Banana Backpackers

The Location

Banana Backpackers is situated in the centre of Durban. It is close to beaches, shops, supermarkets, and banks. The area is fine during the day but taxis should be used at night, but this is the case all over Durban. The hostel is a Bazbus backpacker bus stop.

Rooms and Bathrooms

There are twin, single, double, and dorm rooms available. The rooms are spacious and the beds are comfortable. Men's and women's bathrooms are separate and clean and hot water is available. Rooms have cage-style security lockers. Rooms are unlocked and can be accessed from the courtyard or the balcony terrace.

The hostel is accessed by a staircase and there is a security gate at the entrance, which is opened by the staff on pressing the buzzer. The reception is open twenty-four hours and also has a safe.

Common Spaces

The hostel courtyard is surrounded by the balconies of the three floors above. It is quite rundown and needs a lot of repainting. There is a paddling pool. In the main building, there is a common area with a pool table and some chairs where travelers can relax and watch DSTV. There is a cheap internet service available within the hostel, but is not open at all times. The kitchen is very good for guests who like to prepare their own meals. There is also a BBQ/braii area in the courtyard, which guests can use. There is a bar/reception area in the main common room.

Summary

This is an ok hostel despite its rundown appearance. Most of the guests are transient South Africans or other immigrants staying long-term. That isn't what most backpackers want to find at a hostel, but for some this may add some character to the hostel that you don't experience in a lot of places.

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review