What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

For budget travelers, exploring the vibrant markets of Otavalo is a must. The indigenous crafts and textiles are incredibly affordable. Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park offers stunning views at a minimal cost, just the park entrance fee. Free walking tours in Quito's Old Town are a great way to explore the city's history, and you can find cheap and delicious meals at local eateries throughout the country. Finally, Baños offers budget-friendly access to stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.

What are the best hostels in Ecuador?

Among the hostels in Ecuador, Hostel Revolution Quito , Galapagos Morning Glory and Hostal Cloud Forest are the most popular ones.

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

Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito and José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil handle the vast majority of international flights. Smaller airports exist, but these two are the main hubs.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Ecuador?

Hostel Nucapacha , Hostal North Seymour and Hostal Chimenea are the best hostels with a pool in Ecuador.

What currency is used in the country?

The official currency is the United States dollar (USD).

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Ecuador?

The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Ecuador are Hostal Nomada , Rincón Familiar Hostel Boutique and Hostal Chimenea .

How easy is it to navigate the roads in the country?

Road conditions vary greatly. Well-maintained highways connect major cities, but smaller roads, particularly in the Andes, can be challenging with steep inclines, winding paths, and occasional potholes. Public transportation, such as buses, is widely available and affordable, but it can be slow. Renting a car is an option, but it requires experience driving in mountainous terrain.

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

The best hostels for families and kids in Ecuador are Hostal Cloud Forest , La Casa De Cecilia Mindo and Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums .

How can travelers best respect local customs while visiting?

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases – it's greatly appreciated. Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Be mindful of personal space and avoid loud or boisterous behavior in public. Bargaining is common in markets, but do so politely. Always ask permission before taking photos of people.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Ecuador?

The best pet friendly hostels in Ecuador are Galapagos Morning Glory , Hostal Cloud Forest and Travellers Inn .

Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?

In February or March, Carnaval is a vibrant celebration with water fights and parades nationwide. In Cuenca, the yearly Fiesta de la Virgen de El Rocío is a significant religious event. Inti Raymi, the Inca festival of the sun, is celebrated in June in various locations, particularly in the Andes. These are just a few examples of many local celebrations throughout the year.

What are the best hostels with parking in Ecuador?

Hostal Cloud Forest , La Casa De Cecilia Mindo and Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums are the best hostels with parking in Ecuador.

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

For medical emergencies, dial 911. For police assistance, also dial 911. It's advisable to have the numbers for your embassy or consulate readily available as well.

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

A week could easily be spent exploring the Avenue of the Volcanoes, encompassing areas like Cotopaxi National Park, Baños, and the surrounding towns. Alternatively, you could focus on the coast, exploring Guayaquil, Montañita, and other beach towns. Quito and its surrounding areas also offer a diverse range of activities for a week-long stay.

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

For a weekend getaway, Baños is a popular choice, offering easy access to waterfalls, hiking, and adventure activities. Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage city, provides a charming colonial atmosphere for a relaxing weekend. If you prefer beaches, a quick trip to Montañita or a nearby coastal town could be perfect.

Compare Top Hostels in Ecuador

8.6 279 reviews

Casa De Piedra

hostel, Mindo

Casa De Piedra is a hostel located in Mindo Town, just a short 3-minute drive from the city centre and situated peacefully beside the river. It has received very good user ratings and excellent ratings for both location and cleanliness.
The hostel has bright and spacious rooms with parquet floors and gabled roofs. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities and activities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi.

8.0 4 reviews

Hosteria El Edén De Maria Isabel

hostel, Santa Rosa

Hosteria El Edén de Maria Isabel is situated in Santa Rosa, conveniently located 12 kilometres from Santa Rosa International Airport.
This 59-square-metre guesthouse offers a one-bedroom, one-bathroom suite with amenities including a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi, plus a shared kitchen and on-site parking.

No reviews

Living Ground, Masanamaca

hostel, Yunza

The Living Ground, Masanamaca is a hostel located in the Masanamaca district of Yunza, offering a peaceful retreat with complimentary WiFi and a garden. This accommodation provides 16 square meters of floor area per room, featuring private bathrooms, a shared kitchen, an on-site bar, and a restaurant serving American cuisine with vegetarian, dairy-free, and vegan options, alongside diverse breakfast choices.

9.3 348 reviews

Tuzco Lodge

hostel, Puerto López

Tuzco Lodge is a 7-minute walk from Puerto Lopez Beach, making it a convenient base for exploring the town and its beautiful coastline. It has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and a very good rating for its location.
The hostel offers a shared kitchen, lounge, and terrace, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Amenities include a swimming pool, sauna, spa, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and free private parking.

8.3 1277 reviews

Dreamkapture Hostel Close To The Airport And Bus Terminal

hostel, Guayaquil

Dreamkapture Hostel is conveniently located in a central district of Guayaquil, just seven blocks from City Mall shopping centre and a 15-minute drive from the Malecon 2000 riverside boulevard. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
This hostel provides a choice of shared or private rooms, some with air conditioning, and all with hot water showers. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, a terrace, a garden, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi.

8.8 138 reviews

Hostal Alcazaba

hostel, Puerto López

Alcazaba B&B in Puerto López, Ecuador, is situated a short distance (0.8km) from Playa Puerto López beach and 12km from Los Frailes Beach, offering convenient access to both.
This family-friendly guesthouse features a private bathroom, air conditioning, a terrace, garden, on-site restaurant with room service, parking, and Wi-Fi; guests can also arrange tours including diving and whale watching (seasonal).

9.0 54 reviews

Mambo Ecohostal

hostel, San Lorenzo

Mambo Ecohostal is located in the San Lorenzo district, a short distance from the city centre and 24 miles from Eloy Alfaro International Airport. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent marks for its location and cleanliness.
The hostel features a tranquil garden, a social lounge and bar, and a restaurant serving a variety of breakfast options. Guests can enjoy outdoor living with patio and garden views, take advantage of free Wi-Fi and parking, and explore the nearby hiking trails.

8.3 95 reviews

Hotel Diana Real

hostel, Santo Domingo de los Colorados

Hotel Diana Real in Santo Domingo de los Colorados offers a 3-star stay with free WiFi and parking; its precise location within the city requires further clarification to determine proximity to local landmarks.
This guest house provides rooms with a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and closet, plus room service and a terrace; further details regarding the floor area or specific amenities are needed.

8.5 819 reviews

Casa Michael

hostel, Guayaquil

Casa Michael, near José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil, Ecuador, offers convenient access to Saint Francis Church and Malecón 2000, both within an 8km radius.
This one-bedroom guesthouse provides guests with a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, a terrace, garden, on-site restaurant, fitness centre, tennis court, parking, and daily room service, plus organised tours and airport shuttle.

9.7 29 reviews

Rumi Wilco Ecolodge & Nature Reserve-cabañas & Camping

hostel, Vilcabamba

Rumi Wilco Ecolodge & Nature Reserve, located in Vilcabamba, Ecuador, is approximately 56 kilometres from Camilo Ponce Enríquez Airport.
This eco-lodge offers 25-square-metre cabins and camping, featuring a kitchenette (in some rooms), garden, terrace, and free Wi-Fi; it also provides room service and organises tours.

8.6 1994 reviews

Hotel Puerto Pacifico Guayaquil Airport

hostel, Guayaquil

Hotel Puerto Pacifico Guayaquil Airport, a 4-star establishment, offers convenient proximity to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, approximately 1.8 km from Plaza del Sol shopping centre, and around 6.4 km from both the Malecon 2000 boardwalk and Saint Francis Church in Guayaquil.
This guesthouse features an outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, and free private parking, plus rooms with flat-screen TVs and safety deposit boxes; a paid airport shuttle service is available.

8.5 256 reviews

Biohostal Mindo Cloud Forest

hostel, Mindo

Biohostal Mindo Cloud Forest is located in Mindo, just a short walk from the Central Park and a short drive from the Nambillo Cascade, making it a great base for exploring the area. The hostel has received very good user ratings for its cleanliness and an excellent rating for its location.
The hostel has spacious rooms with garden views and a lush garden setting, providing a peaceful atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, restaurant, bar, and free breakfast, as well as activities like birdwatching and bike rentals.

Best Ecuador hostels with breakfast

Among the 1595 hostels in Ecuador, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

9.1 284 reviews

Hostería Mandála

hostel, Puerto López

Hostería Mandála is situated directly on Puerto Lopez Beach, offering easy access to the sand and waves. This guesthouse has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel has a garden and terrace for relaxing, as well as a shared lounge for socialising. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, darts, a restaurant, a bar, and a spa.

9.0 261 reviews

Fogata Hostel

hostel, Salinas

Fogata Hostel in Salinas, Ecuador is situated a 7-minute walk from San Lorenzo Beach and 1.8km from Chipipe Beach.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers an outdoor pool, free parking, a shared kitchen, evening entertainment, and 24-hour reception; it features one bedroom and one bathroom.

8.6 25 reviews

Hostal Resto - Bar "El Peñón"

hostel, Alausí

Hostal Resto-Bar "El Peñón" is conveniently located in Alausí town centre, Ecuador, offering easy access to local markets and transport, approximately 163 kilometres from Mariscal Lamar International Airport.
This guesthouse features a 6-square-metre room with one bedroom, one bathroom, a terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, parking, and Wi-Fi; continental breakfast is included.

9.7 185 reviews

Margarit Boutique Hotel

hostel, Mindo

Margarit Boutique Hotel is situated in Mindo, a town in the cloud forest, 114 kilometres from Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport. The hotel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a garden, terrace, bar and room service. Guests can enjoy stunning mountain views from some rooms, and the hotel also provides a tour desk for booking local excursions.

Top cities

Best Ecuador hostels with a locker

8.6 95 reviews

Conexión Urbana En El Centro De Ambato

hostel, Ambato

Conexión Urbana, a guesthouse in Ambato, enjoys a central location offering easy access to the city's attractions.
This one-bedroom Ambato lodging boasts a private terrace with mountain views, a fully equipped kitchen, sleeps up to three guests, and includes breakfast and a tour desk.

9.4 9 reviews

Hda San Vicente Yellow House Trails & Lodge

hostel, Mindo

Hda San Vicente Yellow House Trails & Lodge is a hostel located in Mindo, approximately 114 kilometres from Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport.
This lodge offers family-friendly accommodation with a garden, terrace, and kitchen facilities, providing an excellent base for exploring nearby hiking trails and enjoying mountain views.

9.2 567 reviews

Community Hostel Alausi

hostel, Alausí

Community Hostel Alausi is located in the charming town of Alausi, in the Andes Mountains, just over 100 miles from Mariscal Lamar International Airport. The hostel has consistently received excellent reviews for its cleanliness, location and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of facilities for guests, including a shared kitchen, garden, terrace and a restaurant serving local cuisine. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a tour desk, luggage storage and private bathrooms with showers, as well as access to local tours and hiking trails.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Ecuador

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget travelers, exploring the vibrant markets of Otavalo is a must. The indigenous crafts and textiles are incredibly affordable. Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park offers stunning views at a minimal cost, just the park entrance fee. Free walking tours in Quito's Old Town are a great way to explore the city's history, and you can find cheap and delicious meals at local eateries throughout the country. Finally, Baños offers budget-friendly access to stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.
What are the best hostels in Ecuador?
Among the hostels in Ecuador, Hostel Revolution Quito, Galapagos Morning Glory and Hostal Cloud Forest are the most popular ones.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from the country?
Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito and José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil handle the vast majority of international flights. Smaller airports exist, but these two are the main hubs.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Ecuador?
Hostel Nucapacha, Hostal North Seymour and Hostal Chimenea are the best hostels with a pool in Ecuador.
What currency is used in the country?
The official currency is the United States dollar (USD).
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Ecuador?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Ecuador are Hostal Nomada, Rincón Familiar Hostel Boutique and Hostal Chimenea.
How easy is it to navigate the roads in the country?
Road conditions vary greatly. Well-maintained highways connect major cities, but smaller roads, particularly in the Andes, can be challenging with steep inclines, winding paths, and occasional potholes. Public transportation, such as buses, is widely available and affordable, but it can be slow. Renting a car is an option, but it requires experience driving in mountainous terrain.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Ecuador?
The best hostels for families and kids in Ecuador are Hostal Cloud Forest, La Casa De Cecilia Mindo and Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums.
How can travelers best respect local customs while visiting?
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases – it's greatly appreciated. Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Be mindful of personal space and avoid loud or boisterous behavior in public. Bargaining is common in markets, but do so politely. Always ask permission before taking photos of people.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Ecuador?
The best pet friendly hostels in Ecuador are Galapagos Morning Glory, Hostal Cloud Forest and Travellers Inn.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?
In February or March, Carnaval is a vibrant celebration with water fights and parades nationwide. In Cuenca, the yearly Fiesta de la Virgen de El Rocío is a significant religious event. Inti Raymi, the Inca festival of the sun, is celebrated in June in various locations, particularly in the Andes. These are just a few examples of many local celebrations throughout the year.
What are the best hostels with parking in Ecuador?
Hostal Cloud Forest, La Casa De Cecilia Mindo and Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums are the best hostels with parking in Ecuador.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns?
For medical emergencies, dial 911. For police assistance, also dial 911. It's advisable to have the numbers for your embassy or consulate readily available as well.
What are the best areas to spend a week in the country?
A week could easily be spent exploring the Avenue of the Volcanoes, encompassing areas like Cotopaxi National Park, Baños, and the surrounding towns. Alternatively, you could focus on the coast, exploring Guayaquil, Montañita, and other beach towns. Quito and its surrounding areas also offer a diverse range of activities for a week-long stay.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in the country?
For a weekend getaway, Baños is a popular choice, offering easy access to waterfalls, hiking, and adventure activities. Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage city, provides a charming colonial atmosphere for a relaxing weekend. If you prefer beaches, a quick trip to Montañita or a nearby coastal town could be perfect.

Top regions Ecuador

Best Ecuador hostels with air conditioning

8.1 161 reviews

North Star Hostal Guayaquil

hostel, Guayaquil

North Star Hostal Guayaquil, a budget-friendly guesthouse, is situated just 1 kilometre from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, with a paid shuttle service, and 2.9 kilometres from Plaza del Sol, a key commercial and social centre.
This accommodation offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, a shared kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and dishwasher, a garden, terrace, concierge, room service, parking, and a continental breakfast option, with a 15 square metre floor area and one bathroom.

8.0 1338 reviews

Chescos Hotel

hostel, Salinas

Chescos Hotel & Hostel is directly on the Malecon boardwalk in Salinas, offering stunning views and easy access to Salinas Beach. The hostel has been rated very good by users, with an excellent location and cleanliness rating.
The hostel features a shared lounge and a bar, creating a social atmosphere. It also offers a range of amenities, including air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, a terrace, a garden, a restaurant, room service, parking, and free Wi-Fi.

No reviews

Hotel Confort

hostel, Guayaquil

Hotel Confort, a Guayaquil hostel, is conveniently situated a 13-minute walk from Plaza del Sol and a short drive from Saint Francis Church (5.6 kilometres) and Malecon 2000 (6.3 kilometres), with José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport just a few steps away.
This accommodation offers 14 square metres of floor area, free WiFi, air conditioning, and free private parking, alongside a shared lounge area for guests.

9.6 34 reviews

Casa Kokopelli

hostel, Ballenita

Casa Kokopelli is a hostel situated in Ballenita, a short distance from Salinas and Montañita, offering a peaceful retreat close to the coast. It has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and location, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel offers comfortable accommodation with a floor area of 28 square metres, suitable for up to two guests. The property features a range of amenities including a shared lounge, a sun terrace with ocean views, a fitness centre, a tennis court, and a garden, providing plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation.

Find hostels in Ecuador at the best prices

1595 Hostels in Ecuador

Casa De Piedra

Hosteria El Edén De Maria Isabel

Living Ground, Masanamaca

Tuzco Lodge

Dreamkapture Hostel Close To The Airport And Bus Terminal

Hostal Alcazaba

Mambo Ecohostal

Hotel Diana Real

Casa Michael

Rumi Wilco Ecolodge & Nature Reserve-cabañas & Camping

Hotel Puerto Pacifico Guayaquil Airport

Biohostal Mindo Cloud Forest

Best Ecuador hostels with breakfast

Hostería Mandála

Fogata Hostel

Hostal Resto - Bar "El Peñón"

Margarit Boutique Hotel

Top cities

Best Ecuador hostels with a locker

Conexión Urbana En El Centro De Ambato

Hda San Vicente Yellow House Trails & Lodge

Community Hostel Alausi

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Ecuador

Top regions Ecuador

Best Ecuador hostels with air conditioning

North Star Hostal Guayaquil

Chescos Hotel

Hotel Confort

Casa Kokopelli