Hostels are among the best places for solo travelers to meet other people who are also exploring a particular destination, and along with being great social places, they also help people to stretch their travel budget by providing inexpensive accommodation either in shared dorms, single sex dorms or private rooms. Peru has a wealth of such establishments, and whether you are looking for a hostel that offers a wonderful party experience with its own bar and lively entertainment every night, or somewhere that is a little quieter and more relaxed, there are plenty of options available.
If you are thinking of going traveling through Peru, here are five hostels that are ideal for your solo trip.
Mama Simona, Cusco
Traveling in Peru as a backpacker can often be quite a noisy and rowdy affair, but one of the great features of the Mama Simona hostel is how peaceful it is, and without the bar it does mean there is a different clientele too. The hostel is comfortably furnished with pleasant surroundings, and the security in the hostels also makes it a good option for those who are worried about other people getting in to the hostel. Coffee and tea is available for free, along with wireless internet and a good kitchen, while there is also a free simple breakfast include coffee and tea, bread, butter and a selection of jam and marmalade.
Loki Del Mar, Mancora
This hostel is one that takes the normal hostel surroundings and kicks it up a notch, with a beautifully designed building with comfortable rooms, and some of the best scenery on the Peruvian coast. When it comes to relaxing, a large swimming pool with plenty of sunbeds provide a nice place to relax, while you will also find that the area's excellent surfing beaches are just a short walk away.
The bar here makes this a very lively and social hostel, with plenty of good drinks and great seafood, while free internet, the option of booking a late breakfast and being able to borrow sports equipment help to make this a great option.
Backpacker's Family Club, Lima
Miraflores is one of the most popular areas of Lima, and this is one of the most popular hostels in an area that prides itself on being friendly and welcoming. The beds are comfortable and solid, and the nice social areas help to make this a nice place to stay where you can meet other travelers, while it is also just a short walk from the beach. A bar that does a mean Pisco Sour is a good feature in any hostel, and you can enjoy a nice barbecue on the terrace, while you can also borrow DVDs and use the computers with free internet in the hostel if you don't choose to bring your own device.
Super Tramp Hostel, Aguas Calientes
This town without a road connection wouldn't normally be on the radar of most tourists, but its role as the gateway to Machu Picchu makes Aguas Calientes an important place for backpackers, and this hostel is a great option if you are passing through. The bold colors and the psychedelic decor may be a bit much for some people, but beyond that it is a comfortable and simple spot on your way to the amazing Inca city. A restaurant and bar help to make this place welcoming, while the staff can also help you arrange trips both to Machu Picchu and some of the area's other interesting sites.
Pachamama, Cabanaconde
Another of the major attractions in Peru is the Colca Canyon, which is three times deeper than the Grand Canyon, and is famous for the condors that are often flying around the sky above the canyon. This hostel is warm and welcoming, and offers dorm rooms and private rooms, with a range of facilities including games and a book exchange, and a relaxed bar that offers a nice place to relax after a day's hiking. Guests can also rent hiking equipment and mountain bikes, and the staff there can also arrange local guides to help you explore the canyon and make the most of your visit.