Oaxaca has emerged as a premier destination for heritage tourism, situated in a mountainous valley rich with indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec cultural traditions. The city’s proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites including Monte Albán and Mitla archaeological sites makes it an attractive destination for cultural travelers. Additionally, Oaxaca serves as Mexico’s gastronomy hub and mezcal center, offering diverse culinary and cultural experiences.
The city maintains exceptional value for budget travelers, with an expanding hostel market providing numerous accommodation options. Competitive pricing ensures accessible lodging without compromising quality or amenities.
The following guide presents the highest-rated hostel options in Oaxaca for travelers of varying interests and budgets.
1. CASA ANGEL HOSTEL
$20-50 per night
Casa Angel operates as an award-winning social establishment featuring regular programming including social gatherings, yoga classes, community barbecues, and salsa instruction. A rooftop terrace facilitates guest interaction and casual socializing. Located in the downtown area, the hostel offers standard dormitory beds with privacy curtains and luxury pod-style alternatives featuring orthopedic mattresses providing superior comfort and privacy. Complimentary breakfast is included. This establishment excels for travelers prioritizing social connection and cultural engagement.
2. TICUCHI HOSTAL
$25-40 per night
With on-site swimming pool, lounge area, fully equipped kitchen, and ping-pong facilities, Ticuchi provides a relaxed social atmosphere. Dorm beds feature individual outlets, privacy curtains, and white noise fans supporting quality sleep. The lounge offers refreshments, and staff organize regular activities including karaoke and communal meals facilitating guest connections. The atmosphere maintains a lively vibe while managing noise control through early closing times.
3. IGUANA HOSTEL OAXACA
$15-45 per night
Differentiating from competitors, Iguana’s dormitory rooms feature single beds with privacy curtains rather than bunk arrangements, eliminating disruptions from adjacent sleepers. The hostel maintains a social atmosphere while enforcing 11pm closing times permitting early rest. Numerous common areas including outdoor hammock spaces support guest interaction. Clean bathrooms and expansive kitchen facilities accommodate meal preparation. Budget-friendly pricing provides excellent value.
4. HOSTAL CENTRAL
$20-40 per night
Offering one of the city’s premium complimentary breakfasts alongside convenient location and exceptionally friendly staff, Hostal Central represents an excellent value option, particularly for private room seekers. Rooms feature comfortable orthopedic mattresses, shared kitchens, and relaxed communal areas with Netflix access. Staff organize varied programming including communal dinners, cooking classes, and tastings. Secure lockers at every bed support guest security. Service standards consistently exceed expectations.
5. AZUL CIELO HOSTEL
$18-40 per night
Azul Cielo operates as a highly social establishment featuring integrated Spanish language classes, yoga sessions, and on-site social facilities supporting traveler connection. Complimentary breakfast and rooftop terrace provide additional amenities. Female-only dormitories provide enhanced privacy and security for female travelers. Convenient location within ten-minute walking distance to the city center combined with complimentary bicycle access support easy neighborhood exploration and cost reduction.
6. SELINA OAXACA
$20-75 per night
Selina represents an international hostel chain with properties worldwide. The Oaxaca location serves digital nomads through dedicated coworking spaces. Additional facilities include movie rooms, rooftop terraces, wellness rooms, libraries, and yoga instruction. While dormitory beds are basic, thick mattresses and clean conditions ensure comfort. The hostel maintains a quieter atmosphere than high-energy alternatives, suiting independent travelers seeking productivity and solitude.
7. VIAJERO HOSTELS OAXACA
$16-35 per night
Positioned within ten-minute walking distance to the main square, Viajero features a chill rooftop terrace offering panoramic city views. The location provides ideal settings for breakfast, relaxation, and sunset enjoyment while taking in Oaxaca’s ambiance. Dorm beds feature comfortable thick mattresses with privacy curtains ensuring quality rest. Regular programming includes food tours and tastings facilitating guest connections. The restaurant offers vegetarian options, and female-only dormitories provide additional privacy and security.
- Best Hostel for Social Connection – Casa Angel Hostel: Casa Angel features regular programming including social hours, community barbecues, and yoga classes. Its downtown location, rooftop terrace, and complimentary breakfast make it the premier choice for travelers prioritizing social connection and cultural engagement.
- Best Hostel for Social Recreation – Ticuchi Hostal: Ticuchi provides a relaxed social atmosphere with an on-site swimming pool, multiple lounges, and ping-pong facilities. The staff organizes karaoke and communal meals, fostering connection while maintaining a comfortable environment for sleep.
- Best Hostel for Laid-Back Comfort – Iguana Hostel Oaxaca: Iguana Hostel differentiates itself with single beds instead of bunks and hammock spaces for relaxation. It offers excellent value with expansive kitchen facilities and a social atmosphere that respects quiet hours for early rest.
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads – Selina Oaxaca: Selina Oaxaca serves digital nomads with dedicated coworking spaces, reliable internet, and wellness facilities. Its quieter atmosphere, movie rooms, and yoga instruction create a productive environment for remote workers.
- Best Hostel for Cultural Exploration – Viajero Hostels Oaxaca: Located near the main square, Viajero offers a panoramic rooftop terrace perfect for enjoying Oaxaca’s ambiance. Regular food tours and tastings, combined with comfortable privacy-curtained beds, make it ideal for cultural travelers.
EDITOR’S PICK: BEST HOSTELS IN OAXACA
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