All budget-conscious travelers know that they have to carefully choose where and how to spend their money. One of my favorite ways to save money while traveling is to stay at hostels as opposed to traditional hotels or inns. From your basic $8 per night bunk-bed to over-the-top private rooms with triple-digit nightly fees, the term “hostel” is certainly flexible in terms of what types of amenities you can expect and what you’ll pay. Luckily, in Ecuador, there are many affordable options that offer travelers a clean, safe, and friendly place to get a good night’s sleep. If a trip to Ecuador is on your radar, I encourage you to check out these top hostels and others in the cities and neighborhoods you’re visiting.

Photo Credit: Creative Commons, Cayambe

Community Hostel in Quito

As the name implies, there’s a feeling of community and even camaraderie among employees and guests at this lovely hostel. While you may pay a couple dollars more than at other basic hostels in the area, it’s worth it to be surrounded by happy and helpful staff members and respectful travelers, as opposed to some of those less than savory characters we’ve all encountered at one point or another in our hostel stays. Comfy beds, a well-kept kitchen, and a TV room with projector are a few of the highlights at the property, and every guest should be sure to take advantage of the free walking tour of the neighborhood offered daily. Delicious breakfasts and dinners are available for a reasonable fee.

Mallki Hostel in Cuenca

Any hostel that has a dog at the front door to greet travelers gains points in my book. Mallki Hostel is not only a lovely property, but the location is excellent. They even have like-new bikes that guests can borrow to aid in their exploration of the city. After a busy day or two out on the town, guests can relax with a quiet night in, spent on the balcony overlooking the neighborhood and chatting it up with fellow travelers. The staff is always ready to suggest lots of night-time activities if you’re ready to paint the night red!

Hostal Macaw in Guayaquil

The outdoor space at Hostal Macaw may be its most attractive feature, with a sweet little courtyard and garden offering seating where guests can take in some sun, read through their guidebooks, or just reflect on their journey. Mosaic tiling, artwork, and plants all contribute to the tasteful decor. It is conveniently located just a few blocks from a major shopping mall in case you forgot any essentials back home. The home-cooked breakfast is anything but standard, and even those who have an early departure in the morning receive a bagged meal to enjoy on the road. Delightful!

Photo Credit: Creative Commons, Martin Zeise

La Casa Verde in Baños 

The owners at La Casa Verde go out of their way to be environmentally aware of their actions and to encourage guests to do the same. They offer free drinking water refills, prepare an organic breakfast each morning, and even give longer term guests free access to pick their own vegetables from the onsite garden. The beautiful shared spaces have a lot of personality, especially the stairway area on the main floor where up-cycled glass bottles create a beautiful design in the wall.

Hostal Oasis in Riobamba

Beautiful stone walls and a lovely garden set the scene at Hostal Oasis. The friendly owners are known for mingling with the guests, offering up their advice and helping travelers plan tours, taxi pick-ups, and other important details. A 10-minute walk or $2 cab ride takes you into town, and upon your return you can enjoy relaxing in front of the modest fireplace in the indoor lounge.

As you venture into more remote areas of Ecuador, you’ll discover fewer and fewer English speakers around you. Be sure to practice your Spanish before you go so you’ll be prepared to talk to hostel owners, taxi drivers, tour guides, and others throughout your vacation in Ecuador. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you learn Spanish or enhance your current skills.