Review

La Perla Negra Eco-Lodge & Hostel, San Rafael: a hostel with a river beach

It is the most reviewed place to stay in the municipality on Booking.com. It pairs hostel-style rooms with a beach area on the river, something few hostels in Antioquia can offer.

The Guatapé river current among rocks in San Rafael
Guatapé river water, beside the road to San Rafael. Photo: Alejandro Rojas (SajoR) / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Location

Its listing says "7 km from San Rafael" on the main road from Guatapé; in a straight line, using its coordinates, it is 4.6 km. It sits between town and the La Araña sector, so Charco La Oscura is a short ride away. The Medellín bus passes the door.

What it advertises

Illustration: country breakfast with arepa, eggs and coffee
The listed breakfast has vegetarian and vegan options. Illustrative AI-generated image

The score in context

9.5 from 146 comments as of October 18, 2026: a high score with plenty of volume, a rare combination in a small town. Keep in mind what "hostel" means: there may be shared rooms, so check the room type for each rate.

Alternatives

For a more private room on the same road, Eco Hotel Río de Oro has a hot tub and spa. To keep saving, see budget and hostels; for more lodges between forest and river, glamping and ecolodges.

Frequently asked questions

Is La Perla Negra in town?
No. It is on the Guatapé road, 7 km from San Rafael according to its listing.
Does it have river access?
Yes. Booking.com marks a private beach area and riverside lodging.

Sources

Checked on October 18, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.