Why Stay in a Hostel in Cusco?
Hostels are the heartbeat of Cusco’s backpacker scene, offering affordability, community, and convenience. According to Hostelworld, Cusco hostels average £12-£27 per night, significantly cheaper than hotels (£155/night on average), making them ideal for solo female travelers looking to save money without sacrificing safety or comfort. Hostels provide:
- Social Vibes: Common areas, group activities, and on-site bars foster connections with fellow travelers.
- Budget-Friendly Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and luggage storage keep costs low.
- Prime Locations: Most hostels are within walking distance of Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s central square.
- Safety for Solo Travelers: Female-only dorms, 24-hour reception, and secure lockers cater to solo female travelers’ needs.
For solo female travelers, choosing a reputable hostel with a welcoming atmosphere and robust safety measures is key. Below, we dive into the six best hostels in Cusco, drawing from recent traveler reviews and expert insights from sources like Nomadic Matt, The Broke Backpacker, and Hostelz.
1. Pariwana Hostel Cusco: Best Overall for Social Travelers
Location: Calle Quera 270, 4-minute walk to Plaza de Armas
Price: Dorms from £12/night, private rooms from £35/night
Rating: 9.2/10 (Hostelworld, 2025 reviews)
Pariwana Hostel is a Peruvian-owned chain renowned for its vibrant social atmosphere and central location, making it a top pick for solo female travelers seeking community. Housed in a colonial building, it’s a hub for backpackers preparing for the Inca Trail or exploring Cusco’s nightlife. Recent reviews praise its cleanliness, friendly staff, and extensive amenities.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Social Scene: Daily activities like ping-pong tournaments, trivia nights, and Pisco Sour classes create easy opportunities to meet others. The two courtyards and common rooms with foosball tables are perfect for socializing.
- Safety: 24-hour reception, security lockers with power outlets, and female-only dorms ensure peace of mind.
- Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, coca tea (to combat altitude sickness), and a coworking space cater to both fun and productivity. The on-site restaurant serves affordable Peruvian and international dishes.
- Location: Just blocks from Plaza de Armas and San Pedro Market, it’s ideal for exploring Cusco’s historic sites and vibrant markets.
Traveler Review: “Pariwana is hands-down the best hostel in Cusco! The staff are amazing, and the Pisco Sour classes by Noe are a blast. The beds are comfy with curtains and chargers, and it’s super clean. Perfect for meeting people!” – Hostelworld, 2025.
Tip for Solo Female Travelers: Book a female-only dorm for added comfort, and join the free daily walking tour to connect with other travelers while exploring Cusco safely.
2. Viajero Cusco Hostel: Best for Budget-Conscious Travelers
Location: Av. Arcopata 335, 2-minute walk to Plaza de Armas
Price: Dorms from £6/night, private rooms from £20/night
Rating: 8.9/10 (HotelsCombined, 2,460 reviews)
Viajero Cusco Hostel, set in a 200-year-old colonial house, is the go-to choice for solo female travelers on a tight budget. Its unbeatable price and prime location near Plaza de Armas make it a favorite among backpackers. Recent reviews highlight its lively Pisco bar, daily activities, and welcoming vibe.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Affordability: Starting at £6/night, it’s one of Cusco’s cheapest hostels without compromising quality.
- Community: Live music, DJ nights, and Peruvian cooking classes foster a fun, inclusive atmosphere. The continental breakfast (included) and free Wi-Fi keep costs down.
- Safety: 24/7 reception, secure lockers, and a central location in a safe neighborhood provide reassurance. Female-only dorms are available.
- Convenience: Proximity to San Pedro Market and Cusco Cathedral makes it easy to explore on foot.
Traveler Review: “Best hostel I stayed at in Peru! Super friendly staff, great location, clean bathrooms with hot showers, and a lovely breakfast. I felt safe and made friends instantly.” – Booking.com, 2025.
Tip for Solo Female Travelers: Use the hostel’s travel desk to book affordable Machu Picchu tours, and carry a small padlock for the lockers to save on rental costs.
3. Selina Plaza de Armas Cusco: Best for Digital Nomads
Location: Calle Garcilaso 150, 5-minute walk to Plaza de Armas
Price: Dorms from £15/night, private pods from £30/night
Rating: 8.8/10 (Tripadvisor, 2025 reviews)
Selina Plaza de Armas is a stylish, modern hostel catering to digital nomads and solo female travelers who want a blend of work and play. Its coworking space, yoga deck, and vibrant community make it a standout. Recent reviews praise its cleanliness, hot showers, and social events.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Work-Friendly: High-speed Wi-Fi and a dedicated coworking space are ideal for remote workers.
- Amenities: A yoga deck, movie room, restaurant, and bar create a balanced environment for relaxation and socializing. Adult-only dorms ensure a mature vibe.
- Safety: 24-hour reception, secure facilities, and a central location near Plaza de Armas and San Pedro Market enhance security.
- Unique Features: Glamping-style private pods offer affordable privacy, perfect for solo travelers seeking a quiet retreat.
Traveler Review: “Selina is perfect for digital nomads! The coworking space has fast Wi-Fi, and the yoga deck is a great way to unwind. The staff are kind, and the location is unbeatable.” – Tripadvisor, 2025.
Tip for Solo Female Travelers: Book a pod for extra privacy, and join the hostel’s yoga classes to connect with like-minded travelers in a relaxed setting.
4. Kokopelli Hostel Cusco: Best for Party Lovers
Location: Calle Siete Cuartones 284, 2-minute walk to Plaza de Armas
Price: Dorms from £17/night, private rooms from £40/night
Rating: 9.0/10 (Hostelworld, 2025 reviews)
Kokopelli Hostel is a legendary party hostel known for its lively Taverna Bar, themed drink specials, and DJ nights. Its colonial charm, colorful decor, and central location make it a favorite for solo female travelers who enjoy nightlife but also value comfort. Recent reviews highlight its balance of party and serenity.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Nightlife: The on-site Pisco House bar hosts live music and happy hours, making it easy to socialize without leaving the hostel. The safe, 5-minute walk to Cusco’s nightlife street is a bonus.
- Comfort: Dorms feature privacy curtains, reading lights, and chargers. The idyllic garden offers a peaceful escape from the party vibe.
- Safety: 24/7 security, lockers, and a central location ensure safety. Female-only dorms are available.
- Aesthetic: Artistic decor and a rustic courtyard create a homey, Instagram-worthy vibe.
Traveler Review: “Kokopelli is the best hostel I’ve ever stayed in! The bar is so fun, but the garden is perfect for chilling. The staff are caring, and the beds are super comfy.” – Hostelworld, 2025.
Tip for Solo Female Travelers: Stick to group outings for nightlife and use the garden for quiet downtime to balance the party energy.
5. Hospedaje Turístico Recoleta: Best for a Quiet Retreat
Location: Esquina Calle Recoleta y Jiron Pumacahua 160, 7-minute walk to Plaza de Armas
Price: Dorms from £7/night, private rooms from £25/night
Rating: 9.6/10 (Peru Insider, 2025 reviews)
Hospedaje Turístico Recoleta is a cozy, wallet-friendly hostel ideal for solo female travelers seeking a calm, authentic experience. Nestled in a historic neighborhood, it’s perfect for those recovering from treks or avoiding the party scene. Recent reviews commend its cleanliness, friendly staff, and proximity to attractions.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Tranquility: The quiet atmosphere and small dorm sizes (4-6 beds) create a restful environment.
- Affordability: Free breakfast and Wi-Fi keep costs low, with dorms starting at £7/night.
- Safety: Located in a safe, walkable area near Plaza de Armas, with 24-hour reception and secure lockers.
- Local Charm: Its proximity to Qorikancha Temple and San Blas neighborhood offers an authentic Cusco experience.
Traveler Review: “This hostel is comfortable and quiet, perfect for a chilled escape. The staff were so accommodating, and it’s great value for money.” – Peru Insider, 2025.
Tip for Solo Female Travelers: Book a private room for extra comfort, and use the hostel’s travel info to plan low-key cultural outings.
6. Samay Wasi Youth Hostel: Best for Scenic Views
Location: San Blas district, 10-minute walk to Plaza de Armas
Price: Dorms from £10/night, private rooms from £30/night
Rating: 8.8/10 (Career Gappers, 2025 reviews)
Samay Wasi Youth Hostel, located in the bohemian San Blas district, offers stunning city views and a relaxed vibe, making it ideal for solo female travelers who want a scenic, laid-back stay. Recent reviews praise its free airport transfers (for 2+ nights) and coca tea for altitude adjustment.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Views: The hilltop location provides panoramic views of Cusco’s mountains and rooftops.
- Amenities: Free breakfast, hot showers, a kitchen, and an outdoor terrace enhance comfort. Luggage storage is perfect for trekkers.
- Safety: 24-hour security and a quieter neighborhood ensure a safe stay. Female-only dorms are available.
- Vibe: The chilled atmosphere and proximity to San Blas’s artisanal shops and cafes appeal to creative travelers.
Traveler Review: “Samay Wasi has gorgeous views and a relaxed vibe. The staff are warm, and the free breakfast is a nice touch. Great for solo travelers!” – Booking.com, 2025.
Tip for Solo Female Travelers: Be prepared for the uphill walk to San Blas; wear comfortable shoes and use the hostel’s transfer service for arrivals.
Tips for Choosing and Staying in Cusco Hostels
- Prioritize Location: Stay within a 10-minute walk of Plaza de Armas for easy access to restaurants, markets, and attractions. Check the hostel’s proximity to bus stations if arriving late.
- Read Recent Reviews: Platforms like Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Tripadvisor offer 2025 reviews to ensure cleanliness, safety, and vibe match your needs.
- Book Female-Only Dorms: For added comfort, opt for female-only dorms, available at Pariwana, Viajero, and Kokopelli.
- Combat Altitude Sickness: Choose hostels offering coca tea (e.g., Samay Wasi, Pariwana) and take it slow for the first 1-2 days at Cusco’s high altitude.
- Secure Valuables: Bring a padlock for lockers, and use a money belt for passports and cash, especially in social hostels.
- Join Activities: Participate in hostel-organized tours, cooking classes, or pub crawls to meet other travelers safely.
- Check Cancellation Policies: Book hostels with free cancellation (via Hostelworld or Booking.com) for flexibility.
Safety Considerations for Solo Female Travelers
Solo female travelers can enjoy Cusco’s hostels safely with these precautions:
- Choose Reputable Hostels: Stick to well-reviewed options like those listed above, with 24/7 reception and secure facilities.
- Avoid Oversharing: Don’t tell strangers you’re traveling alone; say you’re meeting friends.
- Night Safety: Stick to well-lit areas and use ride-sharing apps like Uber for late-night returns. Kokopelli’s proximity to nightlife makes it a safe choice.
- Stay Connected: Share your itinerary with family and use apps like WhatsApp to stay in touch.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a hostel or situation feels off, leave or contact staff immediately.
Why Cusco Hostels Are Perfect for Solo Female Travelers
Cusco’s hostels are more than just budget accommodations; they’re vibrant communities where solo female travelers can feel empowered and connected. From Pariwana’s social hub to Recoleta’s tranquil retreat, these six hostels cater to diverse needs, ensuring safety, affordability, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring Machu Picchu, wandering San Blas’s cobblestone streets, or dancing the night away, Cusco’s hostels provide the perfect base.
