Mamallena ticks all the right boxes in terms of what it offers as a hostel : reasonable dorm beds and private rooms ($11/27 per night), inclusive breakfast (DIY pancakes for guests to prepare in the communal kitchen), free internet access (and Wi-fi for guests with laptops), and spacious indoor and outdoor communal areas where guests can relax or watch movies. But Hostel Mamallena goes well beyond the basics. The exceptionally helpful staff can not only assist with giving directions and booking cabs, but can also arrange sailing trips around San Blas and onto Colombia. Guests can borrow a whole range of up-to-date travel guides from the remarkably well-stocked bookshelf. Mamallena also calls itself ‘the hostel with no rules’ and backpackers tired of being presented with lists of ‘dos and don’ts’ at other establishments are likely to find the more relaxed and trusting atmosphere refreshing -  there’s even a help yourself ‘honesty’ box system. What’s more, people don’t seem to abuse it, and the place seems clean, calm and welcoming.

Panama City is a big place and guests at the hostel will need to take fairly long cab or bus journeys if they want to see the Miraflores locks or get to or from the airport. However, San Felipe (or ‘Casco Viejo’ – the old part of the city) is within walking distance of Mamallena and the neighbourhood has supermarkets and ATMs nearby.

Location:
Casa 7, 62 Calle Primavera, Perejil
Panama City, Panama

Hostel Types:
Mix dorm, Private rooms ensuite or with shared bathrooms, Hostel

This Hotel is: Budget

Hotel Amenities, Services and Facilities Bar, Breakfast Included, Community Kitchen, Laundry Service, Internet Facilities - Free, 24-Hour Reception, Safe in Reception or Rooms, Travel Info Desk, Lounge, Book Exchange - Free, Airport Pickup - Extra Charge, Linens Included, Taxes Included in Price, Wifi

Currencies accepted
US dollar

Getting There:
The hostel website gives detailed instructions on how to get there from various different locations (domestic airport, international airport, bus station etc.).

Room Prices:
Lower:$US 11
Higher:$US 27
Price Description:Prices include tax.

Contact Information:
Phone: (507) 6676 6163
E-mail: mamallenapa(at)remove-this.yahoo.com
URL: www.mamallena.com

By Felicity Runchman

I'm an open-minded and adventurous spirited British female traveller, taking a year off work at present to explore Latin America. So far I've...

Created: 20 Jan 2009

Updated: 21 Jan 2009