The Best Backpacker Hostels in Jakarta, Indonesia

Everything is vibrant about this youth-orientated backpacker hostel, from the private doubles and pastel-hued dorm rooms (sleeping from four to 10 people) to the sociable lounge, where a PlayStation console, TV and coffee area will help you connect with fellow guests. The hostel is located in the lively Mangga Besar neighbourhood, famed for its buzzing nightlife and exotic street food.

There’s a cool, industrial feel about Pinx’s with wood floors, polished concrete and clean metal lines across the dormitories and private rooms. The garden and lounge are open 24/7, meaning there’s plenty of opportunity to kick back with a beer and get to know your fellow travellers, while the central location of the hostel means you can easily explore the Jakarta sights with your new-found friends – the National Monument and Faunaland Ancol are both within walking distance.

This hip boutique hostel will put a spring in your step, from the vibrantly-tiled lobby to the colourful bunks in the four- to 12-bed dorms (private rooms are on offer, too). The real star attraction, though, is the hostel’s location, a stone’s throw from Jakarta Bay and within easy reach of attractions like the Jakarta History Museum and Penjaringan City Forest Park. Need more tips? The friendly staff will happily advise you on the best places to explore nearby.

This award-winning establishment has been attracting international backpackers not to only spend the night, but also to chill, play, and party. The hostel’s rooftop garden is occupied by the bar and a simple gym — it’s really your choice to chill or drill while basking in the tropical sunshine and stunning city view. Located in Cikini, this hostel shares the neighbourhood with some of the best restaurant and coffee shops in the city, along with cinemas, shopping malls, and more. Room options are available for every budget and preference (or privacy), from private double ensuites to dorms of all sizes.

At Wonderloft, guests will not just get the bed and breakfast they need, but also a community they’ll love. The hostel arranges lots of fun activities, such as a free walking tour, barbecue night, and pub crawls. There are also facilities like wifi, a ping pong table and a computer station. Located in Jakarta Old Town, near a major train station and busway, guests can easily explore from this hostel.

Staying true to its name, teduh (calmness, sanctuary), this hostel offers a relaxing atmosphere in the middle of the hectic and fast-paced capital. Located in Jakarta Old Town, the city’s most charming and historic neighbourhood, guests will find themselves in the middle of stunning heritage buildings that serve as cafes, museums and restaurants. The hostel also has fun onsite activities, such as movie nights and video games, that bring guests together.

The Packer Lodge is located in the heart of Chinatown, a strategic starting point to explore the best of the city’s shopping, dining, sightseeing and museums. The boutique hostel offers both private and dorm rooms, equipped with individual reading lights, air conditioning, hot showers and vanity desks. Even the dorm rooms give guests ample space and privacy, but there’s also a cosy lounge with DVDs and board games for social time.

Now this is a luxury even backpackers can afford. Carrying the concept of boutique hostel, backpackers can get a good night’s sleep in style without breaking the bank. Here, you will be sharing a room with friendly people from across the globe, so try your best to uphold the mingle please rule (preferably at the rooftop bar or on an organised walking tour). The rooms are neatly furnished with modern designs and furnishings, including code-operated lockers and key card locks.

Located within walking distance of many of the city’s landmarks such as the National Monument, National Museum, and Jakarta Old Town, Cityhomez boasts not only a prime location but also cosiness that will make anyone feel at home. The homely building has an airy and earthy feel to it, with simple but delightful decor. Guests can also use the neat open kitchen to do simple cooking.

Located at the famed Jalan Jaksa, Wisma Delima is the original Jakarta backpacker hostel, welcoming budget international travellers to its simple accommodation since 1969. Even in Jalan Jaksa, which is lined with humble lodgings for tourists, Wisma Delima is still acknowledged as one of the best, with experienced and knowledgeable staff and outstanding service. This hostel is suitable for backpackers who don’t mind skipping luxuries for the very basics.