What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

For budget travelers, exploring Colombia's diverse landscapes doesn't require breaking the bank. Free walking tours in cities like Medellín and Bogotá offer a great introduction to the culture and history. Hiking in Tayrona National Park or exploring the coffee region's charming towns are relatively inexpensive, especially if you're happy to use local buses. Many hostels offer affordable accommodation and organized day trips to nearby attractions. Visiting smaller, less-touristy towns and villages can also significantly reduce costs.

What are the best hostels in Colombia?

Among the hostels in Colombia, Macondo Hostel , Casa Hospedaje La Bohemia and Hostal Bambu are the most popular ones.

Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Colombia?

El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogotá handles the vast majority of international flights. José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) in Medellín is another major hub, serving many international and domestic routes. Smaller airports like Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) in Cali and Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) in Cartagena also see significant passenger traffic.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Colombia?

Macondo Hostel , Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge and Viajero Santa Marta Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Colombia.

What currency do you need for Colombia?

The Colombian peso (COP) is the official currency. While some larger establishments might accept US dollars, it's best to exchange currency to Colombian pesos for the best rates and to avoid potential issues with smaller businesses and local markets. Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, but it's always wise to have some local currency on hand.

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Colombia?

The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Colombia are Macondo Hostel , Masaya Collection San Agustin and Viajero Medellín Hostel .

How easy is it to navigate the roads in Colombia?

Navigating Colombia's roads can be challenging, varying greatly depending on the region. Major highways connecting cities are generally well-maintained, but smaller roads, particularly in rural areas, can be poorly paved or unpaved. Public transportation, such as buses, is widely available and affordable, though it can be slow. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Didi are available in major cities, offering a more convenient, albeit sometimes more expensive, option.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Colombia?

The best hostels for families and kids in Colombia are Casa Hospedaje La Bohemia , Hostal Bambu and Black Sheep Medellin .

How can travelers best respect local customs while in Colombia?

Respectful travel in Colombia involves being mindful of local customs. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated. It's polite to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek (depending on the context). Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Being punctual is important for meetings and appointments. Bargaining is common in markets, but do so respectfully. Finally, be aware that personal space is generally closer than in some other cultures.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Colombia?

The best pet friendly hostels in Colombia are Casa Hospedaje La Bohemia , Hostal Bambu and Viajero Santa Marta Hostel .

Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Colombia?

Colombia boasts a vibrant tapestry of festivals. The Carnaval de Barranquilla, a massive street party with music, dance, and elaborate costumes, is one of the most famous. The Feria de Cali, a week-long celebration of salsa and Colombian culture, is another highlight. Many smaller towns and villages host unique festivals throughout the year, often celebrating religious events or local traditions. The Festival de Música del Pacífico Petronio Álvarez showcases the rich musical heritage of the Pacific coast.

What are the best hostels with parking in Colombia?

Macondo Hostel , Casa Hospedaje La Bohemia and Hostal Bambu are the best hostels with parking in Colombia.

What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Colombia?

For medical emergencies, dial 125. For police assistance, dial 123. Emergency numbers may vary slightly depending on location and the nature of the emergency. It's always advisable to check with your accommodation or local authorities for the most up-to-date emergency contact information.

What are the best areas to spend a week in Colombia?

A week in Colombia offers ample time for exploration. You could focus on the Coffee Triangle, experiencing the coffee plantations and charming towns like Salento and Filandia. Alternatively, a week exploring the Caribbean coast, visiting Cartagena, Tayrona National Park, and perhaps Santa Marta, would be unforgettable. For a more diverse experience, consider splitting your time between Bogotá and Medellín, exploring the city life and surrounding natural beauty.

What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Colombia?

A long weekend could be spent exploring the vibrant streets and historical sites of Cartagena. Medellín also offers a fantastic weekend getaway, with its modern city center and easy access to nearby nature reserves like Guatapé. For a more laid-back experience, consider a weekend in a charming town in the Coffee Triangle, enjoying the coffee culture and stunning landscapes.

Compare Top Hostels in Colombia

9.8 352 reviews

Mano Verde Minca

hostel, Minca

Mano Verde Minca, a family-friendly guesthouse, is located in Minca, Colombia, approximately 32 kilometres from Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and 37 kilometres from Santa Marta's main attractions.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodging boasts a restaurant, bar, terrace, garden, free parking, and Wi-Fi; guests can enjoy a variety of breakfast options and are within easy reach of Minca's hiking trails.

9.3 144 reviews

Hostal La Media Luna Palomino

hostel, Palomino

Hostal La Media Luna Palomino is located in the lush greenery of Palomino, just 1 kilometre from the beach and a 15-minute walk from the river. This hostel has received excellent ratings for cleanliness, location and user experience.
The hostel has a traditional straw roof and wood ceiling beams, creating a rustic atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the surrounding landscapes from their rooms and relax in the communal lounge, with access to a shared bathroom with stone sinks and showers, a swimming pool, a garden and a terrace.

9.2 163 reviews

Hostal Nibuni Palomino

hostel, Palomino

Hostal Nibuni Palomino, a guesthouse located a 10-minute walk from Palomino Beach and 88 kilometres from Riohacha Airport, offers convenient access to the area's attractions. This family-friendly establishment boasts a private pool, open-air bath, on-site restaurant and bar, plus wellness facilities including a hot tub and yoga classes, alongside bicycle rental and paid airport shuttle services.

9.1 613 reviews

Parcerito's Hostel

hostel, Jericó

Parcerito's Hostel is located in Jericó, a charming town in southwestern Antioquia, Colombia, around 88 kilometres from Olaya Herrera Airport. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel offers a single bedroom and bathroom, ideal for a peaceful stay. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a garden, terrace, free Wi-Fi, and private parking. The hostel also provides breakfast options, and guests can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and cycling in the surrounding area.

8.7 412 reviews

Rokadura Hotel

hostel, Santa Marta

RokaDura Hostel is situated in Santa Marta, just 1.4 kilometres from the Santa Marta Cathedral and a short 4.3 kilometre drive from El Rodadero Beach. The hostel has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel is family-friendly and pet-friendly, offering a shared lounge, a garden and a terrace. The rooms each have a private bathroom, air conditioning and a fridge, and guests can enjoy a swimming pool, free parking and free Wi-Fi.

8.5 876 reviews

Alojamiento San Martín

hostel, San Andrés

Alojamiento San Martín is a short walk from Spratt Bight Beach, one of San Andrés' most popular beaches, and is situated near the bustling commercial area, offering easy access to shops, restaurants and nightlife. The hostel has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel has a choice of shared or private bathrooms and offers a range of amenities, including a garden, terrace, free Wi-Fi, a tour desk and luggage storage. Guests can enjoy cable TV in their rooms and there is a kitchen with a fridge and microwave oven.

9.4 547 reviews

Sol De Minca Eco Lodge

hostel, Minca

Sol de Minca Eco Lodge is a short distance from the village centre of Minca, situated in the lush hills of the Colombian countryside, just a 16-mile drive from Simón Bolívar International Airport. The lodge has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
This accommodation offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable, including a restaurant, garden, terrace, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy yoga classes, bicycle rentals, and a paid airport shuttle service.

9.1 639 reviews

Candileja Hostel

hostel, Jardin

Candileja hostel is situated in Jardin, a charming town in the Colombian Andes, just a short walk from the lively town square. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a comfortable and welcoming space with a shared lounge and patio, perfect for socialising. The shared kitchen is fully equipped, and guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel. A garden and indoor play area provide a relaxing space for guests of all ages.

9.0 8143 reviews

Masaya Santa Marta

hostel, Santa Marta

Masaya Santa Marta is a modern hostel located in central Santa Marta, just a short walk from the bay, the Gold Museum, and the historic cathedral. It has excellent user ratings for cleanliness and a very good location rating.
The hostel has a minimalist décor with wooden beams and offers privacy curtains in dormitories. It features two swimming pools, a terrace with city views, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, a fully equipped communal kitchen, hammocks, a pool table, and cultural activities such as salsa dancing classes and local art exhibitions.

9.2 3281 reviews

Cacao Hostel Santa Marta

hostel, Santa Marta

Casa Avelina Boutique Hostel is situated in Santa Marta, a short walk from the Santa Marta Gold Museum and about a mile from Simon Bolivar Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the city's historical and cultural attractions. This hostel has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and a very good rating for its location.
The hostel offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a bar serving American, Caribbean, and Italian cuisine, and a shared lounge and terrace. Guests can enjoy a game of pool, relax in the garden, or take advantage of the air conditioning and bed linen provided in each room.

9.3 41 reviews

Hostal Zinpar

hostel, Palomino

Hostal Zinpar, in Palomino, is a 12-minute walk from Palomino Beach and 88.5 kilometres from Riohacha Airport.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers a 1 square metre room, free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, sun terrace, garden, and indoor play area, plus airport shuttle services and organised tours.

8.6 814 reviews

Color House Santa Marta

hostel, Santa Marta

Color House Santa Marta is located in the heart of Santa Marta, just a short walk from the historic city centre and a mere 6 minutes from the beach, making it ideal for exploring both the bustling city and the beautiful coastline. The hostel enjoys very good ratings for location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of facilities including a swimming pool, restaurant, bar and fitness centre, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and socialising. Guests can also enjoy the garden, terrace and shared lounge, as well as benefit from free Wi-Fi, parking and room service.

Best Colombia hostels with breakfast

Among the 6608 hostels in Colombia, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

9.7 103 reviews

Casa Nativo

hostel, Jardin

Casa NATIVO is a charming house located in Jardin, a picturesque village in the Colombian Andes, 122 kilometres from Olaya Herrera Airport. The property enjoys excellent user ratings and is highly praised for its cleanliness and location.
The house offers a private bathroom and comfortable accommodation for one guest. You can enjoy a range of amenities including a restaurant, a garden, a terrace and free Wi-Fi, as well as airport shuttle service.

9.5 1681 reviews

La Guaca Hostel Santa Marta

hostel, Santa Marta

La Guaca Hostel Santa Marta is situated in Santa Marta, a short distance from the beach and a 20-minute drive from Simon Bolivar International Airport. It has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The hostel offers a range of shared and private rooms, catering to both solo travellers and families. Guests can enjoy a relaxing outdoor space with a swimming pool, terrace, and garden, as well as a fully equipped kitchen, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, and a hot tub.

9.3 485 reviews

Hostal Vista Verde Minca

hostel, Minca

Hostal Vista Verde Minca is located in the village of Minca, 19 kilometres from Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and 23 kilometres from Santa Marta Gold Museum and Santa Marta Cathedral, offering a tranquil escape from the city surrounded by lush greenery. The hostel is highly rated by guests, with excellent scores for location, cleanliness and overall user experience.
The accommodation features a garden and a shared lounge, perfect for relaxing and meeting fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, bar and room service, as well as panoramic views from some balconies.

10 1 review

La Casa Rosada Hostel

hostel, Jericó

La Casa Rosada Hostel in Jericó offers a ground-floor unit with garden and mountain views, located 100 kilometres from Olaya Herrera Airport.
This accommodation provides complimentary WiFi, a shared kitchen, a dedicated workspace, and regular film nights, with continental and à la carte breakfast options available.

Top cities

Best Colombia hostels with a locker

9.3 95 reviews

La Aldea Hostel

hostel, Palomino

La Aldea Hostel, Camping y Hamacas, a guest house near Palomino Beach in the Palomino district, is situated approximately 88 kilometres from Riohacha Airport.
This recently renovated one-bedroom guesthouse offers a patio, garden, picnic area, free Wi-Fi, a kitchenette, and indoor/outdoor play areas, accommodating families and ensuring a tranquil atmosphere with its no-bachelor/bachelorette party policy.

8.7 140 reviews

Niuwi Hostel

hostel, Buritaca

Niuwi Hostel in Buritaca boasts a hillside location, an 11-minute walk (approximately 1.8km) from Playa Buritaca and 63km from Simón Bolívar International Airport.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse offers a swimming pool, jacuzzi, restaurant serving American and Caribbean cuisine, fitness centre, and various activities including darts and nearby cycling, alongside a shared terrace and garden.

8.6 1426 reviews

The Chill In Mansion Hostel Santa Marta

hostel, Santa Marta

The Chill In Mansion Hostel Santa Marta is located in Santa Marta, a short walk from Salguero Beach and a short drive from popular beaches like El Rodadero and Playa Cabo Tortuga. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and a good rating for location.
This family-friendly accommodation offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, garden, restaurant, bar, and free WiFi. Guests can also enjoy activities like darts, cycling, and a playground.

9.6 653 reviews

Renacer

hostel, Villa de Leyva

Hostal Renacer is situated in Villa de Leyva, a short walk from the main square and the Museo del Carmen, offering easy access to the town's attractions. The hostel consistently receives excellent ratings for cleanliness and location, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel features a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for socialising with fellow guests. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, terrace, garden, restaurant, fitness centre, and bike rental, making it ideal for relaxing and exploring the surrounding area.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Colombia

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget travelers, exploring Colombia's diverse landscapes doesn't require breaking the bank. Free walking tours in cities like Medellín and Bogotá offer a great introduction to the culture and history. Hiking in Tayrona National Park or exploring the coffee region's charming towns are relatively inexpensive, especially if you're happy to use local buses. Many hostels offer affordable accommodation and organized day trips to nearby attractions. Visiting smaller, less-touristy towns and villages can also significantly reduce costs.
What are the best hostels in Colombia?
Among the hostels in Colombia, Macondo Hostel, Casa Hospedaje La Bohemia and Hostal Bambu are the most popular ones.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Colombia?
El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogotá handles the vast majority of international flights. José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) in Medellín is another major hub, serving many international and domestic routes. Smaller airports like Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) in Cali and Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) in Cartagena also see significant passenger traffic.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Colombia?
Macondo Hostel, Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge and Viajero Santa Marta Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Colombia.
What currency do you need for Colombia?
The Colombian peso (COP) is the official currency. While some larger establishments might accept US dollars, it's best to exchange currency to Colombian pesos for the best rates and to avoid potential issues with smaller businesses and local markets. Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, but it's always wise to have some local currency on hand.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Colombia?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Colombia are Macondo Hostel, Masaya Collection San Agustin and Viajero Medellín Hostel.
How easy is it to navigate the roads in Colombia?
Navigating Colombia's roads can be challenging, varying greatly depending on the region. Major highways connecting cities are generally well-maintained, but smaller roads, particularly in rural areas, can be poorly paved or unpaved. Public transportation, such as buses, is widely available and affordable, though it can be slow. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Didi are available in major cities, offering a more convenient, albeit sometimes more expensive, option.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Colombia?
The best hostels for families and kids in Colombia are Casa Hospedaje La Bohemia, Hostal Bambu and Black Sheep Medellin.
How can travelers best respect local customs while in Colombia?
Respectful travel in Colombia involves being mindful of local customs. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated. It's polite to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek (depending on the context). Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Being punctual is important for meetings and appointments. Bargaining is common in markets, but do so respectfully. Finally, be aware that personal space is generally closer than in some other cultures.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Colombia?
The best pet friendly hostels in Colombia are Casa Hospedaje La Bohemia, Hostal Bambu and Viajero Santa Marta Hostel.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Colombia?
Colombia boasts a vibrant tapestry of festivals. The Carnaval de Barranquilla, a massive street party with music, dance, and elaborate costumes, is one of the most famous. The Feria de Cali, a week-long celebration of salsa and Colombian culture, is another highlight. Many smaller towns and villages host unique festivals throughout the year, often celebrating religious events or local traditions. The Festival de Música del Pacífico Petronio Álvarez showcases the rich musical heritage of the Pacific coast.
What are the best hostels with parking in Colombia?
Macondo Hostel, Casa Hospedaje La Bohemia and Hostal Bambu are the best hostels with parking in Colombia.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Colombia?
For medical emergencies, dial 125. For police assistance, dial 123. Emergency numbers may vary slightly depending on location and the nature of the emergency. It's always advisable to check with your accommodation or local authorities for the most up-to-date emergency contact information.
What are the best areas to spend a week in Colombia?
A week in Colombia offers ample time for exploration. You could focus on the Coffee Triangle, experiencing the coffee plantations and charming towns like Salento and Filandia. Alternatively, a week exploring the Caribbean coast, visiting Cartagena, Tayrona National Park, and perhaps Santa Marta, would be unforgettable. For a more diverse experience, consider splitting your time between Bogotá and Medellín, exploring the city life and surrounding natural beauty.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Colombia?
A long weekend could be spent exploring the vibrant streets and historical sites of Cartagena. Medellín also offers a fantastic weekend getaway, with its modern city center and easy access to nearby nature reserves like Guatapé. For a more laid-back experience, consider a weekend in a charming town in the Coffee Triangle, enjoying the coffee culture and stunning landscapes.

Best Colombia hostels with air conditioning

9.0 1475 reviews

Distrito Hostel

hostel, Santa Marta

Distrito Hostel in central Santa Marta offers easy access to the Gold Museum (a short walk away), Simón Bolívar Park (1km), and Lipe Beach (2.7km).
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodging boasts air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a bar, a shared kitchen with a fridge, and a terrace; a 24-hour reception and currency exchange add further convenience.

8.3 750 reviews

Kasakolà

hostel, Palomino

Kasakolà is situated in Palomino, a short distance from Tuluá (13 kilometres) and Buga (27 kilometres), offering a convenient base for exploring the region.
The guest house provides a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, terrace, garden, and fitness centre, perfect for relaxation and active pursuits.

8.7 5402 reviews

Viajero San Andres Hostel

hostel, San Andrés

Viajero San Andres Hostel is located in San Andrés, just a five-minute walk from the beach and the Sea of Seven Colours, and a ten-minute walk from the airport. The hostel has received very good ratings for its cleanliness, location and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of amenities, including air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a disco bar, and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy activities such as scuba diving lessons, water sports and exploring the nearby Sea Flower Biosphere Reserve.

9.7 15 reviews

Casa De Mony

hostel, Santa Marta

Casa De Mony is located in Santa Marta, just 800 metres from Playa Cabo Tortuga and 1 kilometre from the lively Bello Horizonte neighbourhood, offering easy access to local restaurants, shops and nightlife. The hostel has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and overall user experience, with a very good location rating.
The hostel features a shared kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their own meals, and a garden and terrace for relaxing. Casa De Mony offers amenities such as air conditioning in all rooms, free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and free private parking.

Best Colombia hostels with laundry available

8.2 151 reviews

Casa De Las Rocas Hostel

hostel, Jardin

Casa De Las Rocas Hostel is located in Jardin, a town in the Colombian countryside, approximately 127 kilometres from Olaya Herrera Airport.
The hostel features a peaceful garden, mountain views, a coffee machine in each room, private parking, free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms with seating areas and bed linen, and a no-parties policy.

9.5 96 reviews

Posada El Esfuerzo

hostel, Nuquí

Posada El Esfuerzo is located in Nuquí town, offering easy access to the beaches (distance unspecified).
This family-friendly guesthouse features a garden, terrace, spa, restaurant, room service, and free WiFi; it has one bedroom with shared bathroom facilities and simple rooms with seating areas and closets.

9.4 41 reviews

Posada El Artesano De Raquira

hostel, Ráquira

Posada El Artesano De Raquira is located in the charming town of Ráquira, just 18 kilometres from the Gondava Theme Park. It is highly rated, with excellent scores for cleanliness, location and user reviews.
The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with a seating area, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and a patio with mountain views. Guests can enjoy a peaceful garden, a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.

9.0 5 reviews

Casa Con Jacuzzi Villa De Leyva

hostel, Villa de Leyva

Casa Chalet Campestre 2km, a hostel in Villa de Leyva, is located 3.2km from the main square and 3.5km from the Museo del Carmen, offering easy access to these attractions by taxi or bicycle.
This 1500 square metre property sleeps up to 23 guests in four bedrooms and three bathrooms, boasting a shared kitchen, jacuzzi, terrace, garden, and parking, plus room service and a concierge.

Find hostels in Colombia at the best prices

6608 Hostels in Colombia

Mano Verde Minca

Hostal La Media Luna Palomino

Hostal Nibuni Palomino

Parcerito's Hostel

Rokadura Hotel

Alojamiento San Martín

Sol De Minca Eco Lodge

Candileja Hostel

Masaya Santa Marta

Cacao Hostel Santa Marta

Hostal Zinpar

Color House Santa Marta

Best Colombia hostels with breakfast

Casa Nativo

La Guaca Hostel Santa Marta

Hostal Vista Verde Minca

La Casa Rosada Hostel

Top cities

Best Colombia hostels with a locker

La Aldea Hostel

Niuwi Hostel

The Chill In Mansion Hostel Santa Marta

Renacer

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Colombia

Best Colombia hostels with air conditioning

Distrito Hostel

Kasakolà

Viajero San Andres Hostel

Casa De Mony

Best Colombia hostels with laundry available

Casa De Las Rocas Hostel

Posada El Esfuerzo

Posada El Artesano De Raquira

Casa Con Jacuzzi Villa De Leyva