# HostelConnect

> Hostel discovery for backpackers in Southeast Asia, Central America and South America: destination guides, best areas to stay, hostel vibes, dorm vs private room advice. HostelConnect does not take bookings; travellers book with a named partner (Hostelworld). Guides are reviewed against official sources and dated.

## Regions
- [Southeast Asia](https://hostelconnect.co/destinations/southeast-asia/): Southeast Asia is one of the most established backpacking regions in the world, with hostels in almost every traveller hub from Bangkok and Hanoi to Bali and Palawan.
- [Central America](https://hostelconnect.co/destinations/central-america/): Central America packs colonial towns, volcanic lakes, surf beaches and rainforest into a compact region, and its hostel scene clusters around well-known stops such as Antigua, Lake Atitlán and the Costa Rican coast.
- [South America](https://hostelconnect.co/destinations/south-america/): South America rewards slow travel, and its hostels are concentrated in backpacker hubs such as Cartagena, Medellín, Quito, Lima and Cusco, linked by long-distance buses and domestic flights.

## Hostel destination guides
- [Hostels in Phnom Penh, Cambodia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/cambodia/phnom-penh/): Phnom Penh is Cambodia's capital, set where the Mekong, Bassac and Tonlé Sap rivers meet. Hostels cluster along the riverfront, around the Royal Palace area, in the BKK1 district and near the Russian Market.
- [Hostels in Kampot, Cambodia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/cambodia/kampot/): Kampot is a small riverside town in southern Cambodia, famous for its pepper and a base for Bokor National Park and Kep. Hostels sit along the river, in the old town and in the countryside nearby.
- [Hostels in Koh Rong, Cambodia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/cambodia/koh-rong/): Koh Rong is an island off Cambodia's south-west coast, reached by boat from Sihanoukville. Backpackers usually stay in the Koh Touch main village area or along beaches such as Long Set and Sok San.
- [Hostels in Luang Prabang, Laos](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/laos/luang-prabang/): Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage town in northern Laos, set between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Hostels cluster in the old peninsula, around the night market and along the Nam Khan.
- [Hostels in Vang Vieng, Laos](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/laos/vang-vieng/): Vang Vieng is a small town on the Nam Song river in central Laos, surrounded by limestone cliffs and caves. Hostels cluster in the town centre, along the river and across the river among the fields.
- [Hostels in Vientiane, Laos](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/laos/vientiane/): Vientiane is Laos's capital on the Mekong, known for That Luang, Patuxai and a riverside night market. Hostels cluster around the old centre, the riverfront and the Nam Phu area.
- [Hostels in Don Det (Si Phan Don), Laos](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/laos/don-det/): Don Det is a small island in Si Phan Don, the 4000 Islands group on the Mekong in southern Laos. Hostels and bungalows cluster on the north-east and sunset sides, with Don Khon next door.
- [Hostels in Kuta, Indonesia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/indonesia/kuta/): Kuta is the long-established beach area in south Bali, close to Ngurah Rai International Airport. Hostels cluster around Kuta itself, Legian and Seminyak, which suit first nights, easy surf lessons and busy evenings.
- [Hostels in Uluwatu, Indonesia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/indonesia/uluwatu/): Uluwatu is a surf-focused area on the Bukit Peninsula in the far south of Bali. Hostels are spread across the clifftop villages and bays, and a scooter or ride-hail is usually needed to get around.
- [Hostels in Gili Trawangan, Indonesia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/indonesia/gili-trawangan/): Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three Gili islands off north-west Lombok, with no cars or motorbikes. Hostels sit along the east coast strip, the quieter north and the island's interior, reached by boat from Bali or Lombok.
- [Hostels in Yogyakarta, Indonesia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/indonesia/yogyakarta/): Yogyakarta is a cultural city in central Java, home to a sultan's palace and the base for Borobudur and Prambanan. Hostels cluster around Malioboro and Tugu station, the Kraton area and Prawirotaman.
- [Hostels in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/indonesia/labuan-bajo/): Labuan Bajo is a harbour town on the western tip of Flores and the main gateway to Komodo National Park. Hostels are in the harbour area and along the hills above it, close to the boat operators.
- [Hostels in Singapore, Singapore](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/singapore/singapore/): Singapore is a compact island city-state with an MRT network that links the airport to the centre. Hostels cluster in Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Gelam and the Bugis area, all well served by trains.
- [Hostels in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/malaysia/kuala-lumpur/): Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's capital and the country's main transport hub, with a skyline of towers beside Malay, Chinese and Indian neighbourhoods. Hostels cluster in Chinatown, Bukit Bintang and around KL Sentral.
- [Hostels in George Town, Penang, Malaysia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/malaysia/george-town/): George Town is the historic capital of Penang island and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for shophouses, temples and street food. Hostels cluster around Chulia Street, Love Lane, Armenian Street and Little India.
- [Hostels in Langkawi, Malaysia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/malaysia/langkawi/): Langkawi is an island group in the Andaman Sea, off Malaysia's north-west coast and close to the Thai border. Hostels cluster at Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah and in Kuah town.
- [Hostels in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/malaysia/cameron-highlands/): The Cameron Highlands are a hill region in Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia, known for tea plantations, strawberry farms and jungle walks. Hostels cluster in Tanah Rata and Brinchang.
- [Hostels in Melaka (Malacca), Malaysia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/malaysia/malacca/): Melaka is a historic trading port on Malaysia's south-west coast, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with George Town. Hostels cluster around Jonker Street, the Dutch Square and along the Melaka River.
- [Hostels in Siargao, Philippines](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/philippines/siargao/): Siargao is a teardrop-shaped island off north-eastern Mindanao, known for surfing at Cloud 9. Most backpacker hostels sit in and around General Luna, on the island's south-east coast.
- [Hostels in Coron, Philippines](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/philippines/coron/): Coron is a town on Busuanga Island in northern Palawan, used as the base for island hopping, lake visits and wreck dives. Hostels are concentrated around the town proper.
- [Hostels in Manila, Philippines](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/philippines/manila/): Manila is the Philippines' capital and the main international gateway. Hostels cluster in Makati's Poblacion district, the Malate and Ermita tourist belt, and near the airport in Pasay.
- [Hostels in Moalboal, Philippines](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/philippines/moalboal/): Moalboal is a coastal town in south-west Cebu, known for snorkelling and diving close to shore. Most hostels sit around Panagsama Beach.
- [Hostels in Boracay, Philippines](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/philippines/boracay/): Boracay is a small island off the north-west tip of Panay, known for the long White Beach. Hostels are mostly around Stations 1 to 3 and at Bulabog Beach.
- [Hostels in Bangkok, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/bangkok/): Bangkok is the most common starting point for a Southeast Asia trip. Hostels cluster around Khao San Road and Banglamphu, Silom, Sukhumvit and Chinatown, each with its own pace and transport links.
- [Hostels in Chiang Mai, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/chiang-mai/): Chiang Mai is northern Thailand's cultural capital and a relaxed base for temples, markets, cooking classes and mountain trips. Hostels cluster in the moated Old City, around Tha Phae Gate, in Nimman and near the Night Bazaar.
- [Hostels in Canggu, Indonesia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/indonesia/canggu/): Canggu is a surf and café area on the south-west coast of Bali, Indonesia. Hostels cluster around Batu Bolong, Echo Beach, Berawa and Pererenan, and the scene suits surfers, remote workers and social travellers.
- [Hostels in Ubud, Indonesia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/indonesia/ubud/): Ubud is a town in the hills of central Bali, Indonesia, known for rice terraces, temples, art museums and yoga. Hostels cluster in central Ubud around Monkey Forest Road and Jalan Hanoman, in Penestanan and in Nyuh Kuning.
- [Hostels in Hanoi, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/hanoi/): Hanoi (Hà Nội), Vietnam's capital, is a street-food city and the main base for trips to Ha Long Bay, Sa Pa and Ninh Bình. Hostels cluster in the Old Quarter, around Hoàn Kiếm Lake and the French Quarter, and in Tây Hồ.
- [Hostels in Hoi An, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/hoi-an/): Hội An is a historic trading port on central Vietnam's coast, known for its lantern-lit, UNESCO-listed Ancient Town. Hostels cluster around the Old Town, in the Cẩm Thanh countryside and near An Bàng beach.
- [Hostels in Siem Reap, Cambodia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/cambodia/siem-reap/): Siem Reap is the gateway town for the temples of Angkor in north-west Cambodia. Hostels cluster around Pub Street and the Old Market, east of the river near Wat Bo, and in the Taphul area.
- [Hostels in El Nido, Philippines](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/philippines/el-nido/): El Nido is a town in northern Palawan, Philippines, and the base for island-hopping tours of Bacuit Bay's lagoons and beaches. Hostels cluster in El Nido town, Corong-Corong, the Maremegmeg area and near Nacpan Beach.
- [Hostels in Pai, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/pai/): Pai is a small town in Mae Hong Son province, reached from Chiang Mai along a famously winding mountain road. Hostels sit along the walking-street centre and in the quieter countryside around it.
- [Hostels in Chiang Rai, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/chiang-rai/): Chiang Rai is the main city of Thailand's northernmost province, known for contemporary temples and hill country. Hostels are mostly in the compact centre near the Night Bazaar and bus terminal.
- [Hostels in Koh Phangan, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/koh-phangan/): Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand is known for the Full Moon Party at Haad Rin, yet much of the island is quieter. Hostels cluster at Haad Rin, Thong Sala, Srithanu and the northern and western beaches.
- [Hostels in Koh Tao, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/koh-tao/): Koh Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand with a long-standing reputation for dive training. Hostels cluster at Sairee Beach, Mae Haad and Chalok Baan Kao, usually alongside dive schools.
- [Hostels in Ao Nang, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/ao-nang/): Ao Nang is the main beach town in Krabi province and a practical base for Railay, island boat trips and climbing. Hostels sit in Ao Nang itself, on Railay and in Krabi Town, about 20 km inland.
- [Hostels in Phuket, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/phuket/): Phuket is Thailand's largest island and the main Andaman gateway. Backpacker hostels cluster in Patong, Phuket Old Town and Kata and Karon, each with a very different pace.
- [Hostels in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/koh-phi-phi/): Koh Phi Phi Don is the main inhabited island of the Phi Phi group, in Krabi province. Hostels cluster around Tonsai village, the pier and the lanes behind it.
- [Hostels in Koh Lanta, Thailand](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/thailand/koh-lanta/): Koh Lanta is a slower-paced island in Krabi province, with long west-coast beaches and an old town on the east. Hostels are mainly on the west-coast beach roads.
- [Hostels in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/ho-chi-minh-city/): Ho Chi Minh City, still widely called Saigon, is Vietnam's economic centre and a common start or end point for a north-south trip. Backpacker hostels cluster around Phạm Ngũ Lão in District 1, with other options in District 3 and Thảo Điền.
- [Hostels in Da Nang, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/da-nang/): Da Nang is a coastal city in central Vietnam with a long beach, the Marble Mountains and an international airport. Hostels cluster around An Thượng near Mỹ Khê Beach, the Hải Châu city centre and the Sơn Trà beachfront.
- [Hostels in Huế, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/hue/): Huế was the seat of the Nguyễn dynasty and is known for its Citadel, imperial tombs and the Perfume River. Backpacker hostels cluster south of the river around Phạm Ngũ Lão and Chu Văn An, with a few north of the river near the Citadel.
- [Hostels in Hà Giang, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/ha-giang/): Hà Giang is a town in northern Vietnam and the base for the Hà Giang Loop, a multi-day road trip through the Đồng Văn Karst Plateau. Hostels in town cater to riders, with more stops in Quản Bạ, Yên Minh, Đồng Văn and Mèo Vạc.
- [Hostels in Sa Pa, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/sapa/): Sa Pa is a hill town in north-west Vietnam, known for terraced rice fields, villages and Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. Hostels are in the town centre and in nearby valley villages, reached from Lào Cai by road.
- [Hostels in Ninh Bình, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/ninh-binh/): Ninh Bình is a province south of Hanoi known for limestone karsts, rivers and temples. Most backpackers stay around Tam Cốc, a short ride from Tràng An, Hang Múa and the ancient capital of Hoa Lư.
- [Hostels in Đà Lạt, Vietnam](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/vietnam/da-lat/): Đà Lạt is a highland city in southern Vietnam at about 1,500 m, with a cool, spring-like climate. Hostels cluster around Xuân Hương Lake, Hòa Bình Square and the surrounding streets.
- [Hostels in Flores, Guatemala](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/guatemala/flores/): Flores is a compact island town on Lake Petén Itzá in northern Guatemala, linked to the mainland by a causeway. Backpackers use it as the base for day trips to the Maya ruins of Tikal, about 65 km away.
- [Hostels in Lanquín (Semuc Champey), Guatemala](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/guatemala/lanquin/): Lanquín is a small town in Alta Verapaz and the main base for Semuc Champey, a natural monument about 11 km away. It is known for terraced turquoise pools, caves and river activities, reached by a bumpy mountain road.
- [Hostels in Caye Caulker, Belize](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/belize/caye-caulker/): Caye Caulker is a small island off the Belize coast, on the Belize Barrier Reef side of the country. Visitors get around on foot or by bicycle and come for snorkelling, diving and a slow pace.
- [Hostels in San Ignacio, Belize](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/belize/san-ignacio/): San Ignacio is the largest town in Belize’s Cayo District, about 67 miles from Belize City. Backpackers use it as a base for Maya temples, caves and river trips in western Belize.
- [Hostels in Utila, Honduras](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/honduras/utila/): Utila is one of Honduras’s Bay Islands, off the Caribbean coast, and is known for scuba diving and learn-to-dive courses on the Mesoamerican Reef. The island is reached by ferry from La Ceiba.
- [Hostels in Copán Ruinas, Honduras](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/honduras/copan-ruinas/): Copán Ruinas is a small town in western Honduras beside the Maya archaeological park of Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for the Hieroglyphic Stairway, free-flying macaws and its position near the Guatemalan border.
- [Hostels in Granada, Nicaragua](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/nicaragua/granada/): Granada is a colonial city on the shore of Lake Nicaragua, popular with backpackers as a base for volcano, lake and island trips. Hostels sit within walking distance of the central park and the lakefront.
- [Hostels in León, Nicaragua](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/nicaragua/leon/): León is a colonial university city in north-western Nicaragua, known for its cathedral, murals and nearby volcanoes. Backpackers use it as a base for volcano hikes, boarding trips and beaches on the Pacific coast.
- [Hostels in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/nicaragua/san-juan-del-sur/): San Juan del Sur is a small Pacific coast town in south-western Nicaragua, known for surf beaches, a curved bay and an active backpacker social scene. It sits a short drive from Rivas, the gateway to Ometepe.
- [Hostels in Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/nicaragua/ometepe/): Ometepe is a figure-eight island in Lake Nicaragua formed by two volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas. It is popular with backpackers for hiking, swimming spots, farm stays and a slow pace.
- [Hostels in Panama City, Panama](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/panama/panama-city/): Panama City combines a colonial old quarter, Casco Viejo, with a modern skyline and the Panama Canal. Backpacker hostels cluster in Casco Viejo and in business districts such as Bella Vista, with metro and airport links.
- [Hostels in Boquete, Panama](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/panama/boquete/): Boquete is a highland town in western Panama's Chiriquí province, known for coffee farms, cooler weather and hiking. It sits beneath Volcán Barú and is a base for trails, rafting and cloud-forest trips.
- [Hostels in Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/guatemala/antigua-guatemala/): Antigua Guatemala is a UNESCO-listed colonial city at about 1,500 metres, ringed by volcanoes. Backpackers base themselves here for Spanish classes, café culture and guided hikes up Acatenango and Pacaya.
- [Hostels in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/guatemala/lake-atitlan/): Lake Atitlán is a volcanic caldera lake in Guatemala’s highlands, framed by the San Pedro, Tolimán and Atitlán volcanoes. Hostels cluster in San Pedro La Laguna, San Marcos La Laguna, Panajachel and San Juan La Laguna.
- [Hostels in La Fortuna, Costa Rica](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/costa-rica/la-fortuna/): La Fortuna is a town in Costa Rica’s Northern Plains at the foot of Arenal Volcano. Backpackers use it as a base for Arenal Volcano National Park, hot springs, waterfall hikes and adventure tours.
- [Hostels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/costa-rica/santa-teresa/): Santa Teresa is a surf town on the southern Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica’s Puntarenas province. Backpackers come for consistent waves, yoga and sunsets, reaching it via the Puntarenas–Paquera ferry or Guanacaste.
- [Hostels in Bocas del Toro, Panama](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/panama/bocas-del-toro/): Bocas del Toro is a Caribbean archipelago in north-western Panama. Hostels cluster in Bocas Town on Isla Colón and on nearby Isla Carenero and Isla Bastimentos, linked by water taxis.
- [Hostels in El Tunco, El Salvador](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/el-salvador/el-tunco/): El Tunco is a small surf village on El Salvador’s Pacific coast in La Libertad, about 7 kilometres west of Puerto de La Libertad. Backpackers come for its waves, surf lessons and lively bars.
- [Hostels in San José, Costa Rica](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/costa-rica/san-jose/): San José is the capital of Costa Rica and its main transport hub, set in the Central Valley at around 1,150 metres. Backpackers use it for museums, markets and onward buses, with hostels clustered in Barrio Amón, Barrio Escalante and the centre.
- [Hostels in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/costa-rica/puerto-viejo/): Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a Caribbean-coast beach town in the south-east of Costa Rica, close to Cahuita National Park and the Panama border. Hostels sit in the town and along the beaches to the south, reached by bike or on foot.
- [Hostels in Monteverde, Costa Rica](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/costa-rica/monteverde/): Monteverde is a cloud-forest area in the Tilarán Mountains, with Santa Elena town as its main base for hostels and tours. It sits at around 1,440 metres, so evenings are cool, and reserves lie a short drive from town.
- [Hostels in Tamarindo, Costa Rica](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/costa-rica/tamarindo/): Tamarindo is a Pacific surf town in Guanacaste, about an hour from Liberia airport (LIR). It has a beach, restaurants, surf schools and an active nightlife, with hostels in the town and just inland.
- [Hostels in Buenos Aires, Argentina](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/argentina/buenos-aires/): Buenos Aires is Argentina's capital and the usual arrival point for a trip through the country. Hostels cluster in Palermo, San Telmo, Recoleta and the central districts, all linked by the Subte, buses and taxis.
- [Hostels in Mendoza, Argentina](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/argentina/mendoza/): Mendoza is Argentina's best-known wine region and a base for Andean day trips. Hostels sit in the central grid, around Aristides Villanueva and near Parque San Martín, all within reach of buses to the vineyards.
- [Hostels in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/argentina/bariloche/): San Carlos de Bariloche, usually called Bariloche, sits on Lake Nahuel Huapi in the Argentine Lake District. It is a base for skiing, hiking and lake trips inside Nahuel Huapi National Park.
- [Hostels in El Chaltén, Argentina](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/argentina/el-chalten/): El Chaltén is a small mountain village in Patagonia, inside Los Glaciares National Park. Trails start from the edge of town, and hostels sit along a few streets close to the trailheads.
- [Hostels in Salta, Argentina](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/argentina/salta/): Salta is the main base for exploring Argentina's north-west, with colonial architecture, folk music venues and day trips to Cafayate, Cachi and the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Hostels sit near Plaza 9 de Julio.
- [Hostels in Puerto Iguazú, Argentina](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/argentina/puerto-iguazu/): Puerto Iguazú is the town beside Iguazú National Park, home to the Argentine side of the falls. Hostels are in the town centre and along the roads towards the park, a short bus ride from the entrance.
- [Hostels in La Paz, Bolivia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/bolivia/la-paz/): La Paz is Bolivia's seat of government, set in a steep canyon high in the Andes. Hostels cluster around the Sagárnaga and Linares markets, the central Prado area and Sopocachi.
- [Hostels in Uyuni, Bolivia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/bolivia/uyuni/): Uyuni is a small high-altitude town on the edge of the Salar de Uyuni, the departure point for most salt flat tours. Hostels are few and close together, around the main avenues and the old train area.
- [Hostels in Sucre, Bolivia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/bolivia/sucre/): Sucre is Bolivia's constitutional capital, known for its whitewashed colonial centre. It sits lower and milder than La Paz or Uyuni, with hostels around the main plaza, Recoleta and the Calle Calvo area.
- [Hostels in Santiago, Chile](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/chile/santiago/): Santiago is Chile's capital and main gateway, ringed by the Andes. Hostels cluster in Barrio Brasil, Bellavista, Lastarria and around Santa Lucía, all on or near the Metro network.
- [Hostels in Valparaíso, Chile](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/chile/valparaiso/): Valparaíso is a Pacific port city built over steep hills, known for street art and funiculars. Hostels cluster on Cerro Alegre, Cerro Concepción, Cerro Bellavista and in the flat Plan district.
- [Hostels in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/chile/san-pedro-de-atacama/): San Pedro de Atacama is a small adobe town in the Atacama Desert, the base for desert tours. Hostels sit along Caracoles and the lanes around the plaza, with others in the outlying ayllus.
- [Hostels in Puerto Natales, Chile](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/chile/puerto-natales/): Puerto Natales is a small port town on Última Esperanza Sound and the main gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Hostels sit along the waterfront and the streets around the Plaza de Armas.
- [Hostels in São Paulo, Brazil](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/brazil/sao-paulo/): São Paulo is Brazil's largest city and a major arrival point for flights. Hostels cluster around Vila Madalena, Avenida Paulista and Consolação, Liberdade and the historic centre, all on or near the metro.
- [Hostels in Florianópolis, Brazil](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/brazil/florianopolis/): Florianópolis is mostly on Ilha de Santa Catarina, with dozens of beaches, a large lagoon and forested hills. Hostels cluster around Lagoa da Conceição, Campeche, the northern beaches and the historic centre.
- [Hostels in Ilha Grande, Brazil](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/brazil/ilha-grande/): Ilha Grande is a mountainous, mostly forested island off Rio de Janeiro state, reached by boat from Angra dos Reis or Conceição de Jacareí. Most hostels are in the village of Abraão.
- [Hostels in Paraty, Brazil](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/brazil/paraty/): Paraty is a colonial coastal town on the Costa Verde, known for its historic centre, boat trips and nearby beaches. Hostels sit in or near the historic centre, with others at Pontal and in Trindade.
- [Hostels in Salvador, Brazil](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/brazil/salvador/): Salvador is the capital of Bahia and one of Brazil's oldest cities, known for the colonial Pelourinho, Afro-Brazilian culture and music. Hostels cluster in Pelourinho, Santo Antônio, Barra and Rio Vermelho.
- [Hostels in Montevideo, Uruguay](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/uruguay/montevideo/): Montevideo is Uruguay's capital and largest city, on the Río de la Plata. Hostels cluster in Ciudad Vieja, Centro, Cordón and Pocitos, within reach of the waterfront promenade.
- [Hostels in Punta del Diablo, Uruguay](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/uruguay/punta-del-diablo/): Punta del Diablo is a fishing village in Rocha department, near Santa Teresa National Park. It is known for its beaches, surf and a lively summer season, with hostels in the village and along the main beaches.
- [Hostels in Bogotá, Colombia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/colombia/bogota/): Bogotá is Colombia's capital, set high in the Andes at around 2,600 metres. Hostels cluster in the colonial centre of La Candelaria and in the livelier, more modern district of Chapinero.
- [Hostels in Santa Marta, Colombia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/colombia/santa-marta/): Santa Marta is a warm Caribbean city and the usual gateway to Tayrona National Park and the Sierra Nevada. Hostels cluster in the Historic Centre, the fishing and diving village of Taganga, and the beach resort area of El Rodadero.
- [Hostels in Salento, Colombia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/colombia/salento/): Salento is a small town in Colombia's coffee region and the gateway to the Cocora Valley and its tall wax palms. Hostels sit in and around the town centre and on nearby coffee farms.
- [Hostels in Minca, Colombia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/colombia/minca/): Minca is a small village in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a short road journey from Santa Marta. Travellers use it to escape the coastal heat and to hike, swim in rivers and visit coffee farms.
- [Hostels in Arequipa, Peru](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/peru/arequipa/): Arequipa is southern Peru's second city, set beneath the Misti volcano at roughly 2,300 metres. Hostels cluster around the Plaza de Armas and nearby San Lázaro, and most travellers use the city as a base for Colca Canyon.
- [Hostels in Huacachina, Peru](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/peru/huacachina/): Huacachina is a lagoon village in the desert near Ica, on the south coast of Peru. It is known for its dunes, and it is a common stop between Lima, Paracas and Nazca.
- [Hostels in Máncora, Peru](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/peru/mancora/): Máncora is a beach town on Peru's north coast, in Piura region, and is known for warm water, surf and a sociable travellers' scene. It is a common stop on the route between Peru and Ecuador.
- [Hostels in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/ecuador/banos/): Baños de Agua Santa is a small town in Ecuador's Tungurahua province, at the edge of the Andes and the Amazon basin. It is known for thermal baths, waterfalls and adventure activities.
- [Hostels in Cuenca, Ecuador](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/ecuador/cuenca/): Cuenca is Ecuador's third city, in the southern Andes at around 2,500 metres. Its historic centre has colonial architecture, river walks and rooftop views, and it is a calm stop on the route between Quito and Peru.
- [Hostels in Medellín, Colombia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/colombia/medellin/): Medellín is a mountain-valley city in Colombia known for its mild climate, Metrocable cable cars and Comuna 13 street art. Backpacker hostels cluster in El Poblado (around Provenza and Parque Lleras) and in quieter Laureles.
- [Hostels in Cartagena, Colombia](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/colombia/cartagena/): Cartagena de Indias is a Caribbean port on Colombia’s north coast whose walled old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most backpacker hostels are in Getsemaní, just outside the walls, with others inside the walled city.
- [Hostels in Cusco, Peru](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/peru/cusco/): Cusco is a high Andean city in southern Peru, the former Inca capital and the main base for Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail and the Sacred Valley. Backpacker hostels cluster around the Plaza de Armas and in the hillside San Blas neighbourhood.
- [Hostels in Lima, Peru](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/peru/lima/): Lima is Peru’s capital on the Pacific coast, known for its food scene, clifftop Malecón and colonial historic centre. Backpacker hostels cluster in the coastal districts of Miraflores and Barranco.
- [Hostels in Quito, Ecuador](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/ecuador/quito/): Quito is Ecuador’s high-altitude capital, known for one of the best-preserved colonial centres in Latin America and its ring of volcanoes. Backpacker hostels cluster in the Centro Histórico and in La Mariscal and La Floresta.
- [Hostels in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil](https://hostelconnect.co/hostels/brazil/rio-de-janeiro/): Rio de Janeiro is Brazil’s iconic coastal city, set between granite mountains and Atlantic beaches and famous for Carnival and New Year’s Eve on Copacabana. Backpacker hostels cluster in Copacabana, Ipanema, Botafogo and hilltop Santa Teresa.

## Backpacker routes
- [Thailand to Cambodia & Vietnam: a mainland Southeast Asia loop](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/thailand-cambodia-vietnam/): A three-to-four-week route from Bangkok north to Chiang Mai, then by air to Siem Reap for Angkor, and on to Hanoi and Hoi An in Vietnam. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [Guatemala to Panama: volcanoes, surf and Caribbean islands](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/guatemala-to-panama/): A three-to-four-week route through Antigua, Lake Atitlán, El Tunco, La Fortuna, Santa Teresa and Bocas del Toro, with a flight over Honduras and Nicaragua. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [Colombia to Peru: Caribbean coast to the Andes](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/colombia-to-peru/): A three-to-four-week route from Cartagena and Medellín in Colombia to Quito, Lima and Cusco, using flights for the longest legs. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [Northern Thailand loop: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai and Chiang Rai](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/northern-thailand-loop/): A two-to-three-week loop from Bangkok by overnight train to Chiang Mai, up into the hills to Pai, and on to Chiang Rai. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [Thai islands: the Gulf (Koh Tao, Koh Phangan) and the Andaman coast](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/thai-islands-gulf-and-andaman/): A two-to-three-week island route that starts on the Gulf of Thailand at Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, crosses the peninsula to Ao Nang, and finishes at Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [Vietnam north to south: Hà Giang to Ho Chi Minh City](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/vietnam-north-to-south/): A three-to-four-week route along the length of Vietnam from Hanoi and the northern mountains to Ho Chi Minh City, using trains, buses and one internal flight. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [The Laos slow route: Chiang Rai to Don Det](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/laos-slow-route/): A two-to-three-week route from Chiang Rai in Thailand across the Mekong into Luang Prabang, then south to Vang Vieng, Vientiane and the river islands of Don Det. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [Bali, Lombok and Flores: Canggu to Labuan Bajo](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/bali-lombok-flores/): A two-to-three-week island route from Bali's west coast and rice terraces to the Gili islands off Lombok and on to Labuan Bajo in Flores. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [The Central America Gringo Trail: Guatemala, Belize, Honduras and Nicaragua](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/central-america-gringo-trail/): A five-to-seven-week overland route from Antigua and Lake Atitlán through Guatemala, Belize and Honduras to León, Granada and San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [Bolivia's salt flats and the Atacama: Cusco to San Pedro de Atacama](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/bolivia-salt-flats-and-atacama/): A two-to-three-week high-altitude route from Cusco in Peru through La Paz and the Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia to the Atacama Desert in Chile. Each hostel is booked separately.
- [Patagonia and Argentina: Buenos Aires to Puerto Natales](https://hostelconnect.co/routes/patagonia-and-argentina/): A three-to-four-week route from Buenos Aires through the Lake District at Bariloche and the hiking base of El Chaltén to Puerto Natales in Chile, with optional extras. Each hostel is booked separately.

## Guides
- [Dorm bed or private room? How to choose your hostel stay](https://hostelconnect.co/guides/dorm-vs-private-room/): How hostel dorms and private rooms differ, from mixed and female-only dorms to room sizes, lockers, bathrooms and pricing per bed or per room, and when a private room makes sense.
- [Staying in a hostel for the first time: what to expect](https://hostelconnect.co/guides/first-time-hostel-guide/): A practical guide to your first hostel stay: check-in, lockers and padlocks, bed linen, quiet hours, kitchen etiquette, social events, earplugs and what to pack.
- [Party, social or quiet? How to find the right hostel vibe](https://hostelconnect.co/guides/choosing-a-hostel-vibe/): How to recognise social, party, relaxed, adventure and work-friendly hostels from their listings, using signals such as an on-site bar, organised activities, quiet hours, co-working desks and tour desks.
- [What to pack for a hostel: a practical checklist](https://hostelconnect.co/guides/hostel-packing-list/): A practical hostel packing list: padlock, earplugs, eye mask, quick-dry towel, adaptors, flip-flops, a charging cable and the small extras that make shared rooms easier.
- [Solo travel and hostels: how to meet people and look after yourself](https://hostelconnect.co/guides/solo-travel-hostels/): How solo travellers use hostels to meet people: choosing the right dorm and atmosphere, joining activities, practical habits for the first night and what no listing can promise.
- [Working remotely from a hostel: what to check before you book](https://hostelconnect.co/guides/digital-nomad-hostels/): What to check if you plan to work from a hostel: desks and workspace, quiet hours, power, connectivity that is not guaranteed, time zones, longer-stay terms and a fallback plan.
- [Female-only dorms: what they are and how to check a listing](https://hostelconnect.co/guides/female-only-dorms/): What a female-only dorm is, how it differs from a mixed dorm, and how to check a hostel listing, house rules and room details. A policy explainer, not a safety certification.
- [How to read a hostel listing: bed or room price, deposits, taxes and cancellation](https://hostelconnect.co/guides/hostel-booking-tips/): How to read a hostel listing before you book: bed price versus room price, deposits, cancellation terms, age rules, taxes paid at the property, check-in times and location checks.

## About
- [How booking works](https://hostelconnect.co/how-booking-works/): HostelConnect is a referral site; booking, payment and cancellations are handled by the partner.
- [Full text for LLMs](https://hostelconnect.co/llms-full.txt)