Backpackers Cape Town

Cape Town has backpacker’s lodges by the dozens. You will be able to choose according to price, area, tourist attractions or nightlife and restaurants.

Longstreet Backpackers
The favorite and the oldest backpackers lodge in the trendy Long Street is the Longstreet Backpackers. The colorful vibrantly painted exterior makes it stand out from all the other buildings in the street. You will be close to all the activities in Long Street and if night life is your scene, this is a great option. It is also very closely situated to other attractions such as the Castle of Good Hope, the V&A Waterfront and when you step out of the door you will be greeted by the majestic Table Mountain from all sides.

The Penthouse on Long

The Penthouse on Long is also situated on the vibey Long Street and has dorm rooms that are specifically for female travelers, which is an ideal option for those who would prefer a bit more privacy than what a mixed dorm would offer, while you are still paying less than what you would for a private room. The bigger mixed dorms with 20 beds cost only a R100 per night while a private en suite is R225.

Ashanti Lodge

Ashanti Lodge in Green Point is a bit out of the busy city, but still close enough to everything. The building has been renovated with this brand new look and at R50 a night for the dorm rooms, it is a steal. They also have separate female dorms at no extra price. Bathrooms are shared except if you choose the private room with en suite facilities at R260 per person per night. Ashanti looks more like a hotel than a hostel, but with the prices of a hostel.

Saltycrax Backpackers

The water sport lovers should consider Saltycrax Backpackers close to Blouberg Strand. Cape Town city itself doesn’t really have beaches and areas for water sports. You will need to travel a bit out of the city to enjoy these activities. Blouberg Strand is a mere 15 minutes away from the city and ideal for windsurfing and other water sports. If you are going to spend most of your time in the water, you don’t want to get frustrated with Cape Town’s traffic in the mornings on your way to the beach, but you will still be close enough to the city for a night of entertainment.  Prices start at around R135 per night for dorm rooms.

Most of the backpackers have the usual facilities such as luggage storage, which comes in handy if you have to check out much earlier than your flight leaves. This will give you the freedom to do some shopping or visit that attraction you just didn’t have time for, before you depart.  Most backpacker lodges also provide linen but you should check, towels are not always included, though at most places you can hire them. Internet access is available at most with some having Wi-Fi in the rooms.

All backpacker lodges have kitchens for the use of their guests and most offer breakfast and other meals at an additional fee.