Mexico hasn’t always had a hostel tradition, it started relatively late, probably within the last 10 years, but thanks to backpackers from all over the world flocking to Mexico’s sunny shores, Mexico now has a great hostel culture, and the tradition just keeps improving. Here are some of the best hostels in Mexico, with a focus on hostels in the most frequently visited cities for travellers. Besides great hostels, there are also so many amazing places to visit in Mexico.
P.s. Feeling too old for hostels? Check out these incredible luxury resorts in Cancun or Tulum!
Best Hostels in Mexico
1. Mezcal Hostel – Cancún, Quintana Roo
You can’t really think about Cancún without the party scene popping into your head, that’s why Mezcal Hostel is great, located in the city centre of Cancún, just a bus ride away from the beach and the main clubs, fun activities every night which stop around 11, when it’s time to go to the club, all organised by the friendly staff. There is a small pool and a very nice bar where you can have delicious drinks.
2. Tribu Hostel – Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo
Holbox is an island that’s gaining popularity by the minute, however, there are no big hotels, which makes it still quite charming, and Tribu is part of that landscape. It’s quite a fun place and a great spot to have a drink, every night there’s always some kind of activity, which allows to meet people from all over the world.
3. The Yak Lake House – Bacalar, Quintana Roo
When going to Bacalar you will want to stay by the lake, and the Yak Lake House is an excellent choice. Not only will it provide you with amazing views and the possibility to do some water activities, but it’s also not far from town, which gives access to ATMs and a few restaurants. This is definitely a plus.
4. Hostal Catedral Merida – Mérida, Yucatán
Mérida has become an attractive city for travellers in the Yucatan Peninsula, making the hostel display grow, offering great options, such as Hostal Catedral. As the name indicates, it is located just in front of the cathedral, making it perfect for walks in the city centre, which is the best way to live Merida. It also offers a beautiful breakfast and a nice atmosphere.
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5. Hostal La Isla – San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas
Sometimes a town is so magic you just want to stop there for a little while, other times the hostel is so nice you just want to stay longer, at La Isla both elements are combined. A small hostel, ideally located in lovely San Cristobal, with staff that will go more than the extra mile to make you feel at home, tasty breakfast, splendid music and fabulous common areas. It is genuinely home away from home.
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6. El Panchan – Palenque, Chiapas
This is just such a traditional place to stay when going to Palenque, where there’s nothing more beautiful than spending the night listening to the howling monkeys and all the amazing sounds of the jungle. El Panchan is located very close to the ruins and there are a few accommodation options to choose from. Don Muchos is a fabulous restaurant inside, which offers live music and yummy food.
7. Iguana Hostel – Oaxaca, Oaxaca
A recently opened hostel, Iguana Hostel already has such a wonderful environment. The facilities are great, the common areas are extraordinary for socialising: a big patio with hammocks, a big kitchen and a rooftop terrace. Most evenings there are activities organised by the great staff, allowing guests to know more about Oaxaca in a fun way. Good music is always on, but everything stops at 11 so guests can have a good night rest.
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8. Pacific Buddha Hostel – Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
Located in one of the best beaches in Puerto Escondido, in La Punta, Pacific Buddha Hostel is outstanding, as it is one of the most chill hostels in the area, providing a home feeling within an exceptional setting and knowledgeable staff, always willing to help. The facilities are superb and the whole ambiance is beautiful.
9. Gente de Más – Puebla, Puebla
Puebla is a must for any traveller who’s both avid for delicious food and a beautiful colonial site. Although it’s not a common stop, it’s becoming better known among backpackers on the way to or from Mexico City, and Gente de Más is simply a splendid place to spend your time in Puebla, located within a short walk to the city centre, it’s a beautifully designed hostel which offers a comfortable environment and a wonderful rooftop terrace.
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10. Hostel Home – CDMX
With a vast range of options in Mexico City, Hostel Home definitely is one of the best. It is a small house, which allows travellers to hang out in the cosy common areas. The hostel stands in one of the most beautiful areas in the city, within a short trip to the best bars, restaurants and the useful Metro (subway). Hostel Home is definitely a great place to go back to after sightseeing in Mexico City.
11. Hostel Hospedarte – Guadalajara, Jalisco
Guadalajara is a vibrant city with lots of things to offer, places to visit and fun activities. Hostel Hospedarte is located in one of the best areas of Guadalajara, allowing travellers to move around easily, enjoying the city to the fullest. The hostel has a gorgeous environment, with fun and really helpful staff who will make you feel comfortable instantly.
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12. Oasis Hostel – Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
Oasis Hotel is a good choice to stay in Puerto Vallarta, as it has a convenient location, not in the middle of the party scene, but not too far away from it either. Accesible to the local buses to the beach, this hostel offers a relaxed atmosphere which is probably what’s needed after a night out in lively Puerto Vallarta. Super helpful staff and great facilities.
13. Lush Hostel – Sayulita, Nayarit
Sayulita has become one of the most beloved little towns with a beach in Mexico, specially among backpackers and surfers. Lush Hostel is a great place to stay if looking for a fun and wonderfully located spot, close to the main bars and restaurants, and also a short walk to the beach.
14. La Casa de Dante – Guanajuato, Guanajuato
Just a walk away from the city centre, this beautiful hostel is placed up on the side of a hill, but that’s not an issue once you get there and admire the stunning colourful views of incredible Guanajuato. The chill environment, the kind staff and the facilities are definitely worth the climb.
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15. Jirafa Roja Hostel – Querétaro, Querétaro
Querétaro is one of those cities in Mexico that has lots of things to do and see, but it’s not as known as other cities, which makes it more attractive. At Jirafa Roja you can live the whole experience of being just a short walk away from the city centre, with all the restaurants and bars, as well as enjoy a chill atmosphere in a beautifully designed converted house.
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