Diamond Diggers Backpackers

Overrun with staff friends, not clean
The owners were out of town when we visited, and the employees (except for the very helpful manager) could be found playing video games or watching TV. Our room had no sheets, no toilet paper, and the bath wasn't cleaned from the previous occupant. We had to swipe supplies from the storeroom. The infamous jacuzzi, sauna, braai, and movies were all unavailable since the staff didn't want to run them. The staff's friends were packed into the bar, making it for a very drunken, annoying crowd. And the location is in the middle of nowhere. Pluses -- free airport pickup, but I don't think that's worth it.

Hi there guys. Well, I stayed here back in April, only for a few nights, and I was on my own but all the dudes made me feel very welcome. It's a great place and has a good atmosphere. I'll be back there soon to pick up my Jack's Jungle Juice from the bar, as I'm sure it's too strong for them!!

I have just recently stayed at this hostel and found it didn't match up to expectations. We found the place to be a bit of a shambles. Upon arriving at 4 p.m., we were shown into a dirty old room with broken glass on the floor and no clean bedding. This was disappointing, as the room had been booked in advance. The surfaces in the kitchen and lounge were in need of a good clean. The senior staff were openly abusive to those lower down the chain. We appreciated the lift to airport, but that was about all.

Located up a side street in the nice district of Johannesburg, this hostel is in a great location for shopping, transits to the city center, and tour booking (all of which the staff can help you organize). The friendly staff are always available for advice and cater for your every need. There's an on-site bar with a pool table and a hot tub. They serve dinner and breakfast at an extra cost—both of which you can take in the dining room of the main house, or in any of the attached dining rooms within the complex. There are good kitchens for guest use, which are big and clean, as well as a quiet lounge that you can relax in and watch television. There's a shopping center and grocery store within walking distance. This is not your usual backpackers hostel!!

This hostel is a great place to stay. The staff are really friendly and the hot tub in the bar provides much entertainment!! Food is available, as are shuttles to nearby Eastgate Mall, the Apartheid Museum, and the airport/bus station, for a very small fee. Free pickup is also available from where you are arriving.