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

9.7 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.

9.1 99 reviews

Siloe Cove Hospedaje Campestre

hostel, San Andrés

This charming guesthouse is situated just one block from the beach in a peaceful residential area of San Andrés, close to a popular diving spot. It has consistently received excellent ratings for cleanliness and location, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The guesthouse has one bedroom and one bathroom, and features a private terrace, a garden, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy air conditioning, a TV, and a fridge in the room, and can also rent bikes or scooters directly from the guesthouse to explore the island.

No reviews

Hostel Genesis

hostel, Palomino

Hostel Genesis, located in Palomino, is a 15-minute walk from Palomino Beach and approximately 88.5 kilometres from Riohacha Airport.
This pet-friendly, family-friendly hostel offers complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a terrace, an on-site restaurant and bar, and room service, with non-smoking rooms featuring private bathrooms and balconies.

9.1 623 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.

9.5 112 reviews

Las Cascadas Hostel

hostel, Buritaca

Las Cascadas Hostel in Santa Marta offers pet-friendly accommodation with air conditioning and parking, but its precise location within the city requires further clarification to specify proximity to landmarks.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse provides air-conditioned rooms and breakfast catering to various dietary needs, although further details on its size, amenities and available activities are needed.

8.5 124 reviews

Bio Coliving Tayrona, Eco Retreat For You Or Your Group With Fast, Reliable Wifi & Power In Nature

hostel, Santa Marta

Glamping Bio Coliving Tayrona in Santa Marta is located approximately 9 km from the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and 12.4 km from the Gold Museum of Santa Marta.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers an outdoor pool, garden, bar, and free bikes, plus on-site playground, table tennis, and darts; it also features one bedroom, one bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and private parking.

8.6 738 reviews

Gagaka Rua Hostel

hostel, Santa Marta

Gagaka Rua Hostel is conveniently located in the centre of Santa Marta, just a short walk from Bahía de Santa Marta Beach and Santa Marta Gold Museum. The hostel enjoys a very good user rating and is highly praised for its cleanliness and location.
The hostel offers a range of facilities for guests to enjoy, including a shared kitchen, a bar, a swimming pool, and a terrace. Guests can also take advantage of organised tours, a fitness centre, and a paid airport shuttle service.

9.3 93 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.

9.2 116 reviews

El Eden Minca

hostel, Minca

El Eden Minca, a hostel in Minca, is located 19 kilometres from Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and 23 kilometres from Santa Marta Gold Museum and Santa Marta Cathedral.
This family-friendly establishment offers a peaceful garden, terrace, room service, complimentary WiFi, private parking, and balconies with potential views, with check-out between 11:00 and 12:00.

9.4 188 reviews

Finca Hostal Bolivar - Casa Quinta

hostel, Minca

Finca Hostal Bolivar - Casa Quinta is situated in Minca, 18 kilometres from Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and 21 kilometres from the Santa Marta Gold Museum and Santa Marta Cathedral.
The hostel offers a range of amenities including a shared kitchen, a garden, a terrace, a bar and parking, and is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of Minca, with hiking and cycling opportunities right on your doorstep.

9.2 128 reviews

Amuya Hostel

hostel, Chiquinquirá

Amuya Hostel in Chiquinquirá, Colombia, is conveniently located approximately 45-48km from attractions such as Villa de Leyva's main square, the Museo del Carmen, and Parque Temático Gondava.
This guesthouse offers a shared kitchen, bar, terrace, fitness centre, and room service, alongside free Wi-Fi, parking, and accepts pets; it features one bedroom and one bathroom.

9.0 14 reviews

Eco Hostal Punto Del Sabor

hostel, Santa Marta

Hostel Restaurante Punto del Sabor, a recently renovated guesthouse in Santa Marta, Colombia, is conveniently located 7.6km from the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and 11km from the Gold Museum of Santa Marta.
This pet-friendly guesthouse offers a one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit with a fully equipped kitchen, terrace, garden, free Wi-Fi, and private parking; sightseeing tours and car hire are available.

Best Colombia hostels with breakfast

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

8.7 381 reviews

Finca San Rafael - Cafe Y Cacao

hostel, Minca

Finca San Rafael is an eco-friendly cacao farm located 15 kilometres from Santa Marta and 16 kilometres from Taganga, offering a tranquil escape in the lush Colombian countryside. The farm consistently receives very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
This rural retreat features a swimming pool, a restaurant serving authentic Colombian cuisine, and a bar for evening relaxation. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including horseback riding, hiking, and exploring the farm’s diverse plantations.

9.2 3298 reviews

Casa Avelina Boutique Hostel

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.

8.9 4417 reviews

Casa Del Pavo Real Boutique Hotel Yoga & Spa

hostel, Palomino

Casa Del Pavo Real Boutique Hostel is located in Palomino, a short 4-minute walk from the beach and a 55-mile drive from Riohacha Airport. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of facilities including a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a fitness centre, a restaurant and bar, and a garden. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi, complimentary bikes, and room service.

10 1 review

Hiking In The Mountains Sierra Nevada De Santa Marta

hostel, Santa Marta

Ecolodge Maruamake, a guesthouse in Santa Marta, offers sea and mountain views from its balconies, situated 32 kilometres from Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and 35 kilometres from the Santa Marta Gold Museum.
This pet-friendly accommodation provides a shared kitchen, air conditioning, and complimentary WiFi, with recreational activities including table tennis and hiking opportunities nearby, and can host up to seven guests.

Top cities

Best Colombia hostels with a locker

9.7 652 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.

9.8 188 reviews

Glamping Jardín

hostel, Jardin

Glamping Jardín is a luxury tent situated in the charming town of Jardín, in the Colombian Andes, just 125 kilometres from Olaya Herrera Airport. The tent has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The accommodation features a private balcony with mountain views and an outdoor dining area. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a shared kitchen, luggage storage, free Wi-Fi, private parking, a coffee shop, a mini-market, and the option to rent bicycles or organise tours.

8.6 1423 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.

8.2 712 reviews

Villana's Hostal Santa Marta

hostel, Santa Marta

Aroha Villana Hostel is located in the historic centre of Santa Marta, just a short walk from Santa Marta Cathedral and Santa Marta Beach. It has been rated very good for its overall quality, excellent for its location and good for its cleanliness.
The hostel features a shared lounge and games room, a garden and terrace, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant and bar, and a fitness centre.

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

8.7 60 reviews

Hostal Nomadas

hostel, Santa Marta

Hostel Nomadas is located in Santa Marta, just a 3-minute walk from Bahía de Santa Marta Beach and 400 metres from Santa Marta Cathedral, offering convenient access to the Santa Marta Gold Museum, Simon Bolivar Park and Santa Marta Marina.
This pet-friendly accommodation provides air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, complimentary WiFi, a restaurant, shared kitchen, and room service, with entertainment staff and a tour desk available to assist guests.

8.5 1572 reviews

Costeño River Minca

hostel, Minca

Costeño River Minca, an adults-only guesthouse in Minca, Colombia, is located 18 kilometres from Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and 21 kilometres from the Santa Marta Gold Museum.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse offers an infinity pool with mountain views, a restaurant serving dinner and cocktails, free Wi-Fi, and amenities including table tennis and an outdoor fireplace; airport transfers and bicycle rentals are available.

9.4 10 reviews

Casa D' Linda

hostel, San Andrés

Casa D' Linda is situated in San Andrés, a short 2.2 kilometres from Los Almendros Beach and 2.7 kilometres from Cocoplum Bay Beach.
This family-friendly hostel, with a 120 square metre floor area, offers a garden, terrace, and parking, along with a kitchen equipped with a fridge and microwave.

9.0 5965 reviews

Casa Imagine

hostel, Santa Marta

Imagine Hostel is a short walk from Bahía de Santa Marta Beach and close to the Santa Marta Gold Museum, Santa Marta Cathedral, and Simon Bolivar Park, offering easy access to both the beach and the city's cultural attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and overall experience, and an excellent rating for its location.
The hostel has a shared kitchen where guests can cook their own meals, as well as a bar, a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a garden. Guests can also enjoy air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and bicycle rentals for exploring the area.

Best Colombia hostels with laundry available

9.4 320 reviews

Vista Farallones Hostel

hostel, Jardin

Hotel Vista Farallones in Jardin, Colombia, offers mountain views and is approximately 129 kilometres from Olaya Herrera Airport.
This guest house features rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and some with balconies; amenities include an on-site restaurant and bar, a sun terrace, and a 24/7 reception.

8.9 992 reviews

Sergeant Pepper's Hostel

hostel, Jardin

Sergeant Pepper's Hostel is located in Jardin, a charming town in the Colombian Andes, approximately 78 miles from Olaya Herrera Airport. It has received very good user ratings, with excellent ratings for location and cleanliness.
The hostel has a shared kitchen, a terrace, a garden and a lounge. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, concierge service and currency exchange, as well as bike rental and hiking and cycling opportunities in the surrounding area.

9.0 520 reviews

Freesoul Hostel

hostel, Palomino

Freesoul Hostel is located in Palomino, just 900 metres from Palomino Beach and within easy reach of the town centre. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent location and cleanliness scores.
The hostel has a shared kitchen and a terrace, as well as a spa with open-air baths. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a bar, a fitness centre, and a garden, plus activities such as yoga classes and currency exchange.

8.9 40 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.

Find hostels in Colombia at the best prices

6608 Hostels in Colombia

Casa De Mony

Siloe Cove Hospedaje Campestre

Hostel Genesis

Candileja Hostel

Las Cascadas Hostel

Bio Coliving Tayrona, Eco Retreat For You Or Your Group With Fast, Reliable Wifi & Power In Nature

Gagaka Rua Hostel

La Aldea Hostel

El Eden Minca

Finca Hostal Bolivar - Casa Quinta

Amuya Hostel

Eco Hostal Punto Del Sabor

Best Colombia hostels with breakfast

Finca San Rafael - Cafe Y Cacao

Casa Avelina Boutique Hostel

Casa Del Pavo Real Boutique Hotel Yoga & Spa

Hiking In The Mountains Sierra Nevada De Santa Marta

Top cities

Best Colombia hostels with a locker

Renacer

Glamping Jardín

The Chill In Mansion Hostel Santa Marta

Villana's Hostal Santa Marta

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Colombia

Best Colombia hostels with air conditioning

Hostal Nomadas

Costeño River Minca

Casa D' Linda

Casa Imagine

Best Colombia hostels with laundry available

Vista Farallones Hostel

Sergeant Pepper's Hostel

Freesoul Hostel

Posada El Artesano De Raquira