfect spot to kick back and soak it all in!
Banana’s Adventure
This top hostel in Huacachina is definitely one of our faves. If you wanna stay somewhere with a decent atmosphere, then this place will do the job nicely. It strikes up a nice balance between being social and having your own space to chill the hell out, which we appreciate.
There’s an outdoor swimming pool, which is definitely one of the many things that makes this one of the best hostels in Peru. The rooftop terrace is cool, too. This hostel is in EASY walking distance to nearby bars and clubs which makes it a good one if you wanna hit the town. Banana’s Adventure tho… what?
Arequipay Backpackers Downtown – Best Hostel in Peru for Solo Travellers
You can probs tell from the name, but this is another Arequipa backpackers hostel. And it’s one of the best hostels in Peru for solo travellers. It’s basically a big house that feels like you’re just hanging out with mates. Think chill lounges and hammocks in the leafy cactus-filled garden.
One thing that definitely helps is the super friendly owners. They make things VERY easy here. Like, if you arrive knackered from a night bus and your room’s not ready they’ll let you shower and give you a decent hot breakfast. Much appreciated.
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 OspreyWild Rover Backpackers Hostel
Here’s a top Cusco hostel that describes itself as “fun and friendly” – and we agree this is an epic place to stay in Cusco. The bar here is pretty poppin’ and pretty much perfect for meeting other travellers. That’s definitely one perk of this best hostel in Peru for solo travellers, but there’s MORE too…
There’s a lot going on here. Like salsa classes, quiz nights, pub crawls, and a load of other things. The beds here are decent too: they’re pod style so you can get a comfy night’s sleep. The private rooms have balconies too, which is pretty dang cool if you ask us.
Iguana Hostel
Iguana Hostel is a recommended hostel in Puno for solo travellers. It’s a good choice if you’re the sorta person who gets bored easily. They’ve ALWAYS got stuff going on, plus the amenities here are pretty on point: there’s a sauna (what!), a games room, a gym, a terrace…
But the location of this Peru hostel for solo travellers is also pretty dang on point too, if you ask us. It’s so close – like SO close – to everything you’re gonna want out of Puno. Restaurants, bars, attractions, you name it. Staff are cool too and can help get you on a decent tour or two.
El Boulevard
Another top hostel in Huacachina, El Boulevard is a great shout if you wanna save a bit of coin on your travels. It’s simple here but well kept and clean – what do you expect, it’s a budget hostel in Peru! A major bonus is that you’ll be pretty much 5 mins walking away from the most interesting bits in town.
There’s actually a pool here. It may be small but it’s still decent when you fancy cooling off. The staff here are always on hand to help with travel tips and recommendations. Yep, easily one of the best cheap hostels in Peru.
1900 Backpackers Hostel
Can you guess that this one is a heritage building? Yep, the name kinda gives it away. This top hostel in Peru for couples is all about cool original features like nice staircases and windows with shutters and stuff like that. It’s renovated so there aren’t any dank little corners or anything.
Aside from being one of the coolest hostels in Lima, it’s also right opposite Lima’s Art Museum. If you’re a couple who’s into art and culture then you’re gonna love that. And as the cherry on top, this hostel won the award in 2017 as one of the most popular hostels in Lima. Nice one!
Loki del Mar
Wow, ok, so Loki del Mar is pretty much the best party hostel in Mancora. The vibe is relaxing all day, partying all night. Sounds good to us. There’s happy hours, sports on the big screen, that sorta stuff. And it’s all about the weekends here, when it gets pretty dang wild.
So if you fancy partying next to the beach, this place is one of the best party hostels in Peru. And besides the beachside living, you’ll also find a pool here, which is always pretty chill. And if you want to sleep, yeah, bring earplugs.
Wild Rover Hostel Huacachina
Billing themselves as “THE ULTIMATE HOSTEL EXPERIENCE” (yes in all caps) this place really and truly is one of the best party hostels in Peru. The parties are wild, the drinks are cheap and free-flowing, and there’s a POOL. That’s where all the action is at this Huacachina backpackers hostel.
We’d definitely recommend staying here only if you’re SUPER into partying, loud music till the early hours, drinking games, and basically getting your crunk on pretty much the whole time. The walls are thin and if you plan on sleeping, well… good luck, we say, good luck.
Magicpacker Hostel
Magicpacker, lol, really? Maybe that’s an alternative name for digital nomads. But anyways this is another cool Peru hostel that’s set in a nice old building, complete with shady courtyard to get some work done – plus a big lounge area with a TV in it.
It’s a chilled place at night, too. Drinks deals and karaoke sounds good to us. Free breakfast is always a plus too. So yeah, if you’re looking for one of the best hostels in Peru for digital nomads, and you’re in Cusco, come to Magicpacker. Even if it does have a funny name.
Carola Lodge
A brand new hostel, this place is super shiny and sparkly. No gross bits, people. And that makes it a pretty refreshing place to stay as one of the best hostels in Peru for digital nomads. A nice little breather from, um, less clean places.
There’s a MASSIVE pool here, so you jump in and cool off when you’re done typing for the day. And a restaurant which is cheap and tasty. Only thing is that since it’s new there might be some teething problems but whatever, it’s great! A top hostel in Huacachina.
KACLLA The Healing Dog Hostel
Don’t even get us started. Healing dog? What…? Actually, it’s got something to do with a special breed of dog in these ends that can cure you of certain stuff but don’t take our word for it: you might be surprised to learn that we’re not dog experts.
But when it comes to being one of the best hostels in Peru for digital nomads, this Lima backpackers hostel is a GREAT shout. There’s plenty of space to relax and do work. The hostel calls themselves a “refuge” and TBF it pretty much is. The main thing here: breakfast. Actually amazing. Delicious. Healthy. FREE.
Kokopelli Hostel Cusco – Best Hostels in Peru with Private Rooms
Set inside a 200-year-old house (yeah sounds good already right?) this Cusco backpackers hostel is super nice, we’re not gonna lie. There’s loads of wall art, houseplants, antique furniture… it’s one of the coolest hostels in Cusco all right. It’s a fun hostel and there’s a decent atmosphere, too.
And if you wanted a slice of this whilst staying in a private room? You’ll be happy to know that this is one of the best hostels in Peru with private rooms. Seriously nice. And in the evening, come down from your room to make friends with other travellers in the bar at happy hour.
Hostel Huacachina Sunset
Set in the desert oasis of Huacachina, this is one of the best hostels in Peru with private rooms. They’re pretty traditional but clean and spacious – some even come with balconies. Ain’t that nice? And what’s even nicer is that this place is set RIGHT on the oasis itself. Pretty stunning.
But it isn’t just about the rooms of course. There’s a decent bar and restaurant going on at this youth hostel in Huacachina – nice rooftop terrace as well. If you don’t mind a quiet atmosphere without a completely social vibe going on, then you’ll probably love it here.
Pirwa Backpackers Colonial
Like the name says, yes: it’s set in an old colonial building. Which is pretty cool. You’re gonna love the rustic charm of this one if wooden ceilings and crumbling archways and stone walls and overgrown (sorta) courtyards are your thing. It’s a recommended hostel with private rooms in Peru.
Yep. They’re pretty rustic, since the building is like 500 years old or something, but if you love the idea of staying in a heritage building then you’ll love it. There’s also a pretty good atmosphere going on at this top hostel in Cusco, chilled and good for meeting other travellers.
Puriwasi Cusco
This Cusco backpackers hostel is definitely one of the best overall hostels in Peru. It’s literally in the perfect place to explore the city from and the atmosphere here is pretty friendly, making for a decent place to meet other folks too.
Everything’s really clean and well maintained too, which is always a plus. There’s also loads of chill outdoor space complete with hammocks to lounge around in. Oh, and of course there’s the all-important bar, too.
Bonny Hostel
Hey, we heard you were looking for one of the best overall hostels in Peru. Well here is one such hostel. This one is in Puno. It’s more like a bed and breakfast than a hostel, but we can deal with that. There are a load of private rooms on offer.
You’ll find a good atmosphere at this Peru backpackers hostel though. It feels pretty dang cosy and comfortable here. The prices are cheap (win) and there’s even a tasty free breakfast (win again). Plus the location is PERFECT if you wanna head out and see the sights of Puno – you won’t have to walk far at all.
Puriwasi Lima
If you’re looking for one of the best hostels in Peru for solo travellers then don’t you worry, this Lima backpackers hostel is one of ’em. There’s a load of cool spaces to meet people, which is nice, but the key point here is the staff.
Yep, they’re SUPER nice. Make sure you’re happy, make sure people are having a good time, putting on events all the time, going above and beyond to help you out. Basically makes all the difference. And the food here… wow. Like, WOW. It’s a great place to stay especially if you’re always hungry!
Hostal Sol de Oro
We love how close this Arequipa backpackers hostel is to the Plaza de Armas, just a couple of blocks. Nice. This place is a good option if you’re gonna be stepping off a night bus or whatever since they’re very welcoming at reception for bus-wearied backpackers.
One of the best cheap hostels in Peru too, this one has budget room rates, a free breakfast, GOOD hot showers and a cheap laundry service. What more could you want if you’re travelling on a shoestring? It’s a family owned place so it’s got a pretty homely feel as well.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for your Peru 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 Peru
From WILD party hostels, to some of the most chill spots you’re likely to find, there are a lot of cool hostels in Peru to choose from.
Start at the logical starting point for pretty much every trip to Peru, Lima, and stay at Pariwana Hostel Lima. Like the name says it’s, um, pretty much the prime spot in Lima and the best overall hostel in Peru.
Photo: @willhatton__
Travel Safety Tips for Peru
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.
More Epic Hostels in Peru and South America
Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Peru.
Planning an epic trip all across Peru or even South America itself?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around South America, check out:
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Peru 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 Peru for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Peru before you arrive.
- 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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