Patagonia is not a cheap place to travel, and the excursions that bring most people to Puerto Madryn, the whale boats, the peninsula tours and the penguin colonies, take a big share of any budget, so a good hostel is a practical way to keep the overall cost down. Guanaco Hostel is named after the wild relative of the llama that roams the Patagonian steppe, and it speaks to the backpackers and independent travellers who pass through the town on longer trips through Argentina. Hostels in this part of the country are usually friendly, relaxed places with shared kitchens or lounges, dormitory beds and a few private rooms, and the staff are often a good source of tips about buses, tours and weather. That social atmosphere is the main advantage here: it is easy to meet other travellers, share a rental car or a tour for the peninsula and compare notes about where the sea lions and penguins were that week. The town itself is small and walkable, so staying at a hostel close to the centre means evenings on the seafront and meals at local parrillas and seafood restaurants without needing transport. Because beds, bathrooms and services vary, check the current details when you book, including whether breakfast is included.
Choosing a room
A shared dorm is the cheapest and most sociable option, while a private room costs more but gives better sleep and privacy, which is worth it after an early start. Check the bed count in a dorm, whether the room has its own bathroom, and whether lockers, linen and towels are provided. Patagonian nights can be cold, so ask about heating in the colder months.
Getting around
The town centre and the seafront promenade are close, the bus terminal is within a short taxi ride, and tour operators generally collect guests from hostels for the peninsula and the penguin colonies. The airport is at Trelew, roughly an hour or so by road, so check your transfer options when you book.
Many travellers arrive by long-distance bus from Buenos Aires, Bariloche or other parts of Patagonia, so ask the front desk about luggage storage if your bus leaves late. Who it suits: solo travellers, backpackers, students and couples on a budget who are happy with a simple room and want to meet other people. Trade-offs: expect shared spaces and some noise, and do not expect hotel extras such as a pool or a restaurant on site.
Keep valuables in a locker, carry a windproof layer for boat trips and the peninsula, and book early for the whale season from roughly June to December, the penguin months from September to April, and the summer holidays.
Why stay here
- ✓Dorm and private room options
- ✓Shared common areas
- ✓Reception can book excursions
- ✓Wi-Fi
- ✓Luggage storage
- ✓Walk to the town centre
- ✓Short ride to the seafront
- ✓Tour pickup from the area
Good questions
Are there private rooms at the hostel?+
Hostels in town commonly offer both dorms and private rooms. Check the room types when you book.
Can I find people to share a tour with?+
Often yes. Hostel common areas are a good place to meet other travellers and split the cost of transfers and excursions.
How do I get here from the airport?+
The airport is at Trelew, roughly an hour or so away by road. Confirm transfer options when you book.
