The Chill House Hostel is Cartagena’s newest backpacker hostel and one of the only hostels in this price range in the Historic center of this magical city. Only a few blocks from the ancient city wall and the ocean and within easy reach of some great bars and restaurants, it’s little wonder the backpackers are all starting to talk about The Chill House!

Opened in June 2010, this is a small but bright and airy place with balconies over looking the park and a very laid back, traveller atmosphere. Staff are on hand at all times and are friendly and willing to help guests organise all aspects of their stay in Cartagena.

The Chill House Hostel has five rooms, most of which are mixed dorms with shared bathrooms. Dorm prices are 18,000 Pesos per person in a 6-bed dorm with ceiling fan, 22,000 Pesos per person in a 10 bed dorm with air-con or 24,000 Pesos per person in a 5-bed dorm with air-con.

There are just two private rooms, one with a double bed, air-con and an ensuite bathroom which costs 150,000 Pesos per night (100,000 Pesos single occupancy) and one which sleeps up to four people costing 60,000 Pesos for two people or 80,000 Pesos for four people. This room also has an ensuite bathroom and a ceiling fan.

There are a number of handy services offered by the hostel including laundry service, tour bookings and bicycle rental.

The hostel has a self catering kitchen for guests and a comfy lounge with cable TV, DVDs and a balcony overlooking the park. There’s also a mini pool in the patio, a refreshing escape from the heat of Cartagena and hammocks to relax in.

The bus station in Cartagena is located way out of the city center and the journey costs around 15,000 Pesos in a taxi. An alternative is to catch a local bus which will drop you not far from the entrance to the old city at the ‘India Catalina’ statue. From there you can walk but it’s easier to take a short taxi ride from there as the old city is like a maze, especially when arriving for the first time.

The airport is located nearer the center and a taxi will cost around 10,000 Pesos.