About

Nestled in the charming town of San Rafael, La Perla Negra Eco-Lodge & Hostel offers travellers an authentic Colombian experience in the heart of this riverside paradise. Just steps away from crystalline waters and natural pools, we combine rustic comfort with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Our accommodations include clean, comfortable dorm rooms with sturdy bunk beds and private rooms for those seeking more solitude. Each bed comes equipped with power outlets, while secure lockers keep your belongings safe.
Highlights include:
 We used materials from renewable sources and focus on bamboo constructions
 We use solar panels for heating water such as showers
 Our water is directly from our own source, and we have ecological biofilter for our sanitary system
 We have a reforestation project and have been planting over a hundred native trees
 We have our own vegetable garden and a mostly-plant based menu with only a few local fish and chicken options
Included in your stay are:
 2 breakfast options with local cacao
 Private river access with natural pools surrounded by virgin mountains
 Binoculars and a birdwatching guide of San Rafael, where you can find more than 100 species of birds
 PDF-guide with free activities nearby such as visiting local waterfalls
 Restaurant and bar with international cuisine and a focus on vegetarian and vegan food with fair prices
 High quality mattresses everywhere
 Social zone with hammocks and Ping Pong table
 Ecological pathway through our protected forest
 Free Wi-Fi
How to arrive:
 We are located 6km outside of the town of San Rafael and just 25 minutes bus-ride from Guatapé. When coming from Medellín, jump on a bus from terminal norte and ask the driver to drop you off right at the entrance, no need for extra tuk tuks or walks.
Activities
 San Rafael is a subtropical town with an average of 26 degrees year-round where you can do hikes, cultural and local activities such as cacao tours or birdwatching, adventure activities such as tubing or just relax and indulge in a massage.
 Enjoy the peace of being in the middle of nature. We don't have neighbours so you won't see light-pollution and will just hear the sounds of the forest and river. It is the perfect place heal and rest
 Enjoy the company of our free animals, we have ducks, two dogs, two cats, one adopted horse and some chickens.
Fair-play rules:
 We don't allow alcohol from outside, as we offer at the bar at fair prices
 Don’t play loud music, respect the other guests, we prefer the sound of nature
 We don't have a kitchen for guest, but you can always ask us to use a plate, knife or spoon and keep some fruits in our fridge
Check in 2pm but you can arrive from 10 am onwards and enjoy the infrastructure or the river until your room is ready.
Check out at 12pm but you can stay and linger one your room is vacated.

Perfect for backpackers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to experience the authentic charm of small-town Colombia, our hostel provides a comfortable base for exploring one of Colombia’s most beautiful hidden gems.


La Perla Negra Eco-Hostel Policies & Conditions:

Cancellation policy: 7 days before arrival.

Check in from 14:00pm to 21:00pm
Check out from the room is at 12pm, but you can stay until the afternoon at the facilities enjoying the river or a cold beer at the hamocks

Payment upon arrival by cash, transfer or card (5%fee)
Breakfast included.

No curfew. Pets are not allowed, as we have free animals on the land.
No smoking in bar and any of the rooms.Speakers an alcohol from outside are not allowed, as we sell on the bar/restaurant
Reception from 7:30 am to 9pm

House Rules

Check In

14:00 - 21:00

Check Out

until 12:00

  • Credit Cards Accepted
  • No Curfew
  • Non Smoking
  • Taxes Not Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free Breakfast
  • Free Parking
  • Free City Maps
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Free Security Lockers
  • Free Luggage Storage
  • Coworking Space
View all facilities

Reviews

9.9Superb(61)
  • Value for Money
    10.0
  • Security
    10.0
  • Atmosphere
    9.6
  • Cleanliness
    10.0
  • Staff
    10.0
  • Location
    10.0
  • Facilities
    10.0
Summary of traveller reviews

La Perla Negra Eco-Lodge & Hostel in San Rafael offers a tranquil escape surrounded by nature. Guests praise the beautiful private river access, the peaceful atmosphere, and the friendly, helpful staff. The delicious food and comfortable beds are also frequently highlighted. It's ideal for travellers seeking relaxation and a connection with nature.

Stayed in Aug 2026
10
R
Rachel
Female, 25-30, England
Beautiful and peaceful Hostel! A wonderful place to relax and get away from the city hustle. The grounds are absolutely stunning, Paloma the horse and the other animals are a joy. The food is really tasty, fresh and all veggie! Muchísimas gracias Sandra y al resto del equipo, me encantaría volver pronto 💛💛
Stayed in Jul 2026
9.7
P
Paige
Couple, 25-30, USA
Absolutely loved my time at La Perla Negra. The owner and staff were so lovely. The food was fantastic and location was perfect for walking to a waterfall or an easy Tuktuk to town.
Stayed in May 2026
10
A
Anonymous
Female, 31-40, Australia
Most tranquil and beautiful place I’ve ever stayed at. The river at the property is breathtaking - nicest waterhole I’ve ever seen in South America. So many birds and a white horse that is healing. Camilla the host was the most positive and kind person. The women who worked there helped me when I was sick. Great food at affordable prices. Delicious free breakfast
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Location

VDA SAN MIGUEL ZN, San Rafael, Colombia
4.6km from city centre