5 Youth Hostels in Johannesburg

5 Youth Hostels in Johannesburg

Written by Undercover Phoenician | Last update: Apr 9, 2024

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Tucked within Johannesburg, where skyscrapers brush the horizon and the pulse of Africa throbs in the streets, lies a hostel scene as eclectic as the city itself. This guide to the best youth hostels in Johannesburg peels back the urban exterior to reveal the soulful rhythm of the 'City of Gold'.

Short and crisp: Hostels in Johannesburg

  1. Lebo's Soweto Backpackers - best for Adventure Hostels, Female Solo Traveller, Party Hostel, Solo Traveller, Youth Hostel
  2. Explorer Backpackers - best for Party Hostel, Solo Traveller, Youth Hostel
  3. Brown Sugar Backpackers - best for Party Hostel, Solo Traveller, Youth Hostel
  4. Melville House - best for Party Hostel, Solo Traveller, Youth Hostel
  5. Sleek Backpackers - best for Digital Nomads, Solo Traveller, Youth Hostel

Full List of Youth Hostels in Johannesburg

1 Lebo's Soweto Backpackers

#1 Top Rated Hostel in Johannesburg! Rating: 9.3

Immersing yourself in the vibrant heart of South Africa's history becomes a breeze at Lebo's Soweto Backpackers. This best youth hostel in Johannesburg isn't just about a place to crash; it's a deep dive into the local culture. With its unique township location, guests at Lebo's Soweto Backpackers get to experience Soweto's rich heritage up close, from the Hector Pieterson Museum to the Nelson Mandela House, both easily accessible and profoundly impactful.

The hostel itself boasts a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for backpackers keen to mingle and share tales of adventure. The communal areas, including a fire pit and outdoor seating, are the heart and soul of Lebo's Soweto Backpackers, where friendships are forged under the African sky. Plus, their guided tours are a hit, offering insights you'd miss if traveling solo.

Sustainability and community engagement are at the forefront of Lebo's Soweto Backpackers's mission, offering guests more than just a stay but a chance to contribute positively to the area. From bicycle tours to community walks, your stay here is guaranteed to be memorable, meaningful, and filled with authentic Soweto spirit.

Prices start from $10.75 for a dorm and $30.15 for a private room.

Extra Services

Bike Rental

City Tours

Other Amenities

Bar

Board Games

Evening Entertainment

Gameroom

Kitchen

Laundry

Lounge Area

Pool Table

Videogames

Book here Lebo's Soweto Backpackers
Check: Hostelworld | Get the Best Deal

2 Explorer Backpackers

Rating: 9.5

Nestled in the bustling metropolis, Explorer Backpackers stands out as a beacon for young, adventurous souls seeking the ultimate Johannesburg experience. This hostel not only offers a cozy bed but serves as a launchpad to the city's endless attractions. From the nearby Apartheid Museum to the exhilarating Gold Reef City, adventure is just a stone's throw away.

What sets Explorer Backpackers apart is its vibrant, youth-focused vibe. The common areas buzz with energy, making it easy to meet fellow travelers from around the globe. Whether you're plotting your next day's journey over a communal breakfast or sharing stories in the lounge, the environment is electric.

Safety and convenience are top priorities at Explorer Backpackers, with secure dorms and private rooms. Their helpful staff are always on hand to give tips on exploring Jo'burg, ensuring that every backpacker leaves with their thirst for adventure quenched and their hearts full of South African warmth.

Prices start from $18.03 for a dorm.

Extra Services

City Tours

Other Amenities

Bar

Board Games

Evening Entertainment

Gameroom

Kitchen

Laundry

Lounge Area

Nightclub

Table Tennis

Book here Explorer Backpackers
Check: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Get the Best Deal

3 Brown Sugar Backpackers

Rating: 8.2

Step into Brown Sugar Backpackers, where comfort meets the thrill of exploration. This jewel among Johannesburg's hostels offers a unique blend of homey comfort and a gateway to the city's pulsating life. Located within easy reach of the Johannesburg Botanical Garden and Emmarentia Dam, it's an ideal spot for those who love nature as much as urban adventures.

The atmosphere at Brown Sugar Backpackers is second to none, with a laid-back, welcoming vibe that instantly puts guests at ease. It's the perfect setting for young travelers to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with a lush garden and swimming pool offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.

But it's not all about relaxation. Brown Sugar Backpackers prides itself on being a cultural hotspot, offering local music evenings and vibrant BBQ nights that showcase the best of South African hospitality. For the youth seeking an authentic Jozi experience, combined with the comfort of home, Brown Sugar Backpackers is an unbeatable choice.

Prices start from $10.31 for a dorm and $21.56 for a private room.

Freebies/Included

Breakfast

Other Amenities

Bar

Board Games

Gameroom

Kitchen

Laundry

Lounge Area

Pool Table

Swimming Pool

Book here Brown Sugar Backpackers
Check: Hostelworld | Get the Best Deal

4 Melville House

Rating: 7.8

Discover a hidden gem in Johannesburg's trendy Melville suburb at Melville House. This charming hostel not only offers a comfortable stay but immerses you in the local art and dining scene. With 7th Street's cafes and bookshops a short walk away, it's a haven for creative souls and foodies alike.

The vibe at Melville House is all about community and creativity. The interiors are dotted with local art, inspiring guests to explore their own creativity or simply enjoy the aesthetic pleasures. The communal kitchen and lounge area serve as the heart of the hostel, where stories and meals are shared among travelers from all walks of life.

Not just resting on its stylish laurels, Melville House is praised for its cleanliness, security, and the friendliness of its staff. They go the extra mile to ensure your stay is as comfortable and enriching as possible. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, without breaking the bank, Melville House offers a cozy, culturally rich home away from home.

Prices start from $12.15 for a dorm and $36.76 for a private room.

Extra Services

City Tours

Other Amenities

Bar

Board Games

Kitchen

Laundry

Lounge Area

Swimming Pool

Book here Melville House
Check: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Get the Best Deal

5 Sleek Backpackers

Rating: 3.5

If you're after a youthful, dynamic base in Johannesburg, Sleek Backpackers ticks all the boxes. Situated in a convenient spot for both shopping and sightseeing, it's the go-to hostel for backpackers eager to dive into the city's vibrant life. Whether you're here for the shopping at Sandton City or the nightlife in Maboneng, everything is within easy reach.

Sleek Backpackers excels in creating a social atmosphere where making new friends feels as easy as pie. The communal lounge and garden area are the social hubs, equipped with all you need to kick back and share tales of your travels. And with themed nights and group outings on offer, you're never short of opportunities to bond with fellow adventurers.

Prices start from $7.88 for a dorm and $20.33 for a private room.

Other Amenities

Bar

Gameroom

Kitchen

Laundry

Lounge Area

Pool Table

Swimming Pool

Not Offered

Breakfast

Book here Sleek Backpackers
Check: Hostelworld | Get the Best Deal

On the map: Hostel Locations in Johannesburg

We've got your back when it comes to finding a great hostel location in Johannesburg. 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!

slp name

Hostel Haven: Choose Your Character

👨👩 Youth Hostel:

Explorer Backpackers

🏆 Overall Best Hostel:

Explorer Backpackers

🙋‍♀️ Female Solo-Traveler:

Lebo's Soweto Backpackers

🤹 Solo-Traveler:

Explorer Backpackers

🎉 Party Hostel:

Explorer Backpackers

How much are hostels in Johannesburg?

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.

Average Dorm Price per Month in Johannesburg

Average Dorm Price Graph

Average Private Room Price per Month in Johannesburg

Average Private Price Graph

Still not sure? Pick this!

#1 Top Hostel in Johannesburg: Lebo's Soweto Backpackers

This is the overall best rated hostel in Lebo's Soweto Backpackers. The overall rating is 9.3. 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 Lebo's Soweto Backpackers starts from $5.38.

Book Lebo's Soweto Backpackers here

#1 Best Hostel in Johannesburg
Lebo's Soweto Backpackers

FAQ about Johannesburg Hostels

We've collected the most common questions for hostels in Johannesburg. 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 Johannesburg with us!

Looking for hostels in a special neighborhood or near a popular landmark? Check out our special guides:

More Johannesburg Guides for you

Hostel Blog Writer Undercover Phoenician

About the author: Undercover Phoenician

Hostelz.com is your #1 hostel guide to find the best prices for every single hostel worldwide. We show you all prices and hostels at a glance - save money by using the right booking platform.

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Best Hostel in Johannesburg is...

Lebo's Soweto Backpackers!

Lebo's Soweto Backpackers, Johannesburg

Book Lebo's Soweto Backpackers here

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