Hola and a very warm welcome to the one and only guide you’re going to need to discover the absolute best hostels in Ecuador! We’ve searched high and low to find the hostels we’d only recommend to you, our friends and family.
And boy did we come across some absolutely gorgeous hostels! As you’ll quickly discover as you scroll through, so many of these hostels have an awesome social atmosphere full to the brim with regular activities, vibrant rooftop vibes and hostel bar shenanigans.
Are these really the top hostels in Ecuador?
Without a doubt! There is not yet a 5 star hostel in Ecuador, but we’re always keeping our eyes peeled. In the meantime you can discover hostels with superb design, epic rooftop views and even a cheeky discount.
We are Hostelgeeks and we discover the world’s greatest hostels, including the best hostels in Ecuador.
At the end of this article you’ll spot a big hostel map which is really helpful for your planning. Maps are super useful!
Also we added a list of all the frequently asked questions – FAQ.
List of Cities in Ecuador with Great Hostels
Let’s waste no more time and jump right in to this great Ecuardorian hostel collection.
All of the destinations in Ecuador which we include in this guide are below (in no particular order):
- Quito
- Banos
- Cuenca
- Montanita
- Guayaquil
- Tena
- Chugchilan
- Canoa
- Alausi
- Latacunga
- Mindo
- Mompiche
- Salinas
Good to know: you’ll notice that almost all of the destinations have just one hostel recommendation.
This is because we couldn’t find another hostel worth mentioning that we would want to recommend to our friends and family.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| ⛪ Best Hostel in Quito: | Masaya Hostel |
| 🌋 Best Hostel in Baños de Agua Santa: | Great Hostels |
| ⛰️ Best Hostel in Cuenca: | Pepe’s House Boutique Hotel |
| 🎒 For Backpackers in Montanita: | Esperanto B&B Surf & Backpacker Hostel |
| 🌳 For Forest Lovers in Tena: | Hostal Pakay |
| 🏖️ Beach Hostel in Canoa: | Hostel Coco Loco |
| 👫 For Socializing in Alausi: | Community Hostel Alausi |
| 🥾 For Hiking in Latacunga: | Cuscungo Cotopaxi Hostel |
| 🏞️ For Nature Lovers in Mindo: | La Casa de Cecilia Mindo |
| 🌊 For Sea Lovers in Salinas: | Chescos Hostel & Hotel |
Best Hostels in Quito Ecuador
Let us start off this guide with a very popular destination that also happens to be the capital of Ecuador. Andean foothills, ancient Incan city and a collection of superb hostels – are you ready?!
We couldn’t resist giving you four options for this city:
Over in our full guide to the best hostels Quito we go into more detail and include even more great hostels.
1. Masaya Hostel
It’s only right that we start this guide with a jaw-dropping hostel, and Masaya Hostel will surely impress!
Seriously, what you get for the price is frankly amazing. You may question is this is actually a hostel, but rest assured it is – just have a look at the amazing dorm rooms!
Whilst it’s very tempting to hang out in your private pod, don’t miss out on the many communal areas here.
You’ll find a bar up on the rooftop terrace, but there’s also a gorgeous garden, BBQ and cinema room to tempt you.
Daily activities will ensure you meet cool people – we highly suggest joining in the salsa lessons.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Selina Quito
This one is cool: Selina Quito.
From co-working spaces to large community spaces that encourage you to wind down and have fun; Selina has literally though of everything.
The perks of this particular hostel include a yoga deck, onsite restaurant-bar and move room with Netflix.
This is a digital nomads heaven, that’s for sure. And we have a wicked discount code for you to make your hostel experience even more worthwhile.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Community Hostel Quito
Community Hostel is a hostel with heart; by funding local non-profits, they successfully stay connected with their phenomenal neighbourhood and region.
It is a super social place to be, too!
Everyday of the week there are fun acvitities to join, including burgers on the roof, quiz nights, salsa nights and a fun bar crawl in the city.
Their in-house chefs are always ready to rustle up delicious breakfasts and dinners, from a menu that changes everyday. Vegetarian and vegan options included!
To top it off Community Hostel is located right in the middle of the historic center of Quito.
Compare prices and check availability at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. Secret Garden Quito
Hands up if you’re all about gorgeous cosy bedrooms! Secret Garden Quito offer king size single beds and privacy curtains – awesome!
We really like that there is a smaller 4-bed dorm as well as a larger 8-bed. Couple can treat themselves to a private room that comes with a private ensuite.
This is another sociable place and the best place to head to is up on the rooftop where you’ll very likely make lots of new friends.
There is a regular Happy Hour at the hostel bar which often gets very lively. Why not kick start a game of beer pong if you’re feeling lively?
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Hostels in Banos Ecuador
Baños de Agua Santa is your gateway to the Amazon Basin, as well as exciting hiking trails to nearby Tungurahua volcano. Not to mention the many mineral-rich hot springs in the area!
You’re in luck when it comes to hostels, too. Have a look at:
1. Great Hostels
Melt into the surrounding nature of Great Hostels quickly and easily thanks to the rustic design.
There’s almost too much to say about our #1 choice in Banos, so here’s a handy little list:
- Free cocktails on Saturdays, Movie nights on Sundays
- Cosy lounge & living room w/ pool, social activities
- Gardens + hammocks
- Spacious guest kitchen
What makes this hostel unique is the that each room has a marvellous hand-painted mural on the ceiling! From a swirling Tsunami to a sorching desert – which room will you choose?
Good music, homemade cakes, hostel bar – we think you get the picture…
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Papachos Hostel
Enjoy mountain and waterfall views from the 3 storey building named Papachos Hostel.
This is a big contender for solo travellers and backpackers. It’s super easy to break the ice with others thanks to their movie nights and BBQ events.
Save money by using the hostel kitchen which is fully equipped with everything you need.
When the day is over, smile as your head hits the soft pillow and you pull your privacy curtain across for a sound nights sleep. Ahhh!
The team is largely made up of volunteers and many people comment how much they add to the atmosphere here.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
3. Hostal Princesa Maria
As a third option we’ve included Hostal Princesa Maria which is more of a quaint, homely accommodation for older travellers and families.
As you can see from the photos, this is not a modern hostel and instead is more focused around awesome hospitality and a local experience.
Victor – your host – will go out of his way to make you feel at home. Don’t be shy to strike up a conversation!
The sun terrace is a lovely place to soak in the fresh air and have a chat with new friends.
Princesa is located in a quiet area yet still within an easy walking distance to everything you might wish to explore.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Cuenca Ecuador
Down in the southern part of the Ande’s Mountains you’ll find Cuenca. This city is known for Panama hats and the Tomebamba river waterfront.
We also have a full best hostels in Cuenca guide, so you can read it and find some more suggestions for hostels!
Lucky for you there are three great hostels to choose from here, too!
- Guillerminas Hostel Boutique
- Ñañas Hostel
- Pepe’s House Boutique Hotel
- AlterNative Hostels
- El Cafecito Hostel
1. Guillerminas Hostel Boutique
Guillerminas Hostel Boutique has a modern, fashionable design and impeccable cleanliness that keeps guests comfortable and satisfied at all times. This hostel is ideal for solo female travelers in Ecuador because it meets all of the requirements of a high-quality city hostel: it is clean, beautiful, and secure.
Guests praise the shower and bathroom facilities, as well as the friendly and accommodating staff. Guests also enjoy the hostel’s free breakfast.
The property is a truly stunning, one-of-a-kind haven that will provide a peaceful space for anyone who visits.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Ñañas Hostel
Ñañas Hostel is located in the center and near the Tomebamba River and the Cathedral. The El Museo de Las Conceptas and the Museo de la Identidad Canari are both within walking distance of the hostel as well.
Couples have several room options. Nanas has a typical mixed-bed dormitory that can accommodate six people, and the cleanliness standard in each of the hostel’s rooms is far above average.
The game and activity room, as well as the bar, will keep guests entertained, ensuring that you will not be bored during your stay in Cuenca.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Pepe’s House Boutique Hotel
It would be rude not to include a top notch boutique hostel in our guide to Ecuador! Welcome to Pepe’s House Boutique Hotel.
What a delightful ambience the deep colours and contours of the building create here. Wooden stairs, chandeliers, soft lighting – wonderful!
This is actually a renovated republican house, boasting 12 rooms, 3 living rooms, a rooftop and a cafe-bar.
Book yourself into a cosy dorm, twin, superior private double or family room.
For an extra few coins you can opt in for a morning breakfast, too.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. Alternative Hostels
Oh we just love the design of AlterNative Hostels! It’s so alternative we don’t really know how to describe it, so check out the photos and see what you think.
Chic, modern, functional… AlterNative hosts a wide range of travellers from across the world.
There’s space to set up for laptop, a welcoming coffee house next door with indoor and outdoor seating, and a shared kitchen.
In fact, you’re eligible for a special breakfast discount at the coffee house!
Stay here and you’ll be located in Cuenca’s hotspot close to great bars and restaurants.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
5. El Cafecito Hostel
A top backpacker option is without a doubt El Cafecito Hostel.
What better way to bring people together than to offer a 5 course vegetarian family meal? Such a cool and generous idea.
And! What better place to enjoy it than up on the rooftop alongside awesome views of the surrounding mountains?!
The rooftop bar will make sure to provide endless refreshing drinks to help you wash it down.
If you can find a reason to step outside, the main plaza of Cuenca is a short walk away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Montanita Ecuador
Set on the Santa Elena Peninsula, Montanita is a great destination for surfers and party animals.
These hostels blend the two vibes together and add their own unique twist:
- Esperanto B&B Surf & Backpacker Hostel (Esperanto Hostel)
- My Little House Surf&Backpacker Hostel
- El Cielo
Good To Know: We also have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Montañita.
1. Esperanto B&B Surf & Backpacker Hostel
All of the best bits are already highlighted in the name: bed, breakfast and surf, oh yeah!
Esperanto B&B Surf & Backpacker Hostel is independently owned and super cool in our opinion.
Get ready for:
- Free daily breakfast
- BYOB policy
- Rooftop with ocean views
- Balconies in most of the rooms
- Private 1-1 Spanish lessons
There a many more benefits including TV lounge, communal kitchen and WiFi in all of the rooms.
Amazing surf spots are easily accessible from here. The team at reception can help you find amazing surf teachers and lessons in the area.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. My Little House Surf&Backpacker Hostel
My Little House Surf&Backpacker Hostel really has merged party hostel with chill vibes quite perfectly – it surely has the coolest vibe in all of Montanita.
Warning: Only stay here if you’re highly sociable and love to cram your days and nights with fun activities!
The possibilities for having fun are endless.
Social area on the terrace, BBQ nights, movie evenings, beer pong championships…. the list goes on.
Psst! If you want to get a good night’s sleep there is a lovely 4-bed dorm located at the back of the property which is much more quiet.
The cheap bar has all of your favourite cocktails to get the evening flowing nicely. It’s also just a 2-minute walk from the town centre if you fancy hitting the nearby nightlife.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. El Cielo
SWIMMING POOL!
We knew that would get your attention. Oh hello there El Cielo!
Come on in and put your bags down in the bamboo-made guest house that’s oozing with sweet, tranquil vibes and a homely atmosphere.
The perfect balance is struck here; party in the nearby town and return to a safe, cosy and quiet accommodation when you’ve had enough.
El Cielo is located in the El Tigrillo neighborhood which is the last remaining bit of Montanita’s countryside. It’s very different from the commercial touristy area.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Guayaquil Hostels
This port city is a good stop over place if you’re headed to the Galapagos Islands and surrounding Pacific beaches. It is actually the second largest city in Ecuador!
You may find it a tough choice between these hostels:
- Pepe’s House – best for solo travelers
- Hostel Nucapacha – best for backpackers
- Villa Maria Guesthouse – best for female solo travelers
- Extra: Casa Michael – best for budget travelers
You can also check out our detailed guide to the best hostels in Guayaquil.
1. Pepe’s House
Pepe’s House is a fantastic pick for solo travelers who are visiting Guayaquil. Located right in front of the Malecon 2000 and only 1.3 km away from the city centre, it’s in an ideal location.
With 7 rooms, each with a private bathroom and either a queen or a double bed, it is the perfect place to stay.
Plus, the self-check-in option and the fast, reliable Wi-Fi make it a great option for digital nomads as well.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Hostel Nucapacha
Hostel Nucapacha is the perfect budget option for any backpacker that isn’t looking for a luxurious accommodation.
Having said that, this hostel does have an outdoor swimming pool so it’s obviously not cheap and nasty – far from it!
It’s a basic yet clean and homely hostel, offering a kitchen to save even more money, plus seasonal fruit in the backyard.
There’s a range of shared and private rooms, including a family room that sleeps up to 4 people.
Note: There is no air conditioning in the rooms.
We really enjoy the eye-catching artwork on the walls of this place.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Villa Maria Guesthouse
Villa Maria Guesthouse is a cozy and laid-back accommodation situated near the airport and just a short bus ride away from the city center. The traditional Ecuadorian-style rooms are clean and comfortable, even if they are not the most spacious.
The property provides an added sense of security for female solo travelers, and the hospitality of Maria and her daughter is outstanding.
Unfortunately, there is no hot water, but the hot climate of Guayaquil makes this a minor issue. Villa Maria is an ideal spot for those looking for a relaxed and peaceful stay. It is situated 8 km from Saint Francis Church, 8.5 km from Malecon 2000, and 3.4 km from Plaza del Sol.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Casa Michael
It’s evident that the owners of Casa Michael also live here, and they’re always available to give you undivided attention.
This place feels like home, there’s no doubt about it!
When you’re not out exploring the Alborada neighborhood be sure to make use of the courtyard hammocks.
Inside there is a communal kitchen and air-conditioned living room with 50″ LCD screen with Netflix access. Go on, it’s nice to unwind with a movie once in a while!
There are both shared and private rooms here, all of which include A/C.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Tena: Hostal Pakay Ecuador
It’s time to venture to Tena, nestled in the stunning Amazon Rainforest of Ecuador!
Hostal Pakay was an easy choice for us and it will be for you too, no doubt.
The property has more than 2 hectares which is home to a jungle garden and a variety of endemic plant and bird species. It’s so lush here. Plus Andes mountain views!
The hostel itself is built with local materials coupled with eco-friendly practises such as biological waste water treatment and dry toilets.
Some of the benefits of staying here include:
- Free breakfast
- Kayak lessons & full day raft trips
- Free, unlimited drinking water
- Free Wifi
Located on the outskirts of town, it’s a lovely 15-minute walk from the main bus station.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Chugchilan: Hostal Cloud Forest Ecuador
Chugchilan is located in the province of Cotopaxi and sits at a dizzy height of 3, 200m. It’s the place to be if you love mountains, hiking and horseback riding. In fact, Chugchilan is pretty much in the middle of the well known Quilotoa Loop; a spectacular 3 and 5-day hike.
And Hostal Cloud Forest happens to be the best starting point for that very hike!
This hostel is ran by a lovely Ecuadorian family and is well-known for its huge breakfast and yummy dinners.
What else?
- Lounge w/ wood burning stove
- Bare & cafe
- Terrace w/ hammocks
- Mini market with all necessities
Most people arrive to the hostel by foot, but there is also a bus arriving from Latagunca three times a day.
After a big hike you can opt for either a basic shared dorm or upgrade to a private room. Both options are very affordable.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Canoa: Hostel Coco Loco
How do you fancy sleeping right on the beach? Canoa offers this luxury thanks to its coastal location, and we’ve found the coolest hostel in the area.
Hostel Coco Loco is an obvious choice namely because yes, you’ll get to sleep right on the beach!
Spend as much time as you fancy relaxing on the balcony which offers ocean views and comfortable hammocks.
There’s also a shared kitchen, restaurant-bar, outdoor fire pit and great surf break right in front of the hostel – that’s pretty cool.
To top it off Coco Loco has a wide range of rooms, from female-only and mixed dorms, to private rooms with an ensuite.
It’s possible to rent surfboards from reception, too. Oh, and also check out the activities desk where you can arrange fun things to do in the local area.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Alausi: Community Hostel Alausi
Set in the Ecuadorian Andes, Alausi is home to the famous Devils Nose train ride (look it up)! The region is rich in indigenous diversity and agricultural wealth.
As for where to stay, we only recommend Community Hostel Alausi.
Their superb social vibes are the highlight for sure, supported by access to local craft beers, a huge dining table and deluxe 8-bed dorms that have a private bathroom.
Make sure you try out some of the gourmet food on offer here – share experiences with others over breakfast, lunch or dinner.
You’ll be sleeping right in the center of Alausi within easy walking distance of the bus terminal.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Latacunga: Cuscungo Cotopaxi Hostel
The main reason to visit Latacunga would be to base yourself close to the Cotopaxi National Park and Ecuador’s most popular day-hike around Quilotoa Lagoon. The multi-day hike “Quilotoa Loop” is also easily accessed from here.
As for an awesome hostel?
Let the inclusions of Cuscungo Cotopaxi Hostel speak for themselves:
- Community fireplace
- Coffee & tea throughout your stay
- Ping pong table
- Bar & shared lounge
- Large dining table for group meals
Either book yourself in to the 7-bed mixed dorm, or treat yourself to a double or triple room with private bathroom.
The location is superb, too. It’s just 2km to the entrance of Cotopaxi National Park, and 500 metres from the Pan-American highway.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Mindo: La Casa de Cecilia Mindo
Mindo valley will surely satisfy any bird, butterfly, waterfall and orchid lover, and anyone in search of that famous cloud forest experience. Mindo-Nambillo Reserve is also well worth exploring.
To add to your forest experience, we suggest booking yourself a bed at La Casa de Cecilia Mindo.
It’s a small, friendly hostel located right by the river in a calm, natural environment. Pure bliss in our opinion.
There are family rooms, queen and double rooms and guess what? Mixed dorms without bunkbeds!
The friendly staff will be happy to help you plan adventures with ziplining, canyoning, tubing, chocolate tour and much more.
You’ll find us swinging on a hammock close to the fire pit.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Mompiche: The Mudhouse Hostel
Two hours south of Esmeraldas you will find the tiny fishing village of Mompiche.
We absolutely love the design of The Mudhouse Hostel, it’s so cosy and blends in perfectly with the surrounding environment.
It’s an eco hostel that’s immersed in a lush, tropical oasis of birds and plants. Surely a paradise for nature lovers!
The bamboo bungalows are clean, breezy and full of natural light. Decked out beautifully with bamboo bunks and mosquito nets.
What else can you look forward to?
- Free fibre optic Wifi
- Free secure on-site parking
- Hammocks & yoga deck
- Fully-equipped shared kitchen
Travellers and locals come together here in the evenings to have drinks, play games and eat the yummy pizza and empanadas on offer.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Salinas: Chescos Hostel & Hotel
Up on the Western tip of the Santa Elena province is an inviting coastal town named Salinas. It’s home to the most popular and upscale beach lifestyle and a great destination for spots and fun.
When a hostels tag line is “If we were any closer to the beach, we would be in the ocean!” you know it’s going to be good.
Chescos Hostel & Hotel is a top choice for your stay in Salinas.
Alongside the amazing location overlooking the beach, you’ll find bedrooms with sea views, a hostel bar with sea views annnd a really cool outdoor terrace.
The dorm room is kept cosy here, sleeping up to 4 people. There are also plenty of private rooms on offer, everything from single, double and triple; economy, standard and suite.
A big open kitchen is the hotspot for hanging out. It has a TV, wifi and outdoor furniture.
Something fun is always happening here!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
What about the cheapest hostels in Ecuador?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Ecuador.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Ecuador
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Any Discounts?
From time to time, I receive special promo codes for booking platforms, hotels, or hostels. I will be sharing these here once received. Bookmark this page to get an update.
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
I included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
I recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Ecuador best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
My Best Hostels in Ecuador for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights
Now you have all the information you need to decide on where to stay in Ecuador in style and on a budget.
Why not plan an epic road trip designed to visit your favorite hostels in this list?
On the map below you find all mentioned hostels to make your planning even easier.
(You can open the sidebar in the map to activate and deactivate groups. Open the map here.)
FAQ
Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.
More Guides for your South American Trip
Besides the coolest hostels in Ecuador, we visited more great backpacker hostels in South America.
Make sure you read these guides. You will safe money and you will stay in safe, clean and fun hostels.
Find all our hostels in South America here.
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