When you think of Guatemala, the first thing that comes to mind are probably Mayan ruins, jungle treks, and ancient cultures. But what if we told you there was a whole other side of the country that was just as rich in culture and history but also very different? Here you’ll find the best hostels in Rio Dulce.
As you travel down the Rio Dulce (translated as “the Sweet River” in Spanish) on a ferry boat, you’ll be transported into an entirely different aspect of Guatemalan culture – and it might just be the most exciting experience of your trip.
Planning to visit other places in Guatemala? We have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Lake Atitlan and the best hostels in Antigua.
Our favorite hostels in Rio Dulce are:
- Boatique Hotel and Marina - best for eco-conscious solo travellers
- Dreamcatcher Eco Lodge - best for couples
- El Hotelito Perdido - best for female solo travelers
- Extra: The Round House - best for families
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
1. Boatique Hotel and Marina
2. Dreamcatcher Eco Lodge
3. El Hotelito Perdido
The Rio Dulce is a 43-kilometre stretch of gorgeous river that also offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Guatemalan life. You’ll see local fishermen at work along its banks and get a glimpse into how the locals make their living off this incredible river.
The Rio Dulce is also home to some of the most gorgeous scenery in Central America, with lush green forests, abundant wildlife, and beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains. If you want to experience something unique during your trip to Guatemala, consider staying at some of the best hostels in Rio Dulce.
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
A town in Guatemala known as Fronteras, or Rio Dulce, is a great place to visit for those who want to see the deep blue waters of Rio Dulce and enjoy its beautiful beaches.
The town is located at the point where the river exits Lake Izabal.
The area is famous for its many natural attractions and activities, such as swimming, snorkelling in clear blue waters, sunbathing on white sandy beaches, hiking through jungles, bird watching, and horseback riding.
What we cover in this article?
You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.
Quick Introduction to Rio Dulce
Average price for a bed: Hostels in Rio Dulce cost 18€ – 33€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 60€ up to 170€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.
Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelz.com or Hostelworld.com.
Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3 pm), while the Check-Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.
Safety in Rio Dulce: Rio Dulce is generally considered safe to visit. It is a popular tourist destination known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenery. However, it is recommended that visitors take common-sense safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and not leaving valuables unattended.
🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
- 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
- How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide
The 3 Best Hostels in Rio Dulce are …
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Rio Dulce.
- Boatique Hotel and Marina – best for eco-conscious solo travellers
- Dreamcatcher Eco Lodge – best for couples
- El Hotelito Perdido – best for female solo travelers
- Extra: The Round House - best for families
These are our favorite hostels in Rio Dulce. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.
1. Boatique Hotel and Marina
2. Dreamcatcher Eco Lodge
3. El Hotelito Perdido
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🦸 Solo Traveler: | Boatique Hotel and Marina |
| 🙎♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: | El Hotelito Perdido |
| 👩❤️👨Couple Hostel: | Dreamcatcher Eco Lodge |
| 👨👩👦 Family Hostel: | The Round House |
| 👩💻 For Digital Nomads: | Casa Perico |
| 🧘 Cozy Hostel: | Boatique Hotel and Marina |
1. Boatique Hotel and Marina
You’ll have plenty of choices when it comes to accommodations, as they offer a variety of rooms – from single beds to private cabana suites.
A great way to experience the outdoors is by renting a sailboat and exploring the nearby waterways. These areas have plenty of activities, including kayaking, hiking, and fishing.
If you’d rather relax, there are hammocks throughout the property, lanterns, and eco-friendly elegance.
Boatique Hotel and Marina offers various services, including relaxing spa treatments at its poolside spa. Guests are also welcome to enjoy healthy meals made from fresh local ingredients in the restaurant.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Location: The hostel is a 5-minute boat trip from the town of Rio Dulce – making it both convenient for travellers and private enough to enjoy nature in peace.
The best choice in Rio Dulce for
- solo travelers
- couples
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Dreamcatcher Eco Lodge
Dreamcatcher Eco Lodge is a paradise for nature lovers and eco-conscious travellers. This is one of the best hostels in Rio Dulce and it is located in the jungles, which means it’s surrounded by wildlife and beauty at every turn.
The restaurant offers organic food from local farms, seafood from the Caribbean Sea, and frozen margaritas made with tropical fruits. Micheladas are also served – they’re spectacular!
Each cabin has a beautiful view, with large windows and its own balcony. Inside, there’s plenty of space for relaxing or working quietly.
And if you’re feeling social, you can use the common areas for meeting new friends and making plans for fun excursions throughout the area.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
The tours are designed to give you a more intimate view of the region’s flora and fauna, as well as its history and culture. Tours include visits to caves and waterfalls – and even hiking through forests!
The lodge has a very tranquil atmosphere that encourages guests to relax and enjoy their time away from home.
We recommend it to anyone who wants a quiet place to unwind while still being close enough to explore some of Guatemala’s most interesting sights!
Location: Situated in the Izabal Region, 1.6 km from Rio Dulce Town, Dreamcatcher Eco Lodge has its own beach and range of water activities.
Located on the banks of the Río Dulce, the lodge offers a unique holiday experience.
A great choice for
- couples
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. El Hotelito Perdido
El Hotelito Perdido is a hidden oasis offering unplugged vacations and exotic adventures. This beautiful, eco-friendly retreat is the perfect place to relax, explore, or even spend a few days in complete solitude.
This hostel in Rio Dulce was designed to provide comfort in mind. All bungalows feature upstairs bedrooms with a private living area and a bathroom below. Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet or want to share your experience with others, there’s no shortage of opportunities at this unique lodge.
The hotel’s program includes yoga classes, meditation sessions, and wellness workshops – all designed to help guests unwind and reconnect with themselves and their surroundings as they explore this beautiful part of Guatemala.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
They also have tropical gardens with sitting areas where you can relax and enjoy this natural paradise’s serene beauty.
There is even a communal house with hammocks if you just want to relax and read a book while listening to the sounds of nature.
You’ll also find plenty of hiking, swimming, kayaking, and fishing opportunities during your stay at El Hotelito Perdido!
Location: The property is situated 60 minutes away from Río Dulce by boat, and a 25-minute boat journey through the breathtaking Río Dulce Canyon brings you to the vibrant Garifuna town of Livingston.
This is one of the best hostels in Rio Dulce for
- female solo travellers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
4. The Round House
The Round House is the ideal place for travellers who want to make new friends, take some time to relax, and enjoy all the best things about Rio Dulce.
They offer a range of accommodations: from private rooms and dorms to bungalows that you can share with friends or family. Spending time together at family-style dinners will help you feel like part of the community.
This is one of the best hostels in Rio Dulce and offers guests plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including kayaking, hiking, and more!
Kayaking at Rio Dulce is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding area, and its also a great way to get up close to local wildlife. They offer guided tours that take you down the river and through some of Guatemala’s most beautiful spots.
In addition to these great options for adventure-seekers, they also offer nightly tours of Livingston and Tiger Cave – both of which are beautiful with their own unique features. You can also tour the nearby bat caves, where you’ll learn about their history and see many different kinds of bats.
Check prices at:
Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Visiting Ak’tenamitd Educational Center is also a good option. The centre also has a small museum with interesting artefacts from the Mayan era.
If you’re looking for something more active, try the gastronomic workshop or traditional Garífuna dance presentation.
Location: Popular sights to visit near the hostel include Tatín, Plan Grande Tatín, and La Pintada.
The best choice in Rio Dulce for
- families
Check prices at:
Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Rio Dulce for Solo Travelers?
What is seriously the best hostel in Rio Dulce for solo-travelers?
Boatique Hotel and Marina is perfect for solo-travelers.
From single beds to luxurious cabana suites, you’ll have plenty of options for accommodation when you stay here.
If you’re looking for an adventure, you can rent a sailboat and take in the stunning views of the nearby waterways.
Or, if you’d rather stay in, there are plenty of hammocks, lanterns and eco-friendly beauty to enjoy.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
More Hostels worth a mention
We have presented the best of the best hostel. Each one is unique with its own personality, amenities, and offerings. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, a bustling social gathering spot, or a cozy space to call home, I’m sure I have something that will meet your needs.
But if you want another hostel, take a look at Hotel Casa Perico.
Hotel Casa Perico
This hotel is not only beautiful but it’s been designed to provide the greatest level of comfort for its guests.
They offer various accommodation options, including dorms, private rooms, and bungalows. All options have access to the hotel’s lush garden, where you can enjoy your time alone or meet other travellers over drinks.
The staff members are dedicated to ensuring your stay is relaxing and comfortable. They take care of all aspects of your trip – the quality of food, drinks, service, and cleanliness. All of this comes together so that you feel rested and refreshed when you leave this hostel in Rio Dulce.
This is one of the best hostels in Rio Dulce and offers a variety of activities that will keep you busy throughout your stay. You can tour Livingston, which will bring you through the beautiful jungle-covered canyon, and stop at a natural hot spring for a refreshing bath.
Casa Perico offers many other activities besides kayaking, including visiting the Quirigua ruins and taking a tour boat ride. You can also relax on their private beach and enjoy the spectacular views. After your stay at Casa Perico, you will understand why this is one of Guatemala’s best places to visit.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
What about the cheapest hostels in Rio Dulce?
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 Rio Dulce.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Rio Dulce
- 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.
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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 Rio Dulce 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!
Need an eSIM Card for Rio Dulce?
Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here.
No more searching for mobile stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.
Our Favorite Hostels in Rio Dulce put on a map + sights
Let us have a look at the map. Below, we list all three best Rio Dulce hostels on a map.
Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.
In Rio Dulce we absolutely enjoyed:
- Monkey Bay Marina
- Museo Multicultural de Lívingston
- Castillo de San Felipe de Lara
- Los Siete Altares
- Cueva del Tigre
- Rio Dulce Bridge
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FAQs
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Flights to Rio Dulce?
We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.
Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.
More handmade Guides for you
We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to destinations:
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- best hostels in Flores, Guatemala
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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 Rio Dulce 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
