Karma Backpackers Hostel Kestell Exterior photoKarma Backpackers Hostel Kestell Exterior photoKarma Backpackers Hostel Kestell Exterior photo
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From31US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Piet Retief Street, Kestell, South Africa, 9860
-
Close to local restaurants
Great
8.5
/10
3.0
4.6
/5

Accommodations

The hotel can accommodate up to 17 guests across its cozy rooms. It features three double bedrooms, a family room for four, and a dormitory that admits six. This intimate setting allows for a friendly and communal atmosphere among travelers.

Dining

Karma Backpackers offers an exceptional food experience with Vera Ann's award-winning homemade jams available for all guests. Free daily offerings include coffee, tea, and seasonal vegetables from the hotel's garden. Breakfast options include vegetarian muffins, pancakes, and homemade yogurt at an additional cost.

Location

Conveniently situated near the Drakensberg mountains, the hotel serves as the closest hostel to the Tugela Falls hike, Africa's highest waterfall. It is strategically placed along the principal backpackers' route, providing easy access to notable attractions. This includes the enchanting Golden Gate National Park and various hiking trails.

Outdoor Facilities

Outdoor relaxation areas enhance the experience, with a garden and barbecue facilities available for guest use. After a day of exploring, visitors can unwind in a spacious bathtub. The property provides multiple spots for socializing and enjoying the beautiful summer weather.

Guided Adventures

Guests can partake in guided hikes with Zee, a highly-regarded mountain guide known for her expertise in the Drakensberg region. Hiking options range from day trips to extended adventures like the Grand Traverse, offering breathtaking views and remarkable experiences. The hotel also organizes visits to the historical and scenic sites nearby.

Highlights

Accommodations: Three double bedrooms and one family room

Dining: Award-winning homemade jams and seasonal vegetables

Location: Closest hostel to Tugela Falls hike

Outdoor Facilities: Barbecue facilities and garden

Guided Adventures: Hiking options with renowned guide Zee

Must-do experiences

  • Savor traditional Bunny Chow at the local Kestell eatery.
  • Visit the historic Kestell Village for a glimpse of local culture.
  • Hike to the scenic Lothair's Falls for stunning nature views.
  • Check out the vibrant Kestell Farmers Market on Saturdays.
  • Enjoy a game of rugby at the nearby local sports fields.
View all

Select your room type

Karma Backpackers Hostel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Family Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet 
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Shower
Heating
Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet 
4 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Double Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Karma Backpackers Hostel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • No pets allowed
  • Luggage storage
  • Fireplace

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Shared kitchen

Services

  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

  • Picnic area/ Tables

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Self-catering

  • Shared kitchen

Media

  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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Karma Backpackers Hostel Location

Piet Retief Street, Kestell, South Africa, 9860
Map view
Piet Retief Street, Kestell, South Africa, 9860
Nearby
Kestell Golf Club
3300 ft
Explore Kestell
Local Experiences Around Karma Backpackers
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Kestell Golf Club
Kestell Golf Club
5-minute drive
Kestell Golf Club, a picturesque 9-hole course, offers stunning views and is ideal for golfers of all skill levels.
Hiking at Golden Gate Highlands
30-minute drive
Hiking trails in Golden Gate Highlands offer breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.
Relaxation at Kestell Spa
7-minute walk
Kestell Spa provides a calming environment for massages and treatments, ensuring a tranquil experience for guests.
The Local Grill
10-minute walk
The Local Grill serves delicious South African dishes in a cozy setting, popular for its steak and boerewors rolls.
Linda's Kitchen
12-minute walk
Linda's Kitchen offers hearty meals and vegetarian options, with a welcoming atmosphere and local favorites.
Kestell Community Hall
15-minute walk
Community events at Kestell Hall include markets and movie nights, fostering a vibrant local culture for all ages.
Jubez Lounge
5-minute drive
A popular bar with live music twice a week, Jubez Lounge is perfect for enjoying the local nightlife and entertainment.
Getting around
City Centre
Kestell20 min  ·  1.0 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 12:00-22:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hostel rooms for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of ZAR 50 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Italian, Afrikaans
Number of rooms:
13

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Karma Backpackers Hostel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 7 verified reviews
9.1/10
Perfect
100%
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.5/10
Comfort
8.8/10
Facilities
8.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
8.4/10
Staff
9.0/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Guest reviews
based on 18 reviews
8.5/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Karma Backpackers
What are the check-in and check-out times at Karma Backpackers?
Check-in is from 12:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
What is the closest golf club to Karma Backpackers?
The Kestell Golf Club is located 2 km from the property.
What accommodation amenities does Karma Backpackers provide?
All units are equipped with a seating area, shared bathrooms, iron facilities, and some offer mountain views.
Is parking available at Karma Backpackers?
The property offers free private parking on-site.
What dining options are available at Karma Backpackers?
A continental breakfast is served, and guests can use the shared kitchen for other meals.
What are some nearby attractions to Karma Backpackers?
Nearby attractions include Golden Gate Highlands National Park (48 km) and Basotho Cultural Village (34 km).
What activities can guests enjoy at Karma Backpackers?
Guests can engage in hiking and walking tours in the surrounding area.
What are the payment methods accepted at Karma Backpackers?
The hotel accepts Visa and MasterCard.

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Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room