Guatemala is one of those places where time sneaks up on you. One moment, you’re strolling the cobblestone streets of a colonial town; the next, you’re sipping coffee on the slopes of an active volcano!
Besides its abundance of hot, firey mountains and coffee plantations, this Central American country attracts travelers with its unique heritage and stunning natural beauty.
As the perfect in-between for thrill-seeking backpackers and those off to ‘find themselves’ in peace, Guatemala is home to some of the most impressive hostels. Forget the cookie-cutter dorm room; the best hostels in Guatemala have their own flair.
Whether waking up to lake views over San Pedro or swapping travel stories with a new friend in Antigua, these hostels in Guatemala always offer a little something extra.
But like many other Central American countries, there are almost too many great hostels to choose from. While this sure isn’t a bad problem to have, I’ve made your life a little easier and put together this list of the best hostels in the country!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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Quick Answers: The Best Hostels in Guatemala
- Best Overall Hostel in Guatemala – Flore Hostel, Antigua
- Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Guatemala – Casi Casa, Antigua
- Best Cheap Hostel in Guatemala – Central Hostel San Sebastian, Antigua
- Best Party Hostel in Guatemala – Adra Hostel, Antigua
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Guatemala – Selina Antigua
The 5 Best Hostels in Guatemala
Staying in a hostel is an experience in itself. In a place like Guatemala, hostels are where budget travel meets local culture. You’ll find hostels in all the popular areas, from Antigua to Lake Atitlan to Flores. They’re usually tucked away in charming colonial-style buildings or perched on cliff-sides with million-dollar views of the sea, lakes, and volcanoes around you.
Traveling in Guatemala is all about experiencing community and connection, and hostels embody this inclusive spirit. Whether chatting with a new friend in a shared kitchen or during a hostel-organized group hike, conversations flow as effortlessly as coffee does here.
The Top Hostels in Guatemala
Now that you know a little about what to expect from Guatemala’s top hostels, it’s time to get into the good stuff. It’s important to find you a humble abode to lay your head while backpacking in Central America. Let’s dive in and take a better look at the fifteen best hostels in this colorful Central American country:
1. Flore Hostel, Antigua – Best Overall Hostel in Guatemala
- Dorm (mixed): From $15
- Address: 1 avenida sur numero 24, 1 avenida sur numero 24, Antigua, Guatemala
It’s never easy picking the best hostel overall, but I don’t think anyone would disagree that Flore Hostel absolutely deserves the spot.
From the tranquil inner courtyard to the sunny rooftop terrace fitted with mid-century wooden furniture, there are sections of this hostel that I would happily recreate in my own home. If we’re getting specific, it’s the modular wooden furniture, the contemporary wallpapers, and the bespoke terrazzo tiles that steal my heart every time.
The breakfast and coffee served each morning are similar to what you might expect from a high-end boutique hotel—just with the price tag of a top hostel in Guatemala. Here, you can dig into tasty vegan breakfasts, refreshing smoothies, and hearty sandwiches without having to leave the property.
The rooms are spacious and flooded with natural light. You’ll have your very own bunk bed, equipped with a locker, light, electric plug point, and blackout curtains to help keep the light out no matter the time of day. The dorms are all cleaned daily, and thanks to the minimalistic interiors and decor, things are easy to keep spotlessly clean around here.
Why You’ll Love This Hostel:
- Close to the Parque Central
- 24-hour front desk
- Coffee shop on-site
Other than its stunningly simple aesthetic, it’s just a quick ten-minute walk into Parque Central and easy to reach using public transport. The hostel is located on First Avenida, which is one of Antigua’s most famous streets, popular for its shops, bars, and restaurants.
This hostel was built with digital nomads in mind. It has high-speed internet throughout and some quiet spots where you can settle in and get some work done. Think about your favorite coffee shop to work at – now imagine you lived inside the building. This is the vibe digital nomads can expect from this epic hostel in Guatemala.
2. Casi Casa, Antigua – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Guatemala
- Dorm (mixed): From $21
- Private Room: From $87
- Address: 5a Avenida Sur 21, Antigua, Guatemala
Casi Casa is as beautiful to look at as it is fun to say and is ideal for those solo traveling in Central America. It’s set in an old Colonial-style house on Antigua’s most famous street, with a courtyard, garden, and views of the volcano. The entire space is designed to the T, which isn’t too surprising considering the exquisite building the interior designers had to work with.
Like most beautiful colonial homes around here, this one has wooden beamed ceilings, tiled floors, and a central courtyard filled with potted flowers and plants. It also has a rooftop terrace, which overlooks the inner courtyard and the terracotta roofs of this stunning little city.
A major highlight is the bar, set in an ancient chapel that once formed part of the original house. It’s literally an old chapel with a modest spire and grand double doors. The bar is set under the domed ceiling, topped off with muted white-washed walls and a bright blue seating area.
Why You’ll Love This Hostel:
- Swimming pool and sauna
- Housekeeping
- Airport transfers available
But there is more to this beautiful hostel in Guatemala than its quirky antique interiors. It also has a small dipping pool and even a sauna, perfect for the hottest (and the coldest) days! There is something special about sitting around this pool. While it’s great for a refreshing dip, it also provides a calming space just to relax and read a book.
A full breakfast is provided each morning, and I highly recommend you take it on the rooftop terrace overlooking the city. You’re also welcome to make use of the shared kitchen and self-catering facilities – ideal for those traveling on a budget. If you’re anything like me, you’ll enjoy preparing your own simple snacks and to-go lunches when traveling. You never know when the hunger will strike.
3. Central Hostel San Sebastian, Antigua – Best Cheap Hostel in Guatemala
- Dorm (mixed): From $9
- Address: Avenida del Desengaño 22A, Antigua, Guatemala
By definition, hostels are an affordable type of accommodation. But if you’re really looking to save a buck, this Central Hostel San Sebastian offers the best value for money on the list. It’s one of the cheapest places to stay in Antigua, but that doesn’t mean it skimps on style or vibe.
It’s also one of the more unique properties on the list, somehow bridging the gap between traditional and futuristic. And if you’re not sure what I mean by that, you only have to check out the high-tech sleeping pods at this unique Guatemalan hostel to get a better idea.
Instead of the traditional bunk bed with sliding curtains and notoriously limited privacy (no hate to the bunk beds out there), these dorm rooms are made up of modern, futuristic sleeping pods or ‘capsules’. From inside your pod, you’ll hardly hear or notice anyone around you. It’s pretty much a super small bedroom, with only a bed and no additional furniture.
Why You’ll Love This Hostel:
- Tour and travel desk
- Laundry facilities
- Daily housekeeping
While you’ll sleep in spotlessly clean, Japanese, spaceship-inspired capsules (phew, that was a mouthful), the rest of the hotel is super homey and chilled-out. Spend your mornings soaking up the sunshine in the inner courtyard, which is always protected from the wind or any cool breeze.
Digital nomads will be glad to know that the hostel has a spacious co-working space with high-speed internet. When you aren’t typing away at one of the desks, head up to the rooftop terrace for a breath of fresh air and some inspiring views of Agua and Fuego volcanoes in the distance.
After waking up in your capsule bed, make your way to the terrace for the best pancakes in the city. The breakfast is just an added bonus, considering the affordable price per night!
The staff are super friendly and helpful at this top Guatemalan hostel, and will always offer great advice on the best places to visit in Guatemala. They also organize group tours and shuttles to the airport if you don’t feel like liaising with them yourself.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Adra Hostel, Antigua – Best Party Hostel in Guatemala
- Dorm (mixed): From $14
- Address: 4ta Calle Oriente #15, Antigua Guatemala, Antigua, Guatemala
I know this isn’t the first property I’ve added for Antigua, but can you blame me? This city is truly one of a kind, with some of the best art and culture in Central America.
Adra Hostel is an absolute gem in the city, with a circular rooftop terrace overlooking the volcano. It’s the type of property you might stop at and take a photo of while walking the streets of Antigua—simple, traditionally Guatemalan, and aesthetically pleasing in all the right ways.
The interior is even more impressive, with unique murals on the walls, colorful furniture, and plenty of lush greenery, bringing it all together. The on-site bar is one of the best places for karaoke in the city, and you know what that means—it’s a top-party hostel, too!
Why You’ll Love This Hostel:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities
- 24-hour security and reception
One thing I think is worth mentioning is that the hostel doesn’t allow you to bring your own food or drinks. While this could be an issue for serious budget-conscious travelers, it was never an issue for me.
One of this hostel’s best features is its location. Located on one of the city’s most iconic walking streets, La Calle Real, it’s just a couple of blocks from Central Plaza and all the best restaurants, bars, and shops you would wish to walk to.
Depending on your budget (and whether you’re traveling solo or with a friend), you can choose between private and shared rooms.
5. Selina Antigua – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Guatemala
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Private Room: From $75
- Address: 6ta avenida norte # 43-A, Antigua, Antigua, Guatemala
When you book a spot at Selina, you can rest assured you’re paying for a high-quality standard of accommodation. This international brand has taken the hostel world by storm, debunking the theory that all hostels are dingy, dirty, and dangerously social (alliteration intended).
The stunning facade of this building is a good indication of what you’ll find inside the property, but it’s only a small taste. Behind the unpretentious blue walls, you’ll find an industrial, modern workspace with high ceilings, a boho-style bar with ratan ceilings, and reclaimed wooden furniture.
One thing all Selina properties have in common is a shared working space. Built to accommodate the growing population of digital nomads, this property is well-suited for anyone who needs to get their eight-hour workday in.
Why You’ll Love This Hostel:
- Pool table and board games
- Bar and BBQ
- Flexible cancellation
Breakfast is available for a small additional fee and is served a la carte between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. each morning. Each dish looks like something out of a foodie magazine – beautifully plated with just the right flavors, colors, and spices.
When you’re not exploring the ancient city of Antigua, spend some time at the hostel pool. You won’t be sorry – this is one of the best swimming pools in the city. What else could you expect from a Selina hostel?
In true Selina style, the hostel organizes a range of activities and excursions, so you won’t need to source a tour company privately. Think daily yoga, social evenings, day trips, and even spa facilities!
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Hide Yo’ Money!More EPIC Hostels in Guatemala
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Ojala, Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $20
- Private Room: From $63
- Address: 7ma Avenida Norte #1, Antigua, Guatemala
Just by looking at the photos of this spot, you’d never think it was a hostel at all. Ojala feels more like a luxurious boutique hotel than a top hostel in Guatemala. The entire space is curated so beautifully it could easily grace the pages of a Home and Living Magazine.
Tropical foliage drapes over the railings of covered terraces, ratan lighting creates a moody ambiance, and Moroccan-inspired arches form a space so beautiful that you’ll be snapping photos for your Instagram feed at every turn.
The home has two gardens and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city and its surrounding volcanoes. If you enjoy a morning coffee, the hostel has its very own Ojala Cafe and Bar, where you can sip a cappuccino while gazing out across the extensive gardens.
There are eight private rooms and shared dormitories to choose from. All the bathrooms have been recently remodeled and the rooms are decorated with a touch of Guatemalan flair.
Somos, Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Private Room: From $46
- Address: 2a Avenue Sur No. 26, Antigua, Guatemala
You can’t put a price tag on quality accommodation like this, but if you had to, you’d never believe the affordability of this hostel.
The dorm beds are about as private as you could hope for, with a curtain, reading light, charger outlet, and locker for each guest. But when it comes to the private suites, you’re in for a real treat. While following a rustic style, they feel more like a boutique hotel than a private room in a hostel.
But you’ll hardly be spending time in your bedroom. Instead, you’ll find yourself enjoying a drink at the outdoor bar with new friends, soaking in the hot tub, or watching a movie in the living room.
Somos also has a few spots suitable for catching up on work—my favorite is the single desk on the stoep of the rustic, preserved colonial house where the hostel is located.
After a day on your feet, you’ll be over the moon to return to the hostel and soak in the bubbling hot tub. Seriously, can you think of anything better?
Free Cerveza, Santa Cruz La Laguna
- Dorm (mixed): From $20
- Private Room: From $58
- Address: Santa Cruz La Laguna, Lake Atitlan, Santa Cruz La Laguna, Guatemala
Picture yourself waking up at the crack of dawn, unfolding your tent doorway, and stepping out onto the cool grass to start the day. Free Cerveza markets itself as one of the best hostels in Guatemala for couples, but it’s really closer to a romantic glamping experience – if you ask me.
Set on the lakefront in Santa Cruz La Laguna, the property offers views of three of the country’s most famous volcanoes. Whether it’s from your private tent, the lakeside docks, or the restaurant, you can expect gorgeous views from every area in the hostel.
When you aren’t enjoying the peace and quiet in your private tent, you can chill by the fully stocked bar and order breakfast, lunch, or dinner prepared by a team of local Mayan chefs. There is even a room with a pool table, board games, a Smart TV, and a selection of books to keep you entertained throughout your stay.
With no need to leave the property, this is an epic place to stay for couples or even as a self-organized ‘retreat’. However, there are plenty of cool things to do in Lake Atitlan, so I’d recommend you get out… even just for a little bit!
Barbara’s Boutique Hostel, Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $22
- Private Room: From $119
- Address: 3ra avenida sur 10, Antigua, Guatemala
There is something special about staying in a boutique property. Set in an old colonial home in the heart of Antigua, Barbara’s Boutique Hostel is decorated with unique Guatemalan art, sculptures, and fabrics that bring warmth and color into the space.
The vibe here is local and homey. Unlike many hostels, this one is designed to feel like a home away from home. Think of a central living room, a coworking space with huge open windows, and spacious rooms finished with Guatemalan decorative touches.
When you’re sick and tired of eating out, you can head to the farmers market and prepare a delicious home-cooked meal in the spacious guest kitchen.
When it comes to location, you won’t find a more central place to be. The hostel is a few steps from the famous Tanque La Union and blocks from Central Park. You’ll also get to soak up views of all three Antiguan volcanoes from the terrace.
Maya Papaya, Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $20
- Private Room: From $32
- Address: 1ra Calle Poniente #20, Antigua, Guatemala
The saying ‘it’s all in the details’ really rings true for this hostel in Guatemala. If I could recommend a second luxurious hostel, this would be it. Tucked between lush tropical plants in a quiet part of Antigua, this hostel is designed with the perfect mix of simple modernity and traditional flair.
Breakfast is served each morning, offering a range of healthy (and less healthy options for the sweet tooths). Maya Papaya is a great place for digital nomads, with a quiet workspace, well-working Wi-Fi, and an outdoor courtyard and pool table perfect for a quick break from your desk.
While the dorm rooms are basic, the rest of the property is curated to feel like a warm and inviting home away from home. Private suites are fitted with ultra-comfy beds, warm lighting, and decorated with Guatemalan art and fabrics.
Even the bathrooms are gorgeous! You can choose from ultra-social fourteen-sleeper dorms, pay slightly more for a small four-person dorm, or splurge on a private suite.
Hostal De La Fuente, Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $15
- Private Room: From $38
- Address: Calle 9na Oriente Casa 9, Antigua, Guatemala
Hostal De La Fuente is one of the only hostels to offer both breakfast AND dinner included in the nightly rate. It’s basically the half-board equivalent for hostels, with each meal prepared by local chefs. Between meals, hungry travelers can use the shared kitchen to prepare lunch and snacks for the day.
The hostel partners with four tour companies for hiking Acatenango, with specific facilities for travelers doing this hike. It’s also located in the heart of the Antigua hotel district, close to all the best restaurants and coffee shops in the city.
All rooms have memory foam mattresses and hotel-quality bedding, with personal fans for each guest. Purified and filtered water is provided for free, and the hostel is building a rooftop bar and restaurant, which I think will really take things to the next level!
Casa De La Iguana, Livingston
- Dorm (mixed): From $9
- Private Room: From $19
- Address: Unnamed Road, 18002 Lívingston, Guatemala
Some hostels are so comfortable that it’s tough to leave them. Casa De La Iguana is one of those hostels in Guatemala’s Livingstone region. Located at the mouth of the Rio Dulce into the Caribbean Sea, the hostel has a wild and rustic island vibe that is so peaceful you shouldn’t be surprised if you end up extending your stay.
Casa De La Iguana is made up of different thatched buildings, some with housing bedrooms and others with an open-air dining room and lounges. This is the kind of place where you could spend hours lounging around in hammocks, browsing through the book selection, unaware and unbothered by the time of day – and I am ALL for it.
A delicious breakfast is served each morning for a small additional fee – totally worth it for those slow mornings where you don’t feel like leaving the property until midday. You can choose from a bed in a dorm, single rooms with shared bathrooms, and double rooms with shared or private bathrooms.
Selina Atitlan, Panajachel
- Dorm (mixed): From $24
- Private Room: From $130
- Address: Calle del Embarcadero, Panajachel, Guatemala
Backpackers don’t usually expect super luxurious accommodation, but they sure do get it at this Selina property in Atitlan. Like all of Selina’s Hostels, the facilities at this spot are off-the-charts. Not to mention the beautiful interiors and bespoke furniture and lighting in each room.
The hostel surrounds a central swimming pool and includes an on-site bar, a trendy games room with a pool and foosball table, and a quiet coworking space—a staple at all Selina hostels. There is even a playground and a movie room!
There are dorms available for social, budget-conscious travelers and private ones for indulgent visitors. But it’s the size of the rooms that impress me the most. Whether you book a dorm bed or a suite, the ceilings are high, and rooms are so spacious that you could roll out a yoga mat in them.
But you won’t have to… This great value hostel in Guatemala has a yoga deck overlooking the lake.
Yes Please! Hostel, Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $9
- Private Room: From $29
- Address: Calle del Hermano Pedro No. 14, Aldea San Pedro Las Huertas, Antigua, Guatemala
The Yes Please! Hostel in Antigua is the ultimate party hostel and as close to a festival as you’ll get. Why do I say this? Well, aside from the onsite bar around the swimming pool, guests can choose to stay in tents and even a mobile home!
Of course, there are also traditional dorm rooms with privacy curtains and personal lights. Bathroom facilities are shared and cleaned multiple times a day. It’s one of the more affordable properties on this list. While this might mean a little less luxury, it sure doesn’t make any difference to the vibe!
Digital nomads can spend the day in the shared office space, which has large double doors that open out into the gardens. If you have any issues during your stay, staff are on site 24 hours a day to help you out.
Tequila Sunrise, Guatemala City
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Private Room: From $21
- Address: Ruta 5, 7-33 zona 4, Guatemala, Guatemala City, Guatemala
Closing the list off, Tequila Sunrise is located close to a famous walking street packed with bars and restaurants. This epic hostel in Guatemala is also minutes from the airport, making it great for a quick stopover or for anyone with an early flight out of Guatemala City Airport.
The hostel has seven private suites and one shared dorm room. Some privates have space for four guests, others just for a pair. Kind of like a motel, guests can use the shared laundry facilities and help themselves to tea and coffee, city maps, and sodas from the fridge!
Feel free to cook in the shared kitchen, relax on the rooftop terrace, and use the Wi-Fi to update your friends and family back home. Oh, and breakfast of pancakes, fruit, and coffee or tea is included at the nightly rate. How convenient is that!?
FAQs About Hostels in Guatemala
Right then, let’s have a look at some further frequently asked questions about hostels here in Guatemala.
What To Pack For Guatemala
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!
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Guatemala
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 Guatemala.
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.
Final Thoughts on Guatemala’s Hostels
Staying at one of the best hostels in Guatemala is the perfect way to experience the country’s warm, community-focused spirit without breaking the bank.
But it’s not just a social experience – it’s an adventurous one, too. Whether taking in the views of Lake Atitlan from the rooftop deck or walking through the colonial archways of a converted colonial home, there is a hostel on this list for every type of traveler.
With affordable prices, long-stay options, and convenient amenities like Wi-Fi and kitchens, you’ll get a lot of value for your money. Hostels in Guatemala are more than just a place to sleep; they are a gateway to the best friends and adventures that the country has to offer.
If you’re still unsure, I’d recommend locking in my overall top pick, Flore Hostel, Antigua. It’s great for all different types of travelers and even offers up a delicious free breakfast 🙂
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Guatemala for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Guatemala covered.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Central America backpacking guide.
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