Pariwana is one of the most popular backpackers hostels in Cusco. Bunch of Backpackers decided to check out to see whether it lives up its expectations. Continue to read our Pariwana hostel review.
The Pariwana hostel in Cusco is characterized by its beautiful artistic murals and its chilled out modern Peruvian vibe. The Cusco hostel is located in a 16th century colonial house with courtyard in the heart of Cusco’s Historical district.
The atmosphere?
The overall atmosphere in Pariwana is chilled out. They have a beautiful courtyard with bean bags, table tennis and a soccer table. Also, there is a kitchen, movie room, a computer room and of course a bar area. The bar area has nice big tables making it easier to mix with other travellers. Fun activities (such as salsa, pub quiz, karaoke etc.) are organised at a daily basis. However, even though most nights are busy, the party at Pariwana closes down pretty early. In comparison to Loki Cusco, Pariwana seems a bit less party-minded. Due to Pariwana’s size it is less easy to meet other travellers (as like other big hostels).
Location, staff and facilities
Pariwana’s location is perfect. It’s within walking distance of the major sights and also easily reached by public transportation. We found that friendliness of the staff (reception, bar) varied, but the cleaning ladies always had beautiful smiles on their faces. Overall, our experience with the staff was satisfactory.
Facilities in Pariwana are nothing but excellent and we will just sum up some of the cool features of this hostel:
– enough bathrooms and toilets with hot water
– free luggage storage
– lockers in the rooms with sockets inside
– thick blankets and the most comfortable bed ever!
– full activity program
– free tea all day in the courtyard (inc. the Peru favourite: coca tea)
– NO curfew!
The only things we missed were reading lights and sometimes it was a bit cold in the room.
Cleanliness and safety
Three words: Pariwana is clean. Nothing to add. Nothing to improve. Same goes for security: At night the front gates are closed and you have to buzz to get in. Like almost all big Peruvian hostels you have to show you Pariwana wrist band to get past security. Big lockers are available in the rooms for you valuable stuff (bring your own padlocks). We considered Pariwana to be very safe.
Value for money
The price of the rooms is reasonable compared to other accommodations in Cusco. However, we found the restaurant to be quite pricey.
The overall Pariwana experience
A beautiful, lively, safe, well-arranged hostel which we would definitely recommend to all you Cusco travellers!!
Information about BoB’s stay:
Period: September 2013
Duration: 3 nights
Type of travel company: 3 friends
Price per bed per night: 34 soles (around 9 euro) for a 6p dorm
Other useful info: Breakfast is from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Check-in time is 1 p.m., check-out time is 10 a.m. Do not forget to show your passport if you stay in Peru for less than 60 consecutive days (in order to avoid the IVA tax)
Book your Peru hostel through Hostelworld.com or Booking.com
Recommended further reading Peru
How much does it cost to backpack Peru and Bolivia?
How much money do you need to backpack in Peru?
Polaroid portraits in Peru
Travel story: Sleep Less, Dream More – A stranger in the Sechura
12 must try dishes and drinks in Peru
What are the experiences with airlines in Peru?
Such an awesome place to stay! Seriously. I love places with nice and friendly atmosphere. It’s actually not where you stay, but with who :), right?
You’re absolutely right Agness! The hostel experience much depends on the other travelers you meet there :)!