South Africa’s original, multi award-winning hostel and travel centre is simply Cape Town’s hottest, most social spot to stay.

We have all the facilities you can expect from a great hotel, stylishly decorated Afro-chic rooms offering superior comfort and quality with shared or ensuite bathrooms, free wi-fi, private electronic safes and in-house ATM.

Making a difference is more than just an initiative of The Backpack, is the way we are, the way we work and the way we live! By staying at thewith us you will be making a difference to the lives of many children.

Swim in the pool with stunning views of Table Mountain, or meet like-minded international travellers in our buzzy café/bar, serving delicious breakfasts and gourmet sandwiches. Feel at home in our well equipped self-catering kitchen.
Parking is available with 24 hour security.

Long Street and Kloof Street, gorgeous Clifton and Camps Bay beaches, Table Mountain, The Waterfront and the City Centre are all just a stones throw away.

Our hostel has been accredited by Fair Trade in Tourism, a trade mark awarded to businesses that adhere to fair trade criteria.

A meet and greet airport shuttle service is available at an additional cost.

Children are welcome in private rooms and must be accompanied by an adult and must be able to swim, as our pool is unfenced.

Our Awards include:
2013 1st Place Best Hostel in South Africa Hostelworld.com
2013 2nd Place Best Hostel in Africa Hostelworld.com

2012 2nd Place Best Hostel in South Africa Hostelworld.com

2011 1st Place Best Practice – Economic Impact Imvelo Awards
2011 1st Place Best Single Waste Management Program Imvelo Awards
2011 1st Place AA Backpackers Accommodation
2011 2nd Place Welcome Awards

2010 One of the World’s Coolest Hostels Guardian
2010 One of the Top Ten Places to Stay Lonely Planet
2010 1st Place Best Hostel in South Africa Hostelworld.com
2010 2nd Place Best Hostel in Africa Hostelworld.com
2010 1st Place Welcome Awards
2011 1st Place AA Backpackers Accommodation


2009 1st Place Best Hostel in South Africa Hostelworld.com
2009 3rd Place Best Hostel in Africa Hostelworld.com

2008 1st Place Best Hostel in South Africa Hostelworld.com
2008 3rd Place Best Hostel in Africa Hostelworld.com

‘Not too laid back, not too loud—guests love The Backpack and it's easy to see why. For years it has stayed ahead of the crowd by constantly adapting, yet always offering top notch accommodation for the price and wonderfully clued-up service from its desk.’ – Lonely Planet

'The most comfortable and best-run in town...one of the best backpacker travel centres around. Recommended.' – Footprints

Please read our Things to Note below before booking.