Twin Room
- 2 Single beds
Hotel · Santa Marta (Magdalena) · Magdalena
Gagaka Rua Hostel - Santa Marta (Magdalena)
A colonial-style hostel with a rooftop pool, friendly staff, and a location that balances quiet with convenience.
- Rooftop pool and sun terrace
- 24-hour reception and security
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas
8.5
Great
658 reviews
Booking.com 8.5 · 658 reviews
About
Gagaka Rua Hostel - Santa Marta (Magdalena)
Gagaka Rua Hostel sits on Calle 11 in Santa Marta, a short walk from Lost City and Simon Bolivar Park. The hostel is set in a colonial building and offers a mix of private rooms and dorms, all within a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Guests can use the shared kitchen, lounge, and game room, or head to the rooftop pool for views over the city. The staff are repeatedly praised for their warmth, and the hostel provides practical touches like luggage storage, lockers, and a paid airport shuttle.
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas
- Parking
- 24-hour reception
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
In brief
What works, what to weigh
+
Strengths
4 reasons to book- Rooftop pool and sun terrace — Guests can cool off in the rooftop pool and relax on the sun terrace, with views over the city.
- Friendly and helpful staff — Staff like Angel and Sergio are repeatedly praised for making guests feel at home and going above and beyond.
- Quiet yet central location — The hostel is set away from the noise but within walking distance to the market, restaurants, and historic area.
- Good value for money — Private rooms and dorms are priced well for the amenities offered, including breakfast and a pool.
–
Worth weighing
3 to weigh- Some house rules to note — A few guests mentioned 'interesting house rules' that may need getting used to.
- Check-in window is specific — Check-in is only between 15:00 and 23:00, which may be inconvenient for late arrivals.
- Rooms may vary — While most rooms are praised, the dormitories are basic and offer few amenities beyond the bed.
01 — Rooms
Rooms & rates
High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.
8 Bed Dormitory Room Dormitory Room Mixed
- 1 Bed in shared room
4 Bed Dormitory Room Dormitory Room
- 1 Bed in shared room
Deluxe Double Room
- 1 King-size bed
Superior Double Room
- 2 Double beds
- Garden view
- Shower
- Air conditioning
02 — Amenities
Services & amenities
Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.
General
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas
- 24-hour reception
- VIP check-in/out
- Luggage storage
- Air conditioning
- No smoking on site
Food & Drink
- Shared kitchen
- Poolside snack bar
- Welcome drink
Pool & Wellness
- Rooftop pool
- Shallow end
- Sun loungers
- Sun terrace
- Beach umbrellas
- Treatment room
- Pedicure
- Manicure
- Body scrub
- Facial
Services
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Paid airport shuttle
- 24-hour security
Activities
- Game room
- Board games
- Table tennis
- Leisure/TV room
Safety & Security
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Outdoor
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Garden area
Photos
Gallery
03 — Reviews
What guests say
Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.
Guest-rated 8.5/10 from 658 reviews
Booking.com · 8.5 · 658 reviews
8.5Verified guest“The twin room's pool was the highlight – a refreshing dip with a view that felt like a mini tropical escape right at the hotel.”
8.5Verified guest“Staff were very friendly and always willing to help. Rooms were clean and comfortable, and the location was great – away from noise but close to the city center.”
8.5Verified guest“Friendly and helpful staff, clean rooms and facilities, peaceful atmosphere, convenient location, and good value.”
8.5Verified guest“Cozy hostel with a great vibe thanks to staff like Angel and Sergio. Location was perfect, just a 5-minute walk to the market and close to restaurants and bars. Could leave backpacks during day trips and there were lockers for valuables. Would definitely stay again.”
8.5Verified guest“Loved the twin room – flat-screen TV with cable, air conditioning, wardrobe, tiled floors, and gorgeous garden views.”
8.5Verified guest“Amazing stay – great vibe, staff like Angel and Sergio made me feel at home. Location was perfect, close to the market and attractions. Could store my backpack and the breakfast was delicious.”
04 — Location
Getting around Santa Marta
The property sits in Santa Marta.
Lost City: A 9-minute walk from the hostel, the Lost City is a major archaeological site, though the full trek usually starts from Minca or Ciudad Perdida.
Simon Bolivar Park: A short walk away, this park is a central green space in Santa Marta, good for a stroll or people-watching.
Beaches and Historic Center: Guests mention the sea, beaches, and historic area are within close proximity, making it easy to explore the city on foot.
Calle 11 # 1C 71, Santa Marta, Magdalena, 470001, Colombia
05 — Good to know
Policies & conditions
Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.
- Check-in
- From 15:00-23:00
- Check-out
- By 06:00-11:00
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
- Payment
- Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
- Pets
- Allowed
- Property
- 21 rooms
06 — Questions
Frequently asked
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 15:00 to 23:00, and check-out is from 06:00 to 11:00.
Are pets allowed at the hostel?
Yes, pets are allowed at Gagaka Rua Hostel, and at least one guest has brought their kittens.
Is there parking available?
Yes, the hostel offers parking facilities.
Is there an airport shuttle?
Yes, a paid airport shuttle is available.
Does the hostel have a pool?
Yes, there is a rooftop pool, as well as a sun terrace and poolside snack bar.
The bottom line
Gagaka Rua Hostel is a strong choice in Santa Marta for travellers who want a social yet restful stay, with a rooftop pool, friendly staff, and a location that balances quiet with convenience. The few trade-offs – specific check-in times and some house rules – are minor compared to the overall value.
8.5A reliable pick for backpackers and couples alike.
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