Santuario Getsemani Hostel

It was literally the best location ever. Not only was it the cheapest accommodation in the area, it was also walking distance to every attraction and tour centers. Every single one of the tours you book will most likely have pick up in Getsemani centro which is a 12 min walk away from the hostel. You are also 14 min walking distance away from the ocean (has rough waves at this sight so I would not recommend swimming in it). It is a 35 min walk (or 10 min drive) to Bocagrande beach which is swimmable. The breakfast was good, but it was the same everyday. It was really good tho. A full bowl of fresh fruit, eggs, toast, Butter and jelly. The bathroom was always clean, the rooms were well air conditioned and spacey. I really liked my own private space for my bed as it has curtains. And the staff were always soooo sweet, welcoming and helpful. I would definitely do it again. And the right across the street there’s a great spot to watch the sunset admist the large river. It’s absolutely gorgeous!! Overall this location is truly a gem.

Pros: kitchen was well-equipped, the salsa class on Thursday was so fun (!!), hostel felt secure and people (both staff and travellers) were warm and friendly, felt completely fine walking to and from the hostel at night even though it’s right on the edge of Getsemaní & the more tourist friendly historic centre. The one con: we got bedbugs from there. It happens when you travel, what can ya do! If that is something that is a big no for you, keep that in mind. If not, wash your clothes & shoes and throw them in the dryer at your next spot and you’ll be good :)

Dirty place, found a cockroach in my locker, looks nothing like the picture, no hot water and staff was a bit grumpy, sleeping on the floor would feel the same. Hotel area feels like a sauna inside and you need to bring your own towels because they charge for that too. Only good thing was the breakfast… The tour recommended by the hostel was TERRIBLE, bad food and confusing information, it was supposed to be a safe option but we got charged extra in every tour when we got there. It was very disappointing…if you can find somewhere else to go, do yourself a favor and go somewhere else

People that came in and out of the room had no regard for others with their loud talking and laughing even though signs were posted to be quiet in the sleeping area. The in room bathroom/shower was out of service for a day. The ones outside of the room had no functioning locks. I found another place to stay and left.

The hostal needs to do something about mosquitoes. You can’t stay still for a minute, they are everywhere!! I arrived at night and the following morning I wanted to go jogging along the muralla but as soon as I step outside the hostal I suffer harassment by men on the street. The area around the hostel is dirty and smells really bad.