Top party hostels in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, with its seductive nightlife, has long been regarded as the carnival capital of world. As the main event fast approaches, HostelBookers, the budget accommodation specialist, hand-picks the top 5 hostels in Rio de Janeiro where people from all the world flock to the streets to celebrate alongside the local Cariocas.

Housed in a lovely colonial building, CabanaCopa hostel is just 3 blocks from Copacabana beach. The hostel, which ranked in the top 3 in South America in the HostelBookers Awards for Excellence 2010, offers lockers in dorms, 24hr security, a number of female-only dorms, fans and air-conditioning in most rooms. Guests can also use the cinema room, lounge, pool table and join in with a number of organised hostel events.

Che Lagarto Hostel-Copacabana just 300m from the infamous Copacabana beach, offers private and shared rooms. The bar, complete with pool table, is always lively and staff organise plenty of activities both day and night including meals out or visits to samba schools. The subway is just one block away.

Rio Hostel Santa Teresa reflects the bohemian character of this renowned Rio district. The music scene of Lapa, famous for the best samba bars, alternative music and street parties, is a short walk away. The area is serviced by a yellow tram that weaves its way past Santa Teresa’s historical architecture and artists’ workshops. Guests can book private rooms, mixed or female-only dorms equipped with private lockers and fans.

Tupiniquim Hostel Rio de Janeiro is a 15 minute walk or one stop on the metro to Copacabana. In the evening, the colourful bar is bustling and live-music events often take centre stage. After a night on the town it is the best place to enjoy a free Brazilian breakfast, to chill out in the hammocks in the courtyard or to watch DVDs on their luxurious home theatre system.

For those who like to party hard but want to get a good night’s sleep, Vila CasaNova offers a quiet place to stay with an excellent location near the best Lapa nightlife. It is a gorgeous and rustic guesthouse set amongst green, lush surroundings with spectacular views from its elevated perch up on the hillside in Santa Teresa. It is a boutique hostel, within walking distance from restaurants, local cafes and the famous bohemian nightlife. It offers private and shared rooms with air-conditioning and a swimming pool in the garden.