Why Colombia Is a Backpacker Favorite
Colombia has become an essential stop on the South American backpacker trail. Affordable prices, friendly locals, spectacular landscapes, and a lively cultural scene attract travelers from around the world. Hostels play a central role in this experience, offering budget-friendly accommodation, social events, tour bookings, and a community of fellow travelers.
Modern Colombian hostels go well beyond basic dormitories. Many offer private rooms, rooftop bars, co-working areas, pools, and wellness activities. The ten hostels and hostel brands below stand out for comfort, atmosphere, and consistently excellent reviews.
The Top 10 Hostels in Colombia
1. Selina
Selina has properties across Colombia, including Medellín, Bogotá, Cartagena, and Santa Marta. Its hostels combine stylish dorms and private rooms with co-working spaces, wellness programs, and social events, making them popular among digital nomads and social travelers.
2. Viajero Hostels
Viajero operates hostels in key destinations such as Cartagena, Santa Marta, San Andrés, Medellín, Bogotá, and Salento. Known for lively atmospheres, activities like salsa classes, and well-organized tours, it is one of the most recognizable hostel brands in the country.
3. Masaya Hostels
Masaya offers beautifully designed hostels in Bogotá's La Candelaria, Santa Marta, and Medellín. Its properties feature comfortable dorms, boutique-style private rooms, and social programming, including community and cultural activities.
4. Los Patios Hostel, Medellín
Los Patios is a modern hostel in El Poblado with a rooftop terrace, co-working space, gym, and spacious common areas. Its excellent amenities and lively social scene make it one of Medellín's top-rated hostels.
5. Casa Kiwi, Medellín
One of Medellín's longest-running hostels, Casa Kiwi offers a welcoming atmosphere, a pool, and a central location close to restaurants and nightlife. Its experienced staff are well known for helpful local tips.
6. Media Luna Hostel, Cartagena
Located in the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood, Media Luna is famous for its rooftop parties and social atmosphere. It is ideal for travelers looking to meet people and enjoy Cartagena's nightlife.
7. The Dreamer Hostel
The Dreamer has properties in Santa Marta and Palomino, offering pool-centered layouts, relaxed Caribbean vibes, and easy access to Tayrona National Park and the Sierra Nevada. Its combination of comfort and nature makes it a backpacker favorite.
8. Casa Elemento, Minca
Perched in the mountains above Minca, Casa Elemento is famous for its giant hammock with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Its remote, nature-focused setting offers a unique and memorable stay.
9. La Serrana, Salento
La Serrana is an eco-hostel set on a hillside farm near Salento in the Coffee Region. It offers stunning mountain views, a peaceful atmosphere, and easy access to the Cocora Valley and coffee tours.
10. Casa Bellavista, Bogotá
Located in the historic La Candelaria district, Casa Bellavista is a charming, budget-friendly hostel close to Bogotá's museums, colonial streets, and cultural attractions. Its cozy atmosphere suits travelers who prefer a quieter stay.
How to Choose a Hostel in Colombia
Decide whether you want a party atmosphere or a quieter environment. Check reviews for cleanliness, security, and staff helpfulness. Location is important: in Bogotá, La Candelaria is central for sightseeing, while Chapinero offers a more local vibe; in Medellín, El Poblado is popular for nightlife, and Laureles is calmer. Look for lockers, air conditioning in hot regions, and reliable Wi-Fi if you plan to work.
Safety Tips for Backpackers
Use lockers for valuables and avoid displaying expensive electronics in public. Book transport through reputable apps or your hostel. Stay informed about neighborhoods to avoid at night, and ask hostel staff for up-to-date advice. Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for adventure activities.
Trends in Colombian Hostels
Hostels are increasingly adopting a "poshtel" model, offering boutique-style private rooms and premium amenities alongside dorms. Co-working spaces and long-stay packages cater to digital nomads. Sustainability initiatives, such as eco-construction and local sourcing, are common in nature destinations like Minca and Palomino.
Budgeting for Hostel Travel
Dorm beds in Colombia are affordable, and many hostels include breakfast, free coffee, and shared kitchens that help travelers save money. Booking directly with a hostel can sometimes secure better rates or perks. Long-stay discounts are common for travelers who plan to stay a week or more in one city.
Hostel Experiences Beyond the Bed
Many Colombian hostels offer much more than a place to sleep. Guests can join salsa classes, cooking workshops, Spanish lessons, and coffee tastings. Hostels also organize day trips to destinations such as Guatapé from Medellín, Tayrona Park from Santa Marta, or the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá from Bogotá. These activities make it easy for solo travelers to meet people and explore safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hostels in Colombia only for young backpackers? Not at all. Many hostels welcome travelers of all ages, and private rooms with en-suite bathrooms attract couples, families, and remote workers who enjoy a social environment at a friendly price.
Final Thoughts
Columbia's hostels offer an incredible mix of affordability, comfort, and community. Whether you are dancing salsa in Cali, trekking in the Sierra Nevada, or exploring Medellín's neighborhoods, these hostels provide the perfect base for your adventure.