M & B Backpackers

I checked out on 06mar25 after three nights here. I’d spent most of my nearly three-week group vacation at another hotel and chose this place to see more of Cape Town City Centre. The location makes it easy to walk to lots of restaurants and shops or markets, and the front door is locked for security, which I appreciated. Customer service was wonderful and helpful. My private room was a comfortable size and reasonably priced. Laundry was also decent and affordable, though a few clothes came back with white residue, as if the dryer’s plastic had burnt onto them. This place feels much better suited to backpackers than to a longer stay, and it isn’t quiet. The walls are thin, so you hear activity around the City Centre as well as throughout the accommodation. I’ve stayed in similar guesthouses and hostels in other states and countries over the years. There are stairs up to the top floor, so it isn’t wheelchair accessible. If you want peace and quiet, I’d look for another hotel or lodging. For socializing and exploring City Centre, this is a good option.

There’s no real cooking space, so you’ll need to buy food and eat out or bring it in. The dorms are separated into men’s and women’s rooms, but the showers and bathrooms don’t smell great. The place felt generally unclean, and the dorm beds weren’t made or the bedding changed often. It seemed like the same bedding was put on for new guests. They also overbooked other guests, didn’t seem to keep track of who was arriving or leaving, and there’s no truly safe parking. I wouldn’t recommend it.

I’ll definitely come back next time I’m in Cape Town. The staff were so welcoming and friendly, especially the woman on the night shift and the man on the morning shift, who were both especially kind and helpful. I really appreciated them. This was the best hotel I’ve ever stayed at.

Florence, who I call my mama, is the loveliest person to be welcomed and cared for by. The place is clean and always feels welcoming. I’d recommend this venue to anyone visiting Cape Town.