Value rating: *

Our advise for travelers considering whether or not to spend a night at the Gibela Backpackers in Durban, South Africa? Give this one a pass. It is radically overpriced ($55.00 USD for a double room with a shared bathroom) considering the fact that nearby backpackers lodges are at least one-third the price. While the double rooms are very clean, the neighborhood is safe, and the breakfasts are excellent, the rooms are small, the bathrooms are shared, and there is no air-conditioning and no television. It is probably the worst value for any place we’ve stayed in Southern Africa (we felt like suckers and were the only people staying at the entire place). Also, they try to nickel and dime you every step along the way, such as charging quadruple the prices you'll find at local internet cafés for very slow internet access. With that said, the staff is very friendly and helpful. They go out of their way to be kind, helping to arrange tours and ensuring you are having an enjoyable stay. There is a laundromat, Spar grocery store (the on-site kitchen allows you to cook whatever you want), and a great Thai restaurant. The hostel is also in easy walking distance from Europa, where you can get free high-speed Wi-Fi. It is a very short cab ride (or even walk) to the bus station.