I spent a summer at Nomada Hostel, and it was one of the most memorable hostel experiences I've ever had. There are many things to love about this place, but also areas that need attention to make it a truly exceptional experience.
First, the positives: the location is undeniably one of its best features--just a short walk to the beaches, pier, shopping, and restaurants. The terrace overlooking Avenida Brasil is a gem, offering a stunning spot for people-watching and enjoying the lively energy of Valparaíso. The hostel's artistic decor and charming details create a visually appealing and creative atmosphere that stands out. I also appreciated the luggage storage option, and the thoughtful New Year's touches like complimentary wine and breakfast made our celebration feel special. They also had BBQ available for purchase and we went together to see the fireworks.
Guests should be aware that some amenities are lacking, as the hostel does not provide complimentary towels or toiletries. The hostel provides continental breakfast for purchase that includes bread, butter, marmalade, fruits, cereal, yogurt, coffee and tea, which offers a nice start to the day. The shared well equipped kitchen is a convenient addition for those who prefer to cook their meals, and minibars with beers and kombucha are available for purchase that add a nice touch for unwinding.
In terms of accommodations, Nomada Hostel offers a mix of shared and private options. There are both co-ed and female-only shared rooms, as well as four private rooms for those seeking more privacy. The hostel is family-friendly and is not a party hostel, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. It's important to note that quiet hours and the closing of the kitchen is promptly at 10:00 PM every night.
I was at one point asked to make my bed and wash my dishes, so it's important to note that the hostel operates on a self-service model. Guests are expected to clean up after themselves, including washing their own dishes, and longer-term guests are responsible for changing their own sheets, with fresh linens provided by the staff.
The staff at Nomada Eco-Hostel were friendly and welcoming, which added to the overall positive atmosphere. However, activities were not organized by the staff, and guests had to arrange group outings themselves. While this allowed for flexibility, it felt like a missed opportunity to create a stronger sense of community. That said, management informed me that they are working on partnerships with local businesses and the pier to offer discounts on activities like paddleboarding and boating, which could greatly enhance the guest experience. I hope they continue to organize more group outings to take full advantage of their beachfront location and the discounts they provide, as this could make the experience even more special for travelers.
I look forward to returning in the future and hope to see improvements. I'd love to see more breakfast options something like waffles fruit and pancakes and more organized social activities to take full advantage of the space and proximity to the beach and nightclubs. With these changes, it could truly become an exceptional destination for travelers. read more