Colombia’s capital city is as breathless in its frenetic pace of life as its lack of oxygen up at an altitude of 2,640m (8,660 feet). The city embraces both modernity and tradition and is every bit the product of a country that has a bright future and a tumultuous past. And that is precisely what makes the city so intoxicating.
In Bogota, hostels are a popular accommodation choice for many travellers, and the city is a firm point on most backpacking trails of South America. As such, the standard is high and the choice is excessive. Therefore we have spent some time, and indeed some nights, in these very dorms to bring you a list of the very best your pesos can buy. Location, facilities and security are all important factors in any Bogota hostels list, and certainly factor here.
Dorms from $11/ night. Privates from $28/ night
Explora is an excellent hostel in the lovely Candelaria District of Bogota. As with many areas of the city, it is normal to feel a little on edge later at night. It is a relief then that Explora has good security and the hostel itself is clean and fairly spacious. Hammocks in the common area are a great place to lounge and there are a couple of breakfast choices that can be bought for an additional fee. The menu changes daily. Bicycles can be rented for an additional fee here. The Gold Museum is just a few minutes away on foot.
Dorms from $10/ night. Privates from $18/ night
Like Explora, Swiss Hostal Martinik is in the lively neighbourhood of Candelaria, which means it does feel much safer than many other areas of the city. Students fill the streets during the days and evenings. The hostel has free wifi and enjoys its own onsite bar. This is a good choice for anybody looking to meet other travellers as there is a game room and library area. Breakfast is also included in the price here making your money stretch that bit further. There are some private rooms as well as dorms for between four and ten people.
Dorms from $10/ night. Privates from $33/ night
Situated up town in Chapinero, Aurora Hostel is a little closer to the airport than any of the Candelaria properties while still being in the heart of the Colombian capital. The area is good especially for finding local nightlife. Some rooms have their own terrace and the bunks have their own curtain to add a little extra privacy for guests. The hostel has its own coffee shop on site and alcohol can be bought from the front desk, which is staffed 24 hours a day.
Dorms from $15/ night. Privates from $44/ night
Slightly pricier than the other options here, dorms and private rooms at Masaya Hostel justify that by offering an added level of comfort for those extra pesos. Dorms have tiled floors, privates have wooden floors and the shared bathrooms are clean and modern. Wifi is available throughout the property and there is a terrace for guests to mingle and relax. Additionally there are laundry facilities and a bar onsite. A breakfast, that has received consistently good reviews from guests, is also included in the price.
Dorms from $9/ night. Privates from $25/ night
This Candelaria-based hostel is great value. Rooms have wooden fittings giving the place a rustic and inviting atmosphere. Dorms come with up to ten beds and private rooms make for especially good value compared with some of the other hostels. Casa Bellavista also has a shared kitchen and a games room, although the communal space is a little more limited here compared with other options. There are plenty of cool little bars in the area and the free walking tour of Bogota leaves from just around the corner each day.
