6 of the best hostels in Tanzania and Kenya for a budget-friendly safari

Travel through East Africa has a reputation for being expensive, with many backpackers shying away from the adventure in favor of cheaper destinations due to high costs around activities like safaris, transport and accommodations. But Kenya and Tanzania are increasingly welcoming to budget travelers, with a growing network of hostels, group tours and shared transfers that make even bucket-list adventures surprisingly affordable.

From safari gateways near the Maasai Mara to beach hostels on Zanzibar and eco-lodges tucked into banana plantations outside Arusha, these are stays I experienced firsthand while traveling through Kenya and Tanzania. They offer far more than just a bed – these are entry points to some of East Africa’s most memorable experiences.

1. Mara Hilltop, Maasai Mara, Kenya

Best for a unique motorbike safari or DIY experience 

This is a truly one-of-a-kind spot: a social, beautiful and culturally rich hostel sitting right on the outskirts of Kenya’s crown wilderness jewel, the Maasai Mara.

When you first walk into Mara Hilltop, you might be greeted by a pool full of backpackers enjoying the afternoon sunshine, music playing and beers flowing. Or you might find a quiet afternoon, with guests scattered across different activities. Maybe giraffes are wandering around the perimeter of the camp, or a few local Maasai are setting up the nightly sunset bonfire. These are just a few of the many different, special vibes on display at Hilltop, a hostel that first opened its doors in 2025.

This spot offers both dorm rooms and glamping tents, with the optional (but highly encouraged, as there are no nearby restaurants) add-on of half/full board. I spent several nights in the dorm rooms, which were clean and comfortable, and 1 night in the glamping tent. The tent is especially memorable, with clear-roof showers that make you feel surrounded by nature, locally made bath products and a sense of calm that I did not find at any other accommodation during my trip.

Things to do

Staff help guests lower safari costs by organizing shared 4WD tours. Because the hostel sits just outside the park gates, visitors can also avoid paying for overnight park accommodation fees. Traditional multiday safaris are available, returning to the hostel each night, while a night-only safari and a hillside viewpoint hike around the property offer additional ways to explore the area.

But the most special adventure at Mara Hilltop is the motorbike safari. The US$120 1-day option places guests on the back of a motorcycle driven by an experienced Maasai rider for a journey through the Mara conservancy. Giraffes, wildebeest, zebras and warthogs wander nearby, allowing riders to become a part of the wildlife landscape. Guests also visit local villages along the way, sharing lunch and conversation with residents in an experience that feels far more intimate than a traditional safari. There is also an epic 2-day version of the trip that heads through the Mara and into the remote Loita Hills, crossing rivers and valleys before sleeping in a village homestay.

Getting there

Reaching Mara Hilltop is part of the adventure. From Nairobi, most budget travelers take an EasyCoach bus or matatu (minibus) to Narok, then continue by shared taxi or a pre-arranged transfer with the lodge to Sekenani – ask the lodge if anyone else is coming from Nairobi the same day as you to coordinate. Private transfers and short flights are also available depending on your budget and timing.

Planning tip

Thanks to a Starlink connection, coworking at the Hilltop is entirely possible. In fact, the lodge had some of the fastest and most reliable internet I found during my time in Kenya.

2. Distant Relatives Ecolodge & Backpackers, Kilifi town, Kenya

Best for a budget eco-lodge that feels like luxury

Nestled along the coastline of one of Kenya’s most beautiful beaches, Distant Relatives brings together travelers of all walks of life: backpackers, families and couples of all ages gather here for some of the best vibes on the Swahili Coast.

Away from the crowds of Diani Beach, the lodge sits about 3km outside Kilifi town along Kilifi Creek and is surrounded by a protected community forest. Highlights include a secluded beach area, a restaurant serving fresh Swahili dishes and a relaxing outdoor pool.

Distant Relatives balances comfort and accessibility. Backpackers can enjoy the full range of amenities while still finding dorm beds for around US$13 per night, along with access to a communal kitchen – something I struggled to find in hostels across East Africa. 

Things to do

The surrounding area offers plenty of adventure. Guests can kayak or paddleboard along Kilifi Creek, bike through coastal villages, hike forest trails or join overnight beach camping trips. The lodge also hosts lively evening events including karaoke nights, live music, film screenings, art workshops and DJ sets.

Getting there

From Nairobi, fly to Mombasa or Malindi, then continue by road to Kilifi with a taxi or transfer arranged through the lodge. Budget travelers can take a matatu to Kilifi, followed by a quick taxi or tuk-tuk ride. Buses and trains also run along the coast, though routes, schedules and prices can vary.

3. Makofi Zanzibar, Nungwi, Zanzibar 

Best for making friends by the beach

While many travelers head to the lively kitesurfing hubs of Paje and Jambiani (home to great hostels such as New Teddy’s on the Beach and Jambiani Backpackers), Nungwi offers a different atmosphere on Zanzibar’s northern tip.

Just a short walk from bright turquoise water and powdery white sand sits Makofi, a large hostel-hotel hybrid known for its social energy. Makofi blends backpacker community with local Zanzibari style, featuring a coworking space, an excellent restaurant, spacious dorms and a busy activities schedule. Book directly through Makofi’s website for the lowest room rate, along with a 15% discount at the restaurant, Pizza Gourmet by Makofi.

My time at Makofi led to some of my favorite backpacking memories – everyone was incredibly social, and within hours of arriving, I had made plenty of friends to explore northern Zanzibar with. 

Things to do

Make sure to opt for the sunset cruise to Kendwa (the most fun option is the Boom Boom Boat, and you can pay in cash at the boat to save money). Skip the popular dolphin cruise – the 3-hour journey is in a fishing boat in quite rough waters, and the dolphin pods are chased in a way that causes the mammals intense stress. 

If you want to splurge a bit, there are plenty of luxury hotels across Nungwi that offer day-pass access to their pool and beach area for US$30 or less, with that sum often redeemable for food and drink. 

Nungwi has some of the liveliest nightlife in Tanzania. Coccobello is a favorite among locals and travelers, with multiple dance floors, colorful costumes and late-night food stalls. The Full Moon Party at Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel is another standout, drawing both local and international DJs.

Getting there

Traveling around Zanzibar can take some planning. Dalla-dallas (pick-up trucks) run between towns, but taxis and tuk-tuks are more comfortable and convenient. To save costs on longer distances, shared shuttles like Zanzibus connect the main hubs across the island.

4. Banana Farm Eco Hostel, Arusha, Tanzania

Best for a peaceful nature stay near safari country

If you are looking to escape the hustle of central Arusha, Banana Farm offers tranquility that seems impossible so close to the city. 

Rooms start at US$15 at this idyllic spot tucked about 25 minutes outside of Arusha in the middle of a banana plantation. Accommodation ranges from single rooms (beds outfitted with mosquito nets) to fully equipped cabins with kitchenettes.

The lodge is dedicated to sustainability, with 100% of the energy the hostel uses coming from renewable sources, and 80% of it generated on the farm. It grows everything from 16 kinds of bananas, three types of avocados, local Arabica coffee, and a plethora of other vegetables, herbs and fruits. Guests will get to enjoy all of the self-grown produce at meals, breakfast included and half/full board offered (I would recommend getting at least half-board, as the lodge is a little far from town to head in for dinner, and there is no communal kitchen for self-use). 

Things to do

There is a lot to explore on the property, including the farm itself, a garden and a riverside walking path. The team offers cow-milking lessons, cooking classes and farm tours, and it can organize your safari or hike if desired. All the while, you are sure to be surrounded by leaping monkeys. 

Getting there

Roads around Arusha can be rough, especially outside the city center. Booking a larger vehicle through Bolt is often the easiest option. Travelers with lighter luggage can also take a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi), which handles rough roads much more easily. Public dalla-dalla minibuses also run nearby, though you may need to walk a distance to reach the lodge.

5. Diani Backpackers Hostel, Diani Beach, Kenya

Best hostel for a party 

Looking for a good night out? Stay at Diani Backpackers Hostel for epic parties, beautiful surroundings and endless opportunities to socialize. 

Just a 5-minute walk from the legendary Diani and Galu Beaches, the Backpackers Hostel is a must-stop for anyone craving a classic hostel party scene while in East Africa. Dorms start at US$12 per night, nestled into a tropical garden and steps away from the hostel’s beautiful pool area. 

The hostel hosts events nearly every weekend and is widely considered the place to be for party holidays like New Year’s Eve. Check out social media for the latest updates. 

Things to do

If you want to take a break from the music, the hostel will organize scuba diving, snorkeling, boat trips and safaris. One can’t-miss experience in the area is Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant, where dinner is served inside a cave that dates back 180,000 years. 

Getting there

Start from Mombasa and take a taxi/uber or private shuttle.

Planning tip

Despite advertising high speed wi-fi, the connection at the hostel leaves something to be desired. If digital nomading, head here when you have some downtime in your work schedule. Also, beware of vendors on the beach – Diani Beach has become quite touristy, and some sales tactics can be aggressive. 

6. Hidden Valley Backpackers, Iringa, Tanzania

Best for getting off the beaten path 

If you want to get away from the crowded tourism route and get some quiet, head to Iringa’s Hidden Valley. Deep in the hills of Tanzania’s less-backpacked Southern Highlands, Hidden Valley Backpackers offers an immersive experience in some of the country’s most majestic and least crowded offerings. Dorms at the lodge start at US$25 a night, with a beautiful Tanzanian breakfast included.

Things to do

On top of majestic nature and epic views of the valley below, the hostel offers a pool table, delicious food in its restaurant, countless hammocks and overhanging nets to lounge in, hot showers and a fully stocked bar. Despite feeling like an isolated retreat, Hidden Valley is a short walk from Iringa center, where there are numerous shops and dining options. Day trips from Iringa include the Igeleke rock paintings and the Isimila Stone Age site, which the hostel can organize for you with other guests.

Getting there

Getting to Iringa is usually by bus from other major cities in Tanzania, though a flight to Iringa (IRI) and a 25-minute taxi ride to the hostel are also an option.

Planning tip

On special occasions, Hidden Valley hosts the biggest parties in Iringa – make sure to check social media for updates on the next event. 

Quick hits: best hostels for...

• Best social hostel in Nairobi: Mad Vervet (Though, in my opinion, Nairobi is one of the coolest cities I have ever visited, and its hostel scene does not do it justice.)

• Best to be immersed in nature: Stilts Diani. Guests sleep in individual huts propped up on stilts to emulate treehouse living. Stilts is known for its nightly bush-baby feeding and for its rowdy monkeys, who are sure to pay a visit to your cabin.

• Best for pre/post Kilimanjaro Trek: Kilimanjaro Trek City Hostel. A clean, safe and quiet option before or after an epic Kilimanjaro climb, tucked away on the outskirts of town, where hot showers, large dorm rooms and a full-service restaurant await.

• Best for a clean, private room and hot shower before or after a Serengeti safari: Choose from any of the sister properties of Serengeti Villa, Savannah House and Swahili Villa.

• Best hostel in Stone Town, Zanzibar: Golden Nap. Located in the heart of Stonetown, Golden Nap gives you a clean and comfortable environment in Zanzibar’s largest city.

Planning tips for budget travel in East Africa

If planning a trip to Kenya and Tanzania feels overwhelming, remember that you do not need to organize everything in advance. Many travelers find cheaper safari options once they arrive by speaking with hostel staff, guides and fellow backpackers.

When I arrived in Tanzania, the only thing I had booked was my Kilimanjaro trek with Mar Tours. During the climb, other travelers shared recommendations for budget safaris, and one of my guides connected me with a friend offering discount group camping trips in the Serengeti.

Keeping your plans flexible and staying open to meeting people along the way can often lead to the best adventures.