Hostels in Rio

There were two hostels in Rio de Janeiro in 1997. Ten years later there were more than 60. The weakening of the Brazilian Real made Brazil possible as a destination for people travelling on a budget. The demand for the relatively cheap accommodation together with the social atmosphere that a hostel offers grew. Even if the Real has strenghtened a lot and Rio is not so cheap anymore, the rumour of this fantastic place is out and the hostels are here to stay.

Why a Hostel?
Well the big advantage with a hostel is the fact that you will meet a lot of people. Many of these will become your friends as you discover Rio together. The services offered to the guest are often affordable and tuned for the independent traveller; less touristy and more local you could say. The comfort and quiet of the hotel is for many compensated by this.

Where?
This is already described in my Accommodation In Rio section. In short: It´s how close you are to a good beach that matters in Rio. Property prices are many times higher in Ipanema than in Catete; hence the prices in the hostels there are higher. If you´re on a tight budget it may be a good idea to look for a less attractive location.

Prices
Also already explained in the above mentioned section. There is usually a correlation between price and quality: The quality of the matresses, how often they clean, location, breakfast content and services are all factors that influence the price. The popular hostels in Rio are more likely to offer all that well and therefor they can charge a higher price.

Types of Hostels
There are a few types of hostels in Rio that I recognize.

- You have the bigger cheaper hostels with maybe a crowded bar and a party profile. They are more popular with younger people.

- You have the bigger more expensive hostels with a bar but a more mellow atmosphere. Their focus is on good service and slightly older more independent travellers.

- There are the big ones that are run more like classical youth hostels.

- You have smaller hostels and homestays with a more quiet outline. The party is outside the hostel. More preferred by a slightly older crowd. Very social.

Do You Have More Questions?
Just send me a message using the "Contact Me" button on your left, I promise to answer as soon as possible. I will try to advice you to a hostel that is right for you.

To top of this page