Hola and welcome to our best hostels in Colombia. We have collected a bunch of amazing places to stay in Colombia; from Bogota over Medellin to Cartagena.
Are these the best hostels in Colombia?
Do Colombians speak Spanish…?
Another thing we’re certain of: these hostels are jaw-droopingly beautiful. So much so, you might decide to lay down roots and never leave. Maybe just warn your parents before reading further.
Get ready for backpacker hostels, flashpacker havens and of course, ideal places to have a good time by the pool.
Psst! We have THREE 5 star hostels in Colombia;
- Casa del Pavo Real in Palomino
- Hobu Hostel in Bogota and
- Calle 11 Hostel in Santa Marta
You’ll spot a big map of Colombia complete with ALL hostels at the end of this guide. This is really helpful for your planning.
Not only that, but we share with you our ultimate hostel packing list.
In this guide we cover the following destinations:
- RÃohacha
- Palomino
- Santa Marta
- Minca
- Cartagena de Indias
- Guatapé
- Medellin
- JardÃn
- Manizales
- Pereira
- Salento
- Santa Elena
- Cali
- San AgustÃn
- Bogotá
- Villa de Leyva
- San Gil
- San Andrés
Best Hostels in RÃohacha
RÃohacha is known for its native Wayúu people and is the place where the Riohacha river meet the Caribbean Sea.
The hostels we recommend are:
1. Bona Vida Hostel La Tercera
La Tercera is run by an Austrian Colombian couple, just a few steps away from the beach, nice restaurants, bars and shops.
This colourful hostel offers many great perks. See for yourself:
- Free breakfast (pancakes, scrambled eggs, fruit, coffee)
- Free access to pool @ sister hostel
- Cheap beer
- Communal kitchen
Room choices include private doubles, 4-bed and 8-bed mixed dorms.
There are also 2 gorgeous hostel cats to love!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Hostel Laguna Sala By FSL
Calling all flashpackers for a very fancy hostel just 200m from the beach!
Hostel Laguna Sala By FSL will make it easy for you to relax and never leave the premises.
That’s because there is an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, kitchen, bar, restaurant and lounge.
What more do you need?!
Alongside private rooms, mixed dorms come in all shapes and sizes with option of 4, 6, 8 and 10-beds. That’s impressive.
To top it off, the breakfast is free and reception is open 24/7.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Palomino
Moving less than 100km from Riohacha and 70km from Santa Marta is Palomino. This next destination is also on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. That’s tempting enough, right?
The best hostels in Palomino are:
- Casa del Pavo Real – 5 star hostel
- Coco Sänkala Hostel
1. Casa del Pavo Real
How about a 5 star hostel surrounded by mango trees and coconut palms? Yes please!
Casa del Pavo Real is located in a quiet street just a 4-minute walk from the beach. The Main Street, boasting bars and restaurants, is a 15-minute walk.
The entire design is gorgeous. No matter whether you choose a mixed dorm, double room or private bungalow, you’re going to be amazed.
Breakfast (included), lunch and dinner is served at a big family table.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Full Review
2. Coco Sänkala Hostel
The entire design of Coco Sänkala Hostel is made of bamboo – eco-friendly and beautiful!
So it’s no surprise you can expect quiet surroundings, hammocks and a short stroll to the beach. Lovely jubbly.
We highly recommend treating yourself to a private room. It comes with your very own hammock and mosquito net. Either that or enjoy a 4-bed or 8-bed mixed dorm. Each with a private bathroom.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Santa Marta
Each hostel in Santa Marta has a swimming pool, social vibes and relaxing spaces.
Prepare to have your socks blown off by:
- Calle 11 Hostel Rodadero – 5 star hostel
- Casa Avelina Hostal
- Republica Hostel
Read: our full guide to the best hostels in Santa Marta – including a fun party hostel.
1. Calle 11 Hostel Rodadero
Once owned by the Colombian cartel, Calle 11 Hostel Rodadero is now an instagrammable accommodation.
Party by the poolside bar, or relax in a hammock. Enjoy nightly social events and collapse in to a comfy dorm bed.
From here, you’ll be minutes away from three – yes three – beaches!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Full Review
Calle 11 Hostel Rodadero
2. Casa Avelina Hostal
It never gets boring to mention hammocks, pools and beautiful gardens. And yes, you can expect all three at Casa Avelina Hostal!
Grab a free bike to explore the sights and return for delicious food at the in-house restaurant.
All the spaces here are lovely and bright, with air-conditioning thrown in.
It’s a super duper option for sociable travellers looking to meet people from all walks of life.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Casa Avelina Hostal
3. Republica Hostel
At Republica Hostel, you can try out yoga and join in the weekend pool party.
The sophisticated design will ease you in to an unforgettable experience.
Make use of the in-house bar or wander to the nearby boardwalk for more options.
Rooms on offer include 6, 8, 14 and 16-bed dorms as well as deluxe double rooms for the cosy couples out there.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Republica Hostel
Best Hostels in Minca
For the nature lovers out there looking to disconnect and hide away, Minca is a paradise!
Nestled in the jungle, Minca is a small off-the-beaten-path town in the mountains. Certainly the place for epic sunsets and lush green hills.
Oh and great hostels, of course! We’ve found 4 cool options:
- Finca Hostal Bolivar – Casa Mango
- Finca Hostal Bolivar – Casa Maracuya
- Finca Carpe Diem
- Hostel Casas Viejas
1. Finca Hostal Bolivar – Casa Mango
Just 5-minutes from Minca town, you’ll be staying in the middle of a dense jungle.
From this private viewpoint, you can see Santa Marta and the Caribbean Sea!
There are only small dorms here, which are quite basic. But you wouldn’t want to spend much time indoors here, anyway.
Why not refresh in the Minca river which is directly by the hostel? Then all that’s left to do is chill outside by the fire with a beer. Sounds good to me.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Finca Hostal Bolivar – Casa Maracuya
Sister hostel to Casa Mango, the deal here is pretty similar and just as enjoyable.
Casa Maracuya is instead by the Gaira river which is also great for a refreshing swim!
You can also enjoy the river from your very own wooden terrace.
It’s hands-down a beautiful little place in the midst of lush forest, 5-minutes from Minca town.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Finca Carpe Diem
Once again in the middle of the jungle, this incredible eco-resort is your gateway to cacao, coffee and waterfalls.
Oh and three swimming pools!
Disconnect, drink beer and swing in a hammock all day long, if you like.
What else?
- Surrounded by mountains, rivers & waterfalls
- Unique excursions (lost cities, bird watching)
- On-site restaurant
- Committed staff
See you there.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. Hostel Casas Viejas
Do you love coffee? Well, you’re in luck – Hostel Casas Viejas is located in one of the most famous coffee farms in Colombia!
Eat delicious local and international food, savour locally brewed beer and join one (or two) outdoor and cultural activities.
It’s also an ideal base for hiking, morning yoga and treating yourself to an indigenous massage.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Cartagena de Indias
This city is really on top of the hostel game. You can find many fantastic hostels, offering swimming pool, fun events, cool and clean dorms.
All you need to add is a cool Cartagena hostel and you’re ready to go!
Choose from:
Check out our full guide to the best hostels in Cartagena de Indias here.
1. Bourbon St Hostel Boutique
Bourbon St Hostel Boutique is for us on top of all the best hostels in Cartagena for solo-travellers.
Why? It is a small, yet sociable design that offers a warm, homely vibe.
There’s a swimming pool, bar-restaurant and often live music to enjoy. It’s a social butterfly’s heaven!
As many as 42 guests can stay, spread over 3 mixed dorm rooms of 12, 14 and 16 beds.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Republica Hostel
Here we have a rather large hostel, with a total of 100 dorm beds. Some of which have double beds as well as single!
Get excited for:
- Free breakfast
- Daily activities
- Two bars
- Rooftop deck w/ hot tub
Oh and two large lounge areas to kick back and relax.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Be Lounge
Step foot inside Be Lounge and be wowed by a perfect balance of old and new. This hostel is housed in a 400 year old colonial house!
The dorms have been designed with privacy in mind – female solo travellers will love it.
Many social spaces are on offer including a bar-restaurant and sun deck area. Brekky is also included in the price.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Be Lounge Hostel
Best Hostels in Guatapé
If you’ve ever fancied seeing the views from the top of Piedra del Peñol, Guatapé is a good place to base yourself.
It’s the sort of destination that will win over the hearts of any type of traveller, even you!
We had a good look and found:
1. Hotel Mansion
Sorry dorm lovers, Hotel Mansion is strictly for those looking for a swanky private room. It’s an ideal choice for couples and families.
And wow, are they impressive! The photos speak for themselves.
Relax and enjoy a heated pool, jacuzzi, sauna, restaurant and a spot of tennis – how fancy!
And guess what? Breakfast is included, too.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Bacoa Hostel
With views of a lake and famous Peñol, it might be tempting to lounge in a hammock or on the terrace all day. In fact, the lake can be seen from your bed!
Bacoa Hostel is a traditional country house offering 4 wood cabins and a couple of dorms.
Breakfast is included and there’s a restaurant so you needn’t worry about cooking.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Medellin
The City of Eternal Spring is calling your name! Medellin is in fact Colombia’s second largest city, so you can expect a great hostel game here.
Have a look at our hand-picked suggestions we know you’ll love:
Head on over to our full guide to the best hostels in Medellin for more info and party hostels!
1. Rango Hostel Boutique
Rango is a boutique home-from-home that is better lived than told. So what are you waiting for?
Ok, ok, here’s some reasons why this is our top choice:
- On-site restaurant (cocktails, ideal work space)
- Rooftop
- TV & mini fridge in all rooms
- Fun events
See, we told you it was great.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Rango Hostel Boutique
2. Los Patios Suites Hostal
Gorgeous female-only dorms, spacious rooftop (with bar) and co-working room – all and more can be found at Los Patios Suites Hostal.
So what about the more?
There’s also a gym, chill out spaces and top of the line kitchen. Reception is also open 24/7, bonus!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Los Patios Suites Hostal
3. Medellin Vibes Hostel
What kind of vibes are we talking about here? Cosy, quiet and most certainly luxurious.
I mean seriously, look at it! It’s hard to believe it’s a hostel and not a boutique hotel with the outstanding service and design.
Next to the pool there is a bar offering the best cocktails in Medellin.
Dorm rooms come in female-only size, plus 4,6, and 8-bed mixed. There are also 15 stunning private rooms and suites to choose from. Good luck picking one!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Jardin: Ayahuasca Casa Artistica
The team at Ayahuasca Casa Artistica aim to bridge the gap between tourists and locals by working closely with both, as well as impressive artists.
Let’s have a glance at just some of the things on offer:
- Tattoo studio
- Aerial silks to play with
- Permaculture garden
- Pizza oven by the bonfire
This unique place is child friendly, pet friendly and has lovely staff at hand 24 hours a day.
Set in the mountains just outside of Jardin, we recommend hanging out in the hammock to soak in the views.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Manizales
Situated in western Colombia, Manizales is a mountainous coffee-growing region. There are many great cultural events to be experienced here!
The best hostels in Manizales are:
1. Biohaus Eco-Hostel & Cafe
For those of you that love art, nature, sustainability and wellness; we’ve found your perfect match.
Biohaus Hostel & Cafe is made out of recycled shipping containers and local recycled material!
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Private suites and mixed dorms are on the menu, alongside a fully-fitted kitchen and laundry.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Golden Frog Mountain Hostel
The building where Golden Frog resides is over 100 years old and is a typical house you can expect to see in Manizales.
Colourful doors, flowers all around, hammocks – this is possibly the best welcome to this coffee region.
The staff can’t wait to put a smile on your face and introduce you to all the possibilities. They even provide you with a free breakfast!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Pereira: Kolibri Hostel
Our one and only recommendation in Kolibri won’t let you down. It has a central location and wonderful amenities in one of the best areas of Pereira.
The showers are powered by solar energy and all the cleaning products are biodegradable. Details that make a big difference.
A mix of curtain-clad dorms and private rooms are on offer.
As for the best bits? Rent a bike, sip on free tea/coffee, relax on the terrace and have fun in the games room.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Salento
Salento is the gateway to Los Nevados National Natural Park and rare parrots in the nearby Cocora Valley.
And of course, coffee!
You might be pleasantly surprised to hear that we’ve found 3 wonderful hostels, too. They are:
1. Hostal Vista Hermosa Salento
First up we have one for couples and families. There are in fact two cottages and one apartment to choose from, designed for 2-4 people.
Hostal Vista Hermosa Salento also happens to be in a great location, 3 blocks from the main square and surrounded by mountains.
For that hostel vibe you can hang out in the cozy common area and shared kitchen.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Mochila Hostel Salento
Mochila Salento is ideal for lovers of yoga, mountains and hostel pets.
Also if you’re quite partial to a cold beer and yummy food, you’ll probably like it here.
Stay entertained with many board games, ping-pong and a TV room for when you fancy switching off.
There are private rooms and a 6-bed dorm available. Breakfast is included for everyone.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Walker’s House Hostel
Who’s looking for bright spaces and sturdy, private bunks? Then look no further than Walker’s House Hostel.
The best area to hang out in has to be the rooftop bar.
Friendly staff can help book tours and offer any local advice. They’re at your service 24/7.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Santa Elena: Casa de Campo Santa Elena
Casa de Campo Santa Elena boasts a lot of cool things which make this the one and only suggestion in Santa Elena.
Stay here and enjoy:
- On-site restaurant
- Garden & terrace
- Shared lounge
- Games room
Wi-fi is free and the friendly staff are there for you 24-hours a day. All rooms include linen and towels – private only, no dorms.
Compare prices at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Cali
Southwest from Bogota, Cali is famous for salsa dancing and fun nightlife. Are you ready to get your dancing shoes on?!
The cool hostels in Cali are:
1. Oasis Cali Hostel
Kick start your salsa career with free lessons at Oasis Cali Hostel! Or perhaps you fancy something more slow paced? Join a yoga class instead.
In the garden you’ll spot a jacuzzi and terrace. Inside make use of the TV room, boutique kitchen and 24-hour reception.
From here, you’ll be just 2 blocks from the best nightlife in the area.
Itinerary idea: free breakfast, free walking tour, free salsa and chill.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Hostel Rossa Palma
Situated in the colonial district as part of The Old Cali, Rossa Palma offers a range of cosy dorms and simplistic privates.
All sorts of fun things are possible here. Explore the city, wind down with some yoga, learn salsa or simply relax by the pool – the choice is yours.
There’s also a bar and restaurant on-site, so you needn’t go far to satisfy your belly.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Hostal Ruta Sur
The warm and pleasant space of Hostel Ruta Sur will have you feeling less like a tourist and more of an associate, treated with warmth and respect.
Make yourself at home in bold spaces with clever design. Be sure to nab the hammock quick!
It’s a 5-minute walk to one of the most fun salsa bars around. A salsa school is even closer.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in San AgustÃn: Masaya Hostel San Agustin
Ok seriously, sit down before looking at the photos from Masaya Hostel.
Forget ordinary hostel; this is a resort in a stunning setting with eco-conscious design and luxurious living spaces.
Make new friends by joining weekly events and disconnect to reconnect with nature. It’s everywhere you turn here.
A filling buffet breakfast will kick start your day, stunning bamboo-lined rooms will see you in to the night.
Magdalena’s river canyon can be seen from the terrace of your room.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Bogotá
From wild spaces to sprawling cities. The high-altitude capital of Colombia has a cobblestoned centre and impressive colonial-era landmarks.
To really show off the hostel game, we’ve handpicked 5 hostels!
Your choices include:
Check out our comprehensive guide to the best hostels in Bogotá with even more recommendations.
1. Hobu Hostel
Digital nomads looking for great workspaces with love Hobu Hostel. The coolest and only 5 star hostel in Bogota!
It’s a homely oasis that is a safe option thanks to 24/7 manned reception and security.
For a change, bunks are suspended from the ceiling – cool, huh?
There’s an on-site bar, lounge (with fireplace) and breakfast is free. Two of the best clubs in the city are just 3 blocks away.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Full Review
2. Fernweh Photography Hostel
If you enjoy a chilled, familiar and cosy atmosphere, you’ll enjoy the spaces at Fernweh Photography Hostel.
It’s so chilled, that a 6pm check-out is available on quiet days.
Move from your bed to the hammock, quite literally next to one another. Then sign up to a photography course and make friends in the huge kitchen.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Aurora Hostel
For a smaller option we recommend Aurora Hostel. It can only host 18 travellers, after all.
Dorm beds comes with a privacy curtain and you’ll spot many plants throughout the building. We like that.
Sip a cold beer on the terrace and ask reception about the salsa lessons on offer.
It’s certainly a top choice for older travellers and those going solo that enjoy a quiet atmosphere.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Aurora Hostel
4. Hostal Casa Cubil
Hands up if you love dorms with privacy pod beds! Well at Casa Cubil, the dorms come with a mix of single and double-sized ‘cubils’.
There is also a selection of three private rooms, all with an en-suite.
A beautiful lounge room is the main social area of the hostel.
Breakfast is included, yet there is no common kitchen for guests to use.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
5. Hostal R10
Once you’ve decided between privacy pod dorms and spacious private rooms, settle down and enjoy:
- Living room w/ dining tables
- TV room w/ sofas and Netflix
- Free breakfast
Need we say more? Only that Hostal R10 is in a central location close to the top sights of Bogota.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Villa de Leyva: Casa Mediterránea Villa de Leyva
Less than 15-minutes from the main square of Leyva is the spacious and lively Casa Mediterránea.
It’s a seriously homely place featuring a wood fire and interesting works of art.
There’s private parking, a fully-fitted kitchen and lovely terrace and outdoor spaces with hammocks.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in San Gil
Adventure sports galore at the small Andean city of San Gil! It straddles the river Fonce so you can expect a wet and wild time on the rapids, if that’s what makes you smile.
Otherwise, big swimming holes and waterfalls are aplenty.
As for the coolest hostels in San Gil?
1. Traveler Hostel
The team at Traveler Hostel can connect you with the best promoters of extreme sports in San Gil. From bungee jumping to para-gliding – are you ready?!
Yet there is so much more:
- Amazing rooftop
- Hammock zone
- Big fully-fitted kitchen
- Private & dorm rooms
Situated in San Gil’s historic centre, close to great restaurants and the main square park.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Macondo Hostel
Maconda Hostel offers you the chance to learn a local game called Tejo, hosted every Tuesday – a great way to meet new people.
The hostel garden is equipped with a jacuzzi and surrounded by mango and papaya trees. The jacuzzi is open until 11pm daily!
Other fun activities include beer and burger garden parties and jacuzzi gatherings. BYO beer is also allowed.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Bacaregua Hostel
Bacaregua Hostel is home to 11 private and dorm rooms, making this a cosy, homely place.
You’ll find all you need here for a good time. Free coffee, social rooms, kitchen, hot showers and the option to take private Spanish classes.
And of course, you can sign up for some extreme sports. Just ask at the 24/hr reception for more info.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in San Andrés
For the island lovers out there, we now head to the beautiful Caribbean island of San Andrés. Nothing but white-sand beaches, clear water and coconut palms can be discovered here.
And of course, unforgettable hostels!
We share with you our two favourite finds:
1. Hostel Big V Raizal Home
In case you didn’t already know, Raizal is the name for the native islanders of San Andrés. And it’s at this hostel where you can really get to know a local family!
Immerse in culture, games, food and dance. Each night there is something happening, and the entire community love to have an intercultural exchange.
The family house is made up of two rooms with a capacity of 10.
This is truly a unique experience for travellers looking to immerse in local culture and escape the beaten track.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Blue Almond Hostel
Welcome to the first, oldest and cheapest hostel on the island. Say hello to Blue Almond Hostel.
The team offer daily activities, free surfboards and dive tanks, coffee and bike rentals. Sweet!
As a family run hostel, you can expect spot on information and great service.
To top it off, you’ll be a minute from the ocean and all other handy bits such as a supermarket and downtown are very close by.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
All Best Hostels in Colombia on a Map
Below we have put ALL of the coolest hostels in Colombia mentioned in this article on a map.
That’s because we want to make your planning as hassle free and straight forward as possible!
We’ve marked them as follows:
- 5 Star Hostels: Black with White Star
- Design Hostels: Blue
- Backpacker-Type Hostel: Orange
- Other recommendations: Purple
(View full sized map here)
More Hostels in South America
There are many, many awesome hostels in South America to be discovered and enjoyed, including out-of-this-world 5 star hostels.
Easy: find all of the best hostels in South America here.
We’ve gone one step further and created these awesome guides to nearby destinations to Colombia:
- Best hostels in Quito, Ecuador
- Best hostels in Lima, Peru
- Best Hostels in Cusco, Peru
- The First Hostel in Curacao
Destination not Listed?
Besides the listed accommodation, we also put together the best hostels in the world; the 5 Star Hostels.
We stayed in a former winery in Santorini, in a former jail-now 5 Star Hostel and many more. And we share all of these unique budget accommodations with you.
Make sure you check out our guides “best hostels in“. Here we cover many more destinations.
Update: We now cover as well curated ‘3 best hostels’ guides to cities with no 5 Star Hostels such as Paris, Tokyo and Sydney.
Summary
By now you should have the answer to your question where to stay in Colombia. Which of the best hostels in the Colombia have you fallen in love with? Let us know!
This guide is your shortcut to your hostel-picks, saving you lots of time in your accommodation research.
And for sure, it gives you the security of a top-hostel choice without any bad surprises.
Any questions?
Then please please leave a comment below. We would be thrilled to hear from you and to help a fellow backpacker.
Have fun & Safe travels!
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Your Smart Packing List
It is time to see what you should pack in your backpack or suitcase. Make sure you always pick a quality hostel, it totally reduces the things you need to pack. Here is our ultimate hostel packing list. It features 23 items you should really throw in your backpack.
The most important things to pack are:- earplugs
- eye mask
- key chain flashlight
- the right backpack, the Nomatic (our review of Nomatic here) or Lowe Alpine Lightflite 45 Pack
- packing cubes
- generic padlock (fitting all locker types)
- quick-dry travel towel
- universal power adapter
- travel-sized toiletries
