San Jose, Avenida 6, Calle 21 y 239.930958,-84.068507(Show on Map)
7.8
Good
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+5 Photos
+ 3 Photos3
Checkin - Checkout dates
1 Room2 Guests
Info
Summary of reviews
Costa Rica Backpackers is highly appreciated for its excellent location in San Jose, positioned conveniently close to the city center, main attractions and essential transport links, making it ideal for exploration and ease of travel. Guests find the proximity to bars, restaurants and cafes extremely beneficial and the general feeling of safety allows for comfortable walks around the area.
Breakfast at the hostel receives mixed reviews, though many enjoy the delicious and reasonably priced options available, especially the gallo pinto and pancakes served in a pleasant poolside setting. The unlimited free coffee is a standout feature, despite some logistical issues with breakfast services being off-site and not always included in the booking. The onsite restaurant and bar are popular for their affordable, tasty meals and convenient late-night dining options.
When it comes to rooms, guests find them basic but functional, appreciated for their cleanliness and essential amenities like individual outlets and privacy curtains. Shared rooms are generally spacious and well-maintained, although some suffer from poor ventilation, musty smells and noise disturbances, particularly from nearby busy areas and inconsiderate fellow guests. The well-kept common areas, such as the pool and garden, add to the relaxed atmosphere of the hostel.
Cleanliness standards at the hostel are generally praised, especially in private rooms and bathrooms, though shared facilities sometimes fall short with recurring issues like dirty kitchens and common areas noted. The staff are mostly described as friendly, helpful and welcoming with a few standout members going above and beyond. However, inconsistent customer service experiences and occasional instances of unhelpful or rude behavior have been reported.
WiFi connectivity is strong and reliable in communal areas but tends to be weaker and less dependable in private rooms. The hostel's vibrant nearby nightlife and social atmosphere are assets for those looking to meet other travelers, but this can result in noise disturbances, especially at night, which may be challenging for light sleepers.
The beds, equipped with privacy curtains and individual lights, receive mixed feedback. Some guests find them comfortable, while others report issues with old, saggy mattresses and noisy frames. Overall, the hostel needs to update its bedding to ensure a more comfortable sleep for all guests.
Costa Rica Backpackers is praised for its accessibility due to its central location, easy access to public transport and taxis and excellent value for money. The 24/7 reception and proximity to various city amenities make it particularly appealing for solo travelers and those keen on exploring San Jose.
In summary, Costa Rica Backpackers offers a budget-friendly stay with standout features like its central location, functional amenities and vibrant social environment, while minor improvements in breakfast logistics, bed comfort and consistent cleanliness could significantly enhance the guest experience.
Categories
Nightlife
Located on Avenida 6, Calle 21 y 23, this hostel is in a central location. This is close to many bars and entertainment venues. The hostel's location ensures you're never far from the nightlife action.
Cheap
This hostel provides budget-friendly accommodation. It is suitable for backpackers and travelers looking for affordable lodging.
Accessible
Yoga
Pool
Outdoor Pool
Adult Only
Outdoor Pool
Room Types
Double RoomThis functional private room offers a double bed, a fan and free Wi-Fi. Guests have access to a shared bathroom.
Twin RoomThis functional private room offers a set of bunk beds, a fan and free Wi-Fi. Guests have access to a shared bathroom.
Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory has a balcony and iPod dock.
Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory features a iPod dock.
Bed in 4-Bed Male Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory has a iPod dock.
Bed in 4-Bed Female Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory features a iPod dock.
Bunk Bed in Female Dormitory Room This bed in dormitory has a iPod dock.
Bed in Male Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory features a iPod dock.
Bed in 6-Bed Female Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory features a iPod dock.
Bed in 6-Bed Male Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory has a iPod dock.
Deluxe Double Room with BathThe double room has a private bathroom fitted with a bath and a shower. The unit has 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
7.8
Good
Review Summaries
Location
Costa Rica Backpackers enjoys a prime location in San Jose, often praised by guests for its central and convenient position. Being close to the city center, main attractions, museums and nightlife areas, it provides easy access for both exploration and relaxation. The National Museum and main bus stations are within a short walking distance, making it ideal for those arriving in or departing from the city.
Visitors appreciate the proximity to various bars, restaurants and cafes, which are easily reachable by foot or quick Uber rides. The hostel's location also offers a feeling of safety, allowing guests to walk around comfortably.
Despite some comments on the area's potential loneliness and occasional safety concerns at night, the positive remarks overwhelmingly highlight the excellent and strategic location of the hostel. Its positioning allows for an enjoyable and convenient stay amidst the bustling backdrop of San Jose, enhancing the travel experience with its accessibility and vibrant surroundings.
Breakfast
Costa Rica Backpackers offers a mixed experience when it comes to breakfast. The food, especially the breakfast, receives praise for being delicious and reasonably priced with options like gallo pinto and pancakes highly recommended by guests. The poolside setting for morning meals is particularly appreciated by many, providing a pleasant start to the day.
Despite these positives, there are some inconsistencies. Some guests have mentioned that breakfast was not included in their stay, contrary to their booking expectations. Additionally, while breakfast is available at a fair price, it appears not to be served on-site but across the street, which might be inconvenient for some.
One standout feature frequently highlighted is the unlimited free coffee available all day, which many guests find to be a lifesaver. Whether it's early morning or late evening, having access to good coffee around the clock greatly enhances the overall experience.
In terms of service, the staff members, including a very friendly lady known for making breakfast, contribute positively to the guest experience. The hostel also boasts a cheap and convenient restaurant/bar that serves great Costa Rican fast food and provides a good variety of cheap food options.
Overall, while there are some logistical disadvantages regarding breakfast, the quality of the food, the pleasant environment and the constant supply of free coffee make breakfast at Costa Rica Backpackers a generally positive experience.
Dinner
Costa Rica Backpackers offers a dining experience that guests routinely find satisfying and convenient. The hotel features an onsite restaurant and bar that is highly praised for its affordable and delicious food. Travelers appreciate the reasonable prices and large portions, alongside the quality of the cuisine and friendly service. The restaurant provides meals from breakfast to dinner, accommodating late-night diners and serves a range of tasty dishes.
Guests find the meals exceptional and the value for money excellent, describing the food as delicious and cooked with care. Many enjoy the convenience of having a dining option within the hotel, especially handy for those who prefer not to venture out at night. The bar and small restaurant offer a cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring.
However, it's worth noting that some visitors have experienced occasional inconveniences, such as limited vegetarian options and issues with restaurant operation times. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment leans heavily towards a positive dining experience at Costa Rica Backpackers with good food and reasonable prices being the highlights.
Rooms
Costa Rica Backpackers offers a variety of room options that cater to different types of travelers. The rooms, although described as basic and functional, cover the essentials. Many guests appreciated the clean and comfortable nature of the rooms with some highlighting spaciousness despite occasional visibility of wear and tear. Private rooms and dormitories alike are equipped with individual outlets, lights and privacy curtains, enhancing the overall convenience.
The shared rooms generally received positive notes for cleanliness and spaciousness with ample storage and power outlets by each bed. However, some dormitories and private rooms suffered from issues such as poor ventilation, musty smells and lack of windows, which led to a sense of darkness and stuffiness for some guests. Noise was a recurring concern, particularly for rooms located near the pool, smoking areas and the adjacent train tracks. Additionally, the ambiance was sometimes disturbed by the inconsiderate behavior of fellow guests.
The hostel features well-maintained common areas, including a pool and garden, which were well-liked for providing a relaxing atmosphere. The central location of the hostel added to its appeal, allowing for convenient exploration of the surroundings. Despite some outdated decors and occasional concerns about cleanliness, the overall utility and atmosphere of the hostel were appreciated by many visitors.
In summary, Costa Rica Backpackers meets the basic needs for a budget stay with an emphasis on central location and functional amenities, though potential guests should be mindful of minor drawbacks related to noise, room ventilation and sporadic cleanliness issues.
Beds
Costa Rica Backpackers receives mixed reviews regarding their beds with guests offering both positive and negative feedback. Many visitors appreciated the addition of privacy curtains around the beds, which provide a sense of seclusion and calm. Several guests noted that the beds come with handy features such as individual lights and USB ports, which add a layer of convenience.
On the positive side, some guests found the beds to be comfortable with remarks mentioning comfy beds and clean sheets. These attributes contribute to a decent stay for certain visitors. However, not all feedback was glowing. A common complaint was the discomfort of the beds with many describing the mattresses as old, saggy or too soft. Some guests mentioned that the beds creaked loudly and were annoyingly noisy, making sleep difficult. Several reviews highlighted issues with the beds sagging, being uneven or in generally bad condition.
Another recurring issue was the difficulty associated with bunk beds. Specifically, guests noted that the metal frames were noisy, shaky and challenging to climb up and down. In some instances, the beds were described as small and not suitable for taller individuals.
Although some guests found the bed arrangements satisfactory and appreciated the addition of bedside tables and curtains, others pointed out that the beds could benefit from an upgrade to provide a more comfortable sleeping experience. The presence of old and worn-out mattresses was a notable deterrence for many.
In summary, while Costa Rica Backpackers makes efforts to enhance privacy and convenience through certain bed features, the comfort and condition of the mattresses and bed structures remain an area in need of significant improvement to ensure a more restful and pleasant stay for all guests.
Cleanliness
Costa Rica Backpackers presents a mixed experience when it comes to cleanliness, though the reviews highlight both strengths and weaknesses. Many guests have praised the cleanliness of the rooms and bathrooms, describing them as very clean, comfortable and hygienic. The hostel's facilities, including a clean and spacious swimming pool, also receive commendation for being well-maintained. Daily cleaning routines and friendly cleaning staff contribute positively to the overall impression.
However, several reviews point out areas needing improvement. Shared bathrooms and kitchens are frequently mentioned as not meeting cleanliness expectations with some guests noting that these areas could benefit from a deeper clean and better maintenance. Issues like clogged toilets, cockroaches, dirty pools and grimy kitchenware are recurring concerns. The hostel's communal areas are noted for fluctuating in cleanliness, sometimes being well-kept and other times falling short.
Overall, Costa Rica Backpackers offers a decent level of cleanliness in many of its private spaces, but consistent attention to shared facilities could enhance the guest experience significantly.
Staff
When it comes to the staff at Costa Rica Backpackers, experiences seem to vary widely among travelers. For many, the staff stood out as a highlight, described as very friendly, helpful, welcoming, professional and knowledgeable. Names like Elena, Ana and Gabriel were specifically mentioned for their exceptional service. Many guests appreciated the warm attention and friendliness, noting that the receptionists and cleaning staff often went above and beyond to make their stay pleasant.
However, not all interactions were positive. Some reviews mention experiences with unfriendly, unhelpful and even rude staff members. There were also remarks about poor communication, lack of enthusiasm and instances where staff did not resolve doubts or provide information about tours and local attractions. Reception staff, in particular, were at times noted as overburdened or indifferent.
Despite these mixed reviews, the majority of travelers appreciated the friendly ambiance created by most of the staff, which contributed greatly to the hostel's welcoming atmosphere. The 24-hour reception and the assistance with luggage storage were additional positives frequently highlighted. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in consistent customer service and communication, many guests left with positive impressions due to the kindness and helpfulness of several key staff members.
Wi-Fi
Costa Rica Backpackers offers a mixed experience when it comes to WiFi connectivity. Guests commonly praise the WiFi in common areas, describing it as good, strong and comfortable with some noting excellent and super-fast connections, particularly in shared spaces like the reception area. However, the WiFi experience in individual rooms is less reliable, frequently reported as weak, spotty or even non-existent. Some guests had intermittent issues or temporary outages, requiring patience and adaptation to maintain a stable connection. Power outlets are conveniently available, essential for keeping devices charged, but periodic electricity and connectivity problems can disrupt usage. Overall, while the WiFi quality is commendable in communal zones, those needing consistent room-based internet might face some challenges.
Nightlife
Costa Rica Backpackers is situated in a lively nightlife area, making it a prime location for those looking to explore San Jose's vibrant after-hours scene. Located just 200 meters from the bustling La Cali neighborhood, the hostel is surrounded by bars, nightclubs and restaurants, providing ample opportunities for partying and socializing without the need to venture far. The hostel's bar and common areas foster a cool, relaxed atmosphere perfect for meeting other travelers, making it a great choice for youthful visitors eager to make new friends.
However, the hostel's proximity to nightlife and nearby train tracks means it is quite noisy, particularly at night. Sounds from passing trains, honking trucks and evening techno music can make sleeping a challenge. Early morning noise from street traffic and cleaning activities add to the disturbances. While the bar inside the hostel offers a fun option, it closes relatively early and quiet hours are not strictly enforced, leading to occasional late-night disruptions from returning guests.
Overall, Costa Rica Backpackers is ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in San Jose's nightlife and meet fellow travelers, though those sensitive to noise may find it challenging to get a restful night's sleep. Its convenient location near thriving nightlife spots and relaxed, sociable environment make it a popular choice among backpackers and young visitors.
Accessible
Costa Rica Backpackers in San Jose offers a highly accessible experience for guests, particularly those relying on transportation services. The hostel is in a geographically easy location, a short walk from downtown and close to bus stations including the Gran Terminal. Public transport is frequent and straightforward, making it convenient for guests to navigate the city. The hostel’s pricing is also notably accessible, offering very good value for the services provided.
For those arriving by car, free private parking is available, though some guests found the large parking area inconvenient. Access to taxis is straightforward and the hostel is not far from the airport for easy transfers. Additionally, the reception is open 24/7, enhancing accessibility for late arrivals or early departures.
The proximity to restaurants, bars, museums, supermarkets and other shops adds to the hostel's appeal for solo travelers and those looking to explore San Jose. The location was consistently praised for being safe and close to major tourist spots, making it easy to access everything necessary.
However, guests with reduced mobility might find some challenges, as rooms are on the second floor and external steps are not well-marked. Despite these minor issues, the overall accessibility, value and location of Costa Rica Backpackers make it a favorable choice for travelers visiting San Jose.
Yoga
Costa Rica Backpackers offers a vibrant and engaging environment, perfect for short stays. The hotel features a great pool and bar, where guests can relax throughout the day or meet new people during the evenings. Multiple common areas allow for both social interactions and quiet moments with spaces designated for reading or working. Various options for morning exercise are available, although specific information on yoga activities is lacking. Guests may experience early wakeup calls, but the overall atmosphere seems to foster relaxation and connectivity.
FAQ
Yes, Costa Rica Backpackers has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Costa Rica Backpackers.
No, Costa Rica Backpackers doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Costa Rica Backpackers.
