What is the Santa Fe hostel, and why does it still draw budget travellers in 2025?
The Santa Fe hostel—officially the Santa Fe International Hostel at 1412 Cerrillos Rd.—is a volunteer‑run, cash‑only nonprofit that’s been welcoming backpackers, students, and road‑trippers for more than 30 years with dorm beds from $25 and a communal, “pitch‑in” vibe just 1.5 miles from the historic Plaza.
Room Types & 2025 Prices
| Room | 2025 nightly rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dormitory bunk | $25 | Male & female dorms; shared bath |
| Private w/ ensuite | $40 single · +$15 each extra adult | Shower in room; up to six guests |
| Private w/ half‑bath | $35 single | Toilet/sink in room, shared shower |
| Efficiency apartment | $45 (1 pax) · $60 (2 pax) | Kitchenette + private bath |
| Group rate | $15 pp (15 + people) | Subject to availability |
Heads‑up: a two‑night minimum applies year‑round, and payment is cash, traveller’s cheques or money order only—no cards accepted.
House Rules You Must Know
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Cash‑only desk & $10 key deposit (refundable).
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Out‑of‑town ID required—locals within ≈ 2 hrs of Santa Fe are turned away.
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DIY chores: guests strip beds & join a quick morning clean‑up.
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Quiet hours 11 p.m.–8 a.m.; common areas close at 11 p.m. except front patio.
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Check‑in window noon–9:30 p.m.; late arrivals only by prior phone arrangement.
Location & Getting Around
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Distance to Santa Fe Plaza: ~1.5 mi / 25‑min walk; city bus stops at the door.
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Quick access from I‑25 exit 278; free off‑street parking on‑site.
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Neighborhood perks: grocery stores, cafés, and the Rail Runner station all lie within a mile.
How Travellers Rate the Santa Fe Hostel
| Platform | Score (May 2025) | |
|---|---|---|
| Hostelworld | 7.6 / 10 (310 reviews) – great value, friendly staff, dated facilities | |
| TripAdvisor | 3.4 / 5 (69 reviews) – love‑it‑or‑hate‑it rustic charm | |
| Yelp | 3 ★ average – praise for price, some complaints on cleanliness |
Pros & Cons at a Glance
👍 Pros
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Cheapest beds in the city; group rate unbeatable
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Lively communal kitchen & courtyard
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Free Wi‑Fi and ample parking
👎 Cons
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Cash only and no same‑day card bookings
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Guests do their own cleaning
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Facilities feel “well‑worn,” per several 2025 reviews
Booking & Money‑Saving Tips
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Mail‑in deposit or book via Hostelworld/Airbnb (adds a small fee) if you need card protection.
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Bring exact cash to dodge Santa Fe’s sparse ATMs near Cerrillos Rd.
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Pack a sleeping liner & towel—linen supply is limited in peak festivals.
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For quiet, ask for a rear private room away from the main road traffic.
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Traveling in August (Indian Market)? Pay in full up‑front—refunds are not given that week.
FAQ
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How much is a dorm bed at the Santa Fe Hostel?
Dorm bunks cost $25 per night as of May 2025. -
Is the hostel within walking distance of downtown?
Yes—about 1.5 miles (25 minutes) to the Santa Fe Plaza, or a quick bus ride. -
Can I pay with a credit card?
No. The desk accepts cash, money orders, or traveller’s cheques only; bring cash to avoid an ATM detour. -
Are linens and Wi‑Fi included in the price?
Yes—sheets, pillow, blanket, and basic Wi‑Fi are included; towels are available but limited. -
Is parking available on site?
Free off‑street parking is provided for all registered guests.
Whether you’re road‑tripping Route 66 or backpacking the Southwest, the Santa Fe hostel offers a wallet‑friendly base with a dash of communal nostalgia—just be ready to pitch in, pay cash, and embrace its delightfully old‑school spirit.
