Backpacking is a booming business in Huacachina thanks to the town’s picturesque natural setting, adrenaline pumping dune buggy rides and ample hedonistic nightlife. Unsurprisingly, a plethora of budget orientated hostels have sprung up to meet the growing demand. Here are the best.
A longtime backpacker favorite, Casa de Arena features countless cramped dorm rooms that encircle a central swimming pool with a smattering of tall, shady palm trees. This place is famous for its boozy, late-night parties, so do not, under any circumstances, come here looking for a good night’s sleep.
The more modern Banana’s Adventure attracts the same clientele as Casa de Arena but is considerably more upscale. Punters particularly love their thatched-roof poolside bar, while the bamboo exterior of the main building adds to the hostel’s Carribeanesque charm. Rowdy parties are the norm, so don’t come expecting any peace and quiet here either.
Despite being located a good 15 minutes’ walk from the oasis, Upcycled consistently rates as the top hostel in Huacachina. Why? It could be their eco-friendly ethos, the warm, friendly staff, or its relaxed vibe and funky hipster décor. Who knows? It certainly doesn’t hurt that the entire complex is spotlessly clean.
Budget travelers looking to avoid the all-night party crowd would do well to check in to La Casa de Bamboo, a well-appointed hotel that adjoins an excellent Asian vegetarian restaurant. Attractive bamboo and wooden décor can be found throughout, while its low price tag makes it excellent value for money compared to other lodgings in the region.
Like Italian food? Then you’ll love Wild Olive, a funky retro hostel that is connected to Huacachina’s best pizzeria. This beautifully-restored colonial mansion boasts some impressive interior design that utilizes bright, earthy colors to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings. Travelers also enjoy its well-stocked kitchen and excellent oasis views.
A relatively new addition to the Huacachina hostel scene, Desert Nights has a number of stylish and modern common areas, including an attractive terrace with views of the oasis and surrounding dunes. Rooms are rather basic, but that’s excusable given the low price point and excellent onsite facilities. Drop by their restaurant at lunchtime for a fantastic Peruvian feast.
Moving much further up the scale now, this fancy resort might be a bit of a stretch for most backpackers, but it’s worth considering for those looking to splurge. Tastefully-decorated rooms look out over a lush pool and patio area that adjoins onto an upmarket restaurant. Best of all (or worst of all), there’s not a single drunk backpacker in sight.
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