Patrick
For those on a tight budget, I’ve highlighted my favorite 4 hostels in Cali – all of whom have dorm beds available for less than $10 dollars per night. If anyone offers you a room much cheaper than this, I would seriously doubt whether their sheets are clean and wonder if their business is a legitimate establishment.
Never underestimate a hostel. Although cheap and basic in services, they are usually more fun than traditional hotels and a far better place to meet new people.
All four are located in barrio San Antonio, a favorite among foreigners for its architecture, restaurants and proximity to nightlife and local sightseeing.
Maison Violette
Owned by a French-Colombian couple and located on the southern border of San Antonio and San Cayetano, this hostel offers a nice and quiet atmosphere. The house is colorful, tastefully decorated and meticulously clean.
The real plus here is the rooftop terrace that has an amazing view of Cristo Rey, Los Farallones, the stadium and southern Cali. Tables, chairs and hammocks also make it a good place to socialize with fellow travelers.
Dorm rooms include two bunk beds with space for two people. They also have several private rooms and a small apartment available.
The common area includes a computer, free wifi, a well-equipped kitchen, TV, couches and a self-serve fridge with cold beers.
No breakfast included, but there are plenty of little bakeries just a few blocks away.
El Viajero
Is an chain operation with 10 hostels scattered over South America. El Viajero is considered the party hostel in Cali and it’s easy to understand why. Bigger than most other hostels in the city, the open courtyard includes a bar and a swimming pool – something completely unheard of in San Antonio.
Free salsa classes are given every night and often times the crowd continue the dancing into the Cali nightlife. Other facilities include a movie room, hammocks for relaxation, wifi and free breakfast.
Dorm rooms are big with 8-12 beds in each. While I’m no big fan of sleeping with that many people, I feel like the amenities and atmosphere make up for it. And hey – for a $10 bed it’s still a pretty good deal!
Hostal Encuentro
Is one of the newer hostels in town, located on the outskirts of San Antonio bordering El Peñon, just one block from Hotel Intercontinental and one block from one of my favorite bars, La Colina.
The atmosphere is relaxing with indoors and outdoors common areas, a small bar/restaurant and rooftop terrace, offering splendid views of Cali’s three crosses.
Services include TV, wifi, laundry and free breakfast.
6 beds is the maximum per dorm room, none of which are bunks. Although their website lists dorm beds at $13, I saw the same bed listed at Booking.com for $9.
Hostal Pájara Pinta
Is another new player on the hostel scene in Cali. Also in the outskirts of San Antonio, just like the others, Pájara Pinta is ideally located for anyone looking to explore the city.
What separates this hostel from the competition is the amount of events they host. Looking at their Facebook page it seems like they have something going on every week whether it’s showing a fútbol game or hosting a karaoke night.
There’s a small bar / social area and the rooftop has a tiny pool, just big enough to fit a few people and some cold drinks.
Services include TV, wifi, bar, laundry, lockers and breakfast (at a surcharge).
Each dorm room has 2 bunks with space for four people. Private double, triple rooms are also available.
