Peru is a very popular destination for backpackers. This means there are loads of different hostels to choose from almost anywhere you go. Here are my personal recommendations from my own experience backpacking through Peru!
Pariwana Hostel in Lima
Good For:
- meeting people
- food and drinks
- finding out what to do around the city
Pariwana was the very first hostel I ever stayed in. They organized many activities within the hostel during the day and night. They have a rooftop bar and later in the night brought everyone who wanted to a nearby club which was loads of fun.
Kokopelli Hostel in Paracas
Good For:
- meeting people
- food and drinks
- relaxing by the water
Kokopelli Hostel in Paracas is a little retreat within your trip. It lies on the beach and has a pool (I would stick to the pool as the water in that area is full of boating and docks). There is a restaurant and bar in the open common space and it is open to the public at night making it a fun place to party and make friends. The hostels put you in contact with different excursion groups for a very good price.
Wild Rover in Huacachina
Good For:
- parties
- meeting people
- food and drinks
Pretty much every Wild Rover will give you a run for your money.
Wild Rover Huacachina was quite the experience from free shots from party promoters to the backdoors opening to a local club once the bar closed. There are different themes every night and we got glow in the dark which made the experience even more fun. Strangers were painting one another’s faces and it was overall a very fun night.
Wild Rover in Cusco
Good For:
- parties
- meeting people
- food and drinks
Like Huacachina, Wild Rover in Cusco is quite lively. These chains are known to be like that. This Hostel location does not have a pool (you would not want one it gets chillyyyy in Cusco) but does have a nice outdoor space when it is sunny and warm to lay out in. Their bar and restaurant is fully stocked with a balcony overlooking the city of Cusco.
Samay Wasi Youth Hostel in Cusco
Good For:
- relaxing and getting sleep
- storage before treks
This hostel was much calmer than the others I previously stayed in. Cusco is the starting point for so many treks and hikes that depart in the early mornings and it is important to get sleep for those. This hostel I stayed in before my 4 day trek to Machu Picchu and it was extremely tranquil. The place itself is quite humble with only two rooms holding 6 people each. The bathroom is quite large and there is breakfast included. There is also an incredible view of Cusco form the roof. There is a hostel cat that has been awarded employee of the month (I believe she had won every month) named Chu Chu. We actually booked our trek to Machu Picchu through the man working at the hostel a day before for a very good price and they were extremely helpful with everything.
Way Kap Hostel in Arequipa
Good For:
- relaxing and getting sleep
- storage before treks
Similar to Samay Wasi, Way Kap was a nice place to relax in before embarking on a trek from Arequipa. The rooms were quite nice with curtains and large storage which is always nice. Breakfast was included which is helpful for leaving in the early morning and not wanting to go out for breakfast. It is centrally located and easy to access restaurants and the city center on foot.
Many of these hostels are chains such as Pariwana and Kokopelli just like Wild Rover and are great options in any city. Picking a hostel that is right for you is important as well as packing for one. Check out my Ultimate Hostel Guide for tips and tricks when picking and packing for your next hostel trip!