The Best Hostels For Backpackers In Quito

A Unesco World Heritage site, Quito is a must for travelers on the South American backpacking trail. This elevated city is found at 9,350ft (2,850m) above sea level and is rich in history, thanks to its ancient Incan roots. Many hostels are located in renovated colonial mansions or close to the vibrant nightlife in La Mariscal. Whatever you’re after, one of these excellent Quito hostels will fit the bill.

1. Selina Quito

Hostel

Unique room at Selina Quito with four poster wooden bed, pink, blue and grey walls with mural of woman and leaves

Tip-top Selina Quito offers a luxurious range of rooms, from high-end suites to hip 14-person dorms, all oozing style. Digital nomads can take a morning yoga class in the wellness centre before slipping into the co-working space. On the food side, there’s a small restaurant, communal kitchen and bar, plus an in-house barber in case your backpacker hair is starting to resemble dreads. Pets are also welcome here.

2. Vibes Hostel

Hostel

Set within a heritage building, Vibes is just two blocks away from Plaza Foch’s nightlife and a 20-minute walk from the Old Town. Dorms are small – there are no more than four beds per room, allowing for a good night’s sleep. A real highlight here are the spa facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, sauna and massage room. As for eats, Vibes houses a restaurant, bar and café – try the home-made pizza.

3. Masaya Hostel Quito

Independent Hotel

Large wooden bunkbeds with white mattresses and sheets at Masaya Hostel Quito

Masaya is situated just a block from Plaza Santo Domingo. The stylish decor and well-appointed rooms ensure a hotel-standard stay. Bunk-bed dorms accommodate up to eight, while the spacious doubles include king-size beds and private bathrooms. Take a yoga class in the leafy garden before exploring the Old Town. Come evening, enjoy movie night over a mojito, or pop down to nearby Sereno Moreno for the best craft beer in town.

5. Rebel Hostel

Hostel

Luxury hostel Rebel is based out of a renovated colonial house, decorated with hand-painted murals. It’s a stone’s throw from La Ronda’s lively nightlife and opposite the entrance to Panecillo hill. Pod-style dorms with orthopedic mattresses await, with a maximum of six to a room. Granite work surfaces make the kitchen a joy to cook in. Take note: there’s an all-day happy hour.

6. Posada del Maple

Hostel

Dining room at Posada del Maple with large painting of toucans and jungle, and large window

You can’t miss the sunshine-yellow exterior of Posada del Maple, located on a tranquil, leafy street, just a short walk from Plaza Foch. There are no dorms here – rooms range from singles to quads, ideal for solo travelers or groups of friends. Ask for a room on the top floor with city views. Enjoy the American-style breakfast with eggs just how you like them, served on the patio.

7. Community Hostel Quito

Hostel

Community Hostel is perfectly placed in the middle of Quito’s historic Old Town, just five blocks from Plaza Grande. Choose between a six- or 10-bed shared dorm or private rooms. Living quarters are simple but spic and span; shared spaces include a kitchen, dining room, lounge and roof terrace. Community also manages an action-packed nightly agenda from burger nights to pub quizzes.

8. Minka Hostel

Hostel, Hotel

People chilling, playing pool and chatting at lobby and bar at Minka Hostel with colourful walls and hammocks

Found in the San Juan neighborhood, Minka is just a short walk from the Basilica del Voto Nacional, an iconic church on the edge of historic Quito. Inside, the hostel boasts multiple shared spaces, such as a communal kitchen and games room with a pool table. Spanish lesson packs are available for those booking into dorms. Private doubles are also available. Book onto one of the popular daily tours to the Cotopaxi National Park and Toachi Cauldron.

9. The Secret Garden

Hostel, Hotel

Two dunkbeds in yellow room at The Secret Garden

Tucked away in the residential neighborhood of Itchimbia, Secret Garden is a solid hostel choice. Dorms with bunk beds and rooms for two or three are cozy, while showers are high pressure, positively a luxury in Quito. The fantastic decked rooftop terrace has a bar offering views across Quito and the Virgen del Panecillo. Travelers can take a free walking tour with the hostel to explore the key city sights.

10. Friends Hostel

Hostel, Hotel

A bunkbed and a double bed in red and cream room at Friends Hostel

Friends Hostel is a charming, historic colonial building with a great location in Quito’s attractive San Marcos neighborhood. Private rooms include well-maintained singles, decorated with locally made furniture, while dorms with bunk beds are on the cozy side. Upgrade to a deluxe room for a balcony with Old Town views. The abundant Ecuadorian-style breakfast is served on the rooftop; take advantage of free walking tours and evening activities.

This is an updated version of an article originally by Angela Drake.

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