Looking to have the wildest and most unforgettable experience in South America?
I’m Matt, your go-to travel guru, and I’ve partied my way through the best hostels in this vibrant continent, bringing you the ultimate list of party paradises.
Hold on tight, because I’m about to take you on an electrifying journey filled with booze, beats, and brilliant company!
Trust me; you won’t be the same after this adventure.
Before I get into the juicy details, let me share a funny story about a time I got lost trying to find a legendary party hostel in Rio de Janeiro.
It was late, and I was following some dubious directions from a tipsy local, only to end up at a closed taco stand instead.
I knew then that partying in South America required some local expertise – but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Did you know that South America boasts some of the most vibrant and diverse party scenes in the world?
From pulsating salsa beats in Cali, Colombia, to steamy tango nights in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the continent is a melting pot of festivities, just waiting for you to dive in!
The Perfect Party Hostel Balance
Choosing the right party hostel is like selecting the perfect cocktail mix – you need a blend of wild nights and chill vibes.
Here’s what to look for:
- Nightly Themed Events: Seek hostels that offer nightly events like costume parties, bar crawls, or live music performances.
For instance, Loki Hostel in Cusco, Peru, is famous for its wild full-moon parties, while Selina Hostel in Medellin, Colombia, hosts vibrant salsa nights.
- Relaxing Common Areas: After a crazy night, you need a chill-out space.
Look for hostels with cozy hammocks, rooftop terraces, or pool areas to recharge your batteries.
Check out Wild Rover Hostel in La Paz, Bolivia, with its stunning rooftop bar offering breathtaking city views.
- Awesome Social Scene: The more, the merrier!
Opt for hostels with spacious communal areas, where you can easily connect with fellow travelers and share stories over drinks.
Milhouse Hostel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is famous for its lively bar and communal activities.
The Hippest Party Hostels in South America
Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the creme de la creme of party hostels in South America:
Hostel Name | Location | Why It’s Awesome |
---|---|---|
Wild Rover Hostel | Cusco, Peru | This hostel is the party hub of Cusco, offering lively bars, themed parties, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers. Don’t miss the famous beer pong tournaments at the bar! |
Selina Hostel | Cartagena, Colombia | Located within the walled city of Cartagena, this hostel throws unforgettable beach parties, salsa nights, and even provides dance classes. The rooftop terrace offers picturesque sunset views while you enjoy a cocktail. |
Flying Dog Hostel | Bariloche, Argentina | Set in the stunning Patagonian landscape, this hostel offers outdoor adventure by day and wild parties by night, complete with free-flowing craft beer. Their in-house brewery keeps the party going! |
Loki Hostel | La Paz, Bolivia | Loki is famous for its energetic bar, themed parties, and epic views of the city from its terrace. The hostel’s infamous “Death Road” biking tour during the day makes the nights even more legendary. |
El Diablo Tranquilo Hostel | Punta del Diablo, Uruguay | This beachfront hostel hosts bonfire nights, sunset parties, and has a laid-back vibe that perfectly balances relaxation and revelry. Hammocks on the beach make for the ideal hangover cure. |
The Top 15 Party Hostels in South America
Hostel | Rating | Highlights |
---|---|---|
El Misti Hostel | 9.7 | Located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, El Misti Hostel offers a vibrant samba-filled nightlife. Dance the night away at their rooftop parties and join the famous Carnival celebrations. |
Pariwana Hostel | 9.5 | Pariwana Hostel in Lima, Peru, is known for its lively Pisco Sour tastings, salsa lessons, and themed dance parties. Embrace the city’s historic charm during the day and party the night away with fellow travelers. |
Milhouse Hostel | 9.3 | Immerse yourself in the tango spirit at Milhouse Hostel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Enjoy tango lessons, electrifying milonga nights, and rooftop parties with stunning city views. |
Barra Guest Hostel | 9.2 | Barra Guest Hostel in Salvador, Brazil, becomes a vibrant hub during Carnival. Experience the magic of Carnival with street parades, colorful costumes, and non-stop revelry. |
Wild Rover Hostel | 9.1 | Wild Rover Hostel, located amidst the Andes in Cusco, Peru, offers a unique blend of history and partying. Enjoy themed parties and international DJs after trekking to Machu Picchu. |
The Wandering Paisa Backpackers Hostel | 9.0 | Experience the vibrant party scene of Medellín, Colombia, at The Wandering Paisa. Join legendary pub crawls and dance to reggaeton beats in the city’s famous salsa clubs. |
Amazonia Hostel | 8.9 | Amidst the lush Amazon rainforest in Manaus, Brazil, Amazonia Hostel hosts jungle-themed parties and unique Brazilian food experiences. Dance under the stars in the heart of the Amazon. |
Che Lagarto Hostel | 8.8 | Party enthusiasts visiting Montevideo, Uruguay, must stay at Che Lagarto Hostel. Enjoy rooftop parties with sunset views, wine tastings, and buzzing bar scenes. |
Loki Hostel | 8.7 | Loki Hostel in La Paz, Bolivia, promises an adrenaline-pumping experience with pub crawls, local dance performances, and breathtaking views of the Andes. |
Selina Medellín | 8.6 | Located in Medellín, Colombia, Selina offers themed parties, live music events, and salsa dancing, reflecting the city’s creative arts and culture. |
Hostel Estoril | 8.5 | Dive into the world of tango at Hostel Estoril in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Learn sensual dance steps, attend live tango performances, and immerse in bohemian vibes. |
Hostel Lagares | 8.4 | Wine enthusiasts will find paradise at Hostel Lagares in Mendoza, Argentina. Enjoy wine tastings, bike tours through vineyards, and wine-infused celebrations. |
Tucan Hostel | 8.3 | Tucan Hostel in Florianópolis, Brazil, is perfect for sun, sand, and parties. Experience beach parties, water sports, and Brazil’s vibrant beach culture. |
El Viajero Hostel | 8.2 | Feel the Caribbean vibe at El Viajero Hostel in Cartagena, Colombia. Dance to reggaeton and calypso beats, explore historic streets, and enjoy beachside parties. |
Community Hostel | 8.1 | Community Hostel in Quito, Ecuador, offers a blend of history and partying. Enjoy themed nights, local craft beer tastings, and salsa dancing in the capital. |
More Hostel | 8.0 | Discover São Paulo’s nightlife at More Hostel in Brazil. Experience live music, vibrant street parties, and a wide range of entertainment options. |
Republica Hostel | 7.9 | Republica Hostel in Bogotá, Colombia, invites you to explore the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the bustling bar scene, vibrant clubs, and live music venues. |
F Design Hostel | 7.8 | In the heart of Santiago, Chile, F Design Hostel offers unforgettable themed parties and a bustling city’s nightlife experience. |
Kultur Berlin Hostel | 7.7 | Located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Kultur Berlin Hostel combines a cultural atmosphere with party vibes. Enjoy live music, art showcases, and tango events. |
Flying Dog Hostel | 7.6 | Flying Dog Hostel in Bariloche, Argentina, caters to adrenaline junkies and party lovers alike. Experience epic adventure days followed by lively hostel gatherings. |
1. El Misti Hostel – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Welcome to El Misti Hostel, located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the samba-infused streets come alive with energy after sunset.
Dance to the pulsating beats of local DJs, sip on caipirinhas at the lively rooftop bar, and experience the iconic Carnival celebrations firsthand.
2. Pariwana Hostel – Lima, Peru
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Lima at Pariwana Hostel, a chic hostel that offers nightly Pisco Sour tastings, vibrant salsa lessons, and themed dance parties.
Mingle with fellow travelers while exploring the city’s historic districts during the day, and then let loose in the bustling party scene at night.
3. Milhouse Hostel – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Immerse yourself in the passionate world of tango and sultry beats at Milhouse Hostel in Buenos Aires.
This hostel hosts tango lessons, electrifying milonga nights, and rooftop parties with stunning views of the city’s skyline.
Get ready to dance the night away in Argentina’s lively capital.
4. Barra Guest Hostel – Salvador, Brazil
Experience the world-renowned Carnival in Salvador, Brazil, by staying at Barra Guest Hostel.
This hostel transforms into a vibrant hub of music, color, and revelry during the festivities.
Join the street parades, adorned in colorful costumes, and witness the magic of Carnival’s exuberant spirit.
5. Wild Rover Hostel – Cusco, Peru
Set amidst the awe-inspiring Andes Mountains, Wild Rover Hostel offers an unforgettable blend of ancient history and modern partying.
Enjoy pre-game sessions before embarking on a trek to Machu Picchu, and then return to the hostel for lively themed parties and international DJs.
6. The Wandering Paisa Backpackers Hostel – Medellín, Colombia
Medellín is known for its vibrant party scene, and The Wandering Paisa Backpackers Hostel is the place to experience it all.
Explore the city’s transformation from its troubled past to a vibrant present, join legendary pub crawls, and dance to reggaeton beats in the city’s famous salsa clubs.
7. Amazonia Hostel – Manaus, Brazil
Located amidst the lush Amazon rainforest, Amazonia Hostel offers a unique party experience.
Enjoy jungle-themed parties with traditional Brazilian food, explore the nearby wildlife, and dance under the stars in the heart of the Amazon.
8. Che Lagarto Hostel – Montevideo, Uruguay
Che Lagarto Hostel is the ultimate destination for party enthusiasts visiting Uruguay.
This hostel organizes rooftop parties with spectacular sunset views, wine tastings of Uruguay’s finest vintages, and unforgettable nights in the city’s buzzing bar scene.
9. Loki Hostel – La Paz, Bolivia
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping party experience at Loki Hostel in Bolivia’s capital.
Enjoy pub crawls through the city’s highest-altitude bars, immerse yourself in Bolivian culture through local dance performances, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Andes.
10. Selina Medellín – Medellín, Colombia
Selina Medellín is a trendy hostel that offers a unique party experience in the city of eternal spring.
Join themed parties, live music events, and salsa dancing, and explore the creative arts and culture that Medellín has to offer.
11. Hostel Estoril – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Delve into the world of tango at Hostel Estoril in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Learn the sensuous dance steps, attend live tango performances, and immerse yourself in the city’s bohemian atmosphere while meeting fellow travelers from around the globe.
12. Hostel Lagares – Mendoza, Argentina
Wine enthusiasts will find paradise at Hostel Lagares in Mendoza, Argentina.
This hostel offers wine tastings of the region’s renowned Malbecs, bike tours through picturesque vineyards, and wine-infused celebrations in the heart of Argentina’s wine country.
13. Tucan Hostel – Florianópolis, Brazil
If sun, sand, and parties are your thing, head to Tucan Hostel in Florianópolis, Brazil.
This hostel is located on one of the most beautiful islands in South America and offers beach parties, water sports, and a chance to experience Brazil’s beach culture.
14. El Viajero Hostel – Cartagena, Colombia
Experience the vibrant Caribbean vibe at El Viajero Hostel in Cartagena, Colombia.
Dance to reggaeton and calypso beats, explore the city’s historic streets, and indulge in beachside parties that last until dawn.
15. Community Hostel – Quito, Ecuador
Explore the colonial charm of Quito while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Community Hostel.
This hostel combines history with modern partying, offering themed nights, local craft beer tastings, and salsa dancing in the heart of Ecuador’s capital.
Essential Tips for Surviving the Party Trail
Partying like a pro requires some street-smarts and savvy moves.
Here are my top tips:
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Booze flows freely, so remember to stay hydrated with water to keep your party game strong.
Always have a water bottle handy, like the popular Quechua water bottles available at Decathlon stores across South America.
- Know Your Limits: Enjoy the party, but know when to say no.
No one wants to be that person who can’t remember anything the next day.
Pace yourself and make sure to savor the unique local drinks responsibly.
- Keep Your Valuables Safe: Pickpockets love a good party too, so stash your valuables in a secure locker.
Many hostels offer lockers with built-in charging ports, like those found in Selina Hostels.
- Stay Street Smart: Avoid wandering alone in unfamiliar areas late at night.
Always use reputable transportation services, like Uber or Cabify, to get back to your hostel safely.
Dancing to the Beat of South America
The party scene in South America is as diverse as its landscapes.
Here are some regional highlights to put on your party radar:
- Samba Nights in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Experience the intoxicating energy of samba and dance the night away at Rio’s famous Lapa neighborhood.
Check out Rio Scenarium, a club housed in an antique warehouse, for an unforgettable samba experience.
- Cumbia Parties in Bogotá, Colombia: Get your hips moving to the infectious beats of cumbia at the capital city’s vibrant nightlife spots.
Andrés Carne de Res is a legendary restaurant-club in Bogotá, known for its lively cumbia parties.
- Tango Extravaganza in Buenos Aires, Argentina: Surrender to the passion and grace of tango at the city’s traditional milongas and dance halls.
La Catedral Club is a must-visit for its authentic tango experience.
- Electronic Dance Music in Lima, Peru: Lima’s nightlife is all about EDM, with top-notch DJs and clubs that keep the party going until sunrise.
Visit Barranco, a bohemian district, for the best EDM clubs.
- Beach Raves in Montañita, Ecuador: Experience the bohemian vibes and beach parties of Montañita, a surfer’s paradise turned party central.
Don’t miss Montañita’s Full Moon Party at Lost Beach Club.
Off the Beaten Path Party Havens
If you’re up for unique party experiences, consider visiting some lesser-known gems:
- Florianópolis, Brazil: This island paradise is a hidden party gem with beautiful beaches, lively beach bars, and an unforgettable Carnaval celebration.
Bar do Arante in Florianópolis is known for its beach parties and fresh seafood.
- Mendoza, Argentina: Known for its wine, Mendoza also has a thriving underground party scene with pop-up parties in vineyards and wineries.
Check out Vines of Mendoza for wine-tasting and partying under the stars.
- Baños, Ecuador: This adventure town offers adrenaline-pumping activities during the day and vibrant fiestas with locals and travelers alike at night.
Leprechaun Bar is a popular spot for backpackers to dance the night away.
- Punta del Este, Uruguay: A playground for the rich and famous, Punta del Este hosts glamorous parties, beach clubs, and VIP experiences.
Ovo Beach Club is the go-to spot for beach parties and celebrity sightings.
- Huaraz, Peru: Nestled in the Andes, Huaraz surprises visitors with its lively music festivals and traditional huayno dance parties.
Huaraz’s main square comes alive with street parties during local festivities.
Responsible Partying and Cultural Etiquette
While the party scene in South America is exhilarating, it’s essential to party responsibly and respect local customs:
- Be Respectful: Embrace the local culture and avoid behaviors that could be offensive or disrespectful.
Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to show appreciation for the culture.
- Support Local Businesses: Spend your money at local bars, restaurants, and craft shops to contribute to the local economy and support the community.
- Environmental Responsibility: Keep partying green by disposing of waste properly and avoiding single-use plastics.
Participate in beach or neighborhood clean-up initiatives.
Finding the Best Party Hostels on a Budget
Partying doesn’t have to break the bank!
Here are some money-saving tips for choosing budget-friendly party hostels:
- Look for Backpacker Deals: Many hostels offer discounted rates or package deals for backpackers who plan to stay longer or attend multiple events.
- Book in Advance: Early bird bookings often come with attractive discounts, especially during off-peak seasons.
- Stay in Dorms: Dormitory rooms are cheaper than private rooms and provide an excellent opportunity to meet new people.
- Participate in Free Events: Keep an eye out for hostels that organize free parties or events, which can save you money while still having a blast.
- Utilize Hostel Perks: Some hostels offer free breakfast or happy hour deals, so take advantage of these to save on food and drinks.
Safety Tips for Nighttime Adventures
While partying in South America can be incredible, it’s essential to stay safe and be prepared for nighttime adventures:
- Travel in Groups: Stick together with friends or fellow travelers when exploring the nightlife.
- Know the Area: Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood and locate safe transportation options in advance.
- Drink Responsibly: Pace yourself and be aware of your alcohol intake to stay in control.
- Stay Alert: Be vigilant about your surroundings and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
- Secure Valuables: Use lockers or safes to store your belongings, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items.
9Unique Party Experiences Across South America
Each country in South America offers its own unique party experiences that you won’t want to miss:
- Colombian Carnaval in Barranquilla: This vibrant celebration rivals Rio’s Carnaval with colorful parades, music, and dance.
- Inti Raymi Festival in Cusco, Peru: Experience the ancient Incan festival of the sun, featuring traditional dances and ceremonies.
- La Diablada in Oruro, Bolivia: Witness the extravagant and mystical masks and costumes during this traditional dance festival.
- La Tomatina in Buñol, Spain (held in València): Take a detour from South America to experience this famous tomato-throwing festival in Spain.
- Endless Summer Festival in Florianópolis, Brazil: A unique surfing and music festival that combines the best of both worlds.