When most people think of Costa Rica, images of long-stretching beaches, surf sessions, and fresh coconuts come to mind; but Monteverde paints a slightly different picture.
The mountain town is in the northern part of the Puntarenas province, where the cloud forest reserve is located.
The crisp air and foggy environment are a fun twist in your Costa Rica journey you just can’t miss.
Planning to visit other parts of Costa Rica? We got you! Take a look at our guide to the best Costa Rica hostels.
Our favorite hostels in Monteverde are:
- Hostel Cattleya - best for solo-traveler
- OutBox Inn - best for party lovers
- Monteverde Backpackers Hostel - best for backpackers
- Extra: Hakuna Matata Guest House - best for families
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
The main town of Montverde is relatively small compared to some of the country’s other destinations, but there are several accommodation options to sift through.
Let’s dive into Monteverde’s top hostels and find the right place for you!
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
What we cover in this article?
You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.
Quick Introduction to Monteverde
Average price for a bed: Hostels in Monteverde cost 9€ – 16€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 21€ up to 32€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.
Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelz.com or Hostelworld.com.
Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check-Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.
Skywalk in Monteverde: Doing the Skywalk tour is a must in Monteverde. The pathway will take you across six dramatic hanging bridges that sit above the lush, green forest. You do have to pay to experience the Skywalk, but it’s worth it. Guided tours with a naturalist are also available if you’re interested in learning about the flora and fauna you see along the way.
Night Walks in Monteverde: In the cloud forest, some wildlife is best spotted under the darkness of the night. There are several night walk tours through the forest where a guide will take you to see some of the region’s most exotic animals. Get ready to see vipers, poison dart frogs, sloths, stick bugs, tarantulas, and more! Don’t worry; you’ll be kept at a safe distance from anything dangerous.
Nightlife in Monteverde: Monteverde does not have the same party atmosphere as Costa Rica beach towns, so don’t expect a rager. However, if you want to throw back a few drinks, Bar Amigos stays open until 2 am and serves cheap beverages!
🎁 New to Hostels? Read my guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. I especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels?
- Understanding Hostels in Europe - and what makes them special
The 3 Best Hostels in Monteverde are …
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Monteverde.
- Hostel Cattleya – best for solo-traveler
- OutBox Inn – best for party lovers
- Monteverde Backpackers Hostel – best for backpackers
- Extra: Hakuna Matata Guest House - best for families
These are our favorite hostels in Monteverde. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
🦸 Solo Traveler: | Hostel Cattleya |
🙎♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: | Hostel Cattleya |
🥳 Party Hostel: | OutBox Inn |
👩❤️👨Couple Hostel: | Hakuna Matata Guest House |
👨👩👦 Family Hostel: | Hakuna Matata Guest House |
👩💻 For Digital Nomads: | OutBox Inn |
🎒 Backpackers Hostel: | Monteverde Backpackers |
🧘 Cozy Hostel: | OutBox Inn |
1. Hostel Cattleya
Hostel Cattleya can fit the needs of any type of traveler. The hostel is made up of a spacious two-story home with plenty of parking space for those who rent a car.
Rooms range from privates to four-person dorms with or without a private bathroom. It’s a great spot for solo travelers looking for a safe, friendly place to call homebase.
The rooms are pet friendly, so bring the whole gang along!
There are chill areas to sit and relax outside while you sip a cup of coffee before heading out for your adventure.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Backpackers will be happy to know that there is an onsite laundry service, so you can finally wash those soiled travel clothes.
Make sure to ask the front desk about tours and other local suggestions nearby–you don’t have to plan your trip alone!
Location: All the top attractions are accessible from Hostel Cattleya. The Skywalk (cloud forest nature reserve) is just 3 km away, and the ecological sanctuary can be walked to in less than 10 minutes.
Talk to the hostel staff about arranging taxis to the nature reserve.
The best choice in Monteverde for
- solo travelers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. OutBox Inn
OutBox Inn is the newest hostel on the block and does not disappoint! It has a modern, open design that’s unlike any other option in the area.
No matter what your budget is, you should be able to find a room option that exceeds expectations.
You can book an affordable bed in an 8-person dormitory or private ensuites that are still listed at reasonable prices.
There’s nothing better than staying at a hostel with an onsite restaurant.
Well, OutBox Inn Monteverde is home to The Open Kitchen, which serves outstanding meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Or head over to the hostel’s tap house to sip on a few drinks and socialize with other guests.
Inside the hostel, there are comfy beanbags to post up on while you unwind after a great day of exploring the area.
If you just can’t get enough of the crisp outside air, stroll around the property’s garden or hang out in the outdoor seating section.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Location: OutBox Inn is located in Monteverde’s main town of Santa Elena, next to all the area’s attractions, restaurants, and tours.
Right across the street from the property, you can chow down on local dishes at Restaurante Tico y Rico!
A great choice for
- party lovers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Monteverde Backpackers Hostel
Solo travelers who want a fun, social experience can’t go wrong by staying at Monteverde Backpackers Hostel. The hostel is a hub for young backpackers from all around the world.
It’s a top-notch spot for solo travelers looking for a few buddies to go on adventures with. Another cool part about Monteverde Backpackers is that it is owned and operated by a total Costa Rican staff.
Staying at locally owned establishments is a wonderful way to ensure the money you spend during your travels is going into the pockets of the local people.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Don’t worry about spending an arm and a leg because the dormitories (four to six beds) are offered at an excellent price.
If you need a break from dorm rooms, book a few nights in the three-bed suite for some alone time–we all need it. All room rates include a traditional breakfast each morning.
Location: The hostel is just a five-minute walk from the bus terminal and is centrally located in Santa Elena.
You’ll be just around the corner from grocery stores, restaurants, and bars. Monteverde Backpackers has a 24/7 security guard, so you can stumble back to your room at any time you’d like!
This is one of the best hostels in Monteverde for
- budget travellers
- backpackers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
4. Hakuna Matata Guest House
Sometimes you just need to get away from it all, and Hakuna Matata Guest House is the place to do it.
The property is just down the road from the center of town, so you’ll be away from cars and the foot traffic of other travelers (Monteverde has an overall relaxed vibe year-round).
The house is a lovely house on a beautiful plot of land. It’s the perfect size for a couple who wants something more than just a private room in a hostel. Inside, you’ll find a delightful living room, dining table, fully equipped kitchen, and five spacious rooms with a shared bathroom.
To start or end the day, you can sit on the porch swing on the back patio as you take in the stunning scenery–sounds pretty nice, right?
The property managers are excited to point guests toward local recommendations or to help organize your tours. So, don’t hesitate to ask!
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Location: Walking to the town center from Hakuna Matata Guest House takes around 15 minutes, but it’s worth it.
You’ll feel conveniently located next to food and drink establishments but can still get the ultimate relaxation experience away from the crowd.
The nature reserve and popular tours will be about a 10-minute drive away.
This is one of the best hostels in Monteverde for
- families
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Monteverde for Solo Travelers?
What is seriously the best hostel in Monteverde for solo-travelers?
Hostel Cattleya is perfect for travellers who want to explore Monteverde and also meet new friends along the way.
Make sure to ask the front desk about trips and other local recommendations nearby–you don’t have to arrange your vacation alone!
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Party Hostels in Monteverde
Monteverde does not really have this party atmosphere compared to other places in Costa Rica.
But if you want to have a few drinks and just have a chill night, you can have a look at OutBox Inn.
This hostel has a super nice lounge area that you’ll surely enjoy. They have dorms and private bedrooms.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
More Hostels worth a mention
Still thinking about where to stay in Monteverde Costa Rica? We have presented the best hostels in Monteverde, but if you are looking for something a bit extra, there is always one more.
- Selina Hostel Monteverde Costa Rica
- Cowboy Hostel
- Sleepers Sleep Cheaper
- Camino Verde B&B
- Cabinas Vista Al Golfo
- Monteverde Monkey Hostel
- Sloth Backpackers Bed & Breakfast
Selina Monteverde
Selina Monteverde offers a range of amenities and services for a comfortable and memorable experience in Monteverde and Santa Elena. Guests can enjoy a restaurant-bar, free WiFi, tours, parties, and cultural activities.
The hostel offers rooms for couples, families, and backpackers, with dorms featuring a seating area, personal light, shelf, and locker for each bunk bed. Stay at Selina Monteverde for an unforgettable experience in Monteverde and Santa Elena.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Cowboy Hostel
Staying at Cowboy Hostel in Monteverde feels like being in a cabin in the mountains–because you are! The building has a charming look with a mostly wood interior.
It’s a prime accommodation option for couples who want to get away from the backpacker scene and have something private and cozy. Each night you jump into bed, you’ll be snug as a bug in a rug in your lovely room.
Speaking of rooms, there are private rooms that can accommodate up to three people. So, if you’re looking for something for a big group, this isn’t the spot.
Outside of every room, there are a couple of wooden chairs you can relax on and take in the gorgeous atmosphere of Monteverde. Don’t worry if you have a few work emails to knock out because the property’s Wi-Fi is strong and reliable.
If you’re heading back to the airport after your trip in the mountains, Cowboy Hostel can organize a shuttle service for you–booyah!
Location: Cowboy Hostel is conveniently located in town next to local restaurants (known as Sodas) for cheap, tasty meals.
Top spots like the Orchid Garden and ecological sanctuary are within walking distance, while the cloud forest is just a quick drive away.
This is one of the best hostels in Monteverde for
- couples
Check prices: Booking.com
Sleepers Sleep Cheaper
Looking for an authentic experience for your backpacking Monteverde? Look no further than Sleepers Hostel! This budget-friendly hostel offers clean, safe, and quiet accommodations in the heart of Monteverde. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group, Sleepers Hostel has something for everyone. Choose from comfortable hostel beds or private rooms with en suite bathrooms.
Meet fellow travelers from around the world in the lounge area or take advantage of the hostel’s many facilities. Stay connected with free WIFI and keep your clothes clean with the laundry service. When you’re ready to explore, Sleepers Hostel is the perfect home base for your adventures.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast Monteverde
Camino Verde B&B is a charming Bed and Breakfast located on the outskirts of Santa Elena. The B&B has 19 private rooms, accommodating 2 to 4 guests, with 2 rooms featuring shared bathrooms and the rest en-suite. All rooms include breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary coffee and tea throughout the day.
The friendly staff can provide impartial advice on local companies and activities, and can help with travel arrangements and custom packages. Camino Verde B&B is happy to assist with transportation arrangements, including shuttles or taxi boat taxis from Arenal. The on-site Info-Center provides guests with discounts on local activities.
With its warm hospitality and convenient location, Camino Verde B&B is the perfect choice for a peaceful stay in Monteverde.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Cabinas Vista Al Golfo
Cabinas Vista Al Golffo is a charming hostel situated in the beautiful Monteverde region of Costa Rica. The property boasts a lovely garden and a shared lounge for guests to enjoy. With Sky Adventures Monteverde just 2.6 km away, Selvatura Adventure Park 3.8 km away, and Monteverde Ecological Sanctuary and Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve within walking distance, guests will find plenty of local attractions to explore.
Free WiFi is available throughout the property, making it easy for guests to stay connected. The nearest airport is Tambor Airport, located 68 km from the hostel. With its convenient location and cozy atmosphere, Cabinas Vista Al Golffo is the perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of Monteverde.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Monteverde Monkey Hostel
Monteverde Monkey Hostel is a cozy accommodation option in Monteverde, Costa Rica, conveniently located near Sky Adventures Monteverde and Selvatura Adventure Park. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and parking, a shared kitchen, and tour organizing services. An American breakfast is available daily.
The area offers hiking opportunities and attractions such as Monteverde Orchid Garden and Monteverde Ecological Sanctuary. The nearest airport is Fortuna, 85 km away, with a paid shuttle service available. Monteverde Monkey Hostel is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Monteverde.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Sloth Backpackers Monteverde
Sloth Backpackers Bed & Breakfast is a functional and comfortable accommodation in Monteverde, Costa Rica, just 7 km from Monteverde National Park. The property offers free WiFi, a fully equipped common kitchen, and cozy rooms with a TV, mini-fridge, and private bathroom. Some rooms have a balcony. Guests can find restaurants, supermarkets, and other amenities within a 2-minute walk.
Sloth Backpackers Hostel can arrange activities and laundry services. A spa service is located next to the property. The B&B is a 3-minute walk from a bus station and a 5-hour drive from Juan Santamaría International Airport. Sloth Backpackers Bed & Breakfast is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Monteverde.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Tips for Staying in Monteverde
Pack warm clothes
When you’re packing your bags for Monteverde, make sure to bring some warm clothes. Don’t expect hot weather like you’d expect at the beach.
A couple of layers and a warm jacket should do the trick. The area does get its fair share of sunshine, too, so a hat is never a bad idea.
Raincoats are a must during the rainy season
From May to November, expect it to rain most days in Monteverde. That’s not to say you shouldn’t visit–not a chance!
We just want you to be prepared for some potential downpours during your trip. Bring a raincoat so that you’ll be prepared for anything!
Birdwatching
The best time to birdwatch in the area is between February through July when the quetzals are breeding.
Bring a pair of binoculars and a camera to capture some stunning moments in nature.
What about the cheapest hostels in Monteverde?
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 Monteverde.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Monteverde
- 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 Monteverde 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 Monteverde for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights
Let us have a look at the map. Below, we list all three best Monteverde hostels on a map.
Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.
In Monteverde we absolutely enjoyed:
- Monteverde Cloudforest
- Colibri cafe
- Frog Pond & Butterfly Garden
- Night Walk in Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Horse Trekking
- Ziplining at Skyadventures
- Canyoning, Monteverde
- Coffee Tour, Monteverde
FAQs
Here we share with you the most asked question:
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