Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema

With only a few days before I was due to arrive, the hotel cancelled my confirmed reservation and blamed an issue with my credit card. My card works fine and my bank verified it, so that explanation didn't add up. When I reached out, they just said they were sold out and offered no alternative or help. Rooms then appeared available again at much higher prices. That left me with the impression that they may have cancelled my booking to resell the room for more, which felt extremely unfair. I was left without a place to stay at the last minute and faced much higher prices elsewhere. This was unprofessional and very disappointing. I can't recommend the hotel after this experience.

We booked a 6-bed mixed dorm but were put in a 10-bed mixed one instead. The location was good, just a 200m walk to Ipanema beach, and the dorm was neat and clean with an ensuite bathroom. The staff were very friendly.

It's a small hostel right beside Ipanema beach, with amazing staff, good breakfast, free caipirinhas, and activities for travelers. But the beds and rooms weren't cleaned regularly, and the small rooms next to the street made it hard to sleep. I wish the hostel enforced its rules more with guests. It's okay if you're looking to party all the time.

The friendly atmosphere was the best part. Guests were nice to each other, and the service and breakfast were good. The location is perfect, between the Leblon and Ipanema districts and one block from Ipanema beach. I'd strongly recommend this youth hostel to anyone traveling alone and visiting Rio for less than a week.