Hola! Alongside bucket list sights such as Machu Picchu and the Amazon rainforest, your visit to South America certainly has to incorporate the best hostels in Peru.
Right here in this guide you will find the crème de la crème of hostels in top destinations like Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and Mancora, to name just a few.
Join us as we travel the length of the country and deliver only the coolest hostels worth visiting in Peru.
Are these really the best hostels in Peru?
Sí, señor! Sí, señora!
We’ve gone one step further to include the best party hostels in Peru, yay! It is also worth it to mention that Peru is popular for taking Yoga and Ayahuasca Retreats. To make your planning easier and faster, skip to our complete guides to major destinations in Peru:
Hostelgeeks is an independent travel brand collecting the world’s greatest hostels. This means, we do not belong to any booking or media agency.
Make sure you read through all our guides to hostels.
List of Destinations with Top Hostels in Peru
Grab your bottomless cup of maté and gather excitement for you’re about to discover the best boutique Peru hostels on offer.
In no particular order, the destinations covered in this guide are:
- Lima
- Cusco
- Arequipa
- Machu Picchu
- Máncora
- Iquitos
- Ica (Huacachina)
- Huaraz
- Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley)
- Paracas
- Trujillo
- Tarapoto
- Puno
Also in this guide:
- Handy map pinpointing all hostels
- Discounts & promo codes
- More hostel guides
- FAQs
Here are all of the hostels on a map in case you’d like to get an idea of their location first.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🏞️ Best Hostel in Cusco: | Nao Victoria Hostel |
| 🦅 Best Hostel in Lima: | Selina Miraflores Lima |
| 🌋 Best Hostel in Arequipa: | Way Kap Hostel |
| ⛰️Best Hostel in Machu Picchu: | Supertramp Hostel |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Hostel in Mancora: | Misfit Hostel |
| 👫 Best for Socializing in Huacachina: | Banana’s Adventure Hostel |
| 🏄♀️ Best for Surfing in Trujillo: | My Friend Surf Hostal |
| 🌳 Best for Nature Lovers in Paracas: | Kokopelli Hostel Paracas |
| 🎒 For Backpackers in Tarapoto: | El Mural Backpackers |
Best Hostels in Lima
It makes sense to kick start with the capital city of Peru. Whether you’re starting or ending your trip here – or both – we’ve got you covered with only great hostels.
Psst! Lima is where you can enjoy party vibes & a discount with Selina. Let’s go!
- Selina Miraflores Lima
- Kokopelli Hostel Barranco
- KACLLA, The Healing Dog Hostel
- PARTY: Pool Paradise Lima
For more details & even more hostels, check out our best hostels in Lima guide.
We also have a guide on the coolest party hostels in Lima.
1. Selina Miraflores Lima
Even though the price tag is a little higher to stay at Selina Hostel in Miraflores Lima, it’s definitely worth it for STUNNING modern design & the privacy-led dorm rooms.
Social events and parties are always happening, and the onsite bar is a great place to get the mood flowing.
The mix of shared and private rooms makes this a top choice for adults, female solo travellers and anyone that appreciates a super clean & cool hostel.
A pity 😔, the discount code to Selina Hostels expired. Check all valid discounts here.
How to book Selina Hostels the best way?
Rumor has it, new discounts are coming soon. We will share them first in our newsletter. Join us, it is free!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Kokopelli Hostel Barranco
So, you prefer backpacker hostels with a more affordable price tag? Let us introduce Kokopelli Hostel Barranco, real value for money!
Up on the rooftop is where all the cool kids hang out. Join in a fun party night after your free walking tour, or simply play a game of Jenga and sip on a cocktail. Not bad, right?
The room choices are surely worth mentioning, too. There’s a private matrimonial suite with a bath… you don’t come across that everyday! Mixed dorms also include a female-only option with ensuite.
Oh, and breakfast is thrown in for free!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. KACLLA, The Healing Dog Hostel
What’s with this hostel name?! Intriguing. Actually, KACLLA is a Quechua name for the Peruvian hairless dog. Now you know.
Whilst the photos don’t do KACLLA, The Healing Dog Hostel justice, the amenities & facilities surely do:
- Mini-supermarket
- Book exchange
- Free breakfast (+ homemade peanut butter)
- Healing Dog boutique shop
- Full equipped kitchen
KACLLA is located in the heart of Miraflores where everything is happening.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. PARTY: Pool Paradise Lima
Did someone say swimming pool!? Pool Paradise Lima is the only hostel in Lima with one so don’t miss out.
Daytime here is pretty chill, but once nighttime comes it changes quickly.
Once the bar opens the lively atmosphere increases, it’s awesome! From beer pong to quiz nights, you’re sure to have a great party experience here.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Cusco
Once the capital of the Inca Empire, now your gateway to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Be prepared, for Cusco sits at a whopping +3,000m elevation!
Top tip: Drink a cup of Coca leaf tea or two to help with altitude sickness.
Here are some top hostels to consider staying at:
Looking for the best party hostels in Cusco Peru? Find them in our guide to the best hostels in Cusco and best party hostels in Cusco.
1. Nao Victoria Hostel
Looking for a nice cosy, chill experience at your hostel in Cusco? Nao Victoria Hostel is just that, offering a mix of colonial and modern design.
Little touches like a free breakfast and privacy curtains on the bunkbeds are appreciated by all that pass through.
Couples will definitely enjoy the ensuite attached to private rooms.
There aren’t any activities hosted here, yet we encourage you to hang out in the unique living area with other travellers.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
2. Pariwana Hostel Cusco
Over at Pariwana Hostel Cusco the atmosphere is somewhat livelier and ideal for solo travellers and social butterflies.
If you’re in search of the best youth hostels in Cusco Peru, you’ve found it.
Let’s take a peek at some of the perks:
- Onsite restaurant
- Free breakfast & all day coffee
- Daily activities
- Funky bar w/ Happy Hour
It’s super easy to meet people over a trivia night or during one of the free walking tours. If you really hit it off, why not join in a weekend party?
Dorms range from 4-14 beds, depending on how social you’re feeling.
Did you know? There is also a Pariwana Hostel Lima which has high reviews.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
3. Kokopelli Hostel Cusco
Kokopelli Hostel is within a unique 200 year old house just 2-minutes from Cusco’s main plaza area.
The privacy pod-beds here are super spacious… big enough for two, in fact!
When (if?) you can prise yourself away, head on down to the cool Pisco bar for cocktails, food and fun events. Happy Hour promotions lead the way nicely into a good old game of ping pong.
Out in the garden is hammocks and every morning there’s a free brekky. Nice.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. Intro Hostels Cusco
Intro Hostels Cusco has done well to create a homely feel, set inside a 300 year old mansion.
I mean, you can’t get much more cosy than a fire on cold nights and dim, warm lighting against stone walls.
Make use of the onsite bar & restaurant, and fill up for a big day ahead with a free breakfast included each morning. Oh and the outside courtyard area is just beautiful.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Arequipa
Colonial-era capital, active volcano area and epic hostel dorms that will make your jaw drop – why wouldn’t you visit Arequipa?
Conscious hostelling is to be had in this part of Peru. Check out:
Make sure you read our full guide to the best hostels in Arequipa to get a complete overview.
1. Way Kap Hostel
Honestly, Way Kap Hostel has everything you need for a comfortable, fun and memorable stay. But don’t take our word for it!
Firstly, have a glance at a few of the highlights:
- Hostel bar
- Glass-roofed chill space
- Lobby w/ Netflix & playstation
- Bicycle rental
- Common kitchen
There’s also plenty of adequate space for getting some work done. Just make sure it’s done in time for the arranged movie nights – hot chocolate and cookies included!
And the rooms? WOW! Just look the photo below, it says it all.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Arequipay Backpackers Downtown
Calling all sloths that appreciate a calm, homey atmosphere; Arequipay Backpackers Downtown is the hostel for you.
The outdoor spaces and plentiful communal areas are great for relaxing. Grab a book, play some games or wind down with yoga & coca tea.
You’ll find us swinging the day away in a hammock in the garden.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Limbo Jump Hostel
Limbo Jump Hostel offers a hostel experience with a twist. The building itself is made up of upcycled materials, see if you can spot them.
Unusual yet great activities such as cooking classes and an in-house massage really put this hostel on the map.
You can even learn Spanish here, and enjoy Italian cuisine rustled up by in-house chef, Mino.
The rooms are a no-frills area and we like that. It encourages people to come out and mingle.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. PARTY: Wild Rover Hostel Arequipa
We must warn you, Wild Rover Arequipa is definitely for the young party animals!
Their parties are legendary and well-known across South America.
This particular property boasts a poolside bar, daily social events (DJs, fancy dress etc) and a sports TV in Wild Rover Bar.
The 20-bed dorm room is ideal if you want to meet as many people as possible and party all night long.
Guess what? This is one of the best party hostels in the world!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Machu Picchu: Supertramp Hostel
Supertramp Hostel offers you an opportunity to stay as close as geologically possible to Machu Picchu and the start of the Inca Trail.
Thousands of travellers have stayed here and the reviews are consistently high, along with the rating.
In short, it’s vibrant, modern, lively and lots of fun!
Good to know: There is a hostel bar here that is open ‘ti late.
A yummy free breakfast is on offer and the staff serve it from 4am for those early birds heading to the ruins before the rush.
The bus station for Machu Picchu is a sort 10-minute walk.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Mancora
The small resort town of Mancora largely attracts people for its beach and large surfing waves. Other than that there’s a surprisingly lively nightlife and mud baths that lie southeast of town.
We recommend staying at:
- Misfit Hostel
- PARTY: Loki del Mar
1. Misfit Hostel
If you like the sound of watching the sunset from your bed whilst listening to the sound of the ocean, book your stay at Misfit Hostel.
Yep, it’s literally right on the beach! As you’ll be a 10-minute walk from the main town area, you can expect a peaceful stay here, away from the party scene.
It’s an eco-friendly accommodation offering a free breakfast and nightly bonfires.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
2. PARTY: Loki del Mar
Loki del Mar is most certainly a go-hard party hostel, so only stay here if you want to party hard, drink a lot and recover by the pool!
The hero event team will:
- Organise daytime games & nightly themed parties
- Take photos and post them on social media so you don’t have to
The bar is the meeting point and home to several Happy Hour deals everyday. Make sure you check out the signature drink ‘bloodbomb’!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Iquitos: Golondrinas Hostel
Before exploring jungle lodges and tribal villages of the northern Amazon, you might consider a night or two in the port city of Iquitos.
If you do, the only hostel we recommend here is Golondrinas Hostel.
It’s a no-frills place that’s both affordable and comfortable. The main aim of this hostel is to provide a calm and quiet place to rest while exploring the city. The outdoor swimming pool certainly helps!
You can book tours to the Amazon rainforest with the hostel and stay at their property 260km from Iquitos.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Ica
Actually, we want to focus on hostels in Huacachina which is a village oasis set amidst sand dunes, just 4km outside of Ica. If you haven’t heard of this place, check out some photos and we’re sure it will soon be on your bucket list!
The two best hostels in Huacachina are:
We also have a dedicated guide to the best hostels in Huacachina!
1. Banana’s Adventure Hostel
Banana’s Adventure Hostel is an obvious choice if you want to relax, socialise, share and have fun. This is a lively place!
There are MANY ultimate reasons why you would want to stay here. Here’s just a few:
- Two rooftops with 360 degree views of Huacachina oasis
- Onsite bar & restaurant
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Fun games & exercise machines
These guys combine fun with a good night’s sleep. Don’t miss out on the delicious BBQ dinner!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. The Upcycled Hostel Huacachina
Perhaps you prefer somewhere a bit quieter yet equally as enjoyable?
The Upcycled Hostel Huacachina is a 10-minute walk from the oasis, offering a more peaceful atmosphere yet with similar amenities such as a pool and onsite bar-restaurant.
Super cool: Breakfast is served whenever you wake up, even if it’s late morning!
At the weekends you can take part in cocktail classes, and in the evenings music and string lights by the pool is the place to be.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Huaraz: Selina Huaraz
Bordering the impressive snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca range, Huaraz is a good place to base yourself if you’re heading into Huarascán National Park to try and spot jaguars and Andean condors.
Here are our top picks for hostels in Huaraz, Peru:
We also have a guide with more details: best hostels in Huaraz.
Selina Hostel Huaraz
Where better to lay your head than at Selina hostel Huaraz!
Huascarán, the highest peak in Peru at 6,768 meters is right around the corner of this down-right gorgeous hostel.
Yoga, games nights, wellness activities, happy hour, a cinema room – just a few of the things you can expect to find here!
As with every hostel of this chain, there’s a wide range of shared and private rooms for you to choose from.
A pity 😔, the discount code to Selina Hostels expired. Check all valid discounts here.
How to book Selina Hostels the best way?
Rumor has it, new discounts are coming soon. We will share them first in our newsletter. Join us, it is free!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Ollantaytambo: Mama Simona
Update: This hostel has permanently closed. We’ve kept this content here for your information.
It’s common for many people to visit Ollantaytambo on route to Machu Picchu from Cusco. The massive Inca fortress is seriously impressive and well worth a visit! We recommend hiring a guide. Here is a detailed guide about the Sacred Valley.
Nestled in this Sacred Valley village is the lovely Mama Simona Ollantaytambo hostel.
It’s right by the river, boasting a beautiful garden area with hammocks, BBQ and campfire area.
The entire interior is so cosy and homely, and we love that every room comes with an ensuite. Oh and coca tea is available all day!
Best Hostels in Paracas: Kokopelli Hostel Paracas
Paracas is a small, laid-back coastal town known for its beaches, and Kokopelli Hostel Paracas just so happens to be steps from the shore.
This little slice of luxury won’t break the bank, yet includes top-notch amenities and facilities.
Float in the pool, enjoy a drink at the bar or lounge in the common area with other travellers. Breakfast is free, too!
The dorm rooms are certainly a highlight. Just take a look at the spacious beds, privacy curtains and sturdy wooden frames!
Speak to the staff about discounts on kite surfing lessons, or about joining a catamaran tour.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Trujillo: My Friend Surf Hostal
No doubt you’re thinking of visiting Trujillo for the surf, so let’s not waste any time and introduce you to the coolest surf hostel in town.
My Friend Surf Hostal is a hostel, surf school and a famous restaurant all rolled into one!
The restaurant is enjoyed by both locals and travellers, but if you prefer you can use the BBQ up on the rooftop. There is plenty of seating and hammocks up there to relax on.
You can sign up for surf classes with surf instructors, or you can rent all of the surfing gear and take it to the beach which is just a stone’s throw away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Tarapoto: El Mural Backpackers
Tarapoto is surrounded by Amazonian cloud forest, palm trees and jungle waterfalls. Yes please!
Just 15-minutes from the main square, is the cosy and artsy hostel name El Mural Backpackers.
The name comes from the many murals decorating the building. In fact, if you’re a travelling artist, there’s a possibility of creating a mural in return for accommodation!
Make yourself at home here. It’s easy thanks to the kitchen, TV & book room, terrace and BBQ area.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Puno
Hugging the world’s highest navigable body of water, Lake Titicaca, is Puno. There are plenty of traditional festivals to enjoy here so put your dancing shoes on!
The two hostels we picked out have a relaxing atmosphere:
We also have an in-depth guide with more details: best hostels in Puno.
Inka’s Rest Hostel
Inka’s Rest Hostel is ideal for the older traveller and anyone that enjoys a quiet atmosphere.
There’s a total of 50 beds here, spread over shared and private rooms.
An early free breakfast is designed for travellers that like to get out exploring early. And when you get back, you can make the most of the common room and foosball table.
By far the most important aspect of this hostel is the outstanding service.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Iguana Hostel
Iguana Hostel is even smaller with just 15 rooms.
Whilst the photos don’t really do it justice, there is a really good atmosphere here thanks to the helpful staff and onsite sauna!
Breakfast is free and the hot drinks continue throughout the day. We suggest taking one to enjoy out on the terrace. Either that or challenge new friends to a game in the games room.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
What about the cheapest hostels in Peru?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Peru.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Peru
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Any Discounts?
You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.
It is completely free to join!
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Peru best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
Our Favorite Hostels in Peru put on a map + sights
Now you have all the information you need to decide on where to stay in Chile in style and on a budget.
Why not plan an epic road trip designed to visit your favorite hostels in this list?
On the map below you find all mentioned hostels to make your planning even easier. We pinpoint them as follows:
Design hostels: Purple
Party Hostels: Orange
All other best hostels in Peru: Blue
(Open the full map here)
Any questions about hostels in Peru? 🤔
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Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
Discounts & Promo Codes
FAQ
Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.
Is it safe for a girl to travel solo to Peru?
Is Peru safe for travellers in general? Absolutely! And this is the same for female solo travellers.
Yet, like with anywhere you travel in the world, it’s important to consider your safety and travel smart. Here are 39 simple and effective travel safety tips to consider.
Where is the safest place to stay in Lima Peru?
All of the hostels we include in this guide are safe. Yet, you can always take extra precautions such as putting your valuables in a locker.
Here are the top 3 hostels in Lima to consider:
Read: Are Hostels really Safe? 13 Safety Tips
What are some cool things to do in Peru?
This list is endless depending on what you like to do! Some of the major reasons backpackers head to Peru is for:
- Machu Picchu & the Inca trail
- Incan ruins
- Endless hiking opportunities
- Amazon Rainforest trekking
- Lake Titicaca
- Rainbow Mountains
We use Get Your Guide for finding and booking great excursions & activities in Peru.
More Guides for your South American Trip
Besides the coolest hostels in Peru, we visited more great backpackers hostels in South America.
Make sure you read these guides. You will safe money and you will stay in safe, clean and fun hostels.
- 17 best hostels in Chile
- best hostels in La Paz, Bolivia
- 43 best hostels in Colombia
- best hostels in Quito – part of 24 best hostels in Ecuador
- best hostels in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Find all our hostel guides here.
Once you’ve found your favourite hostel, don’t forget to tick off the hostel packing list.
Over to you
Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!
Your question will help us to improve this Peru guide.
Last note: Our commitment
This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks
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