Outeniqua Backpackers - Hostel in George, South Africa

Outeniqua Backpackers is well-loved for it's affordable (never cheap!) accommodation. Clean, cosy and convivial it has become a well known meeting place for independent travellers from all over the world. Ignore the grumpy owner (who is capable of faking a friendly smile now and again) and rather mix with the adventurous young guests. The style is like spotting your professor in his t-shirt. You will encounter professionalism where it matters, but without losing the free flowing gentleness of a relaxed stay. Be warned. They are unashamedly snobbish. They won't ask you for a lot of money but they will require a lot of attitude, values and intellect.

Off course it is a huge risk to be the most affordable accommodation in George. Instead of interesting (NO! Weed smoking drunks are not interesting), adventurous, articulate, intelligent, civilized, well educated, responsible, well read, eccentric, soft spoken, budget travellers that they try to attract they might end up with the 'cheap-accommodation-seekers-squad' (people throwing empty coke tins from their car windows). Since the focus in a backpackers is on the communal areas (TV room, kitchen and braai) where all the guests can socialise and philosophise about sophisticated topics the 'cheap-squad' will hopefully soon feel out of touch. Outeniqua Backpackers is meant for people who are willing to lose the chocolate on the bed and rather spent money on a bottle of quality wine and happy laughter.

Although the 3 star grading is an indication that you will probably not catch any nasty diseases, backpackers have always been more concerned about vibe and atmosphere than 3-ply toilet paper. Although they are licensed to sell liquor the guests are not licensed to misbehave once they've taken some.

They are situated in the central part of town within walking distance to shopping centres and nightlife spots.

At Outeniqua Backpackers they offer daytrips to the Kango Caves, ostrich farms and all other gems of the Klein Karoo. You are free to make up your own itinerary for the day. Dawie, the owner, will drive you around in safety and air-conditioned comfort.

They provide travellers transport to the most romantic little bay and surfing beach in the world, Victoria Bay. Victoria Bay is only a 10 minute drive from the backpackers.

Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Outeniqua Mountains on a bicycle. Cycle down the historic Montagu Pass (completed in 1844) back to Outeniqua Backpackers. It is a 15km trip of which 95% is downhill.

On a warm day go for a paddle on the Kaaimans river. A 80m paddle with the canoe brings you to a beautiful waterfall or a 500m paddle takes you to the famous Kaaimans bridge where the river flows into the Indian ocean.

They offer advice and bookings for a wide range of adventure activities.

They offer a FREE shuttle service to and from the George Airport. Free internet. They will do your laundry for a small fee on request. FREE coffee and tea is available 24/7 in the communal kitchen. All bedding is provided as part of your fee.

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