Since we both traveled to Colombia independently, we always needed the best hostels to socialize, find cool activities, and stay within our budgets. For that reason, we made the top 5 best hostels in Colombia for solo travelers like us!
1. Cranky Croc – Bogotá
This hostel is the perfect start or end of your trip to Colombia. The Cranky Croc is social, has friendly staff, and is situated in the heart of La Candelaria, the best neighborhood in Bogota. The common room is huge, and you will easily meet fellow travelers who want to explore the city together with you. Next to this, activities are organized almost daily, think of a food tour, a party bus to the nightlife scene, or a biking tour throughout the center.
For the digital nomads: WiFi is available and of high speed. The restaurant offers good Western-style hostel food and the breakfast is outstanding. Moreover, there is a kitchen with all the cooking equipment.
Since the Cranky Croc almost doubled in price in the past year, a good alternative in Bogotá is the Granada Hostel, which is cheaper but also has amazing facilities.
2. The Journey Hostel – Tayrona
With an infinity pool, cozy family dinners, and heavenly views of Tayrona Park this hostel is on a different level. If you are planning to step foot in Tayrona during your trip to Colombia, we advise you to make The Journey Hostel your hub. With the daily (and nightly) activities it is very easy to meet other travelers, and you will for sure find a group to explore the stunning natural park with.
Dinner and breakfast are served family-style, at big tables, so it is even easier to socialize and get out of your comfort zone. After a long day of hiking, you can cool off in the beautiful pool, and play some games as the night falls.
3. Parecito’s – Jerico
From the second we walked into Parecito’s hostel, we knew we had made a mistake… we had only booked one night!
Although Jerico is a small, non-touristy town compared to other popular tourist hotspots like Salento and Jardin, some backpackers are adding it to their list as it is the perfect spot to relax for a few days and enjoy the small-town vibe and beautiful nature. Parecito’s hostel was the perfect place to hang around, order pizza, and socialize with the other guests. The manager at the time we visited was extremely welcoming and kind, and he helped us organize paragliding for the next morning, as well as recommended some of the best hikes in the area.
This hostel is also very affordable, which seals the deal! Definitely add it to your list if you are visiting Colombia.
4. Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel – Salento
The Coffee Tree is without a doubt the best hostel in Salento. After arriving here, you will first notice the two huge Swiss dogs that are always walking around in the spacious hall and the garden. The dormitories are clean, with privacy curtains and outlets in every bunk. Moreover, the staff is amazing and will help you with all your questions.
Sadly, Coffee Tree has raised its prices over the past years and is therefore also more expensive than most other hostels in Salento. Although it is worth the price, other hostels like Tralala, Viajero, and The Corner House are good alternatives!
5. Casa Loma – Minca
High above the cute mountain village of Minca lies Casa Loma, a beautiful small hostel built around one thing: the dazzling sunset. Be prepared to walk about 15 minutes uphill from town, but you will be rewarded. The hostel itself is not all that special, but has everything you need, and is very inexpensive. You will find that meeting friends in the outside area of the hostel is relatively easy, so go explore the beautiful surroundings together! At sunset, climb up to the sunset deck for the most amazing pictures of Santa Marta in the far distance, with the ocean behind it.