THE BIG - Luxury Backpackers

Solo women consistently highlight the genuinely attentive staff and the social but calm atmosphere that attracts a mixed-age crowd. The location lets you walk to the Waterfront during the day, and breakfast is ready before 7am. A few note it runs pricier than a typical hostel.

• The age range of guests stands out, with one noting it matters when you are 30 or older, describing it as a 'not so hostel' experience rather than a party scene.
• The staff by name, including Jocelin, Chantelle, Abdul, and John, as genuinely helpful from arrival through to departure, assisting with activity planning and local recommendations.
• One reviewer highlighted that towels are changed and beds are made daily, giving the stay a more looked-after feel than a typical hostel.
• The free breakfast specifically: the kitchen team is ready before 7am with fresh fruit, bread, and coffee, and guests can cook their own eggs using provided pans.
• One woman said the hostel is walkable to both the Waterfront and Sea Point during the day, and specifically recommended a nearby spot called Giovanni's.
• The common areas attract guests who want genuine conversation and connection rather than a party atmosphere, with multiple reviewers describing it as easy to meet people even if you are shy.
• At least one reviewer stayed in a balcony room, which was noted as a highlight of the accommodation.
• The staff actively help organise excursions, including hikes up Table Mountain and shark diving experiences, through guides and organisations they have vetted.
• Common areas and rooms are described as consistently clean, with the cleaning team credited specifically for maintaining that standard daily.
• The hostel is walkable to both the V&A Waterfront and Sea Point during the day.

A read of 314 guest reviews. These reviews do not record who wrote them, so nothing here is attributed to women.