The 6 Best Hostels in Cusco (Updated 2024)

Posted: 1/14/2024 | January 14th, 2024

Cusco is the undisputed archaeological hub of South America, and visiting it is an essential part of any trip to Peru. The capital of the Inca Empire for centuries, the city lies not far from the famed Machu Picchu, one of the iconic Wonders of the World. Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or just passing through, Cusco is worth spending a few days exploring.

While most travelers visit Cusco because of its location near Machu Picchu, there is a lot to see and do here. The city is popular with trail walkers and history lovers, but also partygoers who come to enjoy its nightlife and festivals.

Because of all this, most travelers backpacking South America pass through Cusco and stay a night or two.

Below is my list of the best hostels in Cusco to help you plan your trip and save money. If you don’t want to read the longer list, the following are the best in each category:

Want the specifics? Here’s my breakdown of the best hostels in Cusco and why I love them:

Price legend (per night):

• $: Under 40 PEN
• $$: 40-60 PEN
• $$$: 60 PEN and above

1. Viajero Kokopelli

This huge hostel is fun and artsy, with cool murals painted on the walls. It’s lively with lots of events so stay here if you’re looking to meet other travelers! There’s a bar with a daily happy hour, lots of activities (live music, DJs, cooking classes), and the common areas have billiards, foosball, and beer pong tables.

The dorm beds are pod-style and super comfy, with individual reading lights and outlets. The showers always have hot water and great pressure. There are female-only dorms too. There’s also a co-working space if you need to get some work done and free tea all day (including coca tea, which helps with acclimatizing to the altitude).

Viajero Kokopelli at a glance:

• $$
• Social hostel with lots of events and activities
• Pod beds with individual reading lights and outlets
• Tons of common areas (including a garden hammock area)

Beds from 54 PEN, private rooms from 270 PEN.

2. Wild Rover Hostel

Wild Rover is fun party hostel. There’s always something going on here, from parties at the bar to cultural experiences like cooking classes and salsa lessons. There are several common areas too, including a co-working space. The panoramic views from the bar can’t be…