Explorer Backpackers — Hotel in Gauteng

I recently stayed at this hostel and had a genuinely mixed experience. On the positive side, the facilities are impressive. The building is spacious, with plenty of bathrooms on each floor—something you really come to appreciate in a hostel setting. The bathrooms were kept clean throughout my stay, and the beds themselves were also fresh and comfortable, which initially gave me a great impression.

Unfortunately, the good facilities were seriously overshadowed by how poorly the dormitory rules are enforced. Despite clear house rules about no food in the dorms, people were constantly eating inside very late at night—I’m talking past midnight—bringing in strong and often very unpleasant smells. This created a deeply uncomfortable sleeping environment. One night, I woke up to the overpowering odor of curry food being eaten just above my bed. It wasn’t a one-off incident either—it happened multiple nights.

Even after I switched dorms in hopes of finding a more respectful group of roommates, the issue persisted. Sleep became a struggle, and rest—something that should be a given in a place like this—was nearly impossible.

Another major downside is that a significant number of guests appear to be long-term or permanent residents. Many of them have cluttered up the shared space with their belongings, and in several cases, hygiene was not a strong suit. This permanent-resident dynamic changes the atmosphere entirely and detracts from the sense of community and openness that you usually expect in a hostel. It felt more like invading someone else’s messy room than sharing a temporary space with fellow travelers.

It’s a shame, because with better staff oversight and enforcement of basic rules, this place could be exceptional. As it stands, I can’t recommend it to...

On the 22nd of August I made a reservation at this backpackers. Unfortunately I could not access my emails on my phone so I needed to connect to the WiFi. The owner was so rude he said I couldn't use his WiFi for "free" even though my reservation was confirmed. When I told him I would prefer he spoke to me about my reservation at reception instead of doing so in front of other guest he completely lost it and got annoyed and told me that I have to leave his house. Threw my bags out on the streets. I was traveling from Cape Town and had landed in Johannesburg in the late evening. No other places reserved and completely left out in the street. I went to the restaurant adjacent called Andiccio so I can connect to the WiFi and make calls, the next thing I know the owner comes to the restaurant and started berating and publicly cussing me. This is all because I asked to use WiFi so I can get the booking which they couldn't confirm because their computer was broken and because I asked to be engaged more privately.

The owner came to the restaurant a second time with his girlfriend who tried to ease the tension but the owner still couldn't control himself. Needless to say I didn't stay there. Thankfully. They said they will refund my money but now my calls go unanswered.

I found the establishment to be unprofessional and lacking hospitality...

The owner is very fun and knowledgeable! He gave us tips about all of South Africa, including what to do in Kruger National Park, what do to on our drive to Cape Town, as well as things to do in Cape Town. The area that the hostel is in feels completely safe with good and close options for restaurants, bars, and grocery stores. The hostel itself is newly renovated and very clean. The kitchen is big an fully stocked. The beds are big and comfortable with plenty of outlets per bed. There is also a bar in the backyard for guests. It was only a little difficult to find since there was no sign. It looks just like a house in the neighborhood, but the address online is correct and all you have to do is ring the doorbell and the gate. So don't pass it by and stay there! I would 100% recommend Explorer Backpackers for anyone staying in...