Colombia Best Hostels

With its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history, Colombia is a backpacker’s paradise, especially when it comes to budget accommodation. In cities like Medellín, Bogotá, and Cartagena, you can find hostels that not only save your wallet but also provide a great way to connect with fellow travelers.

Getting Around Colombia on a Budget

Colombia's public transportation is budget-friendly and efficient, making it easy to navigate through cities and beyond. In larger cities like Bogotá, you can hop on the TransMilenio, a rapid bus system that costs around 2,500 COP (approximately $0.65 USD) per trip, covering vast areas of the city. For shorter distances, look for the smaller buses or “microbuses” that charge about 1,800 COP ($0.45 USD) per ride.

Inter-city travel is often done via long-distance buses, which generally range from 30,000 COP ($7.50 USD) to 70,000 COP ($17.50 USD) depending on the distance and comfort level. Companies like Expreso Bolivariano and Copetran are reliable choices for longer routes. You can expect to pay around 50,000 COP ($12.50 USD) for a trip from Bogotá to Medellín, which takes about 10-12 hours. For a quicker option, consider budget airlines like Viva Air, where you can score tickets as low as 79,000 COP ($20 USD), though you may need to book in advance.

Top Budget Hostels in Colombia

When it comes to budget accommodations, Colombia offers a plethora of hostels that cater to the backpacker lifestyle. In Medellín, check out **Los Patios Hostal**, located in the El Poblado neighborhood. Prices start at approximately 50,000 COP ($12.50 USD) per night for a dorm bed, and the hostel features a rooftop terrace, a communal kitchen, and organized social events for guests to mingle.

In Bogotá, **The Wandering Paisa** is another great pick located in the Candelaria district, known for its historical charm. Dormitory beds here are around 40,000 COP ($10 USD) per night. The hostel organizes free walking tours of the surrounding area and offers a cozy environment for relaxing after a long day of exploring. For those heading to Cartagena, **El Viajero Cartagena Hostel** is well-reviewed, with dorms starting at 50,000 COP ($12.50 USD) and featuring a pool and a vibrant bar scene.

What to Eat and Where to Dine Affordably

Colombian cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes, and you can indulge in delicious meals without breaking the bank. Street food is a great way to sample local flavors. Try an **arepa** (cornmeal patty) for about 2,000 COP ($0.50 USD), or grab a serving of **empanadas** for 1,500 COP ($0.40 USD) from local vendors. These tasty snacks can be found all around cities like Medellín and Bogotá.

If you prefer sit-down meals, look for **menu del dia** (menu of the day) offers, which typically include a soup, main dish, and drink for around 10,000-15,000 COP ($2.50-$4 USD). Restaurants like **La Puerta Falsa** in Bogotá serve traditional dishes and are popular among locals. In Medellín, **El Rancherito** offers an extensive menu of Colombian favorites at affordable prices, with meals averaging about 20,000 COP ($5 USD).

Practical Tips for Backpacking in Colombia

Traveling in Colombia can be a rewarding experience if you plan wisely. Here are some essential tips:

• Download a translation app to help with language barriers; Google Translate is free and effective.
• Always keep small change on hand, as many street vendors and local shops may not have the ability to break larger bills.
• Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas, to avoid pickpocketing.
• Use apps like Rappi to order food or groceries at local prices delivered right to your hostel.