Jardin Escondido

Not only is director Francis Ford Coppola the brains behind some epic works of cinema, he’s also the proud owner of one of Buenos Aires’ most exclusive boutique hotels, Jardin Escondido, in the heart of the trendy Palermo Soho district. Seven beautifully designed guest rooms are set around a luscious private garden that features a heated pool, terrace and outdoor kitchen for asados. A sommelier is on call throughout your stay to assist in your choice of grape. And there’s Coppola’s collection of classic movies to work your way through on a rainy day. The trend for those flush with cash is to hire out the whole place but it is possible to just get a room.

Gorriti 4746, Palermo Soho, coppolajardinescondido.com

Alvear Palace Hotel

This palatial, Louis XIV-style establishment, situated in Buenos Aires’s ritzy Recoleta district, is grandiose with a capital ‘G’ and is one of the city’s oldest and most famous hotels. The phrase ‘no expense is spared’ springs to mind. The deluxe rococo-style guest rooms, most of which are suites, feature antique furnishings and works of art from the hotel’s private collection. The hotel’s La Bourgogne restaurant offers some of the finest French cuisine in the city. What’s more, you get your own personal butler to pack and unpack for you and bath products custom designed by chic French brand Hermès.

Avenida Alvear 1891, tel: (+54 11) 4808 2100, www.alvearpalace.com

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Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt

Just down the road from the Alvear Palace Hotel is another lap of luxury vying for your attention, albeit in a more minimalist fashion. The Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt is a slick, modern establishment offering state-of-the-art comfort. The opulent hotel has the choice of three fine dining restaurants, its own art gallery, the luxury Ahin Wellness Spa, a 25-meter indoor swimming pool as well as a larger than life vinoteca that will impress even the snobbiest of wine connoisseurs.

Avenida Alvear 1661, tel: (+54 11) 5171 1234, www.buenosaires.park.hyatt.com

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Faena Hotel + Universe

You may find yourself rubbing shoulders with rockstars and fashion designers at Faena Hotel + Universe, one of the city’s most-talked-about boutique hotels. The chic Philippe Starck-designed accommodation has picked up numerous awards, and for good reason. Located along the fashionable Puerto Madero strip, the converted factory is full of chandeliers and modish design features. During the day, people watch by the pool or pamper yourself in the Turkish style hamam before enjoying a very English-style afternoon tea in the Library lounge. Spend your evenings sampling the over 400 wines from the Cellar or catching a show in the hotel’s very own cabaret bar.

445 Martha Salotti, Puerto Madero, tel: (+54 11) 4010 9000, www.faenahotelanduniverse.com

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Legado Mitico

As the name suggests, this luxury boutique hotel is a celebration of Argentina’s legends and envelopes you in the history and culture of Argentina in a very tasteful, thematic manner. Each of the eleven smartly-appointed guest rooms is named after and inspired by a different character from the country’s colorful history, from ‘El Pintor’ Benito Quinquela Martin to ‘El Tanguero’ Carlos Gardel and, of course, ‘La Primera Dama’ Eva Perron. There is also a well-stocked library of books and objets d’art to further educate you and a wooden terrace and hot tub for sunning yourself while you read.

Gurruchaga 1848, Palermo Soho, tel: (+54 11) 4833 1300, www.legadomitico.com

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Llao Llao Hotel & Resort – Bariloche

The Llao Llao is one of the most respected hotels in Argentina, and is a traditional image of lodging in Bariloche, in the Lake District of Patagonia. Located in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, Llao Llao, Province of Río Negro, Patagonia, the hotel is overlooking the Moreno and Nahuel Huapi Lakes. Designed by famous architect Alejandro Bustillo in 1939, this hotel also has an 18-hole golf course.

As you would imagine, the service is top notch and sets a model to follow for other hotels in the area. The 159-room hotel has a range of activities available, though you might also want to just relax and enjoy the scenery or the comfortable accommodations. The Llao Llao is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, but maintains its traditional style and character.

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Eolo Lodge – El Calafate

This estancia in Santa Cruz province was opened in 2004, but keeps in check with traditional Patagonian design and motif. All of the modern amenities like Wi-Fi, a TV room, and a heated pool and sauna are available, but the design is homey and comfortable, as if you were in your own house. The style of the estancia is an English Tudor, with an amazing 180 degree view from Lago Argentino on the left to Chile on the right. No surprise that this estancia is a member of Relais & Chateaux.

Located outside of El Calafate, the estancia is nearly isolated and totally in tune with nature. It’s about an hour drive to Glaciers National Park, where you can visit the main highlight of El Calafate, the Perito Moreno Glacier. The lodge has its own activities and excursion opportunities, but does not include the glacier visit. 17 rooms and suites keep this estancia exclusive and the service personable. As an all inclusive lodging, the delicious meals are included, taking away the reason to trek into town all the time.

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Los Cauquenes – Tierra del Fuego

Down at the bottom of the world lies Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa. Even though Ushuaia isn’t known for particularly great accommodations, this hotel built in 2005 has set the bar high. Already a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Condé Nast Johansens, Los Cauquenes stands out as the best hotel in the city. The hotel is located on the banks of the Beagle Channel, with Chile across the way. To the front you find towering Andean peaks and hills.

The 54 rooms come complete with Wi-Fi, DirecTV, mini bars, and incredible views of either the channel or the mountains. A high end spa, two living rooms, and gourmet restaurant complete the experience. In terms of other high end luxury hotels in Argentina, Los Cauquenes might not be the best of the best, but for its location it outdoes the rest.

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House of Jasmines – Salta

House of Jasmines was once a private residence, but has been turned into a luxury hotel that ranks as a member of Relais & Chateaux. It’s a bit far away from the city of Salta (about 30 minutes) and off the beaten track, but this only adds to the allure and tranquility of the location. It’s far away from civilization, but hardly uncivilized, defining luxury for the region. Actor Robert Duvall once owned this estate, but sold it to the new owners Stéphanie and Raoul Fenestraz.

The 12 rooms come with their own different charms and touches, though the designs are simple and airy. Wi-Fi is available throughout the estancia, as well as room service and laundry. Guests are free to roam around the grounds and take part in activities in the region, though hanging out and relaxing might be one of the most enjoyable parts of the stay here.

El Colibri – Córdoba

Yet another member of Relais & Chateaux, El Colibri is noted as one of the best estancias in Argentina, not only for its scenery and service, but for its activities and accommodations. The estancia is about 45 minutes from the international airport in Córdoba, setting it away from noise and other lodging. Here you can go horseback riding, follow gauchos on their daily activities, or go dove shooting. With a gourmet restaurant and asados, you won’t have a need to go into town.

Nine differently appointed rooms maintain a traditional decoration, though they are extremely comfortable and welcoming. During the day the grounds are quiet, and guests are free to roam around on their own if they want to. Polo is the main activity here, but even if you don’t follow the sport much you can watch as horses are trained and prepared. And of course, there are plenty of other activities for the whole family.

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Cavas Wine Lodge – Mendoza

Yep, you guessed it. Another member of Relais & Chateaux, the Cavas Wine Lodge is a unique experience in itself. Nestled in between vineyards and some of the best wineries in Argentina, this lodge is at the foot of the Andes. Cavas is 20 miles south of the city of Mendoza, surrounded by nature, yet it is only a 25 minute drive to the airport. The lodge consists of 14 adobe cabins with total modernity and luxury inside. On the second floor of each house is a seating area with a fire pit. During the day you can gaze at the mountains, and at night you can watch the stars.

Cavas has a state of the art spa and excellent restaurant, serving up some traditional asado and Argentinian steak. From the hotel, it’s easy to visit other wineries in the area, take part in excursions, or just relax and make the most of your stay. Take heart in knowing that you’re staying at one of the best accommodations in South America.

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Frost in Tierra del Fuego, All photos by Meike Schuring

Camping is the best way to explore the natural wonderland that is Argentina.  You can follow Che´s footsteps along Ruta 40, uncover the secrets of Patagonia, enjoy the Pampas, and even get lost in one of the many villages that speckle the roadside. However, before you pitch your tent in Argentinean soil, there are many things to consider and ways to prepare.

The Essentials

The first thing you need is a good tent.  Although Argentina is a relatively cheap country, camping gear is more expensive than it is in the United States, so buy before you get here. Ever had to pee in the dark? Most campgrounds don´t have electricity at night, so a head flashlight is a really useful way to both see and to have your hands free.  Also, never leave home without a wine bottle opener. How else will you sample the assortment of Argentine Malbecs? A Swiss Army knife can come in handy in the woods or just for spreading dulce de leche on your bread. A deck of cards and a book are necessities for enjoying some stormy nights. You’ll be surprised how many of your fellow campers know the same card games as you do!
The Wildlife

Don’t be scared when wild dogs and rabbits wake you up in the middle of the night. They live there too.   If you’re lucky, you might spot some beautiful guanaco´s or clever foxes wandering around the campgrounds.  You might even see a flock of flightless rhea in front of your tent early in the morning. With all those wild animals running around, it is a good idea to do your dishes as soon as possible. Otherwise you will find your pots and pans all scattered around the picnic table the next day.

The Food and Drink

Argentines love eating, especially beef. The average intake per person per year is around 70 kg! They mostly do this during the Sunday-family asado (barbecue), where they make an art of grilling meat. There are also asados at every campground in Argentina, where you can practice being the asador yourself. As a starter you can eat one of the excellent empanadas, sold at most campgrounds for approximately $2 pesos, followed by meat of your own choice (my advice: cuadril:2 pieces $7 pesos, half a chicken: $5 pesos and chorizo sausages: $5 pesos in La Anonima supermarket). All of this should of course be accompanied by one or more bottles of good Argentinean wine. A nice, cheap bottle will cost you $6 to $8 pesos.  And that’s more than a camping feast! If you are not sure how to make your own asado properly, you can always peek at your neighbors. Say hi, maybe you’ll be invited to join theirs.

The Weather

Always check if there is a refugio (shelter) at your campground, especially in the southern part of Argentina. In Argentina it can rain, and then I mean really rain.  If there is no refugio, always store enough bread, cheese, chorizo and wine to enjoy a rainy evening in your tent. When there is a refugio, you and all the other campers can cook there when the weather is bad. Usually this is a great opportunity for a party!

Also, bring duct tape. You never know when the Patagonian winds will attempt to demolish your tent. When the weather’s good, you should always wear sunscreen. Although it may not seem necessary, the sun can be ruthless to your skin.

The Places

When you have prepared yourself properly, there is no better way to experience the real Argentina than with your own tent. Most campgrounds are surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Some great spots are Camping Lago Roca in Parque National los Glaciares and Camping Hain in Tolhuin, Tierra del Fuego. Both are located beside gorgeous lakes and have all the facilities you could need. If you are camping in cities, the campgrounds are usually located just outside of the center. This means that you have all the activities of a town, but you can still enjoy some peace and quiet.  A little walk will do everybody good after a hearty meal at the local parrilla (steakhouse).

Moreover, camping is much cheaper than sleeping in hostels. Where a double room in a hostel will cost you at least $60 pesos, a sitio on a campground will cost you approximately $30 pesos for two people. Most camping grounds in Argentina are excellent. All sitios have their own picnic table, garbage bin, asado, lights and electricity. The bathrooms usually have hot water and separate places to do your laundry and your dishes. The better campgrounds also have refugios, a minimarket, a bar and a restaurant. There are also free campgrounds in Argentina, generally in National Parks.  You can even spend the night for free at a YPF gas station when you are in need.

The People

At campgrounds you meet the best local people. Argentines are known as amicable and engaging. They and the camping staff are the best possible guides because they know the country. Many campgrounds rent mountain bikes and/or fishing equipment and they can arrange activities like horseback riding and glacier hikes. This is usually a lot cheaper than booking a tour in town.

Camping is a delightful way to enjoy Argentina. You will feel free, enjoy nature, save money, meet local people, eat delicious meals and drink superb wines.

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More and more travelers are choosing the ease of renting an apartment during their stay, especially in the bustle of Buenos Aires. An apartment offers all the conveniences of a hotel but with less cost, the freedom to cook and the chance to stay in an authentic location complete with colonial architecture.

It’s important, however, to CHOOSE an Apartment with CARE. Why? Because this is your dream trip to Argentina. Where you stay is crucial to your trip.

Here’s our hard won and researched tips:

* GET A RECOMMENDATION
Argentina’s Travel Guide has met and vetted the owners of property management companies in Buenos Aires and Patagonia to ensure the highest standard for our clients. We work with only two, out of dozens of companies in the city. (Email us at reservations@argentinastravel.com to find out how to find the perfect apartment for your trip).

* STUDY THE POLICIES
If you read the fine print, you may be surprised by the fees charged by some agencies for simply arriving on Saturday or Sunday, such as $15 to $30 per person! Some companies charge a fee for simply meeting you at the apartment.

* TALK TO SOMEONE
Many apartments may look fabulous in pictures but what you really want to know is whether or not the street is on a major bus route. It won’t matter how great the colonial French style architecture is in your San Telmo apartment if you can’t sleep at night.

* KNOW WHO IS RESPONSIBLE
Lose the keys? Break a wine glass? Need extra sheets or pillows? Make sure you know you have someone who can be of service, and cares about your experience, during your stay.

* CHOOSE THE BEST LOCATION
Buenos Aires is known for its diverse neighborhoods. Talk to someone who can help you chose not only the neighborhood but the street you want to be on during your stay. The extra mile is worth it.

Email us with questions, your dream apartment specs and we will be pleased to pour over maps to help you find the perfect place for you.

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Pinamar literally means “pine sea” and refers to the local terrain that includes pine-strewn dunes. The town center has upscale shops with name brands like Diesel and surf gear, as well as parillas (steak houses) and cafes. The rest of Pinamar is residential with homes nestled in the dunes. There’s an art deco hotel built in 1920 that’s been converted to a hostel facing the beach. Albergue Bruno Valente is a traveler’s hub with 80 beds, a full service kitchen, living room, and terrace with parrilla for asados in the summer. Its rooms, beach side, include balconies and offer great views of the dunes and shore.

Pinamar is also home to Ku (pronounced “coo”), the mega beach club popular with portenos away from home. This boliche does its best impression of an Ibiza disco with popular deejays and parties that go into the wee hours. After a few days of sun and party in Pinamar, you’ll have had the full experience of the porteno Atlantic Coast getaway.

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At 3am, when my bus finally pulled into the El Calafate bus terminal, I was too tired to think straight, but thankfully I didn’t have to. A friendly man from Hostel del Glaciar Libertador greeted me as I stepped off the bus, loaded up my bags in a hostel vehicle, and before I knew it he had escorted me and a few other backpackers to the front steps of our hostel. It didn’t take long to get into a room and soon after into a bed.

I slept like a baby and into the following morning, when I had to force open my heavy squinty lids. But when I finally did take a look around, I was amused to see what a wonderful hostel I had stumbled into without even noticing. For starters, I was in a cozy bed, by myself in a room with four bunks. There were heated floors and large wooden storage closets, and the shower/bathroom was private and spotless.

I was so comfy that for a second I considered sleeping in, but it didn’t take long for my adrenaline to start pumping in anticipation of everything that lay beyond the hostel doors, and that idea flew right out the window.

There is really only one reason that travelers to Argentina come to El Calafate (and it’s not for the night life). It’s for the Perito Moreno Glacier. Its ice cloak coves 600,000 hectares, the glacial front is 5km long, and it shoots up to a height of over 60 meters above water. All that heavy ice produces a never ending show of fractures and detachments of huge sheets of ice that tumble down into the water below with a mighty roar. It’s amazing, and that morning I was one of the eager tourists waiting to see it.

After hearing the hostel staffers’ description, I immediately booked an excursion and my excitement and little-kid-enthusiasm kicked into high gear. So I started a game of 20 questions with the staffer to see just how well-informed he was about Perito Moreno related topics. Needles to say, he passed with flying colors.

[youtube:http://youtube.com/watch?v=BDHayMS33MA]

The excursion I took was nothing short of amazing, even better than the stories I had heard back in Hostel del Libertador. We traveled through the Patagonia valley and marveled at the roaming guanacos and pink flamingos until we arrived at the panoramic view of the frozen natural wonder. I was able to see it from the front, the back, the balcony view, the boat tour, and even right beneath my feet as I went on a mini trek on top of the glacier. I couldn’t get enough.

After all that excitement I had worked up an appetite, and was ready to do some cookin’. I headed to the grocery store with a few fellow travelers I had bonded with on my excursion, and we made our way up to the kitchen. Cooking space is somewhat limited, but I can’t imagine a better way to wait your turn than by sipping Argentine vino and hanging out with new friends on the hostel’s bean bags.

There is a large open room with a homey cabin-like ambiance and many picnic tables, high vaulted wooden ceilings, and televisions, where everyone gathered while eating. After we finished cooking our meal we joined the rest of the troops and unwound for the night.

Making the trek to Perito Moreno is perfectly complemented by a stay in one of Argentina’s coziest hostel accommodations, Hostel del Libertador.

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There is a reason why people say you should never judge a book by its cover. El Gualicho appeared to have everything I was looking for. It is a nice facility, regularly cleaned, very organized with the town excursions, free breakfast is included, there are two internet ready computers, and even Wifi. The people who work and run the hostel are incredibly friendly and helpful and make an extra effort to remember a face and a name.

Why then do I sound cynical? Well there was one quality that was definitely missing from my visit to el Gualicho…sleep. Puerto Madryn is a common vacation spot for the Buenos Aires Porteños looking for a break from work. Not that I have anything against Porteños, or partying all through the night for that matter, but they have a tendency to take over every inch of the hostel property with a ruthless attitude.

The hostel set up is bad, the walls are thin, and the regulations on volume control are even worse. All of the rooms are arranged around the outdoor patio area where the all-nighters party into the wee hours of the night and early morning. Their laughter, yells, and drunken talk make the option of sleep nonexistent. Every pop of a wine cork, story from a drunk, or even whispers from the kitchen felt as if they were being screamed into my ear alongside my bunk. Every night the staff blared music over the loud speakers and keeping the door shut is a pointless request.

This social atmosphere has its upsides as well and there is usually something fun going on or some people to chat with late at night. However, after a couple of sleepless and frustrating nights, I have never been happier to leave a hostel in all my life.

I will give the hostel credit for the building itself and the nice grassy area outside. The people who work there are wonderful and I was very comfortable during the days. If you are the type of person who doesn’t need to sleep much – it is not much easier during the day – and is looking for a party atmosphere, then El Gualicho could be just the place for you. Otherwise, I would learn from the experience of a fellow traveler and not let that orange sign pull you in.

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Puerto Pirámides – the gateway to the whales. From Puerto Madryn the typical tourist will arrive in this town, be rounded up in a tour group and taken out to sea for an incredible whale watching escapade. At the end of the day they may have seen their whales but missed the town all together. What a shame, it’s a small community but one worth getting to know.

The ambiance of the town changes like night and day with the tourist season. From June to November Puerto Pirámides is an upbeat exciting town and for good reason – the Southern Right Whale. Buses full of people arrive every day, the restaurants are full, and the souvenirs go like gold. The red faced tourists disembarking from each ship take home incredible pictures and memories to share with their loved ones.

However, don’t be fooled into thinking that if you hit this area of the country in the whale off-season that this town has nothing to offer. An adventurous spirit could explore this town and its surroundings for days on end.

Let’s start in the most obvious spot, the beach. The soft sandy beaches are beautiful, comfortable, and in the off-season very spacious. Lounging on the beach during the day is always a great way to relax, but don’t forget about those early mornings. I can’t imagine a better place to watch a sunrise.

Bahía Ballenas Hostel is just a few minutes walk from the seaside so make sure you set your alarm. A trail of giants rocks off to the right side of the beach stretch out into the water and form a private walkway to the water. From these stones you can watch the sun rise above the ocean. The pink, purple, blue, and orange hues paint the sky and the calm morning waters with incredible reflections. Eventually the steadily rising sun peaks over the sea line and burns through the layers of colors to mark the new the day. On a perfect morning the only others witnessing this wonder will be those who came with you, and perhaps the whales that are also getting an early start to greet the morning’s sun.

Later on in the day, on the opposite side of the beach you will see another gathering of rocks and maybe a gathering of people as well. During low tide the rocks retain all kinds of natural sea creatures and crustaceans. Sea shell collecting is a common activity in these areas but be careful not to confuse one of those crabs crawling around for another souvenir or home decoration or you may get snipped. The Puerto Pirámides restaurant owners will occasionally be attempting to catch the day’s special with their big fishing nets from this very spot.

Even when the whales are not present there are plenty of other forms of wildlife. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular sports in this area and a scuba diving ‘baptism’ is offered for beginners. One of the many tourist companies in town will tell you about their package offerings and will take you either under the water or around the Peninsula.

Peninsula Valdes is a site of global significance for the conservation of marine mammals and birds. At Punta Norte you will see families of penguins and sea lions. At Punta Cantor the sluggish elephant seals provide the entertainment. And at the southern beaches of Punta Delgada you have a combination of everything. Orcas can be seen within the right time of year and while driving from one beach scene to the next you will also witness the Patagonia specific wildlife such as guanacos, maras, ñandu and all kinds of unique birds.

Don’t make the same mistake as the others who miss out on all this town has to offer. Puerto Pirámides may not be know for it’s raving night life or five star restaurants; but if it is a glimpse into the wildlife, tranquility, and true character of Patagonia you are looking for, this could be just your place.

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La Morada Hostel

Hostel 1004 was one of my favorite hostels in Argentina and when I discovered that La Morada Hostel was their sister hostel in the mountains, I knew it had to be good. The same staff operated both locations, and a visit to La Morada is strongly recommended for those passing through. All the hype triggered my curiosity. Free daily transportation to and from the hostel, coupled with a great price led me to book a bed for two nights on the mountain.

The next day Javier, from the hostel staff, threw our sacks on top of his Jeep, tied them down, and we all piled in. The 20 minute ride ended in a bumpy adventure up a windy dirt road. Laughing while we bounced around in the back, I realized why they offered daily service to this hostel – there is no way a bus could make it up there. It was a perfect ride and introduction to the rugged mountain location.

Half way up the mountain and right next to Cerro Otto, this beautiful building sits in the middle of the forest. It was constructed four years earlier as the home of the hostel staff and soon after was opened as a hostel. The homey feeling is very evident at La Morada Hostel where one can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the stunning nature with all the conveniences of the city.

The first thing you notice upon entering is the wall to wall windows and the distant mountains that provide a backdrop to the hostel crowd. The views are so incredible that it almost appears as if the scene has been painted on the wall. Tables and chairs line the wall of windows for everyone to enjoy the sights and a fireplace crackles in the background creating the perfect cabin feel. Not to mention there is a beautiful, well-stocked kitchen and an internet ready computer.

The staff of Hostel 1004 in the city and La Morada on the mountain runs both locations and they are the friendliest and most easy going of any I have ever encountered. After cooking up a large dinner, I spent the remainder of my first night at La Morada playing a game of chess with the owner of the hostels and learning about the lives of the others on staff.

Just outside the entrance to the hostel sits the trail head to a short hike up to the top of Cerro Otto. A cable car runs from the bottom of the mountain and travels above the same path that takes the hostel guests a mere 40 minutes to climb. A light snack or meal can be enjoyed at the restaurant that sits at the top and the views provide the perfect picture taking opportunity.

La Morada Hostel’s location is definitely secluded. However, if you need to get into the city, there is a bus that runs from downtown Bariloche to the base of the mountain. From there you can walk along the road until you reach La Morada. And don’t forget the transportation services provided by the hostel once a day.

Chances are you will leave La Morada feeling refreshed and rejuvenated – ready to take on the Andes Mountains and all the adventures you will find in the area.

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Puma Hostel’s location could not be better. Just a few minutes walk from the bus station, and your backpack-tired shoulders will be grateful for the quick arrival. Puma Hostel sits at the base of the mountains where you can find trail heads and lose yourself for hours. Walk four blocks to the west and you’ll find yourself on the beaches of Lake Lacar, four blocks to the north and you will be in the town center.

It offers everything that a traveler is looking for and more. It has a warm homey feeling with its cabin like structure. The shared area is scattered with wooden picnic tables for dining and a spacious kitchen where the guests gather to reminisce over their travels. If you are feeling a bit lazy, in the living room you’ll find couches and a television where you can relax. It’s very comfortable and perfectly captures the essence of the mountain environment.

At the entrance you will see a wall decorated with colored pamphlets regarding local adventure activities, and if you don’t find what you are looking for there, the staff is always available to give their advice and recommendations. Need a bike? Just take a step outside and rent one from a Puma staffer.

When you finally make it to your bedroom you will be grateful to see that there are private bathrooms and showers within each room. They are comfortable and clean, and the Puma Hostel staff will never try to cram more than four people into one dormitory.

But I have saved the best part for last; the staffers themselves. They are extremely helpful, always very friendly and welcoming, they’ll jump at an opportunity to share a conversation or a mate, and they may even join you for an outing on the town.

There’s no reason you should risk having a bad experience in a wonderful place; so to assure a pleasant stay, book ahead and reserve your room at Puma Hostel.

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