Travel is truly for everyone! And it comes in many forms — luxury, budget, and everything in between.

All have their pros and cons, but besides easing the pressure on the old bank account, budget travelers (especially backpackers) benefit from getting the raw cultural experience by ending up right in the thick of it. There’s just something about traveling on a budget that nurtures creative exploration. Economically savvy adventurers tend to find those genuinely off-the-beaten-track restaurants, meet real locals in underground clubs, and best of all, stay in LGBTQ hostels where conversation between like-minded explorers flows without the need for a — let’s face it — sex-focused dating app.

South America is the perfect continent to embark on a queer backpacking adventure. From Bogotá to Buenos Aires, all the big cities have gay (or at least LGBTQ+-friendly) hostels and budget stays that serve as base camps when venturing out into the proverbial wilds. This is a guide to the best of the bunch — places that are secure, comfortable, and leave you with extra cash to splash on the experiences that count: eating in Argentina’s salacious steak restaurants, taking guided hiking trips along the Inca Trail, splurging on an extra mojito at the Copacabana, or losing yourself during a wild night out at Bogotá’s infamous gay superclub, Teatrón.

Lugar Gay Bed & Breakfast (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

Many a backpacker’s trail has begun — or ended — down in Buenos Aires. The “Paris of South America” is the most European city in Latin America, and a wonderful way to ease yourself into the continent. But that’s not to say it isn’t infused with Latino spirit too; it definitely has its own distinct personality — not to mention plenty of eye candy. On that note, Buenos Aires waves the LGBTQ+ flag proudly through Palermo’s stylish gay bars and the abundance of same-sex tango nights around the city.

Lugar Gay Bed & Breakfast is a men-only guesthouse in the bohemian San Telmo neighborhood. The building has a rustic feel and features a cozy lounge area, small gym, shared kitchen facilities, and even a library. Its sun terrace offers enviable views of the Buenos Aires skyline — and its biggest selling point: a hot tub! An Argentine-style breakfast is included, and they even host gay tango nights on Fridays.

It may not be in the official gayborhood of Palermo, but it’s in one of Buenos Aires’ most atmospheric old-style bohemian neighborhoods, complete with cobblestoned streets, tango, and quaint cafés. Nearby attractions include Plaza de Mayo Square, the Puerto Madero waterfront, and Recoleta Cemetery.

La Puerta Negra (Montevideo, Uruguay)

Uruguay has to be the most underrated country in South America. Its capital, Montevideo, doesn’t need to shout to impress — it has an easy, laid-back confidence that contrasts with the chaotic city vibes of nearby Buenos Aires. Here, sunsets linger over the Río de la Plata, café culture feels unhurried, and the LGBTQ+ scene is woven naturally into daily life rather than tucked away in one district.

La Puerta Negra captures that easygoing Montevidean spirit within its restored townhouse walls. As Uruguay’s first exclusively gay male guesthouse, it’s one of the best LGBTQ hostels in South America and offers a friendly, homey atmosphere. Guests share breakfast conversations on the sunny patio, unwind in cozy common areas, and easily make new friends just by staying there. Rooms range from private suites to dorm-style options — all simple, comfortable, and personal.

The location couldn’t be better: you’re steps from the Rambla waterfront, art galleries, and some of Montevideo’s friendliest gay bars. Whether you’re in town for Pride, a beach weekend, or just to enjoy Uruguay’s famously open-minded vibe, La Puerta Negra offers a comfortable base that keeps things simple, genuine, and welcoming. Everything here invites you to slow down, connect, and feel part of Montevideo’s inclusive rhythm.

El Misti Hostel Ipanema (Rio, Brazil)

Rio, conversely, is abuzz with raw Latino energy. It’s as if the spirit of its famously flamboyant Carnival seeps into the city and never really leaves. Well known for its golden beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, and the towering Christ the Redeemer statue, it’s an essential stop when queer backpacking through South America.

Right in the heart of it all sits El Misti Hostel Ipanema — your queer-friendly launchpad just a flip-flop away from one of the world’s most iconic beaches (Ipanema being famously gay). Expect colorful hammocks, sociable dorms, and a laid-back carioca vibe with hosts that embody Brazil’s warm welcome. There are dorm rooms or private rooms — depending on how sociable you feel. Although not exclusively gay, it describes itself as “adults-only” and “welcoming guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities.” Budget-friendly without skimping on personality, El Misti is the perfect place to soak up Rio’s flamboyant spirit and make friends (and drinking buddies) to head down to the beach with, watch the sunset from Arpoador, or party at the gay bars around Ipanema.

Los Patios Hostal Boutique (Medellín, Colombia)

Medellín’s incredible rags-to-riches story is nothing short of extraordinary. Once infamous as one of the world’s most dangerous cities, ruled by cartel leaders like Pablo Escobar, Medellín has reinvented itself as one of Colombia’s most popular destinations — surrounded by lush green mountains and a famously fun LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.

Los Patios Hostal Boutique reflects that energy perfectly — a mixed, gay-friendly social hub full of visitors out to have a good time. Set in the upscale El Poblado neighborhood, it’s a stylish hostel/hotel hybrid that feels more like a boutique hotel without the price tag. The design is clean and modern, with local art, plenty of plants, and spaces that make it easy to meet people without forcing it. Dorms and private rooms mean flexibility for different travel styles, but be sure to pick one that suits your vibe — some dorms lean toward party mode.

Two rooftop terraces — one for yoga, one for cocktails — offer stunning views of the city and mountains. The hostel’s social calendar runs from salsa lessons to language exchanges. In short, it’s the place to go if you want to meet people to dive into the city with.

Fatima Hostel (Bogotá, Colombia)

Okay, we confess to a Colombia bias, but the gorgeous country deserves special attention for its stellar record on LGBTQ+ rights. It’s impossible to choose between its star cities, Medellín and Bogotá — but why bother when you can do both? Bogotá sits high in the Andes, where glass-and-steel skyscrapers rise against a lush, green, mountainous backdrop. The city is modern yet steeped in history — as seen in the cobblestoned streets of La Candelaria.

And this is where you’ll find Fatima Hostel, a favorite among queer travelers on a budget — part crash pad, part social experiment. While it’s not a gay-only stay, the colorfully quirky hostel proudly flies the inclusive flag, with regular queer-friendly events and a welcoming staff. The building consists of two colorful colonial houses: the smaller for quieter private rooms and the larger for livelier dorms with a — let’s just say — more sociable atmosphere. Inside is a lively bar and an inner courtyard that hosts everything from art yoga classes to karaoke and pre-drinks.

Domeyer Hostel (Lima, Peru)

Of course, all roads in Peru lead to Machu Picchu, usually through Cusco, but the Peruvian capital is where you’ll find the best LGBTQ+ life. Lima also has a lot of soul, where Pacific waves crash beneath colonial balconies, glass towers rise over ancient adobe ruins, and drag shows spring up in intimate bars.

Barranco is the city’s artistic quarter, and right in the middle of it all is Domeyer Hostel — a budget-friendly stay that captures the neighborhood’s easygoing spirit. Set within a traditional Peruvian manor house, it has vaulted ceilings, bright yet earthy colors, and a spacious leafy courtyard. For something authentic — not flashy, not forced — Domeyer Hostel delivers. It’s mixed and not specifically gay (few places in Lima are), but it’s popular with LGBTQ+ guests nonetheless. Local, laid-back, and genuinely welcoming, much like Barranco itself, it offers both dorms and private rooms.

Casa Joaquín Boutique Hotel (Quito, Ecuador)

At 2,850 meters above sea level, Quito isn’t just breathtaking for its altitude. The Ecuadorian capital is full of old-world elegance and youthful energy — baroque churches, volcano views, and rooftop bars to show them off. The city’s colonial core is a UNESCO showpiece, while the Mariscal district — affectionately dubbed Gringolandia — has its own “pink zone” with a handful of gay bars.

Tucked neatly into this pink zone is Casa Joaquín Boutique Hotel, a charming refuge that’s a throwback to traditional B&Bs. Think: colonial architecture with a contemporary twist, homey rooms individually styled with local art, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over Quito’s terracotta sprawl. While it’s not exclusively LGBTQ+, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more inclusive hotel in Quito. Breakfast is a highlight (Ecuadorian coffee and fresh fruit that actually tastes like fruit), and when you’re ready to venture out, La Mariscal’s bars, art galleries, and weekend markets are a short stroll away.

B&B Caín Hostal (Santiago, Chile)

Chile’s capital is easy on the eyes, with the snow-dusted Andes on one side, sun-soaked vineyards on the other, and a patchwork of bohemian neighborhoods in between that mix colonial charm, street art, and modern energy. Santiago’s LGBTQ+ scene may not shout as loud as Buenos Aires or Bogotá, but it certainly has life.

B&B Caín Hostal is one of the city’s few openly gay guesthouses. Small, personal, and unmistakably welcoming, it feels more like an Airbnb than a formal hotel — and that’s part of its charm. The hosts, locals known for their friendliness, go out of their way to make guests feel part of the community.

Set in the residential neighborhood of El Llano Subercaseaux, the hostel is a calm retreat that’s still within easy reach of Santiago’s nightlife districts (like Bellavista — the gay area) and cultural spots. Inside, there are bright communal spaces and a sunlit terrace to chill out on and chat with your hosts and fellow guests. There’s nothing flashy here — and that’s exactly the point. B&B Caín Hostal is about feeling connected to the Chilean way of life, in a genuine pocket of hospitality.

With these gay-friendly budget stays as your South American home bases, you can finally focus on the essentials — backpacks, beaches, and beautiful boys.

FAQ

Which South American cities have LGBTQ-friendly hostels?

As well as those listed above, you’ll find openly LGBTQ-friendly stays scattered across the continent, especially in cosmopolitan hubs like Buenos Aires, Bogotá, Santiago, Lima, and São Paulo. These cities have well-established queer scenes, from gay tango nights to massive Pride parades — São Paulo’s is the biggest in the world, in fact. Smaller destinations like Quito, Medellín, and Valparaíso are catching up fast, with more hostels embracing inclusive policies and hosting queer-focused events. When in doubt, look for accommodations that explicitly mention LGBTQ+ inclusivity — or better yet, get a feel for the vibe through reviews.

How do I assess safety in budget accommodations?

Beyond checking the usual suspects — locks, lighting, and location — look at traveler feedback that mentions “welcoming” or “inclusive.” That’s often code for safe and respectful. The Travel Proud marking on Booking.com and/or IGLTA accreditation are sure signs. When possible, choose hostels in lively, well-trafficked areas rather than remote or poorly lit streets. Also, be sure you know how the local public transportation system works — is there a metro stop nearby, and how safe is it to use at night?

What areas should I stay in?

The gayborhoods are always your best bet, but stick to neighborhoods that balance atmosphere and accessibility. In Buenos Aires, San Telmo or Palermo; in Bogotá, La Candelaria or Chapinero; and in Quito, La Mariscal. These areas are central, packed with character, and usually within walking distance of nightlife, cafés, and cultural landmarks. They’re also the most accustomed to international visitors — meaning you can blend in without standing out.

Are party hostels inclusive for queer travelers?

Usually, yes — though the vibe varies. Many South American party hostels pride themselves on being open-minded and diverse, but it’s worth reading recent reviews to see how well they walk the talk. If a hostel’s event calendar includes drag nights, gender-inclusive dorms, same-sex tango classes, or Pride parties, then you’re obviously onto a winner. Always check whether they’re men-only or mixed, and whether they’re more of a party hostel or a chill one, so you can find a place that matches your vibe.

How far in advance should I book in peak season?

For big cities, two to four weeks ahead is usually safe. But during Pride festivals, Carnival, or major holidays, book at least a month or two in advance — queer-friendly spots tend to fill up first. If your travel style leans spontaneous, keep a shortlist of alternatives and message hostels directly; sometimes they hold a few beds for walk-ins who seem fun (or desperate). Make sure you’re aware of any extra fees or conditions (e.g., deposits, early check-in, late check-out).

Featured image by paulo duarte from Pixabay