Cartagena is hands down one of South America’s top backpacking spots, and for good reason. For the TBB crew, it’s one of our absolute favourite places in the world – and where a few of us crossed paths and ended up spending way too much time.
The city’s colourful colonial streets are like walking through a living postcard, with vibrant plazas that pull you right into the local vibe. From epic beaches to buzzing nightlife, and the chance to hop over to the stunning Rosario Islands, Cartagena’s got it all. Throw in salsa bars, rooftop hostels with unreal views, and plenty of cheap eats and drinks, and it’s a must on any backpacker’s route through South America.
But let’s be real—finding the perfect hostel in a city this buzzing can feel like a bit of a mission. Looking for a wild party? Something central? Or maybe just a laid-back spot to recharge? Don’t stress, I’ve done all the legwork (both on the ground and online) so you don’t have to.
Whether you’re here to go full throttle on the party scene, chill out in style, stretch your pesos, or find a solid base for your digital nomad life, my ultimate guide to the best hostels in Cartagena has got your back.
Let’s dive in and find your perfect spot!
Photo: Sasha Savinov
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Cartagena
- Best Overall Hostel in Cartagena – Viajero Cartagena Hostel
- Best Hostel in Cartagena for Solo Travellers – Los Patios Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Cartagena – The Clock Hostel And Suites
- Best Party Hostel in Cartagena – Republica Hostel Cartagena
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Cartagena – Casa Movida Hostel
The 5 Best Hostels in Cartagena
If it’s your first time in Cartagena, a little research on where to stay can go a long way when booking your digs. Trust me, you don’t want to find yourself miles from the action. But don’t worry – that’s where I step in with my insider tips and tricks (you’re welcome).
1. Viajero Cartagena Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Cartagena
- Dorm (mixed): From $17
- Private Room: From $86
- Address: Calle 7 Infantes, Cartagena, Colombia
Viajero Cartagena Hostel has got that mix of history and chill vibes you’d expect from a colonial city on the Caribbean coast. The hostel sits in a colourful, colonial-era building that oozes old-world charm whilst having all the modern backpacker comforts that you’d expect.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Rooftop terrace
- Chill, social vibes
- Great location
The vibe is super laid-back but with just enough buzz to keep things interesting. They host daily events like salsa nights and parties up on the rooftop terrace so you’re sure to leave with more pals backpacking Cartagena that what you came in with here. The on-site bar on the rooftop makes some killer cocktails that go down a treat during sunset too.
You’ve got options here – mixed and female-only dorms for when your social battery is full, or private rooms if you just need a break from the whole backpacker life. All rooms come with that sweet, sweet aircon to save you from the tropical heat.
Location-wise, you couldn’t ask for better. The hostel’s right in the thick of Cartagena’s historical action – just minutes from the Walled City, bustling plazas, and plenty of bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite or a drink. Whether you’re here for the history or the nightlife, Viajero Cartagena Hostel gives you the best of both worlds.
2. Los Patios Hostel – Best Hostel in Cartagena for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $17
- Private Room: From $83
- Address: Calle 30 # 10-81 Barrio Getsemani, Cartagena, Colombia
Los Patios Hostel is an absolute winner in Poblado, Cartagena’s safest and most gentrified neighbourhood. The vibe here is perfect for solo travellers, with endless ways to meet new mates and have a laugh.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Daily Events
- Rooftop Pool
- The Friendliest Staff!!!
They’ve nailed the facilities, with a rooftop terrace and pool that’s basically your new best friend after a sweaty day out. The air con in the rooms is solid too – no more melting at 2 a.m. Warm showers hit the spot, and those dorm beds are like little cocoons with privacy curtains, outlets for all your tech, and fans to keep you cool.
Social-wise, Los Patios doesn’t mess around. The staff are legends and make sure everyone’s in on the fun. They even run a WhatsApp group chat to keep the banter going long after happy hour’s over. The rooftop bar is in the heart of it all, with salsa lessons on Saturdays and an always-on social buzz. Don’t skip the free welcome cocktails either – they’re too good to miss. And if you want to get to know Cartagena, Elis hosts a killer walking tour that covers all the basics and more.
Basically, Los Patios has everything a solo traveller could want: good vibes, cool people, and all the amenities you need to keep things easy and fun.
3. The Clock Hostel And Suites – Best Cheap Hostel in Cartagena
- Dorm (mixed): From $15
- Private Room: From $61
- Address: Centro Calle Roman 5 – 30, Cartagena, Colombia
The Clock Hostel And Suites hits the spot for anyone looking to party in Cartagena. In the heart of the Old City, this place is prime for making friends with fellow backpackers trekking through South America. The hot tub is the social heartbeat of the hostel, where you’ll swap travel stories and make plans with your new mates. There’s a quirky clock theme running throughout, which is pretty cool too.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Double Dorm Beds
- Central Location
- Chill Room
The real gem here is the double dorm beds though. After months of cramped single bunks, getting to stretch out is absolute heaven. The beds come with privacy curtains too – a must-have for me, no compromises there. Free breakfast is always a plus and this one is basic but a pretty solid one – eggs, toast and coffee.
For those hanging around Cartagena for a bit, the hostel’s got your back with laundry facilities and a fully equipped kitchen. There’s also a chill room loaded with games and a TV with Netflix, perfect for decompressing after a long day of exploring or mapping out your Colombia itinerary.
Heads up: the dorms are massive, with 20 beds each, so pack those earplugs. Somehow, you always end up in the same room as the snorers, but hey, that’s hostel life for you! If you’re keen on stretching your budget, The Clock Hostel And Suites is one of the best cheap hostels in the city. It’s affordable without skimping on the good vibes.
4. Republica Hostel Cartagena – Best Party Hostel In Cartagena
- Dorm (mixed): From $15
- Private Room: From $122
- Address: Calle segunda de Badillo # 36 – 45, Cartagena, Colombia
Republica Hostel Cartagena is right in the heart of Old Town, and it’s the kind of place that sucks you in with its cool vibes and keeps you extending your stay. Daily events make it easy to meet other travellers backpacking Colombia, and the beautiful building only adds to the charm.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Swimming Pool
- Pub Crawls
- Salsa Classes
There’s always something happening here. Pool games during the day, pub crawls at night, and the boat trip is an absolute must – one of the best things you can do in Cartagena. When you’re back at the hostel, the music sets the perfect mood for knocking back a bucket of Coronas with your new crew.
They even throw in salsa classes for a bit of fun – the instructor’s a legend, and it’s a great laugh whether you’ve got moves or two left feet.
The staff are super friendly and always ready to help out. Dorms are pod-style and made from concrete, which means they don’t carry sound which is always appreciated. Each bed comes with a fan, outlet, and light, so it’s pretty cosy for catching some zzzs. Republica Hostel’s got all the right stuff if you’re after a place with great facilities and a bit of buzz.
5. Casa Movida Hostel – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads In Cartagena
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Private Room: From $95
- Address: Calle del Tablon 25 # 7-28, Casa Movida Hostel, Cartagena, Colombia
Casa Movida Hostel sits right in Cartagena’s San Diego district, blending into the colonial charm of the city with its stunning 19th-century building. Nestled in the historic centre of the Old Town, it’s surrounded by bars, restaurants, and endless things to do, all at a price that’s surprisingly fair for such an expensive part of town.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Clean and Modern Amenities
- Co-working Space
- Killer Location
It’s a prime pick for digital nomads, offering a great coworking space where you can crank out some hours before heading out to explore. While the social vibe isn’t the liveliest, sometimes a quieter setting is exactly what you need to stay productive. The fast, free WiFi is a godsend for remote workers who rely on a solid connection.
The dorms are spotless, and the pod-style beds make it feel like you’ve got your own little nook. Some rooms even come with balconies that offer killer views of the city. The kitchen is small but clean and functional, with a free breakfast to kickstart your day. And let’s be honest, a free brekkie always seals the deal.
There’s also a rooftop terrace and bar that really comes alive during DJ nights, giving the place an extra layer of cool. With its chic design and great location, Casa Movida Hostel is easily one of the best value stays near the historic Walled City. I’d even go as far as to say that it’s one of my favourite hostels in Colombia.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Cartagena Hostels
Haven’t found the right hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, I’ve listed more epic hostels in Cartagena below.
6. Media Luna Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Private Room: From $52
- Address: Centro, cll Media Luna, Cartagena, Colombia
Media Luna is an awesome Cartagena backpackers hostel perfect if you wanna party hard! Not only does Media Luna have their own pool, ideal for pool parties, but they have their own buzzing bar and cafe too. Seamlessly bringing chilled out hostel vibes with a real party atmosphere, Media Luna can be found in the vibrant Getsemani neighbourhood. Make sure you’re here on a Wednesday, this is the big party night!
7. Quintas by Maos
- Private Room: From $37
- Address: Cra 18 # 25-15, Barrio manga esquina, Cartagena, Colombia
Quintas by Maos is a much-loved budget hostel in Cartagena offering great value for money for backpackers like you. Quintas is a simple kinda hostel but offers everything you could need, free WiFi, free breakfast, and use of the community kitchen too. Perfectly placed just 5-minutes walk from the Old City and 15-minutes walk away from Bocagrande Beach Quintas is a solid all-rounder. What’s more, Quintas is located in the super safe and welcoming neighbourhood of Manga which you’ll no doubt come to love too.
8. Life is Good Cartagena Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $21
- Private Room: From $70
- Address: Getsemani, Calle Larga No.9A-05, Cartagena, Colombia
Most people think that digital nomads spend their days on their laptop from the comfort of a hammock or even in a hot tub. Although that’s not strictly true at Life is Good Cartagena Hostel you can indulge in the stereotype for a few days, and why not?! Life is Good Cartagena Hostel is an ideal spot for digital nomads.
Super chilled and incredibly welcoming Life is Good has plenty of space to work in and decent internet connection too. I’ve always found it to be a great hostel for digital nomads. The dorm rooms are perfectly designed and each bed has its own privacy curtain, reading light and plug socket.
9. Mama Waldy
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Private Room: From $39
- Address: Getsemani, Calle Sierpe 29-09, Cartagena, Colombia
Should you be looking for a real home from home in Cartagena make sure you check out Mama Waldy Hostel. Super cosy, quaint and relaxed Mama Waldy Hostel is perfect for travellers who like their home comforts. Mama Waldy’s is a family run youth hostel in Cartagena located within walking distance of Plaza de la Trinidad and Parque Centenario. For digital nomads seeking a cosy place to base themselves for a week or more in Cartagena, you’ll be chuffed in your choice of Mama Waldy Hostel. P.S. they have an amazing hot tub!
10. Santuario Getsemaní Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Address: Avenida del Pedregal 29 – 225, Cartagena, Colombia
Right in the heart of Getsemani, Hostal Getsemani brings the charm with its lovely private rooms, complete with air con and ensuite bathrooms—basically all the comforts after a long day exploring Cartagena. The staff are super friendly and will go out of their way to make sure you’ve got everything you need. If you want to meet fellow travellers, head to the hostel bar or the big patio area in the afternoon – prime spots for kicking back and swapping travel stories over a cold Corona.
The dorms here are pod-style and soundproofed, so no need to worry about noisy neighbours. Each cubicle is kitted out with a light, bedside table, shelves, a lockable safe, USB outlets, and a lockable luggage locker. Basically, all the essentials for a comfy stay. The daily activities give it a proper social buzz that’s perfect if you’re in the mood to mingle.
11. Hostel Mamallena
Hostel Mamallena is a top hosel in Cartagena ideal for solo travellers, chilled out nomads and anyone who wants to find a new crew in Colombia. It is the staff that make Hostel Mamallena a much loved Cartagena backpackers hostel, they’re keen to share their local knowledge and will help in any way they can. The air-conditioned dorm rooms are a real treat, they’re super clean, the beds are comfy and there’s minimal noise disturbance. Hostel Mamallena is a chilled out kinda hostel were the good times roll on and on!
12. Mi Llave
Mi Llave is a great budget hostel in Cartagena and ideally located in Getsemani, just a 5-minute walk from the Plaza de la Trinidad. Mi Llave is a colourful and quirky hostel in Cartagena that overlooks the water. The dorm rooms are cosy and comfortable and the ceiling fans are a real blessing in the hot season! There are plenty of communal areas to chill out in, including the rooftop terrace with super squishy, comfy sofas!
13. Hostel Green House Coffee Bar
Hostel Green House Coffee Bar is an ideal hangout for digital nomads, remote workers and online entrepreneurs. They have a decent internet connection, a sociable vibe and are located in the Old City. Although a simple hostel Green House Coffee Bar is great for travellers who like a low-key affair. Quiet and cosy, Hostel Green House is a lovely hostel in Cartagena with reasonably priced double rooms and comfortable dorms too.
14. Tree House Hostel
Who likes the sound of free coffee all day? If you said yes then you better get yourself to Tree House Hostel; they have a great free breakfast too! Tree House Hostel is a simple and cheap Cartagena backpackers hostel that caters for everyone. With both private rooms and dorms, with an onsite cafe and a late check-out too, it’s hard to think of a kind of traveller who wouldn’t feel at home here. FYI Cafe Habana, a top club in Cartagena, is just two streets away!
15. Bourbon St Hostel Boutique
Bourbon St Hostel Boutique is a wonderful Cartagena backpackers hostel for travellers who like a touch of the high life. If you’re more of a flashpacker than a super budget backpacker you’ll love Bourbon St Hostel. Not only do they have their own pool but their own hostel restaurant too. The communal spaces are bright, modern yet rustic. There’s a definite Instagrammable charm to Bourbon St Hostel! You’ll find them in the downtown of the Old Town, in front of Santo Domingo Plaza. It’s right in the heart of the Walled City and all of its action!
16. One Day Hostel
One Day offers guests a wholesome free breakfast, use of the free WiFi and plenty of communal areas to hang out in. Closer to lively Getsemaní neighbourhood than it is the historic centre of Cartagena, One Day Hostel puts you right at the heart of the action. Homely and cosy are the words that spring to mind when thinking about One Day Hostel, it’s a really chilled out hostel where everyone gets greeted with a smile. The beds are uber comfortable and there is air conditioning in the dorm rooms; such a bonus! The staff at One Day Hostel speak good English and are always around to help guests when needed.
17. Makako Chill Out Hostel
The hosts at Makako Chill Out Hostel, Jacqueline and Jennifer, go out of their way to make everyone feel completely welcome and solo travellers instantly have a pair of friendly faces to chat to. Make sure to book your stay on a Wednesday or Friday night (or both!) to be involved with the free cocktail party! What easier way to make friends as a solo traveller than at a free cocktail party! As a top hostel in Cartagena Makako Hostel is set in a gorgeous colonial building in the heart of the Old Town next to the Walled City.
18. Casa Torices Real
Easily one of the best cheap hostel in Cartagena is Casa Torices Real, they have dorms beds for less than $6 throughout the year! With both dorm rooms and private ensuite doubles too Casa Torices Real is a superb hostel for any kind of traveller on a shoestring budget. Whenever I find myself in town and needing to keep things cheap, it’s my go-to hostel.
Whether you’re travelling with your partner, you pals, or solo, chances are Casa Torices Real will be your saving grace if you’re starting to run low on the old pesos. Set in a quaint Cartagena family home Casa Torices Real is a great budget hostel in Cartagena just 1km away from the beach.
19. Wonderland Party Hostel
With their own bar and outdoor pool, Wonderland is officially party central in Colombia! Easily the one of the coolest Cartagena hostels, Wonderland host local DJs throughout the week and run pub crawls on the weekends. If you’re looking for explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Cartagena be sure to book a bed at Wonderland Hostel as the team will point you in the right direction of the city’s best party hotspots. No curfew is an added bonus!
20. El Arsenal Boutique
One of the best places for digital nomads to crash in Cartagena is El Arsenal Boutique as they have everything the modern nomad needs. Whether you prefer to work at the bar, poolside or from the comfort of your bunk you can work wherever you like at El Arsenal as the free and reliable WiFi works throughout the hostel complex.
El Arsenal Boutique is just 150m from the Clock Tower, 300m from Plaza Bolivar, the Cathedral and Museum of Cartagena de Indias. For digital nomads looking for a top hostel in Cartagena that ticks all the boxes El Arsenal is the place to be.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Cartagena
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Cartagena.
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.
FAQs About Hostels in Cartagena
Here are some questions backpackers ask about Cartagena hostels
What to Pack for your Cartagena 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 my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Cartagena?
This all depends on whether you would prefer a private room with an ensuite bathroom, or a bed in a shared dorm. The average price starts from $22-$27+. If you’re looking to find cheap hostels in the city then great hostel deals can deff be found if you book for shoulder seasons and in advance!
What are the best Cartagena hostels for couples?
Casa Movida Hostel has some seriously swanky rooms, perfect for couples looking to treat themselves. The social scene might be on the quieter side, but if you’re after a prime location and great amenities, this spot’s a solid choice.
What are the best Cartagena hostels near the airport?
Hostal El Bando is the highly rated hostel near the airport in Cartagena, it’s just a 5-minute walk.
Final Thoughts on Cartagena’s Hostels
Cartagena will stick with you long after you’ve left. Its vibrant streets, lively nightlife, and that unbeatable Caribbean flair make it a blast. As someone who’s soaked up this city’s amazing vibes more than a few times, trust me, you’re in for a treat.
There are plenty of cool hostels in town, but if I had to pick a favourite, it’s got to be Viajero Cartagena Hostel. You’ll get the full Colombian experience in its charming colonial-era building. The location is spot on, the crowd is cool, and it’s the perfect base for your Cartagena adventures.
Happy travels! And if you stumble upon any hidden gems or must-try spots, hit me up in the comments – I’m always on the lookout for the next great find. Adios amigos!
Photo: Sasha Savinov
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Colombia for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Cartagena 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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