Loki Hostel, Mancora, Peru

The surf Mecca of Mancora is a popular stop for travelers on their way up the Pacific Coast of South America. Many are drawn in by the promise of sun, waves and raucous nightlife.

Loki Mancora is part of a small chain of hostels, with other branches in Cuzco, La Paz, Salta and Lima. The Mancora location feels more like an all-inclusive resort than a backpacker hostel, with rooms looking out over a swimming pool and bar area.

The dorms are passable, but you won’t want to spend too much time inside given the beach is just a stone’s throw from the front door. Take surf lessons or while away the days in the pool before Loki comes into its own at night.

Regularly organized events mean the guests quickly get to know each other, and the space is well designed to allow eating and drinking to your heart’s content. Explore the selection of other bars in town after Loki closes down at 1 a.m. before returning to the secure compound when the night is over.

The food, drinks and accommodations are well priced, and Loki provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for those who want to mingle with other travelers. If the other locations have struck the winning hostel formula to the extent Loki Mancora has, then the chain will be very successful indeed.