6 Top Hostels in Ecuador –Ready to Welcome You With Open Arms (and a Comfy Bed!)

In many aspects, Ecuador is a backpacker’s dream. This is one of the countries in Latin America where you’ll be able to put your skills in thriftiness to good use and can make your dollar go far. In fact, you will literally be using dollars while vacationing in Ecuador–they dropped the native sucre and made the U.S. dollar their official currency some 14 years ago.

But back to saving money on your upcoming Ecuadorean vacation. When it comes to accommodations, you have plenty of hostels to choose from, especially in the country’s two largest cities, Quito and Guayaquil. Here are a just a few top hostels that come with rave reviews:

El Manso Boutique Hostal, Guayaquil

El Manso calls itself a cultural center and hostel, which means staying here comes with perks beyond those you’ll find at most other places. You’re likely to see art on display and catch a dance performance during your stay. The onsite cafeteria uses local and organic ingredients and serves dishes like quinoa burgers and sea bass in coconut sauce throughout the day. As a guest at El Manso, you’ll enjoy extras like free filtered water, air conditioning in all the rooms, bicycle rental, and bag storage for a dollar a day. Guests can also sign up for a bike tour of the city, with guides focusing on cultural events around the city.

Boutiquito, Quito

With a goal of being “the best hostel in South America,” you know the staff at Boutiquito will do just about everything they can to ensure you have an excellent experience during your stay. The property’s location perched above the city means guests enjoy spectacular views while hanging out and making new friends in the shared spaces. If you’re ready for a night in, you can always take advantage of the movie room or find a comfy spot to watch the sunset.

Hostel Nucapacha, Guayaquil

If you’re interested in the type of place that’s got a homey feel, you may find the cozy Hostel Nucapacha to be to your liking much more than any of its flashier, more contemporary counterparts. You’ll have your choice of a shared or private room, and even if you’re traveling solo you’ll be able to meet others while preparing a meal in the kitchen or soaking up some sun poolside.

Minka Hostel, Quito

One thing’s for certain–you won’t run out of things to do while staying at Minka Hostel in Quito. From Tuesday night salsa lessons to Sunday movie nights to free walking tours offered daily, the staff is ready to help you make the most of your time in town. Free breakfast, free WiFi, and hot water showers are a few of the other perks you will enjoy during your visit.

Hostal Posada del Maple, Quito

You’ll be close to the action while staying at Hostal Posada del Maple in Quito. Grocery stores, an open air crafts market, laundromats, and plenty of restaurants are all within walking distance. Guests rave about the included breakfast, and if you’re craving a home cooked meal, you’ll be able to take advantage of the full-size kitchen to whip up your own creation. And if you’ve had enough exploration for the day, you can always grab a book and get cozy in front of one of the fireplaces for a peaceful night on your own.

Dreamkapture Hostal, Guayaquil

The Dreamkapture Hostal’s location is ideal for those who only have a few days to spend in Guayaquil and are looking to find a spot close to the airport and bus station. The hostel offers rides to and from the airport for just $5, and there are a few major shopping centers within easy walking distance, so you can stock up on any basics you may have left at home. This is a great pick for solo female travelers, who can go with a bed in the all-girl dorm. The hostel offers luggage storage for just a dollar a day, making it an excellent place to stow away your extra belongings during an excursion to the Galapagos.

So there you have it, 6 of many affordable hostels in Ecuador! Are you ready for a South American adventure in which you’ll be able to plant one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and another in the Southern Hemisphere? What are you waiting for then? If you’re nervous about visiting Ecuador with lacklustre Spanish skills, contact us right away and we’ll help you up your Spanish game in no time at all.