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A bucket-list destination for travellers the world over, no trip to Ecuador is complete without visiting the Galapagos islands. After all, who wouldn’t want to see animals that aren’t found anywhere else in their natural habitat! The Galapagos Islands are like nowhere else in the world and are often the highlight of travellers’ visits to South America!
There’s just one problem with the Galapagos. It’s pretty expensive travelling here! It’s actually one of the most expensive places to travel in South America. However, a good way to save yourself some cash is by staying in hostels. So, we’ve decided to help you out and take a look at hostels on Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Isabela.
Yep, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best hostels in Galapagos. There are some budget hotels and B & Bs in here – there aren’t loads of Galapagos hostels, but there are plenty of places to stay where you can keep your costs down. So, let’s jump in and take a closer look at the top hostels in Galapagos!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer – Best Hostels in Galapagos
- Best Overall Hostel in Galapagos – Galapagos Dreams
- Best Hostel in Galapagos for Solo Travellers – Hostal Vista al Mar
- Best Cheap Hostel in Galapagos – Lonesome George Ecolodge
- Best Party Hostel in Galapagos – Hostal Puerto Ayora
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Galapagos – Hostal Seymour
The 5 Best Hostels in Galapagos
Backpacking Galapagos is awesome; I’m not going to lie. But your accommodation can make or break your stay, so choose wisely. Since not everyone is travelling with a massive budget, we’ve listed the best backpacker hostels in Galapagos.
My tip: plan your whole trip ahead to get the most out of it. Knowing where to stay in Galapagos will make the booking process a lot easier, and you won’t end up miles away from the hotspots you want to explore. Or even easier, if you know you don’t want to come up with a plan yourself, check out some of the awesome Galapagos tours.
1. Galapagos Dreams – Best Overall Hostel in Galapagos
- Dorm (mixed): From $26
- Private Room: From $63
- Address: Avenida Cucuve y Floreana, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Galapagos Dreams is the go-to spot for adventurers chasing the magic of the Galapagos. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Puerto Ayora, it offers a laid-back vibe with hearty free breakfasts and affordable lunches to keep backpacker budgets in check. The friendly staff are pros at helping with tours, onward travel, or tips on the best local spots.
Less than a five-minute walk from Pelican Bay Pier and the Turtle Monument, it’s smack bang near the action. Charles Darwin Avenue (and Charles Darwin Station! EEEP!) is two blocks away. You’re centrally located with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, and Station Beach is close for a swim or lazy lounge.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Air Conditioning
- Free Wifi
- Travel Agencies in House
Close enough to the city centre to stroll yet far enough to escape the nightlife noise, Galapagos Dreams nails the balance. This is the perfect place to stay; in fact I wouldn’t even bother reading the rest of this… Joking! It may be booked out or may not even be your vibe, and that’s ok!
I love what the Galapagos Islands offer, and this Galapagos hostel on Santa Cruz island is the creme de la creme, in my humble opinion. This hostel is low-key and quiet, perfect for recouping after a big day exploring, and the staff are phenomenal. So friendly and helpful; they will be pivotal to your stay.
2. Hostal Vista al Mar – Best Hostel in Galapagos for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $20
- Private Room: From $50
- Address: Moises Brito y Thomas de Berlanga, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Right in the centre of Puerto Ayora, the biggest town on Santa Cruz, you have one of the coolest hostels in Galapagos. The best restaurants on the island are within 50 yards! Your room comes with plenty of cool extras, including a flat-screen TV and a fan.
There’s also a communal shared lounge and a tour desk, should you want to indulge in some adventures on the islands. If you’re travelling solo, this is a great shout. Reviews give it an almost perfect score from individual travellers, so you don’t just have to take my word for it!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wifi
- Centrally Located
- Air Conditioning
There isn’t a fully fledged kitchen here, so be prepared to eat out, but that’s kind of just the go in these areas, eh? There’s a microwave though so you can meet people there over cup-of-noodles! The staff here are super friendly and helpful with whatever you might want to see or do.
Local knowledge is the best way to get around any area, but it’s important in areas like these to frequent the travel agencies too. These guys make a living by showing us their home and will often go above and beyond any classic tourist trap you’d expect. Not only will you get to see the scenes, but you’ll probably make life-long friends who will play pivotal parts in your travel stories forever.
3. Lonesome George Ecolodge – Best Cheap Hostel in Galapagos
- Dorm (mixed): From $40
- Private Room: From $55
- Address: Av. Rábida, Av. Floreana, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
This quirky little house is a gem of a base for your Galapagos adventures. Handcrafted by the owner, every corner of this unique spot feels like part of the magic. Victor and his son welcome you like family to their cosy oasis.
Here, dorms and private rooms come clean, comfortable, and packed with unique touches—plus air conditioning to keep things cool. It’s pricier than most “hostels,” but the experience is worth every penny. The value they pack into this place is unparalleled- they’re a travel agency too so will hook you up on experiences in the area.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Travel Agencies on Hand
- Free Wifi
- 10-minute walk to restaurants
Expect a warm welcome with fresh juice, a full rundown of the islands, tour recommendations, and plenty of love from the resident dog, Cloud. Visiting the Galápagos Islands? Support local hosts like Victor—you’ll be glad you did.
This is the true meaning of broke backpacking to me: staying in little places that have a story and supporting local legends. These guys will do everything in their power to make sure you have a dreamy stay and want to come back to the Galapagos Islands ASAP.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey4. Hostal Puerto Ayora – Best Party Hostel in Galapagos
- Private Room: From $42
- Address: Av. Baltra, 200102 Puerto Ayora, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands can be an extremely expensive place to holiday, and you might be put off by high accommodation prices. However, you can save a wad of cash by checking into one of the best budget hostels in Galapagos! Hostal Puerto Ayora offers you a comfy bed in a cosy dorm on the island of Santa Cruz, so you’ll be close to all the tour operators and top attractions.
One of these attractions is the Charles Darwin Research Station, so when you’re not being an animal, get down there and see it. There’s a shared kitchen so you can keep your costs even lower; just pick up some produce from the local market, and you’re good to go.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Cancellation two weeks before your booking
- Air Conditioning
- Clean and Comfortable
Hostal Puerto Ayora is within walking distance of the hot bars you want to frequent and the beach, so you’re winning immediately here. You can book tours from the hostel if you’re not too spent from partying, and if you are, there’s a pharmacy around the corner. Head there for some painkillers and power up – you CAN do it all on the Galapagos Islands!
Tortuga Bay is a mere 600m away and has the white sand, turquoise waters, and tropical beaches of your dreams. Do not get this confused with Tortuga from Pirates of the Caribbean (that’s in Haiti!). While you may be able to drink rum, the patrons are significantly different in Galapagos, and you’re likely to see real sea turtles.
5. Hostal Seymour – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Galapagos
- Private Room: From $45
- Address: Lobo Marino y duncan, 200350 Puerto Ayora, Ecuador
Okay, so the Wi-Fi on the islands can be pretty slow and frustrating. Not good news if you’re a digital nomad! If you’re happy to just make the best of it, though, this is the coolest hostel in Galapagos.
If you need to get your head down and do some work, there’s a laptop-friendly workspace in your bedroom! Once you’ve finished working for the day, pop to the hot tub and soak and de-stress. If you don’t want to get wet, just relax on the terrace and top up your tan.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Air Conditioning
- Private Bathroom Options
- They serve an exceptional breakfast
You’re within a 10 minute walk from town here, which is dreamy when you’ve been curled over your laptop all day and need to stretch the legs. The rooms here are private, so it’s not strictly one of the “Galapagos Best Hostel” list, but it’s so attractive that I’m letting it slide. There’s a swimming pool too, which is lush for a quick refresh if you’re deep in the zone and can’t quite make it down the road to the beach.
That being said, what are you working on the road for if not freedom?! We all have deadlines some days, I guess.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Budget Stays Hostel in Galapagos
Galapagos isn’t exactly teeming with shiny hostels, so I’ve thrown in a couple of budget stays for good measure. Don’t say I don’t do anything for ya!
Hostal Loja
- Private Room: From $51
- Address: Avenida 16 de Marzo y los cactus bariio loja, EC200250 Puerto Villamil, Ecuador
Hostal Loja is a guesthouse with two pools and free wifi in Puerto Villamil. You’re just 500m away from the beach if you stay here, and you’ll be treated with unparalleled hospitality by the friendly staff. There’s a good brewery next door when you’re game for a drink (if you’re anything like me, that’ll be often in this heat).
If you feel like frolicking (whether you’re a bit tiddly or just that way inclined), there’s an enormous playground next door, too. There are sweet restaurants in the area, and the complimentary breakfast includes yummy pastries and fresh juice, as well as the other usual suspects. The best bit? You can sleep soundly at night in the blissfully air-conditioned rooms.
Hostal Galapagos by Bar de Beto
- Dorm (mixed): From $24
- Private Room: From $32
- Address: Avenida Antonio Gil & Los Flamencos, Puerto Villamil, Isla Isabela, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
This family-owned hostel is also in Puerto Villamil and is just 20m from Flamingo Lagoon and 50m from the Main Beach. This is another epic choice for digital nomads who are working on the road, as this Galapagos hostel is linked up to Starlink. You just have to cross the road from the guesthouse to the beach bar across the street, and you’ll be hooked up.
There are options for single or double beds, and each room has its own private ensuite, which is luxurious when you’ve been hostelling for a while. There is air conditioning in the rooms too, so you’ll have sweet dreams AND wifi access. There’s a shared kitchen if you want to cook your own meals or hit up the beach bar or any of the other hot spots nearby.
Hostal Galapagos Morning Glory
- Private Room: From $36
- Address: Av. Charles Darwin y Floreana, 200350 Puerto Ayora, Ecuador
Another one of the best hostels in Galapagos is this awesome offering in the islands’ most happening town – Puerto Ayora! Set around the garden, each private room has a patio where you can enjoy some sun and try to spot the finches that influenced Darwin’s theory of evolution.
If Darwin’s your thing, it’s also the closest hostel to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you can see the famous tortoises. If all that’s not enough, there’s a free breakfast – perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring the islands!
Hostal Costa del Pacifico
- Private Room: From $55
- Address: Avenida Tomas de Berlanga s/n e Islas Plazas (esquina), Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galápagos, 200101 Puerto Ayora, Ecuador
There are some great romantic places to stay in Galapagos, but they can end up being pretty pricey. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a bed in a dorm or pitch a tent on a beach! One of the best and cheapest double rooms you’ll find in Galapagos is here at Hostal Costa del Pacifico.
Not only that, you’ll have a nice view of either the sea or Puerto Ayora and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. It’s got great reviews from couples, so you don’t just have to take my word for it. Make sure you check out the Charles Darwin Research Station while you’re here too!
Hostal Suiza
- Private Room: From $43
- Address: Isabela y Gonzalo Morales, 200150 Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Ecuador
Most of the best hostels in Galapagos are on Santa Cruz and in Puerto Ayora. But what if you want to head to La Lobería, check out Tijeretas Hill, or go scuba diving at Kicker Rock?! Looks like you’ll have to search for hostels on San Cristobal. Hostal Suiza is right in Puerto Moreno Baquerizo, the biggest town on the island. So, you’ve got tours within easy reach, and it’s just a hop, skip, and jump to both the beach and the pier to catch a boat to Santa Cruz!
The Point Galapagos Hostal Emanuel
Last but not least on our list of the best hostels in Galapagos is this place in Puerto Moreno Baquerizo. So, take note if you’re staying on San Cristobal! There’s bike hire available too, which is one of the easiest and most exhilarating ways to explore the island.
It’s up to you whether you want to make your own breakfast in the shared kitchen or take advantage of the complimentary one offered. And… why wouldn’t you enjoy a free breakfast?! Last but not least, you’ll get towels. But not just any towels – they’re folded in the shape of a manta ray! Wow!
Hostal el Paraíso
Sometimes, when you’re looking to save cash, a shared dorm is the best. However, it’s worth paying a little extra for your own personal space! So, check out this great hostel with a private room in Galapagos.
And it’s not only a private bedroom you get but your own bathroom too – with complimentary toiletries! You have not one, but two beaches within 1 kilometre, so that’s perfect if you’re planning on swimming or snorkelling. This cool spot also has its own tour desk, so you can easily find the best places to spot wildlife or go scuba diving!
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Galapagos
Everyone needs good travel insurance, so suss yours and know you’re covered, whatever happens.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in Galapagos
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Galapagos.
What to Pack for Your Galapagos Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Galapagos?
A dorm in Galapagos, on average, can start for as low as $19 per night. Private rooms vary from different types but can start at $23 per night.
What are the best hostels in Galapagos for couples?
Hostal Costa del Pacifico has one of the best and cheapest double rooms with a nice view of either the sea or Puerto Ayora, making it the best hostel for couples in Galapagos.
What is the best hostel in Galapagos near the airport?
Hotel los Algarrobos is just 750m from Airport Isla San Cristobal. It also offers airport transfers.
Final Thoughts on Galapagos’ Hostels
So, that completes my list of the best hostels in Galapagos. I think you’ll agree there is a lot of choice. Not only have I taken your budget and travel styles into account, but there’s enough spread of location to make sure that you’ve always got somewhere to stay.
No matter which island you’re planning to spend your time on, I’ve got you covered. And if you’re travelling to Santa Cruz and still overwhelmed by choice, go for my top hostel in Galapagos – Galapagos Dreams. It’s a great combination of value for money, an awesome location, and just an overall great place to stay!
No matter where you stay in the Galapagos Islands, I’m sure you’ll have a dreamy time. Between the Galapagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station, there are so many comfortable accommodations. Finding a place to rest your head is simply a tick box activity.
See some sea turtles and some sea lions on Santa Cruz Island and San Cristobal Island; hell, see as much as you can.
Now that I’ve helped you plan out your holiday a bit better, all that’s left is for me to wish you an amazing vacation in Galapagos. I hope you have a great time, and please hit me up if you’ve been and have anything you think I’ve missed.
Photo: Alexandria Zboyovski
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Ecuador for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Galapagos before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate South America backpacking guide.
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