This perennially popular hostel has an undeniably social vibe, and wallflowers or those seeking privacy will want to head elsewhere. Long-term travelers getting by on bartending jobs in Quito and others on the South America circuit swap stories over a beer on the rooftop terrace with magical views over the Old Town. You’ll also find simple but clean wood-floor rooms.
Steep flights of stairs head up to the roof, which also doubles as reception. It has nightly dinners (mains about $5), Spanish lessons, volunteer opportunities, regular events (quiz nights, Aussie-style barbecues) and CarpeDM, a first-rate tour agency on-site.
