Hailed as Colombia’s ultimate backpacker beach town, Palomino has a way of flipping your travel plans in the best possible way. With its beachfront vibes, chilled-out nightlife, and endless land and sea adventures—tubing through the jungle, anyone?—it’s the perfect spot to kick back. Now’s the time to soak up Palomino before the secret’s out!

Lounge and enjoy a cocktail on the beach while looking at the unrivalled vistas of the snow-capped mountain ranges of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Bloody unbeatable! See the most spectacular sunsets, and enjoy the variety of eateries and bars with live music in the evenings. Sounds pretty awesome right!?

What’s more, Palomino is incredibly budget-friendly, and you can save even more by opting to stay in the area’s friendly and fun hostels. But as a pretty undiscovered spot in Colombia, scouting out a hostel can often feel like a bit of a mission.

That’s where I come in. I’ve done the scouting both online and with boots on the ground to bring you my ultimate guide to the best hostels in Palomino.

Whether you are trying to party hard, unwind in style, sleep cheap, or find a comfy spot to call your office, this list will sort you out.

Are you ready? Let’s get this hostel hunt started.

friends eating food in Colombia
Fuelling up for this hostel hunt
Photo: @joemiddlehurst

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Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Palomino

The 5 Best Hostels in Palomino

Palomino’s hostels cater to every vibe, whether you’re after a cozy, intimate stay or a bigger spot perfect for groups. With eco-friendly designs and plenty of charm, these unique hideaways guarantee an unforgettable Palomino experience.

1. Bella Flor Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Palomino

Bella Flor Hostel Palomino Colombia
  • Dorm (mixed): From $10
  • Private Room: From $31
  • Address: Carrera 6 con calle 4,, Palomino, Colombia

Bella Flor is a chill haven run by a Colombian family who ditched city life for Palomino’s laid-back charm. It’s the perfect peaceful retreat for travelers and backpackers in Colombia alike. Plus, the daily rate includes a breakfast that’ll have you drooling. Want to whip up your own meals? The fully equipped kitchen has you sorted.

Smack bang in the heart of town, Bella Flor is just a 2-minute stroll away from all the action. Step outside and you’ll be surrounded by bakeries, bars, pizzerias, local shops, and enough restaurants to keep you well-fed and happy. And if that’s not enough, the hostel’s close to some serious nature vibes—think stunning beaches, mountains, Indian reserves, and local nature spots.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Super Chill Vibes
  • Free Breakfast
  • Great Location

When it comes to socializing, the hostel’s common areas are the place to be—plenty of games, a TV, music, books, and of course, your fellow travelers. You’ll never be bored.

As for rooms, Bella Flor has a mix of privates and dorms. The dorms max out at four people, which makes it easy to connect without feeling cramped. All rooms have cracking views of the garden and come with wall fans and mosquito nets to keep you comfy. Laundry facilities are also available for when you need to freshen up.

The on-site restaurant serves up a killer breakfast and lunch with freshly cooked meals and all the juice varieties you could ask for. Dinner is your excuse to wander into town and explore! And don’t worry about staying connected—Wi-Fi is fast and reliable throughout, so digital nomads can smash out some work without a hitch.

2. Tiki Hut Hostel – Best Hostel in Palomino for Solo Travelers

Tiki Hut Hostel Palomino Colombia
  • Dorm (mixed): From $11
  • Private Room: From $29
  • Address: Playas Don Aire- Avenida Principal, Palomino, Colombia

Tiki Hut Hostel is the ultimate spot for solo travelers and groups alike looking for comfy, budget-friendly digs in Palomino. Honestly, it’s one of my fave hostels in Colombia. The cabins, made with natural, locally grown materials like Boba Cane, offer a mix of rustic charm and eco-conscious vibes, creating a beautiful and sustainable place to stay.

Located just 100 meters from Palomino Beach and a kilometer from the main road, the hostel puts guests within easy reach of local favorites like the San Salvador and Palomino River.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Pool Table
  • Super Social
  • Beer Pong

With a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and huge green spaces, there’s plenty of room to relax. The on-site restaurant serves local dishes, and the bar is famous for its epic cocktails and unbeatable vibes. A hostel with a pool, Jacuzzi, and a buzzing bar all in one. Evenings at the bar bring the perfect mix of laid-back hangouts and swapping travel stories.

Private rooms come with ensuite bathrooms, and the largest dorm sleeps up to ten people—ideal for big groups sticking together without breaking the bank. Breakfast isn’t included but is available for a small fee, making it easy to start the day.

Staff are always on hand with tips for activities and tours, making sure every guest has an unforgettable time in Palomino.

3. Freesoul – Best Cheap Hostel in Palomino

Freesoul Palomino Colombia
  • Dorm (mixed): From $7
  • Private Room: From $18
  • Address: Carrera 6 #4-350, Calle principal a la playa Dibulla, Palomino, Colombia

Freesoul is the perfect place for backpackers and travelers who are looking to save a little money without sacrificing comfort and fun, it’s one of the best Palomino hostels if you’re on a tight budget. The space is located just a few steps from Palomino Beach and is surrounded by restaurants, so you never have to look far to grab excellent and authentic Colombian food.

Free breakfast is served in the morning and they also offer vegan options, so everyone is catered for. Coffee is served free all day! After a hearty breakfast, head down to the beach or explore the town and meet the locals.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Free Brekky
  • Daily Events Held
  • Free Shuttle Bus

What better way to socialize with fellow guests, exchange ideas, and learn a few things at the same time than by attending various classes, like the salsa and Spanish classes? There are also movie nights now and then. Check with the staff for more information about their tours and travel offerings.

Each bed in all shared rooms comes with its own locker where you can stash your things and not worry about them. Aside from lockers, each dorm bed is provided with a mosquito net, reading light, ample plugs for gadgets, and curtains for privacy.

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4. Dreamer Palomino – Best Party Hostel in Palomino

Dreamer Palomino
  • Dorm (mixed): From $17
  • Private Room: From $46
  • Address: Playa Donaire, Palomino beach area, Palomino, Colombia

Dreamer Palomino is the perfect backpacker escape with direct private beach access. Designed by travelers, it’s got everything you need to feel right at home—an outdoor swimming pool, hammocks, and plenty of terraces for chilling and meeting fellow adventurers.

There’s no shortage of fun either. Join in for pool, karaoke, or hit the dancefloor if you’re up for some embarrassing moves. When you’re done, the comfy dorm rooms are waiting.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Super Social
  • Beer Pong
  • Daily Events Held

Need help planning? The tour desk has you covered for tubing on the Palomino River or trips to Tayrona Park for hiking, horse riding, and swimming at Cabo San Juan.

Extras like free Wi-Fi, BBQ facilities, laundry, and luggage storage make life easy. Add in yoga, Spanish lessons, and tasty meals from the on-site restaurant, and you’ve got everything sorted for a great stay. Honestly, I specifically wrote an in-depth review about this hostel because I loved my stay here so much.

5. Casa del Pavo Real – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Palomino

Casa del Pavo Real Palomino Colombia
  • Dorm (mixed): From $13
  • Private Room: From $42
  • Address: Calle #10 / Km72, Via la playa, Palomino, Colombia

Casa del Pavo Real is the ultimate hideaway for digital nomads and backpackers in South America craving chill vibes. Nestled in lush green gardens filled with mango trees and coconut palms, this spot offers serious relaxation.

Meals are served at a big family-style table, giving a personal touch to the free brekkie and a great chance to meet new people. The friendly staff are always around with tips on what to see and do in the area, making sure you get the most out of your stay.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Swimming Pool
  • Rooms with Balconies
  • Chill Vibes

Accommodation options include air-conditioned double rooms with private bathrooms and garden views, budget-friendly 6-bed dorms with lockers and reading lights, or your own private bungalow—perfect for couples. Whether you need a kitchen, gym, or laundry, Casa del Pavo Real has you covered, making it a top choice for longer stays.

No matter which room you pick, the pool is all yours to enjoy. And if you’re working remotely, there’s a library space for getting stuff done. Afterward, treat yourself to some R&R at their on-site Colibry Spa for massages and more. You’ll be living the good life here.

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More Epic Palomino 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 Palomino below.

Palomino Sunrise

Palomino Sunrise Colombia
  • Dorm (mixed): From $12
  • Private Room: From $31
  • Address: Carrera 3 # 3-534, Palomino, Colombia

Located just 500 meters from Palomino Beach, it’s easy to see why several backpackers consider Palomino Sunrise a great hostel to stay in. The property is stylish and modern yet manages to stay true to the area’s beach vibe.

The private and dorm rooms all have views of the swimming pool and are all ecologically designed to resemble huts but we’re not talking about shabby huts here. Stylish, comfortable, and convenient, they are guaranteed to make your stay pleasant. Not only is the space near the beach, but it is also just a few minutes walk away from the main road. It’s a lot more peaceful compared to other hostels in the area having more of a laid-back rather than party vibe.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Friendly Staff
  • Room service
  • Tours/Travel Desk

The continental breakfast that’s included in the rate is a great bonus. Not only is it a great way to save money, but it’s an ideal way to set up for the day. Don’t forget that you can also order good grub from the on-site bar and restaurant if you don’t like venturing far for lunch or dinner.

Check with the Tours and Travel Desk about activities for guests so you can make the most of your stay in Palomino. The staff here know all the ins and outs about what to do around Palomino and will help you make the most of your time here.

After a day of activities, head to the sun terrace, the perfect place to unwind and relax. The integrated natural surroundings make it one of the best eco hostels in Colombia and a chilled-out place to hang out.

La Natura Hostel & Pool

La Natura Hostel & Pool Palomino Colombia
  • Dorm (mixed): From $7
  • Private Room: From $19
  • Address: Carrera 5 Calle 2A, Palomino, Colombia

La Natura Hostel is the perfect place for the more adventurous and younger crowd, known for its chill and laid-back vibe. It’s in the heart of Palomino, surrounded by the sea, mountains, and the jungle. Ideally located, the hostel is just a short walk to Palomino Beach whilst retaining those jungle vibes making you feel surrounded by nature… hence the name!

La Natura has plenty of common areas where guests can hang out with each other such as the outdoor swimming pool and terrace. The hammocks near the mango trees are the best places to lie down, relax, and chill after a day of exploring the town and beyond.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Laundry facilities
  • Fully-equipped kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi

Security lockers are free for guests to use and as a further security measure, La Natura is equipped with door code entry for peace of mind. If you’ve forgotten the essentials (which you won’t with my Colombia packing list) then you can even rent a towel out to lounge around by the pool.

Guests can choose from mixed dormitory rooms with a capacity of 6 or 10 people as well as having the option of private double ensuite rooms. Each of the beds in the dorm room comes with a wall fan and mosquito net. Laundry, tea, and coffee-making facilities, and 24-hour drinking water are all free for guests to use. In addition, meals can be prepared in the fully-equipped kitchen and enjoyed in the dining area.

Casa Chapolin Boutique Guesthouse

Casa Chapolin Boutique Guesthouse Palomino Colombia
  • Dorm (mixed): From $20
  • Private Room: From $51
  • Address: Palomino, Km 72, Carrera#10 via la Playa, Palomino, Colombia

Located on Palomino’s quiet side, the property is just a minute away from the beach, perfect for couples who can’t get enough of the sea and sand. The hostel is run by a family of surfers so guests can get the inside scoop on where surf spots are.

The daily rate is inclusive of free breakfast so that’s even more savings for guests. The family does their best to serve freshly baked bread with the all-you-can-eat breakfast daily but the star of the meal is the crepes. There’s an on-site gym near the garden—perfect for those traveling and working long-term.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Great Location
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • On-site Gym

The outdoor terrace is a relaxing space where guests can enjoy a cup of tea, flip through the pages of a good book, or even plan their next destination. Speaking of books, there is a book exchange on the property where you can get new reads and leave old favorites behind for the next person to enjoy.

The cosy space is just a short 10-minute walk to the main street where you’ll find a plethora of restaurants and shops but you need not go far for hearty meals as Casa Chapolin has a café and restaurant on-site.

The property offers both private and shared rooms, so there’s something for everyone. The private rooms are perfect for couples who would like to enjoy privacy without breaking the bank. Luxury suites are available for those who want to splurge a bit. This means you can have the best of both worlds with luxury, privacy, and all the social elements of hostel life.

The hostel owners do their very best to protect the environment and that is why they don’t use plastics and there’s no air-conditioning on the entire property, but other modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, BBQ, and laundry facilities are available for guests.

Kanta Sana

Kanta Sana Palomino Colombia
  • Dorm (mixed): From $8
  • Private Room: From $25
  • Address: Carrera 10 3-40, Segunda entrada al mar, Palomino, Colombia

Kanta Sana is a place that you can call home whilst traveling the world. Theunique architectural features of the hostel showcase the natural surroundings in the most beautiful way. Kanta Sana also boasts a large swimming pool for guests to enjoy. The hostel is located just across the way to a garden that is home to various trees, including mangoes, coconuts, and other fruit trees.

The campfire and the grill are excellent places to socialize with other backpackers, exchange a few travel stories, and perhaps a few insider tips on the most rad places to surf or sample the best Colombian dishes. You need not look very far if you are in search of the best seafood because the on-site restaurant offers the freshest catch of the day, as well as vegetarian dishes. Of course, included on the menu are some of the most popular Caribbean cocktails too.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Outdoor terrace
  • Luggage storage
  • On-site Bar and Restaurant

Located centrally, Kanta Sana is just a few minutes walk from Palomino Beach and the main street. The tours and travel desk is always open for those who want to inquire about activities. Don’t forget to stash your things in the security lockers and help yourself to free city maps when heading out so you can navigate the town easily.

All the rooms on the property are located on a covered bamboo platform built around two mango trees. Essentially, guests are sleeping in a big treehouse. pretty sweet! The big shaded terrace nearby is ideal for chilling, reading a book, or enjoying a drink in peace.

Mouth-watering breakfast is served free daily, so it’s a great way to fill up. Hire a bike from the hostel and head into town and explore for the day after you’ve had your fill.

Coco Sankala Hostel

Coco Sankala Hostel Palomino

Like many of the hostels in Palomino, Coco Sankala makes it a point to use local products in the design and architecture of their hostel. The eco-friendly property uses bamboo and does an excellent job of blending the material with the surroundings whilst looking after the planet.

The hostel’s common areas such as the garden have some magnificent views of the snow-covered Sierra Nevada mountains, hang out in a hammock, and take it all in. The hostel is not that big, it can only accommodate a maximum of 20 people but this guarantees an intimate experience and more personal interaction between guests and the hosts. There’s even a small library on site for the guests to share.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • On-site Cafe
  • Free Parking
  • Fully Equipped Kitchen

Breakfast is free and guests who want to prepare their own meals can easily do so in the shared fully-equipped kitchen but those who don’t want to bother with cooking can just order their meals at the café on-site. Situated just between the village and the beach, the hostel is just 6 blocks away from the main road if you fancy heading out for food.

The cozy space offers both private and shared rooms. The private rooms come with double beds, mosquito nets, a hammock, and a private bathroom. The hostel has only two types of dorms, one with 4 beds and another with 8 beds. Each dorm room comes with lockers, fans, mosquito nets, and a private bathroom. Each dorm comes equipped with lockers, fans, mosquito nets, and private bathrooms—trust me, you’ll be glad for those mosquito nets (lesson learned the hard way). The smaller dorms are perfect for small groups of mates traveling together.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Palomino

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 Palomino.

Making sure you have travel insurance in Colombia is super important—don’t skimp out for the sake of saving a couple dollars!

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 Palomino Hostels

What to Pack for your Palomino 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.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

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.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
Keep your laundry organized and stink free

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.

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

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.

Make Some New Buddies…
Make Some New Buddies…

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.

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!
Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

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 do hostels in Palomino cost?

Hostels in Palomino both offer private rooms and dorm rooms. Private rooms have prices ranging from $60 to $90 and dorm rooms have prices ranging from $10 to $20 per bed.

What are the best hostels in Palomino for couples?

A cozy hostel where you can enjoy reading books on cool hammocks in the tranquil side of Palomino sounds like a paradise, Casa Chapolin Boutique Guesthouse is my top stay for a romantic getaway.

What is there to do in Palomino?

Palomino is the ultimate backpacker hangout with chilled beach vibes, lazy river tubing, and some decent surf for beginners. When you’re not floating down the Palomino River or exploring nearby waterfalls, you can kick back at laid-back beach bars or dive into the mellow party scene.

Final Thoughts on Palomino’s Hostels

Palomino is a hidden paradise with a hippy vibe, perfect for relaxation and respite from the demands of city life. It offers so much more than just tubing down the river and it deserves to be more than just a stopover on the way to La Guajira.

There are plenty of things to do, try, and see, but it doesn’t mean that you should just throw caution to the wind and go over budget. Fortunately, Palomino offers plenty of hostels for travelers, there’s always one suitable for you regardless of your budget. It’s also one of the safest places in Colombia, so you’re guaranteed a great time.

If you’re still figuring out where to stay then you should definitely check out Dreamer Palomino. It’s perfect for solo travelers wanting a social vibe. Get involved with the salsa classes, brush up on your Spanish, or simply float in the pool with a cocktail (the last one sounds much more up my alley).

And hey, if you discover any hidden gems or must-try spots along the way, drop me a comment – I’m always looking for the best new spot in this sleeper seaside town. Happy travels!

Will is laid down on his front on a net whilst working on his laptop
Not a bad place to kick it back eh?
Looking for more info on travelling to Palomino and Colombia?

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the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
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