Viajero Santa Marta Hostel offers a well-rounded experience for travelers with numerous positive aspects highlighted by guests. Its strategic location just a few blocks from downtown Santa Marta provides the perfect balance between accessibility and tranquility. Visitors enjoy easy access to the historic center, beaches, restaurants and public transport, including buses to Cartagena and Tayrona Park. Despite some concerns about safety at night, the overall central yet peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for exploration and relaxation.
The breakfast at the hostel is generally praised for its tasty, varying and generous portions. Although not included in all stays, those who opt for it find the quality and value commendable. There remains room for improvement in variety and portion sizes to fully satisfy guest expectations. Dinner experiences are also mostly positive with delicious flavors and good value noted, despite occasional service delays and some dishes not meeting expectations.
Rooms at the hostel are frequently highlighted for their comfort, cleanliness and spaciousness. Both private and shared accommodations are well-maintained with modern amenities such as air conditioning, hot water and individual lockers adding to the comfort. Guests particularly appreciate the privacy curtains and thoughtful design of the dorms.
Cleanliness is a strong point, consistently praised across reviews. Impeccable conditions of the facilities, combined with the friendly and attentive cleaning staff, ensure a pleasant and hygienic environment for all visitors.
The staff at the hostel are frequently commended for their friendliness, helpfulness and overall positive energy. Guests feel warmly welcomed with specific mentions of staff members who have gone above and beyond to enhance the guest experience.
Viajero Santa Marta's rooftop pool is a standout feature, offering a clean and well-maintained space for relaxation with picturesque views. Although small and sometimes crowded, it provides a delightful spot for unwinding and socializing, further enhanced by a nearby bar and lounge furniture.
While the wifi receives mixed reviews, it remains generally functional in common areas with some guests experiencing issues in certain parts of the hostel.
Overall, Viajero Santa Marta Hostel is a top choice for travelers seeking a blend of comfort, convenience and vibrant social atmosphere with an attentive staff ensuring a memorable stay.
Categories
Dog Friendly
This hostel welcomes pets. Specific pet amenities may vary.
Outdoor Pool
This hostel features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge, terrace, and a bar.
Pool
Outdoor Pool
Small
Yoga
Room Types
Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory has air conditioning.
Superior Double RoomThis air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
Superior Twin RoomThis air-conditioned twin room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 2 beds.
StudioThis air-conditioned studio includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory features air conditioning.
Bed in 10-Bed Mixed Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory has air conditioning.
Bed in 6-Bed Female Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory features air conditioning.
Family Room with BathroomThe family room offers air conditioning, as well as a private bathroom boasting a walk-in shower. The unit has 4 beds.
Family Room with BathroomThe family room features air conditioning, as well as a private bathroom boasting a walk-in shower. The unit has 6 beds.
Standard Triple StudioThis air-conditioned studio is comprised of a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit has 2 beds.
Superior Triple RoomThis air-conditioned triple room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 2 beds.
Standard Single RoomThis air-conditioned single room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
Standard StudioThis air-conditioned studio includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
Superior Single RoomThis air-conditioned single room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
Standard Double RoomThis air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
About Viajero Santa Marta Hostel
Registry or License or Notification Number: 72242
Guest Reviews
9.1
Excellent
Review Summaries
Location
Viajero Santa Marta Hostel, situated just a few blocks from downtown Santa Marta, offers the advantage of being within walking distance to key areas such as the historic center and the beach. Despite its central positioning, guests often highlight that it's a short, approximately 10-minute walk from the vibrant city center and main attractions, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle.
However, this off-center location brings mixed feelings. Some reviewers commend the strategic placement, making it convenient for exploring Santa Marta's attractions, restaurants, bars and public transportation options, including easy access to buses to Cartagena and Tayrona Park. The hostel's tranquil environment allows for a restful stay with excellent activities and amenities such as a pool, bar and rooftop terrace enhancing the overall experience.
On the flip side, several guests express concerns about the safety of the neighborhood, particularly at night, advising the use of taxis to get around after dark. Walking the streets can feel unsafe due to reports of theft and general unease, which somewhat limits the freedom to explore by foot during late hours. Moreover, the location lacks nearby dining options, nudging guests to rely on the hostel’s in-house services or taxis to venture out for meals and nightlife.
In summary, Viajero Santa Marta Hostel boasts a generally favorable location for those keen on staying close but not directly within the city center. It strikes a balance between accessibility and tranquility, though potential visitors should be mindful of safety considerations during night-time walks.
Breakfast
Breakfast at Viajero Santa Marta Hostel receives a mix of commendations and critiques from guests. Overall, many reviewers highlight the breakfast as delicious, varying and generous in portions. With options suitable for vegetarians, the meal often leaves a positive impression, described as filling, tasty and of good value for the price.
However, some guests point out that breakfast is not included in all reservations, but those who opt to purchase it find the quality worthwhile. On the downside, there are recurring mentions of limited variety with guests sometimes having the same options for consecutive days. Additionally, some feel the portions could be more substantial, especially considering the price and note that the breakfast can feel basic or below expectations.
The breakfast service is praised for being accessible with good hours, even offering to-go options and early service upon request. The friendly and helpful staff also receive positive mentions. Nonetheless, a few isolated concerns arise around service efficiency during busy times and a lack of distinct vegan options.
All in all, while the breakfast at Viajero Santa Marta Hostel generally garners positive feedback for its taste and value, there is room for improvement in variety and portion sizes to fully meet guest expectations.
Dinner
Dining at Viajero Santa Marta Hostel offers a mixed yet largely positive experience. The food served at the restaurant is frequently praised for its delicious flavors and good value. Guests consistently highlight the tasty and varied menu, from scrumptious poke bowls to exceptional lunch and dinner options. Although some visitors mention that certain dishes, like the hamburger and plantains, were disappointing or overly dry, the overall sentiment leans towards satisfaction.
The ambiance of the restaurant is appreciated with many noting its pleasant atmosphere and well-maintained facilities. Service, however, receives mixed reviews. While the attention from staff is generally commendable, cited instances of slow service and long waits sometimes mar the experience. The quality and affordability of the food balance these inconveniences for many visitors.
Guests appreciate the convenience of on-site dining, particularly when they prefer not to venture out. The affordability and the variety offered—ranging from breakfast to cocktails—add to the appeal. Yet, some criticisms include repetition in the menu and occasional high prices, especially for bar items. Despite these points, the restaurant is often recommended for its solid meal options and good vibes, contributing positively to the overall hostel experience.
Rooms
Viajero Santa Marta Hostel offers rooms that consistently receive praise for their comfort and cleanliness. Guests frequently highlight the spaciousness and well-maintained conditions of both private and shared rooms. The double rooms, in particular, are noted to be large, stylish and equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, hot water and individual lockers. Dorms are also appreciated for their thoughtful design, providing privacy curtains, individual outlets and ample space, including attached bathrooms.
The comfort of the beds frequently stands out, although a few guests mentioned they could be improved. The hostel's rooms are also recognized for being simple yet highly functional with air conditioning playing a critical role in maintaining a comfortable environment. Additionally, the rooms provide the necessary privacy and quietness, ensuring a restful stay despite occasional noise issues from external air conditioners.
Cleanliness is a recurring theme with many reviewers describing the rooms as exceptionally clean and well-equipped. Although some guests flagged minor issues such as occasional strange odors or noise, these instances appeared to be exceptions rather than the norm.
Overall, Viajero Santa Marta Hostel's rooms offer a mix of spaciousness, comfort and modern facilities, making them a strong choice for travelers looking for a reliable and pleasant stay.
Beds
The beds at Viajero Santa Marta Hostel offer a mixed experience with a prevailing positive sentiment. Many guests appreciated the comfort and convenience of the beds, highlighting their size, the inclusion of privacy curtains and individual outlets and lamps. The spaciousness and privacy provided by the beds, especially in dorm settings, were frequently noted, making it feel less crowded despite sharing a room with multiple people. Lockers with digital keys under the beds added an extra layer of security, enhancing the overall guest experience.
However, some guests had issues with the mattress quality, describing them as either too firm or saggy and uncomfortable. A few mentioned squeaky or broken beds, which detracted from an otherwise comfortable stay. There were also isolated complaints about the cleanliness and preparedness of the beds with instances of dirty sheets or previously used beds. Despite these occasional issues, the general consensus leans towards the beds being comfortable and well-suited for a restful stay, reinforced by the hostel’s clean, comfortable and well-maintained amenities.
Cleanliness
Viajero Santa Marta Hostel has garnered considerable praise for its cleanliness, making it a standout choice for travelers prioritizing hygiene. Guests consistently highlighted the spotless condition of the facilities, describing them as super clean, modern and comfortable. The hostel's bathrooms, both shared and private, are frequently cleaned and well-maintained with hot water available, adding to the convenience and comfort of the stay.
The cleaning staff, especially noted for their friendliness and attentiveness, plays a crucial role in maintaining the hostel's impeccable standards. Special mentions were given to staff members, who ensured that rooms and common areas remained in pristine condition. The hostel's rooms, both private and dormitory, are described as clean, comfortable and well-organized, contributing to a pleasant and hygienic environment.
While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive regarding cleanliness, a few guests pointed out areas for improvement, such as occasional lapses in room cleaning frequency and the state of the pool. However, these instances seem to be exceptions rather than the norm.
Overall, Viajero Santa Marta Hostel offers immaculate facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a reliable and comfortable base for exploring the surrounding natural attractions like Tayrona and Minca. The dedication of the cleaning staff to maintaining high standards of cleanliness ensures a pleasant stay for all guests, who can enjoy modern amenities in a clean and organized setting.
Staff
The team at Viajero Santa Marta Hostel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. Guests are warmly welcomed by an attentive and polite reception staff, which includes notable mentions like Julius, Lara, Maria Paula and Eilin, who make check-in smooth and provide excellent service throughout the stay. Many reviews highlight specific staff members, emphasizing their wonderful energy and willingness to assist, from reception to bar staff like Camila and Ines and even the cleaning team, including Betsy and Chirly.
Guests highly appreciate the staff’s consistent efforts to make everyone feel at home with special thanks to those like Carlos and Jennifer, who are particularly commended for their helpfulness and kindhearted nature. Additionally, staff members are noted for their ability to provide valuable local advice and assistance in organizing travel plans. Despite a few scattered mentions of the need for improvement in some areas, the majority of feedback underscores the exceptional friendliness and dedication of the staff, contributing significantly to the positive atmosphere of the hostel.
Wi-Fi
At Viajero Santa Marta Hostel, the wifi experience has received mixed reviews from guests. While many appreciated the stable, fast and generally good wifi connectivity in common areas and some rooms, others encountered issues with the signal strength and stability. The hostel's internet access was praised for being particularly strong and reliable in certain areas, making it suitable for digital nomads and those needing to work online. However, several guests reported difficulties such as weak or non-existent wifi in their rooms, poor connectivity on the terrace and at the pool and intermittent service that could hinder professional tasks. Despite these challenges, the hostel still manages to offer a satisfactory overall experience with good breakfast options and a pleasant stay.
Pool
Viajero Santa Marta Hostel boasts an impressive rooftop pool that is consistently mentioned as a highlight by guests. This rooftop oasis features not only a swimming pool, but also a bar and lounging furniture, creating a great atmosphere for relaxation and social activities. The pool offers beautiful and sometimes spectacular views, which many guests find perfect for unwinding, especially during the heat.
Despite being described as small and occasionally crowded, the pool still garners praise for its clean and well-maintained condition. Guests enjoy the rooftop setting, noting it as a favorite spot and appreciate the activities available at certain times throughout the day. The terrace itself is often complimented for its design and decoration, contributing to the overall pleasant experience.
However, there are occasional notes on maintenance issues with some guests experiencing the pool being out of service or the water being a bit cloudy. Even so, the vast majority of reviews highlight the rooftop pool as a key feature of the hostel, making it a popular and valued amenity for visitors.
Outdoor Pool
Set against the backdrop of Santa Marta's vibrant cityscape, Viajero Santa Marta Hostel boasts an incredible rooftop pool that has received high praise from guests. The pool, located on the fourth floor, is a standout feature that offers a delightful space for relaxation, enhanced by a scenic view that many describe as spectacular.
The ambiance around the rooftop pool is enriched by a great atmosphere, often accented with music and a nearby bar, making it a popular spot for socializing and unwinding with a drink. The combination of the pool and the bar on the terrace is a welcoming haven for guests seeking both leisure and a picturesque setting. The infinity pool, in particular, provides a serene place to watch the sunset, further elevated by the beautiful terrace landscaping.
Despite occasional comments about the pool water's clarity, the feedback remains overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the pool's cleanliness and aesthetic appeal. Guests appreciate the thoughtfully designed lounge furniture that accompanies the pool area, offering ample spots to bask in the sun or simply relax.
In summary, the rooftop pool at Viajero Santa Marta Hostel garners admiration for its inviting, clean and well-decorated setting, complete with a spectacular view that significantly enhances the overall guest experience.
Dog Friendly
The Viajero Santa Marta Hostel offers a variety of pet-friendly features that make it a welcoming destination for travelers with pets. Guests have mentioned encountering several dogs roaming freely throughout the property and appreciated the presence of a few cats, adding a homely feel to the hostel for those missing their pets. Meeting the friendly and laid-back manager Andres was also a highlight for many. The hostel has ample spaces for both relaxation and socialization, contributing to its calm and inviting atmosphere.
However, some challenges were noted by guests, such as dogs barking for extended periods and slippery entrances that led to minor accidents. In terms of amenities, the hostel was praised for its cleanliness and overall appeal but fell short on providing specific accommodations or protections for pets, like non-slip tapes.
Despite these issues, the overall pet-inclusive environment and excellent service made it an enjoyable stay for those traveling with their furry companions.
FAQ
Yes, Viajero Santa Marta Hostel has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Viajero Santa Marta Hostel.
Yes, Viajero Santa Marta Hostel welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Viajero Santa Marta Hostel.
No, Viajero Santa Marta Hostel doesn't have a gym.
