Huascaran Peru Hostal | Courtesy of Huascaran Peru Hostal
This elegant three-story hostel on the outskirts of town is a hit for its laid-back vibe, largely due to a pleasant outdoor garden area that boasts superb mountain views. A free continental breakfast and wifi are included in the deal, while their mix of private and dorm rooms feature plush mattresses to guarantee a good night’s sleep. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the central plaza.
Hostel Akilpo provides all the comforts that a budget traveler needs after a long day in the mountains. The showers are scorching hot, the kitchen is well stocked, and the common areas are bright and cheerful. Furthermore, each well-appointed private room is reminiscent of a hotel, while the super-comfortable dorm beds have curtains for extra privacy.
Budget backpackers after a serious bargain should check in to Lodging House Ezama, a solid no-frills option with dorms beds for as little as US$6.25. Although it’s located at the northern end of town about 20 minutes’ walk from the plaza, there are ample local restaurants and shops in the vicinity. It may not be the most social hostel in Huaraz, but the friendly owner Emilio is adept at helping guests feel at home and is always happy to help organize excursions.
A one-stop-shop for all your alpine needs, Andescamp offers excellent budget accommodation to compliment their well-regarded in-house travel agency. This centrally located hostel books out during the high season, meaning it’s all too easy to make new trekking friends. Free breakfast, wifi, a bar and plenty of common spaces make this one of the best backpacker options in the city. It’s very cheap, too.
Alpes Huaraz | Couresty of Alpes Huaraz
Another great central option, the funky Alpes Huaraz is among the more modern and stylish hostels in the city. Onsite facilities include a huge well-equipped kitchen, a pleasant outdoor dining area, a knowledgeable in-house travel agent, and a bar where you can meet other travelers in the evening. A day spa and Spanish and salsa lessons keep guests entertained between hikes.
Despite being a little more expensive than other backpacker haunts in town, La Casa de Zarela is worth the extra soles for its bright and cheery ambiance and excellent onsite facilities. A fresh lick of paint helps this place look spick and span, while its quality in-house restaurant and leafy upstairs patio just add to the appeal.
Hatun Wasi Hostel | Courtesy of Hatun Wasi Hostel
Hatun Wasi focuses on offering quality lodging with the more mature budget traveler in mind. You won’t find any dorm beds in this well-run operation, but rather a series of tastefully decorated en-suite private rooms set around numerous comfortable common areas. Guests are particularly fond of the upstairs terrace that affords breathtaking mountain views.
