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Last update: Apr 9, 2024
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Cape Town, where Table Mountain watches over the city like a stoic guardian and penguins waddle like they own the beaches, offers hostels that are as diverse as its landscapes. Our guide to the best youth hostels in Cape Town is your ticket to places where you can surf the waves by day and socialize by night, all while staying within a backpacker's budget.
Short and crisp: Hostels in Cape Town
#1 Top Rated Hostel in Cape Town! Rating: 9.4
The BIG sets the bar high for the best youth hostel in Cape Town, with its vibrant atmosphere and prime location, offering backpackers a unique blend of social vibes and comfort. It's not just a place to stay; it's a place to live. With communal activities that foster friendships and a stunning view of Table Mountain, The BIG stands out as a hub for young travelers eager to explore the city's treasures.
The rooms, both dorms, and private, are clean, cozy, and surprisingly affordable, making it a fantastic choice for those on a budget but still looking for quality. Plus, the friendly staff are like walking encyclopedias on all things Cape Town, ready to guide you to the best spots in town.
Prices start from $28.35 for a dorm and $76.54 for a private room.
Breakfast
City Tours
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Swimming Pool
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.9
Nestled in the heart of the city, Villa Viva is a sanctuary for young explorers seeking the ultimate Cape Town experience. This hostel thrives on its communal spirit, where every traveler becomes part of a larger, vibrant family. The open, airy spaces and modern design invite you to relax and mingle, making it easy to meet fellow backpackers. Villa Viva is more than just a place to crash; it's a place to connect, learn, and exchange stories.
The location is unbeatable, with easy access to the city's bustling streets, cafes, and landmarks. For the environmentally conscious youth, Villa Viva's commitment to sustainability is a breath of fresh air, ensuring your stay is not only memorable but also kind to the planet.
Prices start from $22.16 for a dorm and $56.66 for a private room.
Breakfast
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Kitchen
Laundry
Live Music/Performance
Lounge Area
Pool Table
Swimming Pool
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.8
Enter Ashanti Lodge Backpackers, and you'll find yourself in the heart of Cape Town's youth backpacking scene, a place where the spirit of adventure permeates the air. This lodge is a sanctuary for digital nomads, solo travelers, and friend groups alike, offering a picturesque backdrop of Table Mountain and an eclectic, vibrant garden where stories and s'mores are shared around the firepit. The lodge's charm lies in its ability to blend the thrill of meeting new people with the calm of a well-kept, cozy retreat.
Each room, from dorms to private enclaves, is a testament to Ashanti Lodge Backpackers's commitment to comfort and community. It's more than a place to stay; it's where your Cape Town adventure gains momentum, powered by the insights and recommendations of a passionate, travel-savvy staff.
Prices start from $15.11 for a dorm and $53.83 for a private room.
Bike Rental
Breakfast (R 55)
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Evening Entertainment
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Pool Table
Swimming Pool
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.7
Ride the wave into Cape Town Surf Hostel & Lodge, the ultimate retreat for surf enthusiasts and beach lovers making a splash in Cape Town. This hostel isn't just about catching waves; it's about catching memories with fellow ocean aficionados. Nestled close to the shore, Cape Town Surf Hostel & Lodge offers laid-back vibes, surfboard rentals, and lessons for those looking to sharpen their skills on the water.
The décor is surf-inspired, with a hint of rustic charm, making every corner Instagram-worthy. It's a community where tales of epic wipeouts and victorious rides are shared over communal dinners. For the youth who live by the tide, this place offers the perfect balance of thrill and tranquility, with cozy bunk beds to crash into after a day under the sun.
Prices start from $13.31 for a dorm and $45.55 for a private room.
Bar
Evening Entertainment
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Pool Table
Swimming Pool
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.7
Never At Home Kloof Street stands out in Cape Town's bustling Kloof Street, a beacon for young travelers drawn to the pulse of the city. This hostel offers a unique blend of urban chic and comfort, placing guests in the heart of Cape Town's vibrant life. With art-filled spaces and modern amenities, Never At Home Kloof Street is where style meets the budget-conscious backpacker.
The communal kitchen and outdoor areas are perfect for impromptu gatherings, cooking sessions, or just chilling with a book from their exchange. It’s a social hub, where insights on hidden city gems are traded as freely as drinks. For those looking to merge the convenience of city living with the thrill of exploration, Never At Home Kloof Street delivers an unmatched experience.
Prices start from $19.95 for a dorm and $59.61 for a private room.
Bike Rental
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Rating: 8.7
Dive into luxury without the hefty price tag at WunderLux, a sanctuary where elegance meets adventure in the heart of Cape Town. This hostel redefines the youth travel experience, blending the sociability of hostel life with the posh touches of a boutique hotel. Here, you’re not just staying; you’re indulging in a lifestyle, surrounded by sleek design and state-of-the-art facilities.
From the rooftop terrace, the views of the city skyline and distant mountains are unparalleled, offering a majestic backdrop for evening socials. WunderLux caters to the modern nomad, with co-working spaces and chic lounges that encourage connections, creativity, and comfort. It's the go-to for those who seek a refined basecamp from which to launch their urban adventures.
Prices start from $16.44 for a dorm and $82.75 for a private room.
Board Games
Swimming Pool
Rating: 8.6
Never@home captures the essence of Cape Town’s vibrant youth culture, setting the scene for an epic hostel experience. It’s a melting pot of international backpackers, each bringing a piece of their world to the communal table. The location is unbeatable, sitting snugly between the city’s beaches and bustling streets, ensuring the best of both worlds is at your doorstep. Never@home is famed for its lively bar and outdoor area, where every night feels like a festival.
The décor is bright and funky, echoing the energy of its guests. For those who thrive in the mix of cultural exchange and spontaneous adventure, Never@home is your rhythm in the heart of Cape Town. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s where the pulse of youth and travel beats strongest.
Prices start from $22.67 for a dorm and $73.13 for a private room.
Bike Rental
City Tours
Bar
Kitchen
Swimming Pool
Rating: 8.2
CURIOCITY Green Point offers a slice of urban cool in Cape Town's trendy Green Point district, perfect for travelers who want to merge city exploration with eco-conscious living. This hostel isn't just about beds and breakfasts; it's about immersing you in the local culture through curated experiences and community events.
With a focus on sustainable travel, CURIOCITY Green Point stands out for its green initiatives and stylish, upcycled interiors that tell a story of creativity and conservation. The vibe here is laid-back yet vibrant, attracting a crowd that's eager to make a positive impact while on the road. Whether you're joining one of their local art tours or kicking back in the verdant courtyard, CURIOCITY Green Point is a haven for the socially aware and adventure-ready youth.
Prices start from $22.88 for a dorm and $113.09 for a private room.
Bike Rental
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Kitchen
Laundry
Live Music/Performance
Lounge Area
Swimming Pool
Rating: 8.2
Tucked away on a quiet street, Cobern Street Backpackers is Cape Town's hidden gem for travelers seeking a more intimate hostel experience. Here, the charm is in the details—from the hand-painted murals that celebrate South African heritage to the cozy, firelit lounge where travelers gather for storytelling nights. It's a place that feels more like a home than a hostel, with a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down and savor the moments.
Cobern Street Backpackers is ideal for those who appreciate the quieter side of travel but still wish to be within arm's reach of the city's bustling heart. With a small number of rooms, it’s easy to get to know your fellow backpackers, making it a perfect spot for solo travelers looking to connect in a more personal setting.
Prices start from $9.98 for a dorm and $40.56 for a private room.
Bike Rental
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Evening Entertainment
Gameroom
Karaoke
Kitchen
Laundry
Live Music/Performance
Lounge Area
Nightclub
Pool Table
Table Tennis
Rating: 8.2
Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Hout Bay Backpackers is a sanctuary for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This hostel is all about embracing the great outdoors, with direct access to Hout Bay's stunning landscapes and activities like kayaking, hiking, and seal watching.
The vibe is distinctly laid-back, with communal areas designed to maximize the breathtaking views. At Hout Bay Backpackers, the adventure is right on your doorstep, yet there's always a cozy corner to return to after a day of exploring. It’s a unique blend of thrill and tranquility, making it the ultimate retreat for young travelers who yearn for both adrenaline and relaxation amidst nature’s wonders.
Prices start from $16.22 for a dorm and $122.82 for a private room.
Board Games
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Swimming Pool
Rating: 8.1
In the heart of the city beats Urban Hive Backpackers, a buzzing hub for digital nomads and urban explorers. This hostel takes connectivity to the next level, with super-fast Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces that don’t skimp on style or comfort. It's a blend of modern tech and classic hostel camaraderie, offering a vibrant social scene alongside the amenities needed for productivity.
Think rooftop yoga sessions with a view, caffeine-fueled brainstorming in the café, and tech talks by night. Urban Hive Backpackers is perfect for the youth who travels with a laptop in one hand and a guidebook in the other, providing a seamless transition between work and play in the dynamic backdrop of Cape Town.
Prices start from $13.55 for a dorm and $29.15 for a private room.
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Evening Entertainment
Gameroom
Kitchen
Lounge Area
Walking Tours
Rating: 7.8
Imagine a hostel that feels like a retreat from the world, where the sound of waves lulls you to sleep each night. Serenity Shores Backpackers is that tranquil escape, situated on a serene beachfront that seems miles away from the hustle and bustle, yet is conveniently close to Cape Town's attractions.
This hostel is for those who find peace in the rhythm of the ocean and joy in the simplicity of beach life. With hammocks strung between palm trees and an open-air lounge facing the sea, Serenity Shores Backpackers invites you to disconnect and recharge. It’s a place where conversations flow as easily as the tide, ideal for the youthful soul looking to unwind and connect deeply with fellow travelers and nature.
Prices start from $15.31 for a dorm and $35.56 for a private room.
Kitchen
Lounge Area
Swimming Pool
Rating: 7.6
Dive into the laid-back lifestyle at Big Blue Backpackers Lodge, a haven for those who mix travel with spontaneity and a dash of sea salt. This lodge, just a stone's throw from the V&A Waterfront, embodies the essence of coastal living with its nautical theme and open, airy spaces. It's not just the location that makes Big Blue Backpackers Lodge a hit; it's the atmosphere of endless summer that permeates its walls.
Guests are encouraged to live in their board shorts and flip-flops, making it easy to transition from a day exploring Cape Town to an evening sharing tales around the pool. With budget-friendly options that don't skimp on comfort, Big Blue Backpackers Lodge is perfect for young travelers seeking both adventure and a chill vibe to return to.
Prices start from $12.41 for a dorm and $25.76 for a private room.
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Pool Table
Swimming Pool
Table Tennis
Walking Tours
Rating: 7.0
Atlantic Point Backpackers strikes the perfect balance between fun and functional, placing it high on the list of must-stay hostels in Cape Town for the youthful and adventurous. Here, it’s all about creating a community vibe, with a side of comfort and a sprinkle of luxury. The hostel’s calendar is packed with activities, from wine tasting tours to shark cage diving, designed to bring guests together and offer a taste of South Africa's rich offerings.
The facilities are top-notch, with a modern kitchen, plush lounging areas, and even a pool table for those laid-back evenings. Atlantic Point Backpackers is a stone’s throw from Green Point Park and the lively Sea Point Promenade, making it a great base for explorers who also appreciate the option to retreat into a cozy, welcoming environment after a day’s adventure.
Prices start from $19.55 for a dorm and $46.35 for a private room.
Breakfast
Bike Rental
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Lounge Area
Pool Table
Swimming Pool
Table Tennis
Walking Tours
We've got your back when it comes to finding a great hostel location in Cape Town. We've gone ahead and mapped out all the hostels for you so you can get a good idea of where they're all at. This map will make your life so much easier!
Hostel Haven: Choose Your Character
| 👨👩 Youth Hostel: | |
| 🏆 Overall Best Hostel: | |
| 🙋♀️ Female Solo-Traveler: | |
| 🤹 Solo-Traveler: | |
| 👨👩👦 Family Hostel with Kids: | |
| 🎉 Party Hostel: |
Let us talk about prices. Here is a graph showing you average prices for a bed in a dorm and for a private room. Simply mouse-over to see rates for each month.
Prices can vary a lot, especially on high-season, weekends, and special holidays such as New Years Eve.
Still not sure? Pick this!
This is the overall best rated hostel in The BIG. The overall rating is 9.4. You cannot go wrong here.
It is your safest bet in case you are not sure which hostel to pick.
The price for a dorm at The BIG starts from $14.18.
FAQ about Cape Town Hostels
We've collected the most common questions for hostels in Cape Town. The more you know, the better you can plan with confidence and ease, right?
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So go ahead and start comparing prices and availability for all hostels in Cape Town with us!
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