The 10 best youth hostels in Costa Rica

The Escalante district is known for its restaurants, bars and art galleries. It is also close to many tourist attractions, such as the National Museum and the National Theatre of Costa Rica.

The hostel staff are friendly, smiling and always ready to help travellers with tips and recommendations for discovering the city. The Chillout Escalante Hostel is therefore an excellent choice for travellers looking for simple, inspiring accommodation in the capital. The colourful decor adds an arty touch to this hostel of choice.

Decorated in a colourful tropical style, the hostel offers comfortable rooms and dormitories, as well as a well-equipped communal kitchen, a bar and an outdoor swimming pool for a refreshing dip. The hostel also organises activities for travellers, such as guided tours, barbecue nights and other themed evenings, ideal for meeting other backpackers.

The hostel is located near Manuel Antonio Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, the Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve and many other tourist attractions. With its relaxed atmosphere and ideal location, the Wide Mouth Frog is a great choice for young travellers looking to explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica and meet travellers from all over the world.

Set in beautiful lush surroundings, the hostel is located close to the beach and offers comfortable, accessible and clean accommodation in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The dormitories are spacious and the hostel offers a well-equipped communal kitchen for cooking your own meals.

Young backpackers can also take advantage of the swimming pool and outdoor terrace to relax after a day spent exploring the waterfalls and beaches of Uvita. On certain evenings, themed parties are organised by the pool. So put on your swimming costume and join the party at Cascada Verde Hostel!

You can relax in a hammock with a breathtaking view of the rainforest, or take a refreshing shower under the hostel's natural waterfall. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the hostel has a communal kitchen where you can prepare your own meals. If you're in a social mood, there's also a lounge where you can meet other backpackers.

Travellers can also take advantage of the activities on offer at the hostel, such as forest walks or dolphin and whale watching excursions. Don't forget your hiking boots!

This rustic and peaceful youth hostel offers unique accommodation in wooden cabanas in the heart of the rainforest. The cabanas are equipped with comfortable beds, an outdoor shower, a private terrace overlooking the jungle and a hammock. The hostel even has an outdoor swimming pool so you can relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.

Activities at the hostel include forest walks, swimming in local rivers, bird and wildlife watching and taking part in nature conservation projects.

The spacious dormitories are equipped with comfortable beds and the communal areas are perfect for relaxing and socialising with fellow travellers. Evenings can be lively and an opportunity to relax with other backpackers.

Away from the hostel, travellers can explore the region's beautiful local beaches and national parks, or take part in activities such as kayaking and group hiking.

Hostel Esperanza is a hostel in Pavones, perfect for travellers looking for a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, conducive to meeting backpackers travelling in Costa Rica. The hostel offers affordable accommodation for all budgets, clean and comfortable for travellers looking to explore the area and enjoy the legendary waves of Pavones. The spacious dormitories are spotless, with soft beds and convenient, private storage areas. Travellers can relax in the communal areas, including the communal kitchen, lounge and outdoor terrace.

The evenings are always lively, with lively music, games and drinks for travellers eager to meet their fellow travellers. Pavones is a small fishing village with a friendly and welcoming community. It's an authentic travel experience for visitors.

The rooms, bungalows and cabins, shaped like seashells, castles and other artistic creations, are all decorated with colourful mosaics, murals and original objets d'art. The hostel has a bar-restaurant, a cinema screening room and a music room where travellers can play instruments and have jam sessions. Rocking J's is a unique experience that attracts artists, musicians and travellers looking for originality and creativity.

Puerto Viejo is a vibrant coastal town, famous for its white sandy beaches, local cuisine and Rasta-inspired culture. Travellers can surf, hike and explore the local markets while discovering the eclectic ambience of this region.

Chinitas Eco Lodge is located in the heart of the jungle in Tortuguero, Costa Rica. The hostel offers rustic but cosy accommodation. The wooden cabins are equipped with mosquito nets, fans and en-suite bathrooms.

Travellers can take a boat trip on the river, hike through the rainforest, or simply admire the diversity of the local flora and fauna.

The hostel is ideally located just a few minutes' walk from one of the country's most beautiful beaches. Travellers can swim, surf or simply relax on the warm sand. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with bunk beds and fans for those warm tropical evenings. Amaya's Hostel is run by a local family, who are proud to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

The site is a welcoming and friendly place, where travellers can sleep in the hammocks to save a few Costa Rican settlers, enjoy the communal kitchen and common areas.