tourist attractions in cali colombia

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20 EPIC Things To Do in Cali Colombia (that Most Travelers Miss)

By: Author Mitch Glass

Posted on Last updated: November 28, 2023

“Cali?”

“That’s the city I have to bus through to get down into Ecuador, right? I’ll probably just stop for a night to break up my journey. I heard there’s not much to see…”

Talk to anyone about their Colombia itinerary , and that’s the response you’ll likely get.

And it’s a shame, really.

Medellin, Cartagena and Bogota get all the attention, while Cali—the Salsa Capital of the World— is overlooked.

Well, that ends today.

I’m about to show you why Cali is a city NOT be missed. 

While not the most touristic (or prettiest) city in Colombia, there are loads of fun things to do in Cali Colombia.

It has a special charm and a weird way of sucking people in (said the guy who came for a weekend and ended up staying for 3+ years).

So, whether you’re planning an extended stay or just passing through, here are some awesome activities that’ll make Cali worth your while. 

Table of Contents

Cali Colombia Map

#1 – enjoy the “pizza path” up to cristo rey, #2 – take salsa classes, #3 – dance at the salsa clubs, #4 – get “wow-ed” at a salsa show, #5 – explore the san antonio neighborhood, #6 – check out the cali zoo , #7 – float down the river in san cipriano, #8 – go luxury glamping, #9 – go trekking, #10 – climb cerro de las tres cruces, #11 – stroll along cali river and visit “the cat and his girlfriends”, #12 – taste local foods, #13 – treat yourself to a fancy meal, #14 – experience “la galeria” local market.

• #15 – Relax (or party) at a “finca“

#16 – People-watch at the Pance River

#17 – chill at chorrera del indio, #18 – celebrate in “la feria de cali”, #19 – exercise with locals at ciclovia, #20 – go bird-watching, cali colombia tourist attractions checklist, best hostels in cali colombia, best hotels in cali colombia, airbnbs in cali, cali colombia safety tips, cali colombia travel guide recap.

Before jumping into the list of cool places to visit in Cali Colombia, take a quick peek at this map to help orient yourself. I’ve added pins for all the sites I mention around the city.

Best Things to Do in Cali, Colombia (+ Secret Spots)

First off, if you prefer seeing some of these places with your own eyes, check out the Cali video guide we made. If you’re planning a trip to the city, there’s some important tips in there:

Alrighty, and without further ado — let’s dive into the fun stuff!

Cristo Rey (Christ the King) is Cali’s version of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue that overlooks the city. 

It’s beautiful. 

Not just the statue itself, but also the view of the city.

And it gets even better.

On the path up to Cristo Rey — what I call the “Pizza Path” — you’ll find thousands of delicious pizzerias with stunning views of the city. (Ok, maybe not thousands, but like 20).

Here’s my advice.

Cristo Rey is normally open from 9am-7pm on weekdays and 9am-8pm on weekends. But if I were you, I would shoot to arrive around 5pm.

That way, you won’t have to endure the afternoon heat, you can catch the sunset, and best of all, you can grab some dangerously cheesy pizza for dinner afterward.

Out of all the things Colombia is known for , salsa dancing is up there at the top. And the best place to dance salsa?

Cali’s claim to fame is salsa. The city lives and breathes it. From taking salsa lessons, to partying in salsa discotecas, to enjoying impressive salsa shows — if you like dancing, Cali is the city for you. 

There are hundreds of salsa schools in Cali. And depending on where you go, you can find daily group classes for as little as 8,000 pesos and private lessons for 50,000. 

Note: Exchange rates are constantly fluctuating in Colombia, but $1 USD is equal to roughly 4,500 to 5,000 Colombian pesos so far in 2023. Check Google for the latest rates.

Some popular schools are Joy Dance, Manicero, Arrebato, Swing Latino, and Salsa Pura. Many hostels offer free (albeit very basic) salsa lessons as well.

Salsa dancing is hands-down one of the best things to do in Cali Colombia (I’d even say it was one of my best experiences in South America as a whole). If you come to Cali and don’t dance, you’re missing out.

If you’re like me, it may even turn into one of your go-to hobbies while exploring the globe .

After you take a few lessons, you’ll probably want to test them out on the dance floor. And let me tell you, there’s no shortage of options here. 

You can find popular places to dance salsa every night of the week. There are literally hundreds (if not thousands) of discotecas for you to get a taste of Cali Colombia nightlife.

If you’re only in Cali for a few nights, I’d recommend La Topa Tolondra. It’s the most popular salsa bar in town and will give you a genuine Cali Colombia salsa experience. 

If you have more time, you can also visit my list of “honorable mention” salsa clubs—Zaperoco, Tin Tin Deo, MalaMaña, and Salsa al Parque (“Salsa at the Park” – a monthly event)

Discotecas within the city limits close at 4am. That said, if you’re looking to party ALL night, just head outside the city to Menga or Juanchito, where the party never ends. ( Note : These places are best visited with a Colombian friend who can help you avoid sketchy areas.)

Basically, if you looking for what to do in Cali at night…you’re spoiled for options.

But what if you’ve got two left feet and would rather just watch other people dance?

Well, there’s something for you too. 

There are a handful of remarkable salsa shows where you can go to eat, drink, and enjoy the best professional dancers of Cali (and the world). The most popular show is called Delirio—a salsa-circus hybrid.

Delirio performs once per month and is probably the best “Cali-style” salsa show on earth. It’s a little pricey, but it’s definitely a show you’ll never forget.

Cali isn’t as touristic as some other Colombian cities. But most travelers who do visit tend to stay in the San Antonio neighborhood. It’s the “historical zone” of Cali, where all the houses still have traditional architecture.

It has a different feel from the rest of the city. I want to say that feeling is “quaint”…

But when the park and streets are jam-packed full of people and motorcycles on weekends, it loses a bit of that quaintness (great for people-watching though).

In San Antonio, you’ll find basically everything you need. Hostels, Airbnbs, salsa dancing schools, shops to buy interesting souvenirs , and all sorts of creative bars and restaurants. 

There are also many comfy cafes with fast wifi (my favorites are Pao, Corinne, and Tostaky) — perfect for digital nomads or those who have jobs that involve travel .

Speaking of digital nomads, here is a video we made on the pros and cons of digital nomad life in Colombia. Really, it applies to any type of traveler thinking about coming to Colombia—not just digital nomads:

Best of all, San Antonio is close to La Topa Tolondra (#1 salsa bar)—perfect for those who want to showcase their new salsa skills at the club.

The Cali Zoo (Zoologico de Cali) is known to be the most beautiful in all of Colombia. 

And it’s not your typical zoo.

I’m normally not a big fan of caged animals. But here, the animals have more freedom than any zoo I’ve been to. Many of the 233+ different species even roam around free. 

Add to that the fact that the Cali River runs straight through the zoo, and it feels like you’re walking right through the jungle.

The zoo is open from 9am – 4:30pm and is located on the west side of Cali.  

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San Cipriano is a unique, off-the-beaten-path day trip for those looking for adventure (and river tubing).

The cool thing about San Cipriano is that the journey to get there is just as exciting as the place itself. 

Let me explain.

This is a jungle town. Meaning, it is literally in the middle of the jungle. As far as I know, there are no roads in or out.

So how do you get there?

The answer:

Moto-brujas (roughly translated to “motorcycle witches”)

Picture a motorcycle hooked to a cart-full of people, flying down rickety train tracks (that are still used by trains). 

That’s a moto-bruja. And that’s how you get to San Cipriano.

To get to the entrance to San Cipriano, catch a bus from the Cali bus terminal headed to Buenaventura. Tell them you’re going to San Cipriano (the stop you need to take is called Zaragoza). 

The bus ride takes about 2 hours.

There are some awesome Colombia glamping experiences scattered all over the country. We recently tried our first glamping up in the mountains right outside of Cali.

It was spectacular to say the least!

As you can imagine, this isn’t the cheapest place to stay in Colombia, but it’s definitely worth the splurge. And when you compare it to what a “normal” hotel costs in the US, it’s not so bad.

It is located about an hour outside of Cali (depending on the type of vehicle you use for the unpaved road). You can rent a car, take a taxi, or if you’re adventurous, take the local “chiva” bus.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for peace and quiet, I highly recommend visiting on a weekday. Weekends are when Colombians go to the mountains to party, and they love blasting their music so the rest of the mountain can hear.

This particular place is called Glamping Villa Luces, but glamping has become super popular in Colombia, so you can probably find places similar to this all over the country.

There are plenty of adventurous treks in and around Cali. However, these trails aren’t always well-marked and many people have gotten lost.

That’s why these days, a guide is REQUIRED for most treks.

One (somewhat strenuous) trek I highly recommend is called Pico de Loro

I did it through a company called PicoLoro Ecotourism. They have regular hikes scheduled that you can join. The downside is they’re a bit more expensive than finding your own local guide directly.

Another option for finding treks is to check out the social media pages of local hiking groups. There are lots of them, but here’s a few to get you started: Nomadas de la Montana, Guiafarallones, and Caminantessinlimites

If you’re looking for an overnight or weekend trip from Cali, I highly suggest checking out the Cocora Valley trek near Salento (4 hr bus ride)—one of my absolute favorite places in all of Colombia.

This one’s for those of you who love trekking but are short on time. 

You can climb up to Cerro de Las Tres Cruces (Three Cross Hill) to a beautiful viewpoint in less than an hour. And the best part is, the hike starts from right within the city. 

However, there are some safety considerations to consider before setting off. We don’t want you to become another negative hiking statistic !

I recommend starting your climb early in the morning between 5:30 – 7am. This is when there are the most people on the trail. And when it comes to hiking in Colombia, the rule of thumb is “safety in numbers.”

If you go mid-day, it’ll be scorching hot and lonely. Not the safest idea. 

Another option is to go at night with a hiking group. These groups leave from the Pacific Mall at 7pm (7pm Colombian time, which really means about 7:30) and climb the mountain with police escorts. The cost is 3,000 pesos. 

( Note : Check the Nomadas de la Montana Facebook page for the most up-to-date information).

When you get to Cali, you might notice a bunch of cat figurines, paintings, and souvenirs all over the place. 

These are all based on a famous cat sculpture, “El Gato” (and his 15 girlfriends), that can be found along the Cali River. 

Here you’ll find a nice walking path where many Caleñas come to exercise. It’s not too far from San Antonio—so if you’re staying there and want to go for a stroll, this is a nice place to stroll to.

After visiting Cali’s famous felines, you can cross the street and grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants (my go-to is the BBQ chicken pizza from Pizzamania with extra cheese. Give it a try. You won’t regret it.)

Speaking of food, Cali’s got some traditional dishes that are pretty darn delicious.

Make sure to try these while you’re here:

• Sancocho – Cali’s typical soup. It’s usually accompanied by chicken, rice, beans, plantains, and sometimes avocado.
• Ensalada de Frutas (Fruit Salad) – This isn’t your ordinary fruit salad. In Cali, fruit salads are not only full of delicious fresh fruit. They’re also loaded with ice cream, shredded cheese, condensed milk, honey, peanuts, and coconut. This might be one of my favorite things in this world. 

• Cholado – A refreshing cup of shaved ice filled with fruits and sugary flavoring. A great place to eat cholados and fruit salads is at Las Canchas Panamericanas. Here you’ll find about a hundred different stands selling basically the same thing. (I always go to “Oasis”, a building across the street from all the tents).
• Aborrajado – Fried plantain with cheese inside (and one of personal favorite Colombian foods ). Yummmmmy! Usually sold at all those little stands that sell empanadas.

If you’re looking for a luxury dining experience, you’ll find Cali Colombia restaurants to be an incredible bargain. You can eat at high-class restaurants for a fraction of what it’d cost in other countries. 

My top three recommendations are:

• Platillos Voladores
• Antigua Contemporanea Cafe

If you’ve never been to a Colombian market before, this is the ultimate local experience you won’t wanna miss.

La Galeria is Cali’s most famous market where you can find pretty much anything you’re looking for — from souvenirs to household supplies to your standard witch potion ingredients.

But my FAVORITE part of La Galeria are the seemlingly endless types of exotic fruits to try. My Colombian father-in-law used to go fruit shopping here every Saturday morning. And each week he’d buy me a bag of fruit I’d never heard of before.

Every week I thought I tried it all, and every week he’d surprise me with something new!

La Galeria is pretty close to Las Canchas Panamericanas (home of the cholados and fruit salads), so if you want the ultimate local culinary experience, combine these two activities together.

#15 – Relax (or party) at a “finca “

“Fincas” are cottages up in the mountains where Colombians go with friends and family to escape the city. (I’m actually writing this from a finca right now!).

They come in all shapes and sizes, but many include pools, jacuzzis, saunas, sports fields, traditional Colombian games, beautiful flowers, lots of animals and pretty birds, stunning mountain views, and cool fresh air.

They’re typically meant for groups, so to get the best price, you’ll want to find some friends to split the cost (brownie points if these are local Colombian friends).

The Pance River (Rio Pance) is one of the most popular weekend hangouts for Colombian families. Since there are no beaches near Cali Colombia, this is the place to cool off and escape the heat.

People love going here to eat Sancocho in restaurants along the river, run along the trails, work out in the exercise parks, and sit in the ice-cold river while drinking Aguardiente (typical Colombian liquor).

If you’re looking for a “local experience,” head here on a Sunday with a group of friends.

It’s located just 20 minutes south of the city itself and can be reached via taxi or MIO (public bus system)

The literal translation for La Chorrera del Indio is “Indian Spring,” but that name doesn’t do it justice. I think a better name for it would be “The Magical Secret Waterfall”.

By “secret”, I mean it’s one of those beautiful places you go to and wonder why there aren’t more people there.

I’ve been there twice. The first time I had the place completely to myself. The second time there was one family having a picnic.

The only explanation I can think of is that nobody wants to pay the 8,000 peso entrance fee (which is ridiculous). You have to pass Rio Pance to get here (which is free), so everyone just goes there instead.

Better for us, right?

The only downside is that it’s hard to get to. If you don’t have access to a car, you’ll have to take a long-ish taxi ride—about 35 minutes outside the city. 

Also, the path to La Chorrera can get congested (AKA absolute madness ) on holidays and weekends—especially Sundays—so keep that in mind.

If you decide to go, bring some food and drinks and have yourself a picnic. There is a sign that says “No alcohol allowed,” but I’ve never been one for following rules 😇.

Each city in Colombia has one big festival it’s known for. Barranquilla has Carnival. Medellin has The Flower Festival. Pasto has The Blacks and Whites Carnival.

In Cali, we have “La Feria de Cali”. 

And it’s epic. 

The best way to describe it is a huge, non-stop, 7-day party to finish out the year. From December 25th to the 31st, the entire city works half-time (if at all), so they can go out and enjoy the events and parties each day.

It starts off with a bang on Christmas Day with the most popular event, Salsodromo. Think of it as the “Carnival of Salsa” (this is the Salsa Capital of the World, after all). 

The highway shuts down, and streets fill with over 500,000 rowdy Caleños—all gathering to watch Cali’s top dance academies perform in the salsa parade.

If you’re thinking about visiting Cali Colombia for La Feria, it’s best to plan early. 

Accommodation tends to book up fast. And if you’re planning on buying a ticket to see Salsodromo from the “paid section”, it’s best to buy a couple months beforehand. (You can buy them on the streets the day of the event, but it’ll cost you more.)

Every Sunday morning from 8am-1pm, the city closes down the roads near Las Canchas Panamericanas and tons of people come out to run, walk, ride bikes, and rollerblade with their families.

There’s also usually some sort of aerorumba instructor on a stage in front of Las Canchas giving free classes.

It’s an awesome atmosphere, so if you’re able to drag yourself out of bed after Saturday Salsa Night, it’s a fun (and healthy) experience.

And after you get your sweat on, you can treat yourself to a refreshing fruit salad ice cream across the street.

(There’s also a popular Sunday Ciclovia in Bogota in case you miss the one in Cali).

Growing up in Michigan, I always thought birds were dumb. Then I got to South America—and WOW!

I never knew such beautiful, exotic birds existed. And guess what?

Cali has more species of birds than any other city in the world! And every February, Cali holds the International Bird Fair where bird-watchers from around the globe come in hopes of spotting them.

So basically, if you’re into birds, Cali is the place to be.

Here’s a handy checklist of the top things to do in Cali Colombia for quick reference. It includes everything we just talked about all in one place. 

 ⃞  Take the “Pizza Path” to Cristo Rey  ⃞  Go to some salsa classes  ⃞  Dance at the top salsa bars  ⃞  Go to a professional salsa show  ⃞  Explore San Antonio  ⃞  Check out the Cali Zoo  ⃞  Float through the jungle in San Cipriano  ⃞  Go trekking  ⃞  Climb Three Cross Hill  ⃞  Stroll along the Cali River  ⃞  Taste the local foods  ⃞  Treat yourself to a fancy meal  ⃞  Experience “La Galeria” local market  ⃞  People-watch at Pance River  ⃞  Chill out at the Indian Waterfall  ⃞  Celebrate in La Feria de Cali  ⃞  Exercise with locals at Ciclovia  ⃞  Go Bird-Watching

How to Get to Cali, Colombia

Now that you know what to do in Cali Colombia, here’s how to get there:

The Cali Colombia Airport (Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport) is actually located in Palmira, a town about 20 km outside of Cali. It’s about a 40-minute drive from the airport to the center of Cali (depending on traffic).

To get to Cali from the airport, you have three options:

• Cheapest option: Take the airport shuttle bus to the Cali bus terminal, then take a taxi from there to your destination
• Mid-range option: Take a taxi or Uber from the airport to your destination (55,000-65,000 pesos)
• Expensive option: Private shuttle

The Cali bus terminal ( Terminal de transporte ) is located on the northern end of the city. 

The three most common cities to bus to Cali from are Bogota, Medellin, or Ipiales (Ecuador-Colombia border crossing).

Bus prices vary based on the season (can double or triple during holidays) and in many cases are negotiable.

I’ve always bought my tickets in the terminal, but some new online booking platforms have recently popped up (like BusBud ) and look awfully convenient.

You can easily check the bus prices for your dates and destinations here .

Where to Stay in Cali, Colombia

As mentioned earlier, San Antonio is the most touristic neighborhood—filled with hostels, restaurants, souvenir shops, etc.

However, there are many other great neighborhoods as well, like Miraflores, El Peñon, and Granada (to name a few). 

When booking hostels, I like to use Booking.com instead of Hostelworld (if possible) because you usually don’t have to pay a deposit and can typically cancel for free if your plans change. That said, some hostels are only listed on Hostelworld.

Hostal Encuentro

• San Antonio neighborhood
• Terraza with sweet view
• Yummy breakfast

Casa Miraflores

• Miraflores neighborhood – Less touristy and quieter than San Antonio
• Closer to Manicero and Joy Dance salsa schools
• Great for co-working

Oasis Cali Hostel

• Miraflores neighborhood
• Close to Parque del Perro (The “Dog Park”) – Lots of restaurants and small discotecas
• Hot tub – Not sure who would want to use this in the Cali heat…

I’m not a hotel guy, but if that’s your style, here are some of the top-rated luxury hotels in Cali. 

Hotel Intercontinental Cali — Fancy and expensive Hotel Spiwak Chipichape Cali — Fancy and really expensive Cali Marriott Hotel — Fancy and really really expensive AcquaSanta Lofts Hotel — Fancy and you-better-be-rich-if-you-wanna-stay-here expensive

 If you want some privacy but don’t feel like shelling out tons of money for a hotel, there are tons of great (and affordable) Airbnbs all over Cali.

If you plan to post up in Cali for a month or more and want an apartment with an amazing view, check to see if this one is available.

Lastly, if you haven’t yet created an Airbnb account, click here to get a free $34+ credit towards your first booking (that’ll get you at least one free night in a cool place).

Don’t draw attention to yourself. Colombians have a saying “No dar papaya” (Don’t give papaya)—it means don’t walk around showing off your valuables (phones, jewelry, money, etc.). If you’re out on the streets, keep it low-key. Avoid walking around at night. Especially in deserted or poorly lit areas. You’re better off taking an Uber for a few bucks. Stick to touristic areas (anywhere on this list). Just like in any city, there are dangerous neighborhoods. Unless you’re with a Colombian friend (or know which neighborhoods to avoid), it’s best to stick to touristic places. Have common sense. Staying safe while traveling in Cali comes down to having common sense. Don’t make yourself a target, and you’ll avoid 99% of problems. Don’t be paranoid. There’s a fine line between being careful and being paranoid. Be careful, but remember—while there are some bad eggs out there, most people are good.  Don’t travel without insurance. Having an accident or sickness without insurance will ruin your trip (it has saved me on multiple occasions ). I’ve happily used World Nomads insurance for years, but recently switched to Safetywing , a much cheaper alternative. See my full Safetywing review , or type in your info below to get an instant quote.

So, you convinced yet?

If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, don’t forget Cali.

Colombia’s other big cities are nice, but everyone goes there. 

Cali is different. Cali is authentic. And, as far as tourism goes, Cali is still basically unexplored.

If you’re looking for a unique experience—an experience that most tourists don’t get—come visit Cali.

Who knows, it might suck you in too.

Mitch is your typical nomadic backpacker. Or at least, he was . But after stopping in Colombia to take “one week” of salsa lessons, his life took a sharp left turn. He met a cute Colombian girl in dance class, fell in love, and got married. Over half a decade has passed since he left his career to travel the world as a digital nomad, and he’s never looked back.

Nowadays, he’s the blogger behind Project Untethered — where he runs an awesome email newsletter and Youtube channel teaching adventure-craved wanderlusters how to escape the rat race, earn money from anywhere, and build an “untethered life”.

His advice has been featured in Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, Reader’s Digest, Condé Nast Traveler, and more.

Mitch's Travel Recommendations: Travel Planning Resources - Everything you need to plan your trip on one convenient page. Going Cheap Flights Newsletter - Get flight deals from your airport up to 90% off sent straight to your inbox. Safetywing Insurance - This cheap travel insurance has saved me over $15,000 in medical bills. Booking.com - Book accommodation without adding your credit card (in case you need to cancel). Trusted House Sitters - Take care of pets in exchange for free (sometimes luxury) accommodation. Flexjobs - Find remote jobs without having to sift through crappy ones. Skillshare - Free trial to take unlimited classes that teach digital nomad skills. Wise - Send and receive money abroad cheaply (great for freelancers).

Lindsey Tsuya

Wednesday 24th of March 2021

Hi! How do you get to do that awesome Glamping? I would love to go!

Hey Lindsey! I just responded to your Youtube comment saying to shoot me an email, but the cheapest way to get to the glamping is to take the bus from Cali. It goes right past the entrance to the glamping and takes around an hour and 20 minutes (ish). I've actually only taken the bus in the other direction (which costs 10mil), so I'm not sure if it's exactly the same. If you're interested, I can find out though. The other option is to hire, which will run you around 100mil in each direction. I can help you find someone who knows the route if you'd like. Finally, if you plan to do more exploring around the area, you might want to rent a car. I've never done this in Colombia myself, so I'm not familiar with prices. Feel free to shoot me an email with any questions!

Thursday 21st of May 2020

Excellent post! I will add some MUST activities, like going to the Galería Alameda to eat pacific delicious food, to go for Cholados at the 9th avenue or Parque del Perro, to go to the Boulevard and have a beer under a typical breezy evening after you visit the cat's girlfriends, and definitely a MUST MUST, the Petronio Álvarez music festival. Believe me, this is an advice from a local ;) .

Wednesday 14th of April 2021

Hello can I get the details on glamping and the motorcycle tour

Definitely going to add those in! Petronio is NUTS!

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Home » Travel Guides » Colombia » 15 Best Things to Do in Cali (Colombia)

15 Best Things to Do in Cali (Colombia)

Cali is the third-largest city in Colombia, and while it might get a bad reputation for crime, it’s actually a lively, fun city where you should be able to stay relatively safe if you know where to go. There’s not much in the way of tourist attractions, but there’s plenty to do, see, and experience in the way of culture, food, neighborhoods, and nightlife.

You can stay active and get moving in several different ways, from salsa dancing in the city where it was born, to hiking up to the best viewpoints in town, to visiting the Río Pance in the nearby national park. Along with a riverside walk right through its downtown, Cali has its share of palm tree-lined plazas, great cuisine, and bustling markets where you can while away the day.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Cali :

1. Go Salsa Dancing

Cali is the birthplace of salsa, so while you’re here it’s pretty much mandatory that you either learn to dance or go out and wing it.

You’ll hear the upbeat music all over the city and there’s plenty of places to take salsa dancing lessons, like El Manicero, Son de Luz, and Swing Latino.

For a real salsa experience with the old pros dancing alongside the tourists, you’ll be spoiled for choice, but check out Zaperoco, Tin Tin Deo, and La Topa Tolondra.

If you’re here between Christmas and New Year’s when the city’s La Feria de Cali takes place, get ready for salsa parades, dancing in the streets and musical performances by famous artists.

If you can’t get enough of salsa (and when it’s good, trust me, you can’t), book ahead to see Cali’s famous salsa circus, Delirio.

These dancers have traveled the world performing, and they only hold shows here on the last weeked of each month, so plan your trip around one! Shows feel like a combination of music, dancing, and Cirque de Soleil with a touch of cabaret.

The salsa dancers are phenomenal, having grown up in Cali’s salsa schools – we’re talking kids and adults performing at the highest level.

Shows are held in a circus-like tent that seats 1,000 and in between acts you’re allowed to get up and dance.

3. Walk Along the Río Cali and Visit the Cat Park

The Río Cali is located in the north of of the city, and along its banks you’ll find pedestrian areas, bike lanes, statues, and shady areas where you can relax.

You’ll also stumble upon Cali’s famous Cat Park, or El Parque del Gato de Tejada, a city improvement project that’s home to a three-ton giant bronze cat donated by Colombian artist, Hernando Tejada.

Today you’ll see an additional 15 smaller cat statues in the park, all painted by local artists.

Parque del Peñon is nearby as well, and all around the area are plenty of places to sit outside with vendors selling ice cream, raspados (sweet, flavored shaved ices), and cold drinks.

4. Capilla La Ermita

This is the church everybody visits in Cali because, architecturally speaking, it’s truly beautiful.

Built in an ornate neo-Gothic style and located in the center of town, construction on the opulent chapel began in 1930 and finished in 1948. The design incorporates Dutch windows, French church bells, Italian marble, and inspiration from a cathedral in Germany.

It’s impossible to miss the bright white exterior and you can venture inside, though it is quite small.

Keep strolling this area for a look at some well-preserved colonial architecture and check out Plaza de los Poetas with its statues of famous writers.

5. Barrio San Antonio

The bohemian neighborhood of Cali, San Antonio is the oldest part of the city and it’s great for a meandering walk through narrow streets.

This is where you’ll find much of the town’s history, with plenty of intricately designed buildings, theaters, and artsy cafes where you can stop for a bite and some people watching.

Previously, lots of Colombian artists and writers lived in this area, but now it’s a hip spot for drinking coffee.

If you head up the hill to the Iglesia San Antonio, you can see the church and get some great views of Cali and the valley below.

6. Eat Local Cali Cuisine

You might’ve tried quite a bit of Colombian food already, but Cali is known for a few of dishes in particular.

You’ll want grab a cholado, those cups of mixed fruit covered in a sweet syrup of condensed milk.

Drink a lulado, a refreshing drink of lulo fruit juice mixed with ice and water.

There’s also pandebono, a simple roll of bread filled with cheese that’s typically eaten for breakfast.

Arroz atollado is a rice dish with pork, chicken, potatoes, and other vegetables.

Champus are the weirdest of them all, a soupy snack made of corn mixed with fruits that you eat with a spoon.

For a food tour that’ll take you out for a taste of Cali cuisine, try Callejeros Tours.

7. Walk up to El Cristo Rey

While it’s not quite as famous as Christ the Redeemer in Rio, this particular statue of Christ stands 26 meters high and it’s well worth a visit for the scenery and the exercise.

You’ll have the best panoramic view of Cali from here, so bring your camera.

It can be a little cooler up on Cerro de los Cristales, so grab a sweater (and some mosquito repellant) while you’re at it.

You’ll find a few vendors who set up shop along the route if you find you need a snack or a fresh juice.

This trip is also great to combine with a visit to the Andoke Mariposario, a beautiful butterfly garden up the road from El Cristo Rey.

8. Zoológico de Cali

The Cali Zoo is one of the most beautiful in South America, and almost everyone recommends a visit here.

With healthy animals, organized exhibits, and clean pathways that make you feel like you’re in the middle of a jungle, it’s a great day out for the whole family.

They have a large collection of animals that are native to Colombia, lots from all over South America, and even lions, tigers, and kangaroos.

The Cali River runs right through it, plus there are fish ponds, native flora, and freely roaming iguanas and peacocks all about.

You’ll probably be here for a while, so they’ve also got places where you can grab a snack or a drink.

9. Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz

This is the place to get a taste of the local Cali vibe, but you can also shop a little while you’re here.

Within the park you can purchase handicrafts from artisans who might even be making stuff right in front of you – prices are reasonable.

You’ll also find lots of cheap bars and restaurants all around where you can get something to eat or drink while you shop or walk around.

There’s usually a little entertainment going on here in the evenings, especially from Thursday onwards, and you could see anything from salsa dancing to live music to storytelling to guinea pig gambling.

10. Río Pance and Parque Nacional Natural Farallones de Cali

This is where locals go to cool off on the weekends.

Head out to Río Pance to enjoy the clear waters, the lush hiking trails, and the excellent birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

If you’re not driving, you can take the public bus for the day.

Pack a picnic and do some swimming or walk along the trails in the national park for great views.

At the bottom is Pance EcoPark, the most popular area with restrooms, food vendors, and a manmade lake.

Further up in La Voragine, the crowds thin out and you’ll have even more dramatic views, a rushing river, and restaurants serving sancocho (a Colombian soup). There are waterfalls, places to spend the night, and more difficult hikes like Pico de Loro if you venture further up the river and into the park.

11. Experience Cali Nightlife

Cali just might have some of the best nightlife in Colombia.

The city has several “Zona Rosas” or areas with a high concentration of buzzing restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Barrio Granada is a popular neighborhood that’s great for dining and partying but it’s a little further out.

La Sexta and the area around it are filled with bars, nightclubs, and salsa dancing (at Zaperoco). Many tourists will stick to the bars around San Antonio, but be sure to head to Parque del Perro at least one night to see where locals and students congregate.

In the center is a park with a statue of a dog (thus the name) where you can occasionally find musicians, artists, and festivals.

But the real attractions here are the surrounding bars, clubs, restaurants with outdoor patios, and people spilling out onto the sidewalks to drink and socialize.

12. Galería Alameda

Go explore a vibrant, authentic, somewhat chaotic market in Cali where you can shop, take photos, and taste test lots of foods! Galería Alameda takes up nearly a whole block and sells exotic fruits, vegetables, herbs, strange cuts of meat, and flowers.

You’ll even see indigenous women selling love potions and alternative medicines.

There are lots of food stalls here where you can try Cali specialties like champus and lulado.

Many restaurants around the market specialize in seafood so be sure to have some Colombian ceviche (the secret ingredient is ketchup!) after you finish browsing.

13. Cerro de las Tres Cruces

This hike is a bit of a challenge, but it’s worth it because the views are incredible from the top.

You can see the Hill of the Three Crosses from almost anywhere in the city, and on Sundays you’ll find lots of locals climbing it for exercise.

Go on weekend mornings and you’ll have plenty of company (don’t do it alone). It should take you about an hour to get to the top, and if you’re feeling super active, there’s an outdoor gym up there too.

The path is well-marked, though it can be a little steep in places.

Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and your camera.

14. Plaza de Cayzedo

The main square in Cali, this palm tree-filled plaza is the heart of the city and a great place to people watch.

Admire the government buildings and national monuments and try some street food amidst the crowds.

You’ll see the Palacio Nacional, San Pedro Cathedral, and Edificio Otero, and you can enjoy a coffee or tinto as you admire the neoclassical architecture.

You’ll be surrounded by a range of characters that includes locals, tourists, lottery ticket salesmen, shoe shiners, dodgy characters, suited up professionals, and street vendors.

15. Hit the Museums

While Cali doesn’t have many touristic sites, it does have its fair share of museums.

Museo La Tertulia is the city’s modern art museum with a small but refreshing collection of artwork and a film library that shows movies regularly.

If you’ve got an automobile or aircraft lover among your crew, check out the Museo Aereo Felix with its transportation exhibits that include full-size planes, trains, tractors, cars, helicopters, and gas pumps.

Finally, you can visit a museum dedicated to the most important crop in the Valle de Cauca, sugarcane.

The Museo de la Caña de Azúcar is located on a beautiful, historic, garden-filled site in the countryside, and it offers tours of the old equipment used to process cane sugar.

15 Best Things to Do in Cali (Colombia):

• Go Salsa Dancing
• Walk Along the Río Cali and Visit the Cat Park
• Capilla La Ermita
• Barrio San Antonio
• Eat Local Cali Cuisine
• Walk up to El Cristo Rey
• Zoológico de Cali
• Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz
• Río Pance and Parque Nacional Natural Farallones de Cali
• Experience Cali Nightlife
• Galería Alameda
• Cerro de las Tres Cruces
• Plaza de Cayzedo
• Hit the Museums

25 Best Things To Do In Cali, Colombia

Cali , known as “La Sucursal del Cielo” (Branch of Heaven), is a vibrant and energetic city located in southwestern Colombia. As the capital of the Valle del Cauca department, Cali offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a lively urban atmosphere.

• Cultural Hub: Cali is renowned for its lively salsa music and dance scene. The city pulsates with infectious rhythms, and its salsa clubs and dance schools attract enthusiasts from around the world. Cali also hosts the Feria de Cali, a week-long festival held in December, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate with parades, concerts, and salsa competitions.
• Colonial Charm: Cali boasts a historic city center filled with colonial architecture, picturesque plazas, and colorful buildings. Strolling through neighborhoods like San Antonio and Granada allows you to admire the city’s architectural beauty and experience its old-world charm. The iconic Cristo Rey statue perched atop a hill offers panoramic views of Cali’s skyline.
• Natural Beauty: Nestled in the Cauca River Valley, Cali is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. The nearby Farallones de Cali National Park provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring cloud forests. The city is also a gateway to the Pacific Coast, offering access to pristine beaches, wildlife-rich mangroves, and the opportunity to spot humpback whales during their migratory season.
• Gastronomic Delights: Cali is a food lover’s paradise, boasting a diverse culinary scene. From traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa and ajiaco to Afro-Colombian delicacies influenced by the nearby Pacific coast, the city tantalizes taste buds with its rich flavors and fresh ingredients. Be sure to sample local street food and visit acclaimed restaurants to savor the culinary delights of Cali.
• Warm Climate and Hospitality: Cali enjoys a tropical savanna climate, characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. This pleasant climate contributes to the city’s vibrant street life and friendly atmosphere. Cali’s residents, known as Caleños, are known for their warmth, hospitality, and enthusiasm for their city’s cultural heritage.

Cali is a city that embraces its heritage while embracing modernity, offering a blend of tradition and progress. With its pulsating salsa rhythms, historic charm, natural wonders, and culinary delights, Cali invites visitors to immerse themselves in its unique cultural tapestry and experience the warmth and vibrancy of Colombian hospitality.

1. Explore the historic neighborhood of San Antonio, known for its colorful houses and bohemian atmosphere

The historic neighborhood of San Antonio is a charming and picturesque area located in the heart of Cali, Colombia. It is known for its vibrant colors, colonial architecture, and bohemian atmosphere.

As you wander through the narrow streets of San Antonio, you’ll be greeted by beautifully painted houses adorned with bougainvillea flowers, creating a delightful and visually appealing ambiance.

The neighborhood is characterized by its artistic and cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, craft shops, and street vendors selling local handicrafts.

San Antonio offers stunning views of the city from its hilltop location, and there are several viewpoints where you can take in the panoramic vistas. One of the most famous viewpoints is the Sebastian de Belalcazar Monument, which offers a sweeping vista of Cali and its surrounding mountains.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, San Antonio is also home to several notable landmarks. The San Antonio Church, with its striking blue and white facade, is a prominent landmark in the neighborhood.

There’s also the Museo La Merced, which houses a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and provides insights into the city’s history.

The neighborhood comes alive in the evenings, with its lively nightlife scene. You’ll find a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

2. Visit the iconic Cali Tower for panoramic views of the city

The iconic Cali Tower , also known as Torre de Cali, is a must-visit attraction in Cali, Colombia. Standing tall at approximately 157 meters (515 feet), it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Located in the Granada neighborhood, the Cali Tower is not only an architectural landmark but also a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

As you ascend to the observation deck, either by elevator or climbing the stairs, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas that showcase the sprawling cityscape, the majestic mountains in the distance, and the Cali River winding its way through the urban landscape.

From the top of the tower, you can take in the vastness of Cali, with its mix of modern buildings, historic neighborhoods, and green spaces. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the nearby Farallones de Cali mountain range.

The observation deck provides a 360-degree view, allowing you to capture memorable photographs and truly appreciate the beauty of Cali from above. It’s a popular spot for sunset views, as the warm colors of the sky paint the city in a magical light.

Inside the Cali Tower, you’ll also find a restaurant and a bar where you can relax and enjoy refreshments while admiring the views. Some visitors choose to dine at the rotating restaurant, which offers a unique experience as it slowly rotates, allowing you to see different perspectives of the city throughout your meal.

3. Take a stroll along the Boulevard del Río, a beautiful riverside promenade with parks, sculptures, and cafes

Taking a stroll along the Boulevard del Río is a delightful experience in Cali, Colombia. Located along the banks of the Cali River, this picturesque riverside promenade offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.

The Boulevard del Río is a popular destination for both locals and visitors who want to enjoy outdoor activities, leisurely walks, or simply relax in a beautiful setting.

As you stroll along the boulevard, you’ll find a well-maintained pathway lined with trees, gardens, and sculptures, creating a pleasant and scenic environment.

The boulevard is divided into different sections, each with its own unique features. Along the way, you’ll come across parks, open spaces, and plazas where you can pause to enjoy the surroundings or sit on a bench and take in the river views. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic, a morning jog, or simply unwinding amidst nature.

The Boulevard del Río also hosts various events and cultural activities throughout the year. You might encounter street performances, art exhibitions, or live music shows as you explore the area, adding an extra touch of liveliness and entertainment to your stroll.

Along the promenade, you’ll find several cafes, restaurants, and food vendors offering a variety of local treats and refreshments. It’s an ideal opportunity to savor Colombian cuisine, enjoy a cup of coffee, or indulge in an ice cream while appreciating the tranquil ambiance of the river.

One of the highlights of the Boulevard del Río is the Puente Ortiz, a bridge that connects both sides of the river. It’s a great spot to capture photographs or simply enjoy the view of the river flowing beneath your feet.

4. Attend a salsa dance class and experience Cali’s vibrant salsa scene

Attending a salsa dance class and immersing yourself in Cali’s vibrant salsa scene is an exhilarating experience. Cali, often referred to as the “Salsa Capital of the World,” is renowned for its rich salsa culture and lively dance scene.

Salsa is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Cali’s identity, and taking a salsa dance class allows you to fully embrace the city’s passion for this energetic dance style.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, there are numerous dance schools and studios throughout the city that offer classes for all skill levels.

During a salsa dance class in Cali, you’ll learn the basic steps, footwork, and rhythmic patterns of salsa. Experienced instructors, often local experts with a deep understanding of the dance style, will guide you through the movements and help you improve your technique. They will also teach you about the cultural significance of salsa in Cali and its roots in Afro-Caribbean music and dance.

Beyond the dance class, the experience extends to the vibrant salsa scene in Cali. The city is dotted with salsa clubs, known as “salsotecas,” where you can witness the infectious rhythms of salsa music and watch talented dancers in action.

These clubs come alive in the evenings, especially on weekends, when locals and tourists gather to dance, socialize, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Immersing yourself in Cali’s salsa scene is an opportunity to witness the passionate and skillful dancing of locals who have grown up with salsa as an integral part of their culture. You may even feel inspired to join in, showcasing your newly acquired dance moves and connecting with fellow salsa enthusiasts.

5. Visit the Museo La Tertulia, an important contemporary art museum

Visiting the Museo La Tertulia is a must for art enthusiasts and culture lovers in Cali, Colombia. As an important contemporary art museum, it showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary artworks, making it a prominent cultural institution in the city.

Located in the traditional neighborhood of San Fernando, the Museo La Tertulia offers a unique and thought-provoking experience. The museum’s architecture itself is an attraction, with its striking design and spacious exhibition halls providing an ideal setting to showcase the artwork.

Inside the museum, you’ll find a wide range of contemporary art pieces including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia artworks. The collection represents both Colombian and international artists, offering a glimpse into various artistic styles, themes, and perspectives.

The Museo La Tertulia frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that feature the works of renowned artists, emerging talents, and thematic showcases.

These exhibitions provide an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge art trends and explore thought-provoking concepts that reflect the dynamic nature of contemporary art.

As you navigate through the museum, you’ll find well-curated galleries that invite contemplation, dialogue, and interpretation.

The museum often organizes educational programs, guided tours, and workshops to deepen the visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the exhibited artworks.

The Museo La Tertulia also serves as a cultural hub, hosting events, performances, and lectures related to contemporary art and culture. It fosters a vibrant and creative atmosphere, attracting artists, scholars, and art enthusiasts from all over the world.

6. Explore the Parque del Perro, a popular park known for its nightlife and restaurants

Exploring the Parque del Perro is a delightful experience in Cali, Colombia. This popular park, known as “Dog Park” in English, is a vibrant and lively gathering spot known for its nightlife, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.

Located in the Granada neighborhood, Parque del Perro is named after the bronze statue of a dog that sits in the center of the park. It serves as a meeting point for locals and visitors, especially during the evenings and weekends when the park comes alive with activity.

One of the highlights of Parque del Perro is its bustling nightlife scene. The park is surrounded by numerous bars, pubs, and clubs that offer a wide range of drinks, live music, and entertainment options. It’s a popular spot for locals to socialize, enjoy a few drinks, and dance the night away.

The park is also renowned for its variety of restaurants and food stalls. You can find a diverse selection of cuisine, including Colombian specialties, international dishes, and street food delights. It’s a great place to indulge in delicious meals, sample local flavors, and experience the culinary diversity of Cali.

Parque del Perro features a vibrant and energetic ambiance, with live music performances, street vendors, and artists showcasing their talents. The park often hosts cultural events, festivals, and art exhibitions, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the surroundings.

During the day, Parque del Perro offers a pleasant setting for relaxation and recreation. You can find shaded areas, benches, and green spaces where you can sit, read a book, or enjoy a picnic. It’s a great place to observe the local life, as people gather to socialize, play sports, or simply take a leisurely stroll.

7. Wander through the Mercado Alameda, a bustling market selling fresh produce, crafts, and street food

Wander through the Mercado Alameda , a vibrant and bustling market that offers a delightful array of fresh produce, crafts, and mouthwatering street food. Located in a lively neighborhood, Mercado Alameda is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

As you step into the market, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant atmosphere filled with the sights, sounds, and aromas of a bustling marketplace.

Colorful stalls line the market, each one brimming with an enticing variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. From ripe, juicy tomatoes to exotic tropical fruits, the produce section showcases a cornucopia of flavors and textures.

Venture further into the market, and you’ll discover a treasure trove of handcrafted goods and unique artisanal products. Skilled local craftsmen and artisans display their creations, including handmade jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and traditional artwork.

Whether you’re searching for a special souvenir or simply appreciate the craftsmanship, the market offers a diverse range of options to suit every taste.

One of the highlights of Mercado Alameda is undoubtedly its street food scene. Countless food stalls and vendors fill the air with enticing aromas as they prepare a wide variety of delicious treats.

From tacos and tamales to freshly grilled seafood and savory empanadas, the market offers a plethora of culinary delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample traditional dishes and savor the authentic flavors of the region.

As you navigate through the market, you’ll also encounter friendly vendors who are happy to share their knowledge and stories.

The lively ambiance, filled with cheerful chatter and occasional live music, adds to the vibrant energy of the place. Take your time to explore, taste the flavors, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural experience that Mercado Alameda has to offer.

8. Discover Cali’s rich history at the Museo Arqueológico La Merced, showcasing pre-Columbian artifacts

Discover Cali’s rich history at the Museo Arqueológico La Merced , where you can explore a captivating collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. Located in Cali, Colombia, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

The Museo Arqueológico La Merced houses a diverse range of artifacts that span various indigenous cultures and time periods.

As you explore the museum, you’ll encounter remarkable pieces from civilizations such as the Calima, Quimbaya, and Tumaco-La Tolita. These cultures thrived in the area long before the arrival of European explorers.

The collection includes exquisite ceramic pottery, intricate gold and silver jewelry, ceremonial masks, and stone sculptures. These artifacts serve as a testament to the advanced artistic skills, technological achievements, and cultural practices of the pre-Columbian societies in the Cali region.

The Museo Arqueológico La Merced provides an opportunity to understand the spiritual beliefs, social structures, and daily lives of these ancient civilizations.

Through the exhibits, you can learn about their agricultural practices, trade networks, and artistic traditions. The museum also offers insightful displays and explanations that shed light on the significance and symbolism behind the artifacts.

9. Take a scenic hike to the top of Cerro de las Tres Cruces for stunning views of the city

Located in the western part of Cali, Cerro de las Tres Cruces is known for its three large white crosses that stand proudly atop the hill. The hike to the summit takes you through lush vegetation, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.

As you ascend, the trail offers glimpses of the cityscape below, gradually revealing the urban landscape of Cali. The higher you climb, the more expansive and awe-inspiring the views become. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama that stretches across the city and beyond.

From Cerro de las Tres Cruces, you can marvel at Cali’s sprawling urban expanse, framed by the majestic Andes Mountains in the background.

The vantage point provides a unique perspective on the city’s layout, with its vibrant neighborhoods, bustling streets, and iconic landmarks.

The hilltop offers an excellent opportunity for photography, allowing you to capture stunning shots of the cityscape, especially during sunset when the sky transforms into a tapestry of vibrant colors. It’s also a popular spot for locals and visitors to gather, relax, and appreciate the beauty of Cali from above.

In addition to its natural beauty, Cerro de las Tres Cruces holds cultural significance as well. The crosses symbolize Cali’s religious heritage and serve as a pilgrimage site for those seeking spiritual contemplation.

10. Experience the Feria de Cali, a week-long festival celebrating salsa, music, and local culture (usually held in December)

The Feria de Cali is a grand celebration of the city’s identity as the salsa capital of the world. The festival showcases the energetic and rhythmic dance form through electrifying performances, competitions, and workshops.

Talented dancers from all over the world converge in Cali to participate in the festivities, creating an atmosphere filled with passion and skill.

Throughout the week, the streets of Cali come alive with music, dance, and vibrant parades. Locals and visitors alike don their colorful attire and take to the streets, joining in the lively procession.

The festival features concerts by renowned salsa bands and musicians, allowing attendees to revel in the infectious beats of this beloved genre.

In addition to salsa, the Feria de Cali also embraces other genres of music, including traditional Colombian folk, Afro-Colombian rhythms, and contemporary sounds.

Concerts and performances showcase the diverse musical heritage of the region, offering a rich tapestry of melodies and rhythms.

Beyond the music and dance, the Feria de Cali provides a platform to celebrate the local culture and traditions of Cali. Art exhibitions, culinary experiences, sporting events, and traditional games are organized throughout the city, giving visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of Cali.

The highlight of the festival is the Salsa Parade, a dazzling spectacle where salsa schools, dance troupes, and enthusiastic participants take to the streets, showcasing their choreography and exuberant costumes.

The parade creates a mesmerizing display of color, rhythm, and sheer joy, leaving an indelible impression on all who witness it.

11. Visit the Cristo Rey statue, an iconic religious monument offering panoramic views of the city

Visit the Cristo Rey statue in Cali, Colombia, an iconic religious monument that offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of the city. Perched on a hill called Cerro los Cristales, this towering statue of Christ is a symbol of faith, peace, and cultural significance for the people of Cali and visitors alike.

The Cristo Rey statue stands tall, with its arms outstretched, overlooking the city below. It is reminiscent of the renowned Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Constructed from durable materials, such as concrete and metal, the statue stands as a resilient testament to faith and devotion.

To reach the Cristo Rey statue, you will embark on a scenic journey up the hill. Whether you choose to climb a series of steps or follow a winding pathway, the ascent can be seen as a pilgrimage of sorts.

Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful natural surroundings, lush greenery, and perhaps even encounter religious art or symbols that enhance the spiritual ambiance.

Once you reach the statue’s base or viewing platform, prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking panoramic views of Cali. From this elevated position, you’ll have an unparalleled vista of the cityscape spread out below you.

Whether it’s the urban sprawl with its vibrant neighborhoods, the Cauca River winding through the valley, or the majestic mountains in the distance, the scene is bound to leave you in awe.

12. Explore the neighborhoods of Granada and El Peñón, known for their colonial architecture and trendy cafes

Granada and El Peñón are characterized by their well-preserved colonial buildings that exude charm and elegance. As you wander through the streets, you’ll be captivated by the colorful facades, intricately designed balconies, and the overall architectural beauty that harkens back to a bygone era. The neighborhoods provide a captivating backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a delightful photo opportunity.

The café culture in Granada and El Peñón is thriving, with a plethora of trendy and inviting cafes lining the streets. These establishments are known for their exceptional coffee, enticing menus, and stylish interiors.

Whether you’re craving a rich espresso, a delicious pastry, or a refreshing beverage, the cafes in these neighborhoods will satisfy your every desire.

Moreover, the atmosphere is lively and inviting, making it a perfect place to relax, socialize, or simply watch the world go by.

In addition to the charming cafes, you’ll discover a wealth of other attractions in these neighborhoods. Art galleries showcasing local talent, boutique shops offering unique finds, and vibrant squares buzzing with activity all contribute to the vibrant ambiance.

You might stumble upon cultural events, live music performances, or street markets, adding to the cultural tapestry of the area.

13. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Cali’s Zona Rosa district, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Cali’s Zona Rosa district, an exciting and bustling hub of entertainment, music, and culture. Zona Rosa is widely renowned as the epicenter of Cali’s nightlife scene, offering a diverse range of options for a memorable evening out.

When the sun sets, Zona Rosa comes alive with a pulsating energy that fills the streets. The district is known for its abundance of nightclubs, bars, lounges, and restaurants, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.

Whether you’re into salsa, reggaeton, electronic music, or live bands, you’ll find a venue that suits your musical inclination.

The vibrant atmosphere in Zona Rosa is infectious. As you walk through the streets, you’ll be greeted by colorful neon lights, the sound of music spilling out from clubs, and the buzz of conversations from locals and visitors alike. The district is always abuzz with activity, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation for a memorable night.

Cali, being the salsa capital of the world, offers plenty of opportunities to dance the night away. Zona Rosa features numerous salsa clubs and dance halls where you can immerse yourself in the rhythms and moves of this iconic Latin dance style.

Whether you’re an experienced dancer or a novice, these venues provide an electrifying atmosphere and the chance to showcase your skills or learn from the locals.

Alongside the lively nightlife, Zona Rosa is also home to a variety of restaurants and eateries. From traditional Colombian cuisine to international flavors, you’ll find a wide array of dining options to satisfy your culinary cravings before hitting the dance floor or enjoying a relaxed evening with friends.

14. Visit the Museo Aereo Fénix to see a collection of vintage aircraft and aviation artifacts

This museum is a captivating destination for aviation enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone interested in the marvels of flight.

As you enter the Museo Aereo Fénix, you’ll encounter a remarkable display of meticulously restored vintage aircraft from various eras. The museum showcases a diverse range of planes, including biplanes, propeller-driven fighters, and early commercial aircraft.

These beautifully preserved aircraft allow you to witness the evolution of aviation technology and appreciate the craftsmanship of these engineering marvels.

In addition to the aircraft collection, the museum houses a wide array of aviation artifacts and memorabilia. You’ll find an assortment of historical items such as pilot uniforms, flight instruments, engines, and photographs that provide a glimpse into the rich history of aviation. These artifacts offer a tangible connection to the past and allow you to envision the experiences of early aviators.

At the Museo Aereo Fénix, you can also expect informative exhibits and displays that delve into the stories behind the aircraft and the pioneers who flew them.

The museum often presents detailed narratives, historical context, and interactive elements that enhance the visitor experience.

You may learn about significant aviation milestones, the challenges faced by pilots, or the impact of aviation on society and global travel.

15. Take a day trip to Hacienda El Paraíso, the former residence of Colombian writer Jorge Isaacs and now a museum

Hacienda El Paraíso is known for its historical significance and its connection to the acclaimed Colombian writer, Jorge Isaacs. It served as the inspiration for his renowned novel, María.

As you explore the grounds, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, where you can witness the charm and elegance of a traditional Colombian hacienda.

The estate is surrounded by lush gardens and picturesque landscapes, providing a serene and tranquil ambiance. Strolling through the gardens, you’ll encounter vibrant flowers, towering trees, and perhaps even a flowing river or serene pond.

The natural beauty of Hacienda El Paraíso offers a perfect setting for relaxation, contemplation, and appreciation of the Colombian countryside.

The main house of the hacienda, often preserved in its original form or meticulously restored, showcases the architecture and interior design of the time.

You can explore the rooms, admire the antique furniture and decorations, and gain insights into the daily life of the past. The ambiance of the house reflects the elegance and grandeur of a bygone era, transporting you back in time.

Additionally, Hacienda El Paraíso may offer guided tours or cultural activities that provide further context and immersion into the history and cultural significance of the estate.

You may learn about the life and works of Jorge Isaacs, the role of the hacienda in Colombia’s history, or engage in traditional activities and demonstrations that showcase the region’s customs and traditions.

16. Explore the Jardín Botánico de Cali, a botanical garden with diverse plant species and tranquil walking trails

The botanical garden is a vibrant oasis where you can immerse yourself in lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and a variety of plant species.

As you wander through the Jardín Botánico de Cali , you’ll discover a diverse collection of plants from different regions of Colombia and around the world.

The garden is meticulously designed, featuring themed areas that showcase various ecosystems, such as tropical rainforests, desert landscapes, and exotic gardens. Each section offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of botanical wonders.

The garden is not only a treat for the eyes but also a place of education and conservation. It serves as a center for research, environmental awareness, and the preservation of endangered plant species.

You may have the opportunity to learn about the importance of biodiversity, sustainable practices, and the delicate balance of ecosystems.

Throughout the Jardín Botánico de Cali, you’ll find serene pathways, peaceful ponds, and shaded areas where you can relax and soak in the tranquility of nature.

There may be benches or designated spots for picnics, providing the perfect setting for a leisurely escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The botanical garden often hosts events, workshops, and educational programs that cater to visitors of all ages. You may have the chance to participate in guided tours, botanical workshops, or even discover local art installations that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

17. Visit the Iglesia La Ermita, a beautiful church located on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city

Iglesia La Ermita stands as a testament to Cali’s religious heritage and architectural beauty. The church’s exterior showcases a blend of colonial and neoclassical styles, with intricate detailing and a graceful presence.

Its whitewashed walls and ornate facade make it a captivating sight, especially when illuminated by the warm Colombian sun.

Stepping inside Iglesia La Ermita, you’ll be enveloped in a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The interior boasts elegant decor, including high ceilings, arches, and delicate religious artwork. The dimly lit space creates a sense of reverence, inviting visitors to reflect and find solace.

Beyond its architectural splendor, Iglesia La Ermita holds historical and cultural significance. The church has been a place of worship for centuries and has witnessed numerous milestones in Cali’s history.

It serves as a spiritual center for the local community and offers a glimpse into the city’s deep-rooted religious traditions.

Visiting Iglesia La Ermita provides an opportunity for quiet contemplation, a moment of tranquility amidst the bustling city. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful space for prayer, admiring architectural craftsmanship, or simply interested in immersing yourself in Cali’s rich cultural heritage, this church offers a memorable experience.

Additionally, Iglesia La Ermita is often located in close proximity to other attractions, such as parks, plazas, or vibrant neighborhoods, allowing you to combine your visit with further exploration of the city’s vibrant offerings.

18. Explore the traditional neighborhood of San Francisco, famous for its colonial architecture and street art

San Francisco is known for its well-preserved architecture, reflecting the traditional style of the area. As you wander through its streets, you’ll encounter quaint colonial houses with colorful facades, wooden balconies, and cobblestone streets. The architectural charm of San Francisco creates a picturesque setting, reminiscent of a bygone era.

The neighborhood is often characterized by its lively plazas and parks, which serve as gathering places for residents and visitors alike.

These vibrant communal spaces provide a glimpse into the local culture, offering opportunities to engage with the community, witness local events, or simply sit back and enjoy the vibrant ambiance.

San Francisco is also home to a variety of artisanal shops, markets, and traditional eateries. You can explore local crafts, sample regional delicacies, and engage in conversations with local artisans and vendors.

The neighborhood offers a blend of old and new, with traditional establishments coexisting alongside modern cafes, galleries, and boutiques.

Exploring San Francisco allows you to delve into the cultural heritage of the area. You may come across historical landmarks, churches, or museums that provide insights into the neighborhood’s past and its significance within the broader context of the city or region.

19. Take a relaxing boat ride along the Cali River and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty

Take a relaxing boat ride along the Cali River and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surrounding natural beauty. This leisurely excursion offers a unique perspective of the city and an opportunity to connect with the serenity of the river and its picturesque surroundings.

As you embark on the boat, you’ll feel a sense of calm as you leave the cityscape behind and enter a peaceful oasis. The gentle flow of the Cali River carries you along, providing a soothing and scenic journey. The lush greenery along the riverbanks creates a vibrant backdrop, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.

During your boat ride, you’ll have the chance to witness the diverse wildlife that calls the river home. Keep an eye out for colorful birds, graceful waterfowl, and perhaps even glimpses of other river creatures.

The journey allows you to appreciate the harmony of nature and the important role that the river plays in supporting the local ecosystem.

The boat ride also offers a unique vantage point to observe the city from a different perspective. As you glide along the water, you’ll see Cali from a refreshing angle, admiring its skyline, bridges, and landmarks from a distance. It’s a peaceful and picturesque experience that allows you to appreciate the city’s beauty from a new and serene perspective.

20. Visit the Museo de Oro Calima, which displays an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts

The Museo de Oro Calima is home to an impressive collection of gold artifacts, providing a glimpse into the artistic and technological prowess of the ancient Calima civilization.

As you explore the museum, you’ll encounter finely crafted gold objects such as jewelry, ceremonial masks, figurines, and other ornamental pieces. These artifacts highlight the Calima people’s mastery of goldwork and their sophisticated artistic expressions.

Beyond gold, the museum also displays a range of archaeological finds, including pottery, stone carvings, and textiles, which offer further insights into the Calima culture and their way of life.

Exhibits often provide historical context, showcasing the Calima people’s traditions, beliefs, and their interactions with the natural environment.

The Museo de Oro Calima aims to educate visitors about the significance of the Calima civilization and the importance of preserving their cultural heritage.

Through interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and informative exhibits, the museum provides an engaging and enlightening experience for visitors of all ages.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum may offer guided tours, workshops, or cultural events that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the Calima culture.

These activities provide opportunities to learn about ancient techniques, try traditional crafts, or gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the artifacts on display.

21. Explore the Cat Park (Parque El Gato) and admire the famous sculpture of a large cat

At the heart of the Cat Park stands the impressive sculpture of a giant cat, capturing the imagination of both locals and tourists.

This larger-than-life feline statue is beautifully crafted and often depicted in a playful and dynamic pose. Its size and artistic details make it a captivating sight and a popular spot for photos and selfies.

The park itself is a charming green space that invites you to relax and enjoy the outdoors. With lush trees, well-manicured lawns, and colorful flowers, it creates a serene ambiance, providing a peaceful retreat from the urban environment. You can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply sit and soak in the delightful atmosphere.

The Cat Park’s charm extends beyond the famous feline sculpture. Throughout the park, you’ll find additional playful sculptures and statues of smaller cats, enhancing the whimsical atmosphere.

These interactive art pieces create a sense of wonder and joy, particularly for children who can enjoy exploring and engaging with the playful cat-themed installations.

The park often hosts events, concerts, and cultural activities, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the city. It serves as a gathering place for the community, where locals come together to celebrate, enjoy performances, or simply socialize. The lively and welcoming atmosphere of the Cat Park embodies the energy and warmth for which Cali is known.

22. Attend a live performance at the Teatro Municipal Enrique Buenaventura, a historic theater in the city center

The Teatro Municipal Enrique Buenaventura is renowned for its historical significance and architectural splendor. As you step into the theater, you’ll be greeted by its elegant facade and grand entrance, reflecting the charm of its heritage.

The interior boasts ornate details, exquisite craftsmanship, and a captivating atmosphere that transports you to a world of artistic excellence.

The theater hosts a variety of live performances, including plays, musicals, dance recitals, and concerts, showcasing the rich cultural scene of Cali. Talented actors, musicians, and dancers grace the stage, delivering captivating and memorable performances that engage and inspire audiences.

Attending a live performance at the Teatro Municipal Enrique Buenaventura allows you to immerse yourself in the magic of the performing arts.

The theater’s acoustics and lighting systems are designed to enhance the experience, ensuring that every note, movement, and expression is brought to life with exceptional quality.

Beyond the performances themselves, the theater often offers a range of cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions that further enrich the visitor experience.

These activities provide opportunities to engage with the local artistic community, learn about theater production, or appreciate the visual arts that often complement the performances.

As you leave the theater, you can continue to explore the city center of Cali, with its vibrant energy, lively streets, and a myriad of dining options to complete your evening.

The Teatro Municipal Enrique Buenaventura is typically located within proximity to other attractions, making it a centerpiece of a memorable night out in the city.

23. Learn about Cali’s history at the Museo del Oro Calima, which showcases ancient indigenous cultures

The Museo del Oro Calima is a museum located in Cali, Colombia that offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the region.

The museum is dedicated to showcasing the ancient indigenous cultures that once inhabited the area surrounding Cali, particularly those belonging to the Calima culture.

The Calima culture flourished between the 6th and 14th centuries AD, and the museum provides an immersive experience to learn about their way of life.

It houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that depict the cultural, artistic, and religious aspects of the Calima civilization.

Visitors to the museum can explore a wide range of objects, including pottery, jewelry, goldwork, textiles, and sculptures, which are all beautifully crafted and intricately designed.

These artifacts serve as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Calima people and offer insights into their daily lives, social structures, and religious beliefs.

The Museo del Oro Calima not only highlights the material culture of the Calima civilization but also provides educational information about their agricultural practices, trade routes, and societal organization.

Through informative displays, interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance and cultural heritage of the indigenous communities in the Cali region.

24. Enjoy a picnic or leisurely walk in the Parque de los Poetas, a serene park dedicated to Colombian poets

Parque de los Poetas , located in Cali, Colombia, is a tranquil park dedicated to celebrating the literary contributions of Colombian poets.

It offers visitors a serene and picturesque environment to enjoy a picnic or take a leisurely walk while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature and the written word.

The park’s design and layout are inspired by the works of renowned Colombian poets, with various sculptures, statues, and plaques adorning its pathways and green spaces.

These artistic elements pay homage to the poets and their literary achievements, creating a unique atmosphere that blends nature and culture.

Parque de los Poetas is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a connection with literature. The park’s serene ambiance provides an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find solace in nature.

Visitors can stroll along the well-maintained paths, shaded by trees and adorned with colorful flowers, offering a peaceful setting for reflection and contemplation.

The park’s open spaces and well-manicured lawns are perfect for picnics and gatherings with family and friends. Whether you choose to spread out a blanket under a shady tree or find a bench overlooking a scenic view, the park provides a tranquil setting to enjoy a meal, engage in conversation, or simply unwind.

25. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Buga and visit the Basilica del Señor de los Milagros, an important religious site

Buga , a charming town located near Cali, Colombia, is a popular destination for a day trip. One of its main attractions is the Basilica del Señor de los Milagros (Basilica of the Lord of Miracles), a significant religious site that draws pilgrims and visitors from near and far.

The Basilica del Señor de los Milagros is a grand church dedicated to the veneration of Jesus Christ. It is renowned for its historical and religious significance, as well as its architectural beauty.

The basilica’s construction dates back to the 16th century, and it has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, resulting in its impressive size and intricate design.

Upon entering the basilica, visitors are greeted by an atmosphere of reverence and spirituality. The interior features exquisite artwork, including religious paintings, sculptures, and ornate altars.

The main attraction is the statue of the Señor de los Milagros (Lord of Miracles), which is believed to have miraculous powers and has attracted countless devotees throughout the centuries.

Visitors to the Basilica del Señor de los Milagros can participate in religious ceremonies, attend Mass, or simply admire the architectural and artistic details of the church. The basilica’s peaceful ambiance offers a serene space for contemplation and prayer.

In addition to the basilica, Buga itself offers a charming setting to explore. The town is known for its colonial architecture, quaint streets, and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can wander through the town’s historic center, visit local shops and cafes, and soak in the laid-back ambiance.

These are just some of the many wonderful things to do in Cali, Colombia. Enjoy your time exploring this vibrant city!

Food In Cali

Cali, known as the “ Salsa Capital of the World ,” is not only famous for its vibrant dance culture but also for its mouthwatering cuisine. Nestled in the Valle del Cauca region of Colombia, Cali offers a diverse and flavorful culinary scene that delights locals and visitors alike.

From traditional Colombian dishes to international flavors, the city is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey through the delectable food of Cali.

• Colombian Cuisine:

Cali’s food scene proudly showcases the rich tapestry of Colombian cuisine. Start your culinary adventure with a taste of the iconic bandeja paisa, a hearty plate featuring beans, rice, ground beef, plantains, avocado, and a fried egg. Savor the comforting flavors of ajiaco, a traditional chicken and potato soup, and indulge in arepas, delicious cornmeal patties served with various fillings like cheese, meat, or hogao (a savory tomato and onion sauce).

• Street Food Delights:

To truly experience the local food culture, make sure to explore Cali’s vibrant street food scene. Wander through the city’s streets and you’ll encounter food carts and stalls offering tantalizing treats. Sink your teeth into empanadas, crispy turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and don’t miss out on the irresistible aroma of buñuelos, deep-fried dough balls made with cheese.

Also, be sure to try the popular cholado, a refreshing fruit dessert topped with shaved ice, condensed milk, and sweet syrups—a perfect treat for Cali’s warm climate.

• Afro-Colombian Influences:

Cali’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its Afro-Colombian heritage. Discover the flavors of the Pacific coast with dishes like sancocho de pescado, a hearty fish stew bursting with tropical ingredients. Another must-try is the deliciously spiced aborrajado, a deep-fried plantain filled with cheese. Immerse yourself in the Afro-Colombian culture and tantalize your taste buds with these unique and vibrant flavors.

• Fresh Fruits and Juices:

Colombia’s fertile soil and tropical climate make it a haven for a wide variety of fresh fruits. In Cali, you’ll find fruit markets overflowing with colorful and exotic options. Treat yourself to a refreshing jugo de lulo, a citrusy fruit juice, or indulge in a batido made from blended fruits like mango, guava, or passion fruit. These vibrant and natural beverages are the perfect way to quench your thirst and energize yourself while exploring the city.

• International Flavors:

Cali’s culinary landscape extends beyond traditional Colombian fare. The city boasts a diverse range of international restaurants that cater to all tastes.

Indulge in mouthwatering steaks at a local Argentinean grill, savor the flavors of Italy with authentic pasta dishes, or explore the vibrant sushi scene. Cali’s international culinary offerings ensure that there is something to please every palate.

Cali is a true paradise for food lovers, where Colombian traditions blend with international influences, resulting in a culinary experience that is both diverse and delightful.

From the tantalizing street food to the rich flavors of Colombian cuisine, every bite in Cali is a celebration of taste and culture.

So, whether you’re sipping on freshly squeezed fruit juices or diving into a plate of traditional dishes, Cali’s food scene promises to leave you satisfied and craving for more. Embark on this gastronomic adventure, and let the flavors of Cali awaken your senses and captivate your palate.

Top 20 Best Restaurants In Cali, Colombia

• Platillos Voladores
• El Faro de Cali
• Ringlete Restaurante
• Granada Faro
• Tierra de Mar
• Trattoria Italia
• El Patio de Agua
• Restaurante San Antonio
• Zaperoco Restaurante
• Hacienda El Paraiso
• Zao Oriental Cuisine
• La Fonda Paisa
• Queareparaenamorarte
• D’Andrea Trattoria
• Milán Parrilla
• Chef Burguer
• Ristorante Italiano Il Forno

These restaurants offer a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional Colombian dishes to international flavors. Each establishment has its own unique atmosphere and culinary specialties, ensuring a memorable dining experience in Cali.

Remember to check their operating hours, make reservations if necessary, and enjoy exploring the vibrant food scene of this captivating city!

Transportation In Cali

• Public Buses : Cali has an extensive public bus network that serves as the primary mode of transportation for many locals. The city operates a comprehensive system of urban buses, which are affordable and cover a wide range of routes throughout the city. Buses in Cali can be crowded during peak hours, but they provide an economical way to navigate the city and explore different neighborhoods.
• MIO (Massive Integrated Public Transport System): The MIO is Cali’s modern bus rapid transit (BRT) system. It consists of dedicated bus lanes and modern stations, making it a faster and more efficient option than traditional buses. MIO buses run on fixed routes, and passengers must purchase a rechargeable smart card to pay for their fares. The MIO network covers major parts of the city, offering a convenient and reliable means of transportation.
• Taxis: Taxis are a common sight in Cali and are readily available throughout the city. You can hail a taxi on the street or find them at designated taxi stands. It’s advisable to use authorized taxis, identifiable by their yellow color and official markings. Always ensure that the taxi has a functioning meter or agree on a fare before starting the journey. Taxis are a convenient option, particularly for shorter distances or when traveling with heavy luggage.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Services like Uber and other ride-hailing apps are widely used in Cali. These platforms offer a convenient and often more comfortable alternative to traditional taxis. Simply download the app, request a ride, and a driver will pick you up at your location. Ride-hailing services provide upfront pricing, cashless payments, and a sense of security through driver tracking and ratings.
• Private Vehicles: Many residents in Cali rely on private vehicles for their daily commute. The city has an extensive road network, and parking facilities can be found in commercial areas, shopping centers, and hotels. However, traffic congestion can be a challenge during peak hours, so it’s important to plan your travel accordingly and allow extra time for potential delays.
• Bicycles: Cali has been making efforts to promote cycling as an eco-friendly and healthy means of transportation. The city offers dedicated bike lanes in certain areas, and you can rent bicycles from various locations for short-term use. Biking can be a pleasant way to explore Cali’s streets, particularly in areas with less traffic.

It’s worth noting that transportation options may vary based on personal preferences, location, and budget. It’s advisable to consider factors such as distance, time of day, and traffic conditions when choosing the most suitable mode of transportation in Cali.

In conclusion, Cali, Colombia, is a city that truly embodies the spirit of Latin America. With its rich cultural heritage, pulsating salsa rhythms, and warm hospitality, Cali offers an unforgettable experience to all who visit.

From its colonial charm and historical sites to its vibrant dance scene and natural beauty, the city presents a diverse array of attractions and activities.

Cali’s salsa culture is renowned worldwide, drawing enthusiasts from every corner of the globe to dance the night away in its lively clubs and participate in the exhilarating Feria de Cali.

The city’s historic center showcases its colonial past through beautiful architecture, picturesque plazas, and a sense of old-world charm.

Nature lovers will find solace in the nearby Farallones de Cali National Park, with its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and breathtaking vistas.

The proximity to the Pacific Coast also provides an opportunity to relax on pristine beaches and explore the wonders of the coastal region.

Cali’s culinary scene tantalizes the taste buds, offering a mix of traditional Colombian dishes, Afro-Colombian flavors, and international cuisine. Food lovers can indulge in a variety of gastronomic delights, from street food to upscale restaurants.

But beyond its attractions, what truly sets Cali apart is its people. Caleños are known for their warmth, enthusiasm, and zest for life. Their love for their city and its cultural heritage is infectious, creating an inviting and vibrant atmosphere that envelops visitors.

Whether you come to Cali to dance, explore history, immerse yourself in nature, or simply soak up the lively ambiance, this city will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Cali, Colombia, is a destination that celebrates life, joy, and the rich tapestry of Colombian culture, making it a truly unforgettable place to visit.

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The 22 Best Things to do in Cali, Colombia

Cali is most recognized for its upbeat mood, burgeoning economy, and thriving nightlife scene. Known as the “Salsa Capital” of the world because of the many street parties and dances, her 2 million residents love having a good time to the beat of these captivating rhythms. She continues to captivate tourists with her unique cultural heritage, so if you are searching for a vibrant urban lifestyle, Cali fits the bill.   Cali is a big, bustling city, so you’ll want to plan ahead – here are the best things to do in Cali Colombia.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

#1 THING TO DO

Take a Salsa Dancing Class in Cali

Cali is the home of dance and salsa in Colombia, and there’s no better place to take a salsa dancing class and then, well, dance the night away!

The 22 Best Things to Do in Cali

She is the third-largest city in Colombia and is full of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor. Although she has a bad reputation for crime, she really is a bustling and exciting city that’s relatively safe.  There are not many tourist attractions, but there’s enough to see and experience in terms of culture, cuisine, neighborhoods, and nightlife to keep you entertained.  This is a place where you come to experience local life.  So if you are passing through and want to see what this lively city has to offer, here are some fantastic activities that will make your time in Cali worthwhile.

1. Take a free walking tour of Cali, Colombia

If you truly want to get the most out of this city, we recommend that you join one of the free walking tours. We’ve taken walking tours throughout Colombia (the one in Medellin is amazing ) and this one is also great. The enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides will take you to Cali’s natural and architectural wonders, including museums, parks, squares, cathedrals, monuments, and landmarks – all of which are worth seeing. 

The tour will help you learn about Cali through the eyes of a local expert, see the most important sites, and sample local cuisine and beverages, enabling you to thoroughly indulge yourself in the Cali culture and discover its hidden jewels.

It starts from the colonial-style neighborhood of San Antonio toward the historical center dedicated to famous figures from the country’s past. No doubt, this tour will broaden your understanding of Cali’s history and the events that helped form it into a lovely city today.  You can book a spot on it here.   The tour leaves at 1000 every day apart from Sunday. You will need to reserve a place, but the tour is tip-based.

2. Take a Salsa Dancing Class in Cali

Salsa dancing is one of the top things to do in Cali (and maybe South America). We think you are losing out if you do not dance in Cali – this beautiful city lives and breathes it. The cheerful music is heard all around town so learn to dance or wing it while you’re there.

Cali has hundreds of salsa schools, and some of its more prominent schools include Joy Dance and Salsa Pura . You can also try Zaperoco, Tin Tin Deo, and La Topa Tolondra for an authentic salsa experience.   The daily group sessions range from 5,000 pesos and individual lessons for 50,000 pesos, although many hostels provide free albeit basic salsa classes. You can also join a city tour that provides some basic introduction to salsa here.

3. Go Salsa Dancing in Cali

Taking dancing classes is just the beginning; you’ll want to put everything you’ve learned to the test on the dance floor. Every night of the week, you’ll be able to discover salsa clubs and several discotecas where you may experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.

We highly recommend The La Topa Tolondra if you’re just in Colombia for a few days. It’s the town’s most popular salsa bar, and it’ll offer you a taste of Cali, Colombia.   You can also check out my “honourable mention” salsa clubs—Zaperoco, Tin Tin Deo, MalaMaa, and Salsa al Parque (“Salsa in the Park” – a monthly event)—if you have more time.

But remember that at 4 am, all nightclubs inside the city borders are closed. If you want to party till the wee small hours of the morning, you can travel beyond the city to Menga or Juanchito.   However, we recommend avoiding these regions unless a Colombian accompanies you to help you avoid sketchy areas.

If you want to take a tour of Cali and her nightspots with a local, then try this – you’ll get to visit some great places with no hassle.

4. Visit Delirio in Cali Colombia

Whether you’re a salsa fanatic or just want to watch other people dance, consider making a reservation to see Delirio, Cali’s world-famous salsa circus. The spectacle is worth the money, which costs 115,000 – 240,000 pesos depending on your seat.

These dancers have performed all around the globe, so schedule your vacation around one of their performances. The shows are a mix of music, dance, and Cirque du Soleil with a cabaret twist. The salsa dancers are excellent – both youngsters and adults dancing at the greatest level since they have grown up dancing in Cali’s best salsa schools.

5. Visit the Cat Park in Cali (Gato de Tejada)

Another thing that we recommend is to go to Cali’s Cat Park. As soon as you arrive in Cali, you will likely discover a slew of cat statues, paintings, and souvenirs strewn throughout the city.  This park, which is a fairly odd attraction, pays homage to the great Colombian artist Hernando Tejada, who is credited with creating the iconic center sculpture of a cat. The artist, who unfortunately passed away just a few years later, inspired a group of local artists to create an additional 15 feline monuments in his memory. If you don’t want to visit independently, then grab a spot on this tour and get to see the Gatos here.

The city of Kuching in Sarawak, Malaysia is also famous for cats, (as Kuching means cat in local language) check it out here .

6. Take a Street Food Tour in Cali

If you love to travel and experience local cuisine, we suggest taking a street food tour which gives you a real taste of Cali through its local food and drinks.

It starts with a walk in the city’s streets, discovering amazing street art, and concludes in the night market, where tourists taste various foods and beverages such as Chontaduro, Lulada, Ceviche Colombiano, and much more. Reserve your place here.

7. Visit Capilla La Ermita

The beautiful neo-Gothic style church was built in 1930 and completed in 1948 when the building started. Dutch windows, French church bells, Italian marble, and German cathedral influence are all included in the design.  Despite its small size, it’s tough to ignore its dazzling white exterior. In fact, it is the most famous church in the city of Cali because of its stunning architectural design. It’s a glorious church and well worth visiting – check it out on this trip.

8. Take a city tour of Cali

Cali boasts several museums, parks, squares, churches, monuments, and vistas to explore. Joining the Cali City Tour enables you to see the city quickly and easily without waiting for buses or getting confused with maps.   At each stop, the local guides will show you the prestigious sites, where you can learn about the city’s history, snap photographs, and enjoy the lovely weather while sampling local beverages, fruits, and sweets.  Near the end of the tour, you’ll get to learn some basic salsa moves and experience the salsa Calea for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a local drink, get to know salsa and learn some of the moves and explore Cali with a small group here.

9. Walk up to Cristo Rey in Cali

While not as renowned as Christ the Redeemer in Rio, this 26-meter-high statue of Christ is worth visiting for its beautiful view, so don’t forget to bring your camera.

Cerro de Los Cristales may be chilly, so bring a sweater and bug spray, too, and there are merchants set up along the course if ever you need a snack or a drink. This trip is also ideal to combine with the Andoke Mariposario tour, where you can enjoy a magnificent butterfly garden up the road from El Cristo Rey. If you don’t want to do this independently, then this tour combines both walking up to Cristo Rey AND the Andoke Butterfly tour.

10. Visit Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz

The Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz is a great spot to experience the local Cali feel while shopping. You can buy handicrafts from craftsmen who may be crafting them right in front of you in the park for a low price.

There are also several affordable pubs and restaurants around where you can get a bite or a drink while you shop or wander. Entertainment includes anything from salsa dance to live music to storytelling to guinea pig gambling at night.

11. Hike to the Cerro de las Tres Cruces

If you love hiking but have a limited time, this route is for you. The trek up Cerro de Las Tres Cruces (Three Cross Hill) to a spectacular vista takes less than an hour, and it is well worth it. And the greatest thing is that the climb can be started from anywhere in the city.

I suggest beginning your climb between 5:30 am, and 7 am on a weekday morning since this is the time of day when most people are on the route. And when it comes to trekking in Colombia, the golden rule is to stick with a group to ensure your safety. If you go during the day, it will be very hot and lonely; plus, it’s not the safest course of action.

Another alternative is to hike with a group of people during nighttime. These groups depart from the Pacific Mall around 7 pm and start the climb with the assistance of police officers for 3,000 pesos.

12. Hang out in the Plaza de Cayzedo

There is another place to visit when in Cali – the Plaza de Cayzedo, a palm tree-lined plaza that serves as the city’s focal point and a terrific site to watch people. While admiring the government buildings and national landmarks, you could also sample some street cuisine to avoid the crowd.

Here you can admire the neoclassical architecture of the Palacio Nacional, San Pedro Cathedral, and Edificio Otero while sipping on a coffee. In addition to residents and visitors, you’ll see lottery ticket sellers, shoe shiners, shady individuals, well-dressed professionals, and street vendors, among other types.

13. Visit Andoke – the Butterfly Farm

This massive butterfly farm, located just outside of the city, is an unknown treasure home to over 15 beautiful technicolored varieties. At the same time, experienced guides describe the life cycles of these fascinating creatures—from caterpillar to cocoon to butterfly—as they pass by them. Its a lovely day out – and you can get to the butterfly farm here

14. Play Tejo in Cali

Tejo is the national sport of Colombia, and we were so lucky that we got to play. Consider shuffleboard or petanque but with explosives and booze instead of balls and clubs.

The way it works is that a group of friends is separated into teams, and the goal is to throw a metallic disk underhand into a clay bed and land your metallic disk in the middle of the target or strike a mecha so that the mecha explodes.

To be honest, I was feeling a bit uneasy about the whole dynamite thing, when I first played Tejo in Salento (you can read more about learning to play Tejo here )

However, it turns out that the explosion was just a minor one, and I really got to enjoy playing it. Another critical requirement is that a drink from the team members must follow each throw.   The national liquor of Colombia is aguardiente, a sugarcane-based alcoholic beverage that, unlike beer and wine, has the unique and delightful quality of not causing us a headache after drinking it.

15. Visit the Museums of Cali

Cali, Colombia, may not have many tourist attractions, but it does have a good number of museums. You can check out the following while in Cali:

Museo Aereo Fenix

There is a museum dedicated to World War II-era aircraft in Cali, and you can find an exhibit of planes, engines, and flight suits as part of the museum’s significant aviation collection.

An operable Douglas C-47B and North American AT-6D are among the highlights of the display. There are also steam locomotives and miniature replicas of rail lines utilized in the 20th century on display, and Ford and Buick models going back to the 1940s. The museum is open to the public from 8 am to 4:30 pm daily.

The Salsa Museum

Founded in 1968 by official salsa photographer Carlos Alfredo Molina, the Museum of Salsa is regarded as the world’s oldest salsa museum. Sixty of the world’s most notable graphic works are displayed in the collection. Additionally, they have artefacts relating to the history of salsa from many musicians that travelled through Cuba, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Colombia.

Museo de la Cana de Azucar

Museo de la Cana de Azucar, a local museum that details the history and procedures of sugar cane growing, is a great place to learn about the region’s agricultural legacy.   The tour starts at 9 am, where you’ll be taken on a guided walk through the farmland. You can also see past specimens of technology that have been used for crushing the cane and squeezing the juice from it throughout history.

On the tour, you can sample some of the fruits of the process at the onsite café, which also serves a variety of sweet delicacies. In the colonial-era farm’s gardens, you’ll see butterflies and lizards darting about among the bushes, ancient trees, beautiful flowers, birds, and other wildlife.

Caliwood Museo de la Cinematografia

Many visitors come to the Caliwood Museo de la Cinematografia, a museum that claims to be the first in Colombia to record cinematography—and, more precisely, the technical procedures that go into the production of films. The museum is home to a remarkable collection of large-format, special edition, and sometimes antique cameras that have been employed in the movie industry.

It gives a view into the history of film in Cali but don’t be concerned if you don’t know Spanish; many of the guides are fluent in both English and Spanish.

Museo de Arte Colonial y Religioso La Merced

This museum is well-known among residents and tourists alike for its historical significance and one-of-a-kind collection. It is a must-see for anybody travelling through the area.

Each of the four principal parts of the religious complex is dedicated to a different saint, with the primary nave dedicated to the city’s benefactor holy person, the Our Lady of Mercy.

Its white marble dividers and olive entryways embody pilgrim design, so make sure not to miss the wooden carving of San Pedro Nolasco, which can be seen in the exhibition hall dedicated to religious handicrafts.

MUSA Museo Arqueologico

You can see and appreciate pre-Columbian pottery in MUSA Museo Arqueologico, including urns, vases, figures, and plates, among other things.   The museum, open from 9 am-6 pm, is situated in the city’s oldest building, with part of its contemporary layers removed to show the building’s original foundation, floors, and walls.

It consists of six rooms, organized in a chronological sequence that shows the traces of key civilizations from central and southern Columbia’s past.

La Tertulia Museum

With its 64-year heritage, the Tertulia Museum is currently regarded as an essential institution for the city of Cali and a national reference point for the visual arts in Colombia. It contains a collection of more than 1500 pieces of American art, shown in the Collection Rooms in various thematic and monographic shows.   As a setting for the social appropriation of artistic practices, it receives more than 75 thousand visitors per year. You can visit the Tertulia Museum with a guide to understand more about the museum.

16. Float down the San Cipriano River in Cali

San Cipriano is located in a little village on Colombia’s Pacific Coast and is bordered by rivers for swimming, snorkeling, tubing, and cliff jumping. With a local guide, you can hover on a brujita, which is a wooden pallet propelled by a motorbike and set on railroad lines through the jungle. It’s a fabulous day out – and you can prebook a trip there here.

With the river on one side and dense forest on the other, you will travel through tunnels and over bridges as you make your way to the reserve’s natural beauty. After that, you can go on a tube, relax, and float along the river while admiring the mesmerizing environment.

17. Go to the Ecopark Rio Pance

The Rio Pance Ecopark is a lovely venue that offers diverse activities such as rafting. Here you will also find some breathtaking sights, which makes it a great area to rest if you want.   But if hiking is more your thing, there are numerous fantastic routes in the surrounding area to choose from.

18. Visit the Cali Botanical Gardens

Cali Botanical Gardens is somewhat modest, but it is not lacking in terms of the variety of plant life that can be found and admired. And perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of the garden is the enormous number of different butterfly species that make their home there.

19. Take a Coffee Tour in Cali

On this Cali coffee tour , you can learn about the stages of making Colombian bean juice and its origins from the Ethiopian highlands to the Colombian soil. You can also experience picking coffee beans and the whole process from seeding to harvesting. This tour honours their crop and will help remind you of every coffee worker’s passion and hard work. Want to learn more about Coffee while you’re in Cali? Its one of the best places to do it for this iconic crop of Colombia, book your place here.

20. Go to the La Galleria Market in Cali

If you’ve never been to a Colombian market before, this is an experience you won’t want to miss out on. At La Galleria, you can get just about everything, from souvenirs to home necessities to the essential elements for a witch’s spell. There’s more on visiting La Galleria here.

There are also many exotic fruits to choose from. But if you want to experience the ultimate local cuisine, I recommend going to Las Canchas Panamericanas, home of the cholados and fruit salads.

21. Go to a Festival in Cali

Every month in Colombia, there is a festival, so you’re in for a treat.

There’s the Barranquilla Carnival in February, where a repertory of dances and musical expressions is featured, and the Flowers festival, where beautiful floral displays are shown off.

You can also enjoy the Blacks and Whites’ carnival – a two-day chaotic spectacle where people smear each other in black and white to commemorate the enslaved people.

They also celebrate The Cali Fair and The Manizales Fair, which are festivals both known for bullfighting.

22. Take a Chiva at night in Cali, Colombia.

Another impressive thing you can do in Cali is by taking a night tour of Cali on a Chiva, a traditional Colombian party bus that has become synonymous with the city. It is perhaps one of the most enjoyable ways to take in the exciting nightlife of the world’s Salsa Capital, so we highly recommend it!

Where to Stay in Cali

There are a host of places to stay in Cali – here’s our pick of the luxury places to stay in Cali, mid-range places to stay in Cali, and budget accommodation in Cali.

Alko Hotel Casa Nispero, Cali: The Alko Hotel Casa Nispero is conveniently located in the center of Cali. This five-star Cali hotel includes rooms with a coffee machine, a private bathroom with a shower and bathrobes, a mini-bar, a balcony, and air-conditioning, while other units also include a kitchenette with a dishwasher. This top hotel in Cali provides continental breakfast in an outdoor dining area or you can enjoy them at their bar/lounge area. Cali’s Alko Hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a sun terrace, and a garden. This great hotel in Cali also provides services such as massages, and daily cleaning. Cali’s Alko Hotel Casa Nispero is a fantastic place to stay in Cali. See rates and availability here.

Casa Ruta Sur, Cali : Cali’sCasa Ruta Sur is located just a five-minute walk away from the historical district of Cali. The Casa Ruta Sur is a 10-room accommodation that includes a flat-screen TV, a shared kitchen, a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries, a wardrobe, and daily fresh linen. This mid-range Cali hotel offers a continental breakfast coupled with tropical fruits and Colombian coffee. The Casa Ruta Sur in Cali also has a shared kitchen with a microwave, fridge, toaster, and a dining area both indoors and outdoor, a sun terrace, a patio, and a garden. Casa Ruta Sur can also provide cultural Cali experiences that include classes about local culture, bike, and walking tours, pub crawls, and evening entertainment all with additional charges. Casa Ruta Sur is a great mid-range accommodation to stay at in Cali. Check room rates and availability at Casa Ruta Sur here.

Moonshine Boutique Hostel, Cali : The Moonshine Boutique Hostel is located within Cali, ideally surrounded by some great attractions. The rooms in this budget Cali hostel are equipped with a private bathroom with a hot shower, clean sheets, a fridge, kitchen items, and in some units, conventional ovens and gas stoves.  This Cali budget hostel also provides laundry services, breakfast by request, and private salsa classes. Cali’s Moonshine Boutique Hostel is a budget-friendly accommodation perfect for traveling to Cali. Want to know more about the Moonshine Boutique Hostel, check here.

Things to do Near Cali

Apart from its museums and exciting places to discover, Cali’s nearby areas also offer fantastic views to tourists. You’ll find beautiful views from the ocean to the jungle that will make it an experience of a lifetime, so try these too! These are just two of the highlights of things to do near Cali – there are more of our recommended day trips from Cali here.

Go Whale Watching near Cali

Humpback whale viewing is one of Colombia’s most popular tourist attractions from June to November. If you visit within those months, then this is a must-try! You’ll want to book your dates and reserve a place ahead of time!

You’ll get to see the whales display their acrobatic abilities, show their beauty, and snort loudly. All you have to do during the trip is follow the authorized tourist staff’s instructions and respect nature.

Take a Trip into the Jungle near Cali

Rivers and waterfalls surround Cali, and some of its forests and ecological routes are still unexplored. In this jungle tour, you’ll be able to spend the day exploring Cali’s magnificent natural scenery and waterfalls together with a wildlife expert who will show you the finest of these mountains. Lunch is included in their package and will be served after the tour has ended. You can reserve a place on this tour into the Jungle near Cali here . This is a really popular tour and often sells out – so reserve a place early.

Travel Tips for Exploring Colombia

• Read our guide to travel insurance for Colombia
• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Our Colombia Travel check list is here
• Get online immediately in Colombia with an eSIM
• Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Colombia > discount coupon here
• Arriving by air? Book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
• Make sure you have the right travel adapter for Colombia
• Book the best Colombia tours and guides on GetYourGuide and Civitatis
• Read about ATM fees in Colombia
• Save money in Colombia with a Wise debit card
• Book Buses in Colombia with Bookaway
• Book accommodation in Colombia with Booking.com

Final Words on the Best Things to do in Cali

If you’re planning a vacation to Colombia, don’t forget to include Cali in your itinerary. Sure, Colombia’s other main cities are beautiful, but she has a unique charm unlike no other.   So if you’re seeking an unforgettable experience—an experience that most visitors don’t get, I highly recommend visiting Cali – there are some great, laid back and exciting things to do in Cali, Colombia!  Who knows, you might end up staying for longer!

Stock images in this article are courtesy Deposit Photos.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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Sarah Carter

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Cali is a city with a real zest for life that draws you in and stays with you long after you leave town. Beyond a handful of churches and museums, Cali is light on sights – but the city's main attraction is its beguiling, electrifying atmosphere. If you make the effort you will find great nightlife, good restaurants and plenty to do, especially in the evening, when a cool mountain breeze dissipates the heat of the day.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Cali. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Iglesia de la Merced

Founded in 1545, this is Cali's oldest church. It's a lovely whitewashed building in the Spanish-colonial style, with a long, narrow nave, and humble wood…

Museo de Arte Moderno La Tertulia

Presents changing exhibitions of contemporary painting, sculpture and photography from both local and South American artists. Look out for works by…

Museo Arqueológico la Merced

Housed in an 18th-century annex to La Merced, this interesting museum contains a collection of pre-Columbian pottery left behind by the major cultures…

Museo de Arte Religoso La Merced

Housed in La Merced convent, Cali's oldest building, this museum has an extensive collection of colonial religious paintings and relics. It's worth a…

Cerro de las Tres Cruces

The views are spectacular at these three crosses high in the mountains overlooking the city, and the hike up here is a popular outdoor activity among…

Museo del Oro Calima

One block east from Iglesia de la Merced, this excellent museum displays more than 600 pieces of intricate gold jewelry, as well as ceramics used in…

Iglesia de la Ermita

Overlooking the Río Cali, this striking neo-Gothic church houses the 18th-century painting of El señor de la caña (Lord of the Sugarcane) that survived…

Torre Mudéjar

This unusual brick bell tower is one of the best examples of Mudejar architecture in Colombia.

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Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Cali

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For a modern Cali adventure, you don’t need to resort to hailing countless taxis to take it all in either. Whether by foot, bike, scooter or cable car, it’s…

Jan 16, 2019 • 4 min read

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101 Things To Do In Cali

Updated January 2022

Celebrating my post #101 on this blog, I decided to make a list of 101 things to do in Cali. The list below includes a wide range of stuff to do and does not necessarily mention the best rated or most expensive places. In fact, many of the activities are free, but most importantly is the diversity meaning that there should be something for everybody whether, young, old, rich or poor.

Cali’s has, in my opinion, some of the best nightlife in Colombia.

1 – As the capital of salsa, no visit to Cali is complete without a a night out swinging your hips in one of the city’s many salsa bars. Here’s a list of the best venues to visit .

2 – Rooftop La Pergola Clandestina must be one of the coolest bars in the city. It’s huge and with different ambiences. One part could play reggaeton, while another plays electronic, rap or deep house. No matter what, you’re sure to have a blast! Open Tuesday to Sunday. Los Santos Food truck park in front of the entrance is fun, too!

3 –  Bourbon St is the best rock ‘n roll bar in Cali with live music every weekend.

4 – Rooftop Elsa Café by the park in El Peñon is the perfect place to grab some cocktail before hitting town. The food is also amazing and it attracts a hip and beautiful crowd.

5 – Dance tango with Caleño aficionados at La Matraca in barrio Obrero. This place is an institution that has been in operation for decades. Thursday afternoon is supposedly the best time to go. Great spot for seniors.

6 – In operation since 1942, the La Colina bar in San Antonio is the perfect bar to begin any night.

7 – Along Calle 10 – Cali’s Autopista you’ll find 3 party establishments crammed together:  El Rancho de Jonás ,  Tienda Vieja ,  Casa de la Cerveza . Prepare yourself for very traditional, Colombian fun!

8 – A favorite among students, el Parque del Perro  on Carrera 34 is full of little, cheap waterholes.

9 – Hang with the local jetset at cocktail bars Penélope Martini , Sagsa and Abesenta on Carrera 2 in El Peñon.

10 – Sonido Central is a dark underground electronic night club that plays deep bass until the early hours in downtown Cali. Great cocktails as well.

Restaurants

Good food on any budget.

11 – In my opinion, Peru Peñon serves some of the best seafood I have ever had in my life. Try the Pescado a la Chalaca or the Salmon de la Casa. You won’t regret it.

12 – Micheal Lynch at Teatro Magico del Sabor delivers what may be the most unique dining experience you have ever had.

13 – Low budget Pampero or high budget Tizones – both offer a great meal for meat lovers!

14 – La Comitiva  in San Fernando is super trendy eatery specializing in local food from the Valle del Cauca.

15 – Don’t leave Colombia before trying the food from the coast. Rice with coconut, seafood stews, coconut shrimps. You name it, Pacifico ‘s got it!

16 – If you’re craving sushi, then Sushi Good in El Peñon serves the best in town.

17 – If Mexican food is your thing, then Cantina La 15 in Granada is for the full, big-wallet experience or nearby La Taqueria #12 , for the smaller budget, but still yummy and authentic experience. Los Weros is a new-comer with more a street food feel and also an instant favorite.

18 – Italian immigrant Tomas, serves Cali’s best pasta. Period. La Trattoria Italia in Granada is where to get it. Storia d’Amore a few blocks up Avenida 9 is close runner up.

19 – At Frutos del Sol in Parque del Peñon, Mario and his little box of spices will make any carnivore enjoy a vegetarian meal.

20 – Constantly rated as one of Cali’s best restaurants, Platillos Voladores in Centenario is always an amazing experience.

21 – If you’re looking to escape the Cali heat, then Cali’s best pizzeria, Mamma Mia , or La Cabaña , that serves traditional Colombian food, both at KM 18 on the road towards Buenaventura are great spots for families, friends and lovers. Another nice escape for lovers of pork is La Crujiente in Rozo.

I’m a huge fan of snacking both salty and sweet. Here are my local favorites.

22 – Cali’s best salpicon gets served with ice cream at Manzana Verde along the Autopista .

23 – Greasy, salty and good. Juancho’s Uruguayan  choripan  is a hangover snack so good that you’d wanna slap them at Micky Ds after trying one!

24 – Empanadas are sold on every corner in Cali, but none better than the ones at Tardes de la Sexta on la Avenida 6N.

25 – You haven’t been to Cali before you’ve had a cholado –  the famous slushy, juicy, fruity thing with condensed milk and shaved coconut. The best ones are made in front of Canchas Panamericanas on Calle 9 or on Carrera 83 in front of Parque del Ingenio .

26 – I just recently discovered Ware – the maker of Colombia’s best arepa. Quite a statement, but I’m sure you’ll agree.

27 – Awesome coffee and home-made goodies at Barakha and Krost bakeries (hint: try the almond crossaint at Krost).  Macondo in San Antonio is also a great spot to stop for a cup of coffee and a dessert.

28 – When it comes to cakes, I have found no one above the Israeli pastry shop Zahavi . Their Maracuya or blueberry chocolate dessert is to die for.

29 – Ice cream lovers better head to El Peñon where artisanal ice cream shops  Fiore , Montalegro , and Calathea  deliver mouthwatering home-made ice creams.

Watch or play.

30 – Master the skillful art of throwing metal bricks at clay stuffed with envelopes of dynamite. Tejo is a great excuse to drink beers and hang out with the locals. Cancha Los Amigos is where to go. Fun fact: This is also where Anthony Bourdain went when he came to Cali.

31 – The only thing more important than Mom and God in Colombia is futbol.   A game at Cali’s stadium with either America or Deportivo Cali  or even better – a game between the two local rivals – is sure to be a thrilling event. Just don’t wear the wrong colors at the wrong tribune.

32 – Cali has two climbing schools . Whether you’re looking to join the club or just have fun for a day, you’re more than welcome. They also do excursions to Jamundi and Dapa.

33 – Cali and Roldanillo north of Cali are world class paragliding destinations. Whether looking to do a course or just do a tandem flight, Tracsails Colombia or Parapente Cali will take good care of you.

34 – Parque del Ingenio is the perfect place to go for an outdoors workout, yoga, a little run or to play futbol  with the locals.

35 – No better place to cool off, than in one of Cali’s 27+ public waterparks .

36 – Pico Aguila, Tres Cruces, Vuelta del Mundo, La Castilla, Pichindé, Cristo Rey, Dapa and Jamundi are all splendid destinations to go mountain biking. If you’re really aggressive and have a full-suspension bike, then check out the downhill tracks at Ventiaderos.

37 – Football, swimming, tennis, high-diving, karate, basketball, baseball – everything is possible at Canchas Panamericanas .

38 – Get your swing on at one of Cali’s many salsa schools .

39 – Spend a few days learning to wind or kite surf at Lago Calima just north of Cali. Calima Kitesurf or Cool Wind both have the gear and instructors to get you going.

40 – Fly a kite in windy season from August to October with the local kids. Just north of the city, along the highway, Cristo Rey or anywhere else with lots of wind is sure to be packed with kids that can detach themselves from their iPads.

41 – Join one of the daily Texas Hold’em poker tournaments at the casino in Unicentro or play roulette and blackjack in any of the other casinos around town.

Your next instagram shoot is waiting for you.

42 – Downtown Cali, around  Plaza Caicedo  is the perfect place to find a bench, people-watch, read the newspaper, drink a tinto , have your shoes shined and enjoy the organized chaos.

43 – The historic district of San Antonio with its quirky colonial architecture, many restaurants, park, and a chapel is a great place to wander around late in the afternoon.

44 –  Cali Zoo  is voted among the most beautiful zoos in South America. Kids love it and the garden is one of the most beautiful the city has to offer.

45 – Local artist, Hernando Tejada left his mark on Cali with the famous Cat Park next to the river. A great spot to get your photo taken and stroll around.

46 – The famous Cristo Rey statue offers one of the best 360-degree views you’ll find of Cali along with some nice walking trails. Best to go end of afternoon on a clear day.

47 – Noblinders has the coolest selection of creative tours. The full portfolio of things to do can be seen here .

48 –  Cali is famous worldwide as a bird-watching destination. The city and the surrounding mountains are literally packed with rare and gorgeous birds. 1913 different species have been spotted to be exact. Best time to go is during the annual Bird Fair or hiring one of the guides listing on their site.

49 – Cali was founded in 1536 with the idea of having plenty of fresh water and flat, fertile farmland available. No crop has historically been more important to the Valle del Cauca than cane sugar. Museo de la Caña de Azucar  will tell you all about it.

50 – Bring your kids to the Andoke Mariposario , a gorgeous butterfly garden located on the road up to Cristo Rey.

51 – Stroll Cali’s boulevard all the way down to La Ermita church. The boulevard is great for kids on skateboards, bikes and rollerblades and the is often hosting different events with street food and music.

52 – Cali at night, the best view is from the pizzerias on the road up to Cristo Rey.

53 – Fans of aviation can get their fix at the Museo Aereo Fenix  by the Cali airport.

Intellectual fun.

54 – Hang with hipsters, gays, and artists at Parque Artesanal La Loma de la Cruz . Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, there is usually an event going on, whether is be an indigenous group dance, story-telling or a concert.

55 –  Museo Tertulia is THE museum in Cali. Last time I went, they had a Rembrandt exposition with 69 of his original works. The museum also has a movie theater – La Cinemateca – showing independent films every week from all overt the world.

56 – Concerts, musicals, dancing, theater, and tranny awards come together at  Teatro Jorge Isaacs in downtown Cali. Tickets are usually available on Colboletos .

57 –  Teatro del Presagio  in Granada is a cute and contemporary theater with shows every week for both kids and adults.

58 – Cali’s underground and most vulgar cultural sphere is called Teatro Nephila . Last time I went, their performance was about a whorehouse and took the audience from room to room of an old colonial villa in the city center. They do not have a fixed location, you have to stay up to date with their calendar and locations.

59 – For a fun interpretation of tango dancing, head to Fundacion Jacaranda where world-renowned pros show off their skills.

60 – Treat yourself to VIP trip in one of Cali’s many movie theaters. Cinemark and Cinecolombia have great VIP theaters with super-comfy reclining chairs and table serving. Wednesday equal 50% discount is most theaters.

61 – Every day usually around 5:00 PM local musicians get together and jam in the El Peñon park  (Parque del Peñon). On Sundays from around 9:00 AM until late afternoon, the park becomes an art gallery with local artists showcasing and selling their work.

62 – Check out Cali’s Philharmonic Orchestra and Proartes for upcoming classical, live music concerts.

63 – Every time the national football team – La Seleccion Colombia – plays, La Avenida 6 becomes turns into a wild spectacle – and even more so if the Colombians win! Bring your jersey to blend in.

64 – Learn to speak Spanish like a Caleño at LinguaViva language school in San Antonio.

65 – Get lost in Spanish literature at the Biblioteca Departamental  on Calle 5.

For naturelovers.

67 – An early morning hike up to  Cali’s Three Crosses is the perfect way to start the day. Outdoors gym, fresh juices, home-made banana bread and awesome views await you.

68 – Swim with the locals in the Pance river in southwest Cali. Sundays get packed. It’s quiet on weekdays.

69 – Just outside the city limits, in the mountains behind Cristo Rey, lies Pichindé – a tropical village with a gorgeous and freezing cold river. The best way to cool off on a hot day and far from the gringo trail. Great for bird spotting, too!

70 – La Virgen de Yanaconas is the statue behind Cristo Rey a great viewpoint. From here there are trails all the way to southern Cali. The Comfenalco Yanaconas recreational center behind the statue is a great place to bring kids as well.

71 – South of Cali, in Potrerito near Jamundí lies Charco Escondido  – the hidden natural pool – a great place off the beaten path to go for a swim. Also popular with mountain bikers.

72 – One of the toughest hikes around Cali is Pico Pance in the Farallones Nationalpark in Pance. It takes you up to 4100 meters above sea level. VERY experienced hikers can ascend and descend in one 16-hour day. Everybody else should expect to spend 2-3 days. Do not go without a guide. Bring a headlamp, drinking water, lots of food, and warm clothes. Valley Adventours or Pico Loro tours are good operators for this kind of experience.

73 – A gorgeous hike that can be done in about 6 hours (up and down) is the trail up to Pico Loro , also in Pance. Expect breathtaking views, if you’re lucky to get a clear day. A guide is recommended, same as in # 72 offer this tour.

74 – Visit the one-man coffee farm in the Farallones.

75 – Two hours from Cali lies the tropical Garifuna village San Cipriano nestled deep in the jungle. Waterfalls, river tubing, tree jumping, and coconut bread describe it best. One of my favorite experiences!

76 – El Danubio is the emerald green river and spectacular waterfalls that lie between Cali and Buenaventura.

77 – From July to October, humpback whales jump in the waters around Buenaventura. A day trip from Cali is the way to go. If you want to stay longer, then check out the remote village Ladrilleros for a taste of the real Pacific.

78 – The Purecé volcano about two hours south of Cali by Popayán, makes for a nice day trip (if you’re an early bird). Beautiful nature, great hikes if you bring rotten meat, you might get to feed the condors.

79 – Bring your bike, rollerblades, skateboard, baby stroller or running shoes to ciclovia on Sundays in Cali.

Begin marking your calendar.

80 – One of the best events of the year is the weeklong Pacific music festival, Petronio Alvarez , celebrating the Afro-Latino culture in Colombia. Takes place in August every year.

81 – Cali’s most famous event, La Feria , is a weeklong salsa celebration that takes place between Christmas and New Years every year. Get ready to dance in the streets!

82 – The Mundial de Salsa is the annual world championships in salsa dancing. Usually around September/October.

83 – For five straight days in November every year, Cali hosts the Festival International de Cine –  a movie festival dedicated to underground, independent, dogme and other types of anti-mainstream films from all over the world.

84 – Although Cali is known for its salsa, the Ballet Festival in October has become a recurring event that has been happening for more than 10 years.

85 – The last Friday of every month, a show called Delirio  puts on the most amazing performance in what is a mix of salsa, circus, and orchestra. An event not to be missed!

86 – El Mulato, Cali’s famous dancer who trained J.Lo, for the Superbowl show, has a weekly cabaret which is getting raving reviews. Dancing, live music and food. Fridays and Saturdays at El Mulato Cabaret is where it’s at.

87 – Every year, starting on December 7th and until January 1st, the city of Cali puts on an amazing light show on Cali’s boulevard in honor of the Christmas celebrations. Perfect for your evening stroll.

89 – Flower and nature lovers flock to Cali’s annual Orchid Festival – CaliOrquídia – that takes place over the course of 3 days in November every year.

90 –  Spoil yourself with a massage in one of Cali’s many spas like Corpobello or Prana are two great options in western Cali.

91 – All beauty salons in Cali make pedicure and manicure for less than $5 dollars – for both! Guys are very welcome!

92 – The CrossFit wave is taking over Cali. Get your daily exercise and make friends in one of the many boxes like BeFitness or Crossfit Calimas . If you’re looking for a regular gym, then SmartFit or Bodytech are the top choices.

93 – Rejuvenate yourself and find your inner balance with either a Yoga class or a retreat at Yogendra Ashram (west) or ShyamAshram (south).

93 – Quality dental care is so cheap in Cali, that the savings alone will pay for your airfare and hotel.

94 – With more than 50.000 cosmetic surgeries performed every year, Caleño plastic surgeons have lots of experience and deliver high quality at low-priced, private medical clinics. Non-cosmetic surgery is also booming in Cali, especially for people without health insurance their home country. 50-80% savings are not uncommon and many doctors speak a fluent English.

“If I come home and I haven’t maxed out my credit card, I don’t feel like I’ve been anywhere!” – quote from a friend.

95 – Caleña designer Michu makes girly knees go wobbly. They make designer bags of leather and banana leaves. They have a physical store  in El Peñon.

96 – Galaría Alameda is the best place in town to sample exotic fruits, veggies and mingle with vendors.

97 – The organic movement is still in its infancy in Colombia. Cali’s organic farmer’s market on Saturdays is the best place to go and buy straight from the farmer.

98 – Colombia is famous for its textile industry. Big brands like Levi’s has a big production here. Local sports brands like Grama  and Kassis compete with big brand quality at a fraction of the cost. Also, the Avenida 9th avenue is full of designer boutiques, like Rafael Cure and others.

99 – If electric bikes are too boring or politically correct, then check out the Bobber moped bikes . Proudly made in Cali.

100 – If you prefer the breeze of the A/C to that of the Pacific, then Chipichape (north) or Unicentro (south) are the best shopping centers in town.

101 – La Caleñita next to Galería Alameda is the best place to buy quality, artisanal souvenirs in Cali.

That’s it! With this list, there should be plenty of activities to keep you occupied for weeks in Cali. A local, anonymous blogger, also wrote an article suggesting more than 100 different things to do in Cali . It’s in Spanish and we do have some activities in common, but it’s still worth checking out.

Passed through Cali for the first time in 2011, on his way from the US to Brazil on a motorcycle. Ended up kissing a caleña on his last night and the rest is history. Has been a resident of Cali, Colombia since 2013 and currently living in Barrio Bellavista with his girlfriend and 2 daughters.

Airbnb in Cali and Colombia – Part 2

The new cali event calendar and access to expat groups, 5-star cabins on the pacific coast of colombia, cali travel tips.

Hey mi amigo, there`s is something missing people can do here, learning Spanish, and one of the options is Lingua Viva, eslinguaviva.com

Hi Dayron, I was looking for your information the other day and could not find it. I want to make a post about learning Spanish in Cali but I need information about more schools. I’ll make sure to put you on the list!

Hi patrick , im from Cali and I live in USA for the last 25 years, now in Boca Raton, Florida and i discover today you blog here , i just want to say thanks for the love you have for my city and my people,thanks alot and i hope to meet in cali soon …take care.

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• April 10, 2024
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25 Top Things to Do in Cali and Nearby: Top Tourist Attractions

S antiago de Cali, renowned as the “Sucursal del Cielo” and the World Capital of Salsa , stands as Colombia’s third most significant city, celebrated for its salsa music , delectable cuisine, and tropical climate. Throughout Cali, towering trees line the streets, providing ample shade and comfort under the radiant sun.

Beyond its rich cultural traditions, Cali is a vibrant city recognized by Tripadvisor as one of Colombia’s most captivating destinations. The capital of the Valle del Cauca department presents an array of activities for visitors to relish during their stay.

Whether you are drawn to its history, culture, natural splendor, or entertainment options, Cali promises an experience suited to all tastes. Here, we unveil a selection of fascinating pursuits that offer many enriching experiences. Prepare yourself to immerse yourself in all that Cali has to offer.

25 Things to do in Cali and Nearby

Although there are many things to do, Medellín Guru wishes to highlight 25 activities that you can enjoy during your visit.

1. The Cali Fair

Born in 1957, this renowned festival stands as the region’s most anticipated event. Held annually in December (from the 25th to the 30th), the “Feria de Cali” transforms the city into a vibrant hub teeming with salsa exhibitions, gastronomic showcases, encounters celebrating Pacific Colombian culture, and lively festivities. Visitors can indulge in popular cuisine, partake in folk parades, and revel in countless salsa dancing celebrations.

The festivities kick off with the “Salsódromo,” a dazzling parade featuring over 30 cultural groups and approximately 1,200 participants adorned in luminous attire. As the most significant salsa dancers and bands weave their way along Roosevelt Avenue, the streets come alive with the rhythm of a live concert.

2. Cristo Rey

Perched on Cerro Los Cristales in the Andes district, west of Cali, the Christ the King Statue stands at a towering height of 26 meters.  Drawing thousands of visitors, this imposing Catholic icon bears a resemblance to the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

With breathtaking vistas, Cristo Rey allows visitors to view the city from a new perspective, serving as both a religious landmark and a vantage point for those seeking awe-inspiring views.

3. Cali Zoo

Home to a diverse array of preserved and rescued species, Cali Zoo offers an educational experience showcasing both local fauna and exotic animals. Among the most visited attractions in the city, the zoo provides families and tourists alike with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of biodiversity with the chance to interact with mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

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4. San Antonio Neighborhood

Renowned for its colonial architecture, striking murals, and charming cafes visitors with its historic charm. A visit to the San Antonio chapel atop the neighborhood’s hill is a must, offering panoramic views that will inspire any landscape photographer.

5. La Ermita church

Located in Cali’s historic center, it serves as a focal point for Catholics to express their faith. Recognized as a local heritage site for its neo-Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows, this early 20th-century edifice beckons devout worshippers and curious visitors alike to marvel at its grandeur.

6. Monument to Solidarity

This piece symbolizes the love for the homeland and the unity of the people of Cali. It was generously donated by the Ibero-American Association of Chambers of Commerce and opened on March 24, 1995. The artistic creation, valued at 300 million pesos at the time, includes water features and lighting systems.

7. Sebastian de Belalcazar Monument

Dedicated to Cali’s founder, this statue, unveiled in June 1937, stands as a testament to the city’s history and Spanish heritage. The monument is situated in the San Fernando neighborhood and offers panoramic city views, providing an ideal backdrop for memorable photographs.

8. Pascual Guerrero Stadium

Home to the América de Cali soccer team , one of Colombia’s premier football clubs, Pascual Guerrero Stadium boasts a capacity of 40,000 spectators. It hosts a variety of events, including concerts and festivals. Additionally, the stadium serves as a venue for rugby and athletics competitions.

9. Dog park

Located in the San Fernando neighborhood, the first Dog’s Park in Cali offers a perfect blend of recreational options, including numerous restaurants and bars. Dominating the park’s landscape is a statue of Teddy the Dog , attracting visitors throughout the day and bustling with activity on weekends.

10. River boulevard

A picturesque pedestrian thoroughfare tracing the Cali River, this place offers scenic views of the river and glimpses of urban life. Whether strolling, jogging, or simply unwinding, visitors can admire local street art and other attractions along this charming promenade.

11. Tejada River Cat

The iconic “Gato del Río de Tejada” stands as Cali’s most beloved feline figure. Crafted by renowned painter and sculptor Hernando Tejada, this imposing 3-ton sculpture, with its striking eyes and prominent mustache, embodies the cultural identity of the Caleños. A visit to Cali would be incomplete without paying homage to this emblematic artwork, prominently displayed along the River Boulevard.

12. The Girlfriends of Tejada River Cat

In homage to the revered “Tejada River Cat,” local artists have contributed their own feline creations to adorn the River Boulevard. Dubbed “Las Novias del Gato de Tejada,” these sculptures pay tribute to the enigmatic charm of the original masterpiece.

13. Jairo Varela Square

Named in honor of the iconic salsa artist and founder of the Niche Group, Jairo Varela Square stands as a testament to Varela’s enduring legacy in Colombian music. Visitors can partake in cultural and musical events while marveling at the poignant tribute—a towering trumpet symbolizing Varela’s profound influence on salsa music and the cultural heritage of the Pacific region.

14. Stroll Amid Cali's Majestic Trees

Embark on a leisurely stroll through Cali’s verdant streets, adorned with towering trees that provide respite from the city’s warm temperatures. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and admire the natural beauty that abounds in this vibrant metropolis.

15. Indulge in Culinary Delights

Savor the diverse flavors of Cali’s cuisine, which reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. From traditional dishes influenced by the Pacific coast to delicacies such as champús, aborrajado, and pandebono, Cali offers a tantalizing gastronomic journey for every palate.

Traditional Food in Cali

Fruits in cali, 16. la merced church.

Step back in time as you explore this historic building, frequented by devout worshippers and curious travelers alike. Admire the colonial-era architecture and marvel at the array of religious artworks housed within this architectural gem.

17. Birdwatching at Charco Azul Wetland

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a natural beauty scenario. Embark on a birdwatching adventure and marvel at the diverse avian species that call this ecological sanctuary home.

To be safe and protected while touring these wonderful places, we recommend you to have a medical insurance that will ensure coverage in any eventuality during your stay at Cali and anywhere else in Colombia.

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18. Salsa Museum

An initiative by the Alma Solidaria Foundation where you will be immersed in the vibrant history of salsa music. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing the evolution of this iconic musical genre, from its roots in Colombian culture to its global influence.

19. Cayzedo Square

Experience the vibrant energy of Cali’s city center in a bustling hub of cultural activities and local gatherings. Browse artisanal crafts, enjoy live performances, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this lively plaza.

20. Explore La Tertulia Museum

Located in the picturesque San Antonio neighborhood, La Tertulia offers a captivating journey through contemporary art from Colombia and beyond. Marvel at the diverse array of artworks on display, showcasing the talent and creativity of local and international artists.

21. Enrique Buenaventura Municipal Teather

Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Cali at the Enrique Buenaventura Municipal Theater. From theatrical performances to live concerts and dance shows, this cultural landmark offers diverse entertainment options for visitors to enjoy.

22. Discover Shotgun Street

Wander through “Calle de la Escopeta,” a vibrant thoroughfare adorned with colorful facades, captivating murals, and eclectic art galleries. Immerse yourself in the local art scene and discover hidden gems tucked away in this dynamic neighborhood.

23. San Francisco Religious Complex

Erected between the 18th and 19th centuries in the city’s heart, it comprises the San Joaquín convent , the Immaculada Chapel, the Mudéjar Tower, the San Francisco Church, and a museum of religious art.

24. Carpa Delirio y Paseo de la Aurora

Embark on a magical journey at Carpa Delirio y Paseo de la Aurora , located at the Pacific Valley Events Center. Immerse yourself in a spectacular circus performance celebrating the region’s vibrant culture of salsa music. Engage with national and international artists, learn about traditional customs, and revel in the infectious energy of this cultural extravaganza.

Venture beyond Cali and discover the historic city officially known as Guadalajara de Buga. Pay homage to the Basílica of The Lord of Miracles, a revered sanctuary drawing thousands of pilgrims and tourists annually. Explore the charming streets of the historic center, sample local cuisine, and immerse yourself in this enchanting destination’s rich culture and traditions.

Is Cali Safe?

Cali is generally safe, but like any other city, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas, so it’s advisable to keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public. It’s also good to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, particularly when traveling at night or in less well-lit areas.

As with any travel destination, it’s essential to do your research and exercise caution, but overall, Cali is a vibrant and welcoming city with much to offer visitors. To be more cautious and take care of yourself and your family, download our Colombian Emergency Directory.

Check other options to enjoy your stay in Colombia

From our article about Cali, we share with you these very attractive Colombian cities to enjoy

• 37 Top Things to Do in Medellin and Nearby: Top Tourist Attractions
• Unlock Ipiales in 24 hours
• Norte de Santander: 5 Escapes for a Weekend Adventure
• Villa de Leyva: a Colonial Gem in the Colombian Andes
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• Colombia Holidays 2024: A Guide to the Many Festivos in the country
• Top 17 Things to Do in San Andrés: Colombia´s Caribbean Island 
• Top 12 Things to See and Do on Colombia´s Pacific Coast

The Bottom Line: 25 Top Things to Do in Cali and Nearby - Top Tourist Attractions

Cali, renowned as the “Sucursal del Cielo” and the World Capital of Salsa, beckons travelers with a plethora of natural, cultural, architectural, historical, and gastronomic delights. From awe-inspiring landmarks to vibrant cultural hubs, the city offers an array of experiences for solo adventurers, families, and friends alike. Don’t hesitate—embark on an unforgettable journey to Cali on your next trip.

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10 things to do in Cali, Colombia: an incredible up-and-coming destination

• Post author: Kevin Gagnon
• Post published: April 23, 2024
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Cali, in the Valle del Cauca department, southwest of Bogotá, is a vibrant city changing the face of tourism in Colombia. I loved this city. Its reputation as the home of salsa dancing, its stunning rivers and waterfalls, and its beautiful architecture make the city one of Colombia’s top destinations for travelers.

Read on to find out exactly what you can get up to in Cali and why it should be your next travel destination.

Why Cali is a very affordable destination

Colombia is among the cheapest countries to travel to , even though it’s not as affordable as many places outside the Americas. Hotels and hostels are pretty cheap, as we shared in our guide to accommodation in Colombia .

Cali is among the best places to get many free hotel nights for savvy travelers who have Marriott points. The City Express Plus by Marriott Cali Colombia hotel costs as little as 44,000 points for 5 nights (8,800 per night).

The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card ’s current increased welcome bonus will get you 71,000 points. For a more luxurious experience, you can try the Cali Marriott Hotel which is more chic and not much more expensive.

Plus, with avianca just launching very affordable flights to Colombia from Montréal, for as low as $300 roundtrip (they already served Toronto with similar prices), it’s a great time to consider visiting Colombia!

Things to know about visiting Cali, Colombia

Cali, officially Santiago de Cali, is an up-and-coming destination with a lot to offer. Since it hasn’t become too touristy, it’s still a great place to explore and interact with locals. It offers an authentic experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

I enjoyed my weeks in Cali in 2017 at the start of my journey as a full-time digital nomad .

Getting to Cali is fairly easy, with an airport offering direct flights to Bogotá (as low as $38 one-way ) as well as decent bus routes from other cities in Colombia .

If you want to explore further afield, you may need to rent a car but know that Uber is incredibly cheap and taxis are affordable and available. You can also rent bikes for basically no cost.

Cali is a bustling city, far from a peaceful retreat, although you can find plenty of calm in the national parks nearby. This town is also known for its dancing and nightclubs. The nightlife here is perhaps some of the best in South America .

Aside from the parties and dancing, Cali is actually one of Colombia’s oldest cities, giving it some amazing history and a blend of Spanish, African, and Indigenous cultures.

Great news for those who don’t want to spend too much, Cali is super affordable, and traveling on a budget or backpacking is very common. Basic hostel prices start from around $5 a night , while you can rent an entire house for around $60 . Food is also fresh and cheap with lots of influences from many cultures — it’s worth trying the local dishes that blend Spanish and African flavors. 

With so much to see and do, affordable prices, and amazing wildlife, it’s no surprise Cali is on the rise as a major backpacking and travel destination. Get there now before the crowds to still enjoy an authentic experience! 

Top 10 things to do in Cali, Colombia

If Cali is on your list of places to explore, there is certainly enough to keep you busy.

Here are 10 things you should definitely find time to do in Cali.

Salsa class

Cali is the home of salsa dancing, and you can’t visit it without getting involved in some way. You’ll see people moving their hips on the streets, lots of shows, and even a salsa museum .

I was there during the “ Festival Mundial de Salsa de Cali ” and it was very cool to see. I went to this event with the people who worked at the hostel I was staying at and ate lots of delicious local food from food trucks. I also saw the very impressive competition.

I also stopped at some local salsa bar, on the way back, where we tried salsa ourselves and saw people that were really amazing at it.

Outside of the festival period, the most immersive way to join is to take a salsa class.

Plenty of dance studios offer classes ; ranging from 1 to 2 hours, with about 20 people at a time. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can learn or improve with the best salsa dancers in the world. It’s surprisingly easy and a lot of fun.

Once you’re happy with your new dancing skills, I recommend a trip to Parque del Peñon . This small park is lined with restaurants where you can enjoy dinner accompanied by local musicians, while people of all levels practice salsa.

Farallones de Cali National Natural Park

Farallones de Cali National Natural Park is a small mountain range to the west of Cali with rivers, lakes, hiking trails, and waterfalls. It’s a stunning natural area with a huge amount of biodiversity: there are lots of native plants and animals.

It’s close enough to the city that lots of people come here during the weekends after a hard week’s work. Depending on your fitness level, you can try some intense trekking or opt for a gentle hike to see the Río Pance .

It’s the perfect place to see wildlife, go picnic, and spend a day out in nature, exploring the countryside. The views from up high are incredible.

The lower areas closer to the city are easier to access and still incredibly beautiful. There, you can also find food stalls to get snacks. The Pance EcoPark has restaurants, a lake for swimming and other water sports, and places to barbecue and camp.

The Río Cali, or the Cali River, runs straight through the center of the city. Its banks have been developed with small walking paths, benches, parks, cafes, and more. The cat park is particularly popular.

Taking some time to stroll along the river is a great way to see the city. The different parks contain statues, playgrounds, workout areas, and small food stalls selling local foods and sweet treats like ice cream and flavored shaved ice.

It’s a popular meeting place for locals, and you can easily spend a day exploring the banks of the river and relaxing. If you’re short on time, you can simply walk along the Rio Cali on your way to other attractions.

Iglesia de la Ermita

La Iglesia de la Ermita attracts hundreds of visitors every day. It is one of the most unique-looking churches in the world. This catholic church was built between 1930 and 1948 and has some quite unusual neo-gothic architecture. 

The church contains an 18th-century Italian marble altar, a musical clock, and draws inspiration from around the world; the bells are French, the windows are Dutch, and the overall design is German.

The bright white and blueish-gray exterior is hard to miss, with ornate carving and an intricate roofing design. The outside is the main reason to visit, as the inside is fairly small. However, the church houses several paintings that date back centuries, such as the Virgen de los Dolores and the Christo de la Caña , which are worth seeing.

Galería Alameda

The Galería Alameda is a large, busy covered market in downtown Cali. It’s a fun, upbeat place to tour where you can buy fresh fruits, and locally grown vegetables. While you’re there, try authentic dishes and speak to locals, who actually shop there.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visiten Colombia (@visitencolombia)

You can buy meat, spices, flowers, and handmade items from traditional artisans. And don’t be surprised if you see Indigenous women selling love potions and other alternative medicines.

The market is pretty entertaining and gives a great insight into how people in Cali actually live. If you just want to look around, allow half an hour, but be prepared to stay for up to 2 hours if you want to shop and eat.

Plaza de Cayzedo

The main square in Cali is a beautiful tree-filled, open grassy area where locals meet and relax. It’s worth spending time here to look around and admire the architecture, and it’s ideal for grabbing a coffee while people-watching under the palm trees.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paola Andrea (@losviajes_depaola)

There are many official government buildings just off the main square as well as museums, exhibitions, shows, and more. It’s often a starting point to explore the downtown area and head to other places you want to visit.

Pool day or spa day at the Cali Marriott Hotel

Take a break from sightseeing and unwind at the Cali Marriott Hotel spa. Located right downtown, it’s perfect for spending an afternoon just relaxing and recovering from a busy week of travel.

There is a full list of on-demand treatments as well as an outdoor swimming pool. You can also get guidance on the art of massages so you can take the ability to relax with you wherever you go!

Free hotel nights cost as little as 60,000 points for 5 nights (12,000 per night). As mentioned, that’s more than the City Express Plus by Marriott Cali Colombia but this full-service hotel is much more upscale.

And it’s still a great use of the Marriott points you get with the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card . If you’ve got a travel buddy and you both get the welcome bonus, you can spend 11 free nights there as you explore the Cali area. That said, other nice Marriott hotels are affordable in Colombia , so I would aim to visit 2 different destinations at least.

That’s a lot of time to look around without costing a fortune!

Río El Danubio

One of the most beautiful rivers in all of Colombia is the El Danubio, and it’s easily accessible from Cali. It’s a short drive of approximately 2 hours. You can also take a bus, which costs around 40,964 pesos (~ C$14), from the Terminal de Transporte Cali to Tuluá . Upon arrival, you can either walk to the river or take a taxi (~ C$5) to be as close as possible.

Entrance to the El Danubio Nature Reserve costs around 5,000 Pesos (~ C$1.70). Once you are there, you can enjoy the hiking trails, look for wildlife, and appreciate Colombia’s natural beauty.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ruteros Colombia (@ruteros.colombia)

The crystal clear waters, bubbling streams, natural blue swimming pools, and waterfalls make the Río El Danubio a real paradise. The surrounding forest looks like something out of a fairytale, and spotting birds and butterflies is easy.

It’s wilder than some other places, so you won’t find food vendors; so it’s a good idea to bring a lunch for a picnic. You should allow a few hours to walk to the river, relax, swim, and see some of the forests. However, some people spend all day here.

El Cristo Rey

Like the famous statue in Brazil, this giant 26-meter-tall statue of Christ, with his arms outstretched, is truly impressive.

Sitting on top of the Hill of Crystals ( Cerro de Los Cristales ), named after the large amount of quartz in the hill, the statue towers over Cali. It was inaugurated in 1953 to mark 50 years since the end of the Thousand Days’ War.

To get to the statue, there is a gentle uphill walk, but it’s not too hard. Along the way, you can appreciate local artwork carved into the rocks. The entrance to see the Christ figure is free, but you can pay extra to visit other amenities.

The statue sees around 300,000 visitors each year and is of religious importance, so be aware that some people there may be on a pilgrimage. You’ll also find regular worship taking place in the nearby chapel.

La Merced Archaeological Museum

There are plenty of museums in Cali covering everything from the history of salsa to food and local crafts, but the La Merced Archaeological Museum is not to be missed.

In addition to being splendid with its sublime colonial architecture, the La Merced Archaeological Museum has some amazing exhibits. You can travel back in time by looking at artifacts dating back thousands of years. It covers the ancient traditions of the local Indigenous people, including looking at work, religion, and war.

Make sure you don’t miss the replica of a funeral temple from some nearby ancient ruins that is built under the museum garden.

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Whether you’re a nature lover, salsa enthusiast, or a savvy traveler who loves to travel to the most affordable countries, Cali, its breathtaking nature and its lively atmosphere await!

What would you like to know about things to do in Cali, Colombia? Tell us in the comments below.

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Featured image: Cali, Colombia ( photo credit: ProColombia )

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The Top Things to See and Do in Cali, Colombia

Famous for their obsession with salsa , the people of Cali love nothing more than dancing to the rhythm of these infectious beats. But there are also plenty of other things to do in this vibrant Colombian city, with enough to keep travelers busy for several days or more. From cultural heritage to natural retreats, here are the best Cali attractions. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Zoológico de cali.

Widely considered to be the best zoo in Colombia, a trip to the Zoológico de Cali is a must for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Among the exotic animals on these expansive grounds are tigers, huge iguanas, monkeys, and pink Andean flamingos.

Zoológico de Cali, Carrera 2, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia , +57 2 4880888

An undiscovered gem just outside the city, this huge butterfly farm features over 15 elegant technicolored species. A series of pretty walking trails weave through the complex while knowledgeable guides do a bang-up job of explaining the life cycles of these remarkable creatures—from caterpillar to cocoon to butterfly. Mariposario Andoke, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia , +57 5142989

Admittedly, this giant Jesus statue isn’t as grand as Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, but it’s impressive nonetheless. As it’s perched on top of a hill overlooking the city, the views are superb, and a visit can easily be combined with the nearby Andoke butterfly farm.

Cristo Rey, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

Gato de Tejada

A rather unusual attraction, this park pays tribute to famous Colombian artist Hernando Tejada, who created the famous central sculpture of a cat. After tragically passing away just a few years later, local artists got together and sculpted another 15 feline statues in his honor.

Iglesia de San Antonio

Set atop a hill to the west of the historical center lies Iglesia de San Antonio, a quaint 18th-century church that contains a number of unique wood-carved religious artifacts. Most come to enjoy the pleasant surrounding park, however, which affords excellent views of the city. Iglesia de San Antonio, Carrera 10, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia , +57 317 5236589

Barrio San Antonio

Just down from the church lies Cali’s historic center, the funky Barrio San Antonio. Within these charming colonial edifices are trendy cafés, happening bars, and upmarket restaurants, making it a perfect place to eat, drink, and be merry. San Antonio, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

Real-life Narcos locations

Follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters from season three of this hit Netflix series , much of which was filmed on location in Cali. Some recognizable sites include Edificio Coltabaco and Plaza de Caicedo.

Plaza de Caicedo, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

Try some local delicacies

Pandebono is a popular cheesy bread snack sold in bakeries, cafés, and street stalls all throughout the city. Then there’s the ubiquitous lulada , a refreshing drink that combines the local lulu fruit, ice, sugar, and water (booze is an optional extra).

San Cipriano

Those keen for a trip out of the city should opt for a day tour of San Cipriano. Highlights include a ride on a tiny railway timber cart, a visit to an Afro community, tubing down a tranquil river, and the chance to swim under some cascading waterfalls.

San Cipriano, Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

No trip to Cali would be complete without experiencing the city’s number one claim to fame, the seductive sounds of salsa. Those who don’t like to dance can watch a live performance, though the real action takes place within the city’s sweltering clubs. Zaperoco Salsa Bar is pretty hard to beat.

Zaperoco Salsa Bar, Av 5 Norte #16, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia , +57 320 3094567

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Things to see and do in Cali? The 11 must-sees in and around Cali

An economic centre since its creation, Cali has not forgotten culture: cultural centres, theatres, theatres and exhibition halls, libraries, as well as numerous archaeological (La Merced or the University of Valle), scientific (Federico Carlos Lehman Valencia, natural history museum) or art (La Tertulia) museums are all places to visit. It is also the ideal city…

An economic centre since its creation, Cali has not forgotten culture: cultural centres, theatres, theatres and exhibition halls, libraries, as well as numerous archaeological (La Merced or the University of Valle), scientific (Federico Carlos Lehman Valencia, natural history museum) or art (La Tertulia) museums are all places to visit. It is also the ideal city for partying, in a typically Latino atmosphere!

Cali and its surroundings : The essentials

• Things to see and do in Cali and its surroundings? Discover the salsa caleña, the Calima culture, the main museums of Cali, its panoramic views, the Farallones de Cali national park, the Calima lake…
• What to do in Cali? Take a city tour and a salsa tour!
• Practical information
• When to go to Cali and its surroundings? From December to February and from July to August.
• What are the main events in Cali? Don’t miss the International Salsa Festival at the end of December!
• How to get to Cali? Cali has an international airport and many bus connections.

In this article, we will share with you our favourite places, the must-sees of the city. Our main tip : try to come for the International Feria de Cali in December!

What to do in Cali, the capital of salsa!

Salsa caleña.

If you like to dance and you are in Cali, you must go salsa dancing! It is probably the most famous element of Cali and for us a must during your stay in Cali. 

What is salsa like?

This style of dance (which is also music!) is characterized by rapid foot and hip movements , frontal and lateral movements, and acrobatics of the dancers. It is the speed of the Colombian rhythms that makes learning this dance so difficult.

It is a style that is not danced much in Europe, so if you have the opportunity to go to Cali, we advise you to go to a salsa bar to admire the dancers, and to practice some steps!

Also exist the Salsa museum

• Open Monday to Friday
• 10,000COP per person
• Reservations must be made in advance.

Calima culture

To put it simply, the Calima culture is an archaeological culture that is defined by a highly recognized know-how in terms of crafts. The two main crafts are ceramics and its geometric decoration and goldsmithing . In Cali, you will be able to admire them above all in the Museo del Oro Calima.

A bit of history : The Calima culture dates back to pre-Columbian times, i.e. to more than 1000 years BC. The Calima people lived in the western part of Colombia, in the valleys of San Juan, Dagua and Calima. This culture lasted for several centuries until the Spanish colonisation.

Sugar cane museum

Sugar cane production is an integral part of life in the Cali region. That’s why this museum can be a good little excursion to learn more about the Cauca region. The museum is part of the hacienda Piedechinche and is located 42 km from Cali , between Palmira and El Cerrito. You can even take a walk through the sugar cane fields .

La Merced Archaeological Museum

For a cultural afternoon, we recommend a visit to this architectural complex, which is located in the historic centre of Cali. Inside you will find several monuments : the colonial and religious art museum, the archaeological museum and the chapel of Our Lady of Mercy. It is really a beautiful museum that is worth a visit if you are interested in art.

San Pedro Cathedral

Museo Arqueológico La MercedThis is for us the monument not to be missed during your stay in Cali. Located at the corner of street 11 and 5, this baroque style monument dates back to 1772!

Inside the cathedral you will find a special decoration with works of the Quiteña school, and its central ornament representing the Lord Caido dating from the 18th century. Its magnificent central door made of bronze is also worth a look.

Panoramic views

If you want to get some height, we recommend visiting one of the many viewpoints in Cali. It’s the ideal way to admire the city.

Yes, but which one? From the Belalcazar hill, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city , but also of the Cauca Valley. It is also imperative to have a look at the viewpoints of Las 3 Cruces , and Cristo Rey . which are absolutely sublime!

Other places of interest and things to do in Cali

• Sexta Avenida : This is the most popular avenue for going out and partying. You will find bars, restaurants, and nightclubs with a wide range of music. For us, it’s a place to be for partying!
• The Rio Pance : a place where the people of Cali relax, swim and stroll at weekends. We really recommend taking the time to walk along the Bulevard del Rio.
• La Choza de Chuchu : You will find this mixture between a house and a museum in Santa Elena. In this rather atypical cultural space, visitors become actors.

Our advice! During your stay in Cali, we recommend attending a cabaret show, visiting a salsa school and taking a class, or taking a stroll through the city’s botanical garden.

Farallones de Cali National Natural Park

Are you a birdwatcher and nature lover? The Farallones National Park is one of the many national parks in Colombia and for us it is one of the best places for birdwatching as it has more than 540 species ! It is located in the western cordillera and covers more than 200,000 hectares.

What will you see at the Farallones de Cali?

This magnificent 20,000 hectare park in the Andean fores t will offer you beautiful mountain landscapes where you will be able to discover varied ecosystems with a very rich flora but also an impressive fauna, refuge of the jaguar for example!

Calima lake

Fancy some water sports? You can go to Lake Calima for a half day to practice Kitesurfing and Windsurfing in ideal conditions. The lake is located 100km from Cali and is surrounded by mountains. It has very good winds for water sports but you can do a lot of other activities in the area, especially sports. This is often where the Caleños go at the weekend for a breath of fresh air!

Things to do in Cali ?  Aventure Colombia activities

Salsa classes, city tour … discover our tourist activities in Cali. Contact Aventure Colombia for more information about these activities ( [email protected] )

Discover Cali on this Salsa tour, a modern city in the Cauca Valley in southern Colombia, known worldwide as the capital of Salsa, dance and street parties, but also for its beautiful women, historical sites and entertainment venues. You can climb the Cristo Rey for a panoramic view of the whole city, then visit two salsa schools and take a class with a world champion school.  

This 5 hour tour can also be done in 1 day, where you will visit 2 other schools and go out in the evening to dance Salsa Caleña ! You can also take a 1 hour personalized Salsa course.

Cali City tour (4h)

Accompanied by a local guide, you will visit Cali by private transport, passing by the Cristo Rey and its panoramic view, the San Antonio neighbourhood, the Peñón, the Museum of Modern Art, the Gato de Tejada Park and many other places of interest. This is the ideal excursion to get a good overview of Cali and to learn more about the Calima culture.

Cali : Restaurants

LAS AREPAS CUADRADAS You’ll find this small restaurant on a street near San Antonio Park, where you can enjoy the famous “arepas”, made from corn, with a wide selection of ingredients and delicious accompanying sauces. The Lulada, a typical drink of the region, based on lulo, is particularly tasty. Pleasant atmosphere and decoration. Address: Carrera 12 #2 Oeste-2 a 2 Oeste-86, Cali Opening days and times : Wed – Sun: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm Prices : dishes between $3,000 and $10,000 pesos

EL BUEN ALIMENTO A nice option for vegetarians. A varied menu with plenty of international and Colombian choices. Address : Carrera 5 # 3 – 23, Cali Days and hours of operation : Tue – Sat: 8am – 10pm, Mon/Sun: 8am – 5pm. Price : between $10,000 and $30,000 pesos

TENTENPIE In this restaurant, you will be able to taste the typical cuisine of the Valle del Cauca. The specialty of the house: the “empanadas”, accompanied by a wide variety of homemade sauces, a delight! Address : Avenida 5 CN # 46 – 01, Local 2, Cali Days and opening hours : Mon – Fri: 8am – 6pm, Sat: 8am – 1pm Prices : dishes between $22,000 and $52,000 pesos

PLATILLOS VOLADORES A “fusión” cuisine restaurant, a blend of international, Pacific and Valle del Cauca cuisine. Creative dishes cooked with local ingredients. An incredible place with an original decoration and a magical and romantic atmosphere. Address : Av. 3 Norte No. 7-19, Cali Opening days and hours : Mon – Fri: 12:00 – 3:00 pm, 7:00 – 11:00 pm, Sat: 1:00 – 4:00 pm, 7:00 – 12:00 am Prices : dishes between $25,000 and $50,000 pesos

EL RINGLETE Located in the heart of Granada’s festive neighborhood, El Ringlete pays homage to the cuisine of the Valle del Cauca, with delicious dishes and a pretty, original presentation. Address : Calle 15a Norte #9N-31, Cali Days and hours of operation : Mon – Sat: 12pm – 10pm, Sun: 12pm – 4:30pm Prices : dishes between $9,000 and $35,000 pesos

SISA ATAHUALPA Located on Parque San Antonio, Sisa Atahualpa and a great place to have a drink and enjoy the beautiful view of Cali. You can also shop for souvenirs. Address : Carrera 10 n°1oe-15, Cali Opening days and hours : Mon -Sun : 2pm – 12am Price : about $25,000 pesos

Where to dance and discover Salsa in Cali?

LA TOPA TOLONDRA Traditional salsa disco (“salsoteca”), meeting place for salsa lovers and the best dancers. Very good atmosphere to live the party culture in Cali. Address : Calle 5a #1437, Cali Days and opening hours : Tue/Wed: 7pm – 1am, Thu – Sat/Mon: 8pm- 4am.

TINTINDEO A disco that is part of the caleña history, a place where music and salsa enthusiasts meet. A good place to discover and dance salsa. Address : Calle 5 #38-71,Cali Opening days and times : Thu – Sat: 8pm – 3am.

ZAPEROCO Another traditional salsoteca, where you can listen and dance to the rhythms of Salsa, “Son Cubano,” and Pachanga. Address : Avenida 5 # 16-46, Cali Opening Days and Times : Thu – Sat: 8:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.

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Things to Do in Cali, The Salsa Capital of Colombia

A visit to Cali, the ‘Salsa Capital of the World’, is on many people’s itineraries when travelling to Colombia, even if it isn’t the most popular city to visit in the country. Whilst the ultimate thing to do in Cali is to dance and watch salsa, the city also offers much more on top. So, if you’re currently planning your trip and are interested in what else you can do in Cali, then you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll list some of the best attractions in Cali, from beautiful churches to street art and scenic views. As usual, you can also read about how to get to Cali, the best time to visit, where to stay and where to eat in this award winning Colombian city.

If you’d like to see the highlights of our time in Cali, then make sure to watch our short Cali video  on our  YouTube channel . For more Colombia videos, check out our  Colombia Series .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something. Clicking these links won’t cost you anything, but it will help us to keep this site up and running! Learn more about our affiliate policy.

Table of Contents

Introducing Cali, Colombia

Located in the Valle del Cauca region, Cali is the third largest city in Colombia after Bogota and Medellin. The city’s full name is actually Santiago de Cali, but everyone just refers to it as Cali.

It was founded in 1536 by the Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Belalcázar. Of course before the Spanish, Cali was inhabited by indigenous tribes. During the colonial era, the area was occupied by haciendas – large estates and plantations. The city gained its independence from Spain in 1811.

During the 19th century, Cali was the centre of the sugar plantation economy. Industrialisation and modernisation of the agricultural sector in the 20th century led to the rapid growth of the city’s economy. Cali today is one of the major economic and industrial centers in Colombia.

For a lot of people Cali is known as the ‘Salsa Capital of the World’ and attracts visitors from all over for this reason. However, the city is also one of the most important Sports Centers in Colombia and has hosted many important games over the years.

Cali has won the World Travel Awards’ ‘South America’s Leading Cultural City Destination’ award for multiple years.

Our Top Travel Resources to Visit Cali

• 🛏️ Find your accommodations with Booking.com
• 🎫 Book an organised tour in Cali with GetYourGuide or Viator
• 📱Get an eSIM with  Airalo  to be able to use data
• 🛡️ Don’t forget to buy travel insurance via SafetyWing

Things to Do in Cali, Colombia

1. go on a salsa tour.

Since Cali is known as the ‘Salsa Capital of the World’ most visitors come to the city with the intention of learning about salsa. You can follow the ‘Salsa Route’ (La Ruta de la Salsa) that guides you through the city between Antigua Estacion del Tren de Cali and Parque Alameda. Along the way you can visit places like the Salsa Museum (Museo de la Salsa) and the Jairo Varela Square (Plazoleta Jairo Varela) . They normally have a map of the Salsa Route at each of the must-see stops.

In our opinion, the best way to appreciate and understand Cali’s salsa culture is by joining a dedicated salsa tour . These tours normally last for 4 or 5 hours. During this time, your local guide will take you to different spots around Cali where you can learn and experience salsa.

2. Sign Up for a Salsa Class

Once you’ve gained enough background knowledge about salsa, why not learn some of the dance moves as well. With a lot of visitors arriving here to experience Cali’s salsa scene, there are numerous places offering salsa lessons. Whether you’re a beginner, or already have some experience, you can sign up for either a private or group class.

Sometimes hostels like Viajero hostel offer free lessons for their guests, which is worth considering when booking your accommodation. You can also sign up for lessons at places like Salsa Pura or  Rumba Y Salsa . Taking some lessons is a great way to meet with fellow travellers whilst also learning a new skill.

Once you’ve gained some confidence, it’s time to hit one of the clubs and dance the night away.

3. Watch a Salsa Show at Delirio

If you want to see a fantastic salsa show then you should book one at Delirio .

The Delirio Foundation (Fundación Delirio) was created in 2006 to help reclaim the popular culture of the city and to also provide artists with the opportunity to obtain professional recognition. Their show is an incredible mix of concert, circus and salsa. They’re like the Cirque du Soleil of salsa.

You can watch their incredible show on the last Friday of every month at the Pacific Valley Events Center (Centro de Eventos Valle Del Pacifico) . The show normally starts after 9PM (although the doors are open from about 7PM) and won’t end until 2AM. You will need to book your ticket in advance because they do sell out quickly!

Don’t worry if you’re not in Cali on that specific day though. You can buy a ticket to see Paseo de la Aurora, which is performed every Saturday and Sunday at the same place as the monthly show.

During your weekend visit you will be able to interact with the artists, enjoy live shows, join in with some salsa lessons and have some food. It is a bit like a festival but more family oriented. Apart from us, we only saw a handful of other ‘gringos’ there. Just bear in mind that to truly enjoy the experience, you may want to understand a little bit of Spanish. Even though we’re not fluent, we had a ton of fun interacting with the artists using our limited language knowledge. Attending this weekend show became one of our favourite memories from Colombia.

4. Join a Free Walking Tour

The best way to get to know a new city is by joining a free walking tour. Local guides will walk you to some of the best spots within Cali’s historic centre and will tell you plenty of interesting facts about the city.

If you stay somewhere like the Viajero hostel , then you can just sign up for a free walking tour with them. Alternatively, you can also secure a spot online via this tour .

Note. Whilst the walking tour is free, it’s expected that you leave a tip if you’ve had a good experience. Make sure to bring enough cash with you!

5. Check out Iglesia La Ermita Church

La Ermita is a church that you can’t miss seeing when visiting Cali. There used to be a small chapel where La Ermita stands today, however it was destroyed in a strong earthquake.

Overlooking Rio Cali, the picture perfect church you see today was inspired by the Ulm Cathedral in Germany. It was built in a neo-Gothic style between 1930 and 1948.

Inside the blue and white church you can check out some artwork and paintings. The marble altar is from Italy, and the musical clock and windows are from the Netherlands.

6. Experience the Sounds at Jairo Varela Square

Right next to the leafy Boulevard del Rio is Plazoleta Jairo Varela. This square is also one of the stops along the Salsa Route. Even if you don’t fancy completing the whole route, you should still visit this plaza.

Here you can visit Museo Jairo Varela which is dedicated to Chocoano Jairo Varela, one of the greatest artists of Colombian salsa. He was the founder (and also composer) of the salsa group called Grupo Niche.

The coolest attraction in this square has to be the giant trumpet-shaped monument . The structure forms the letters of the word NICHE. Each horn of the trumpet plays a song in harmonic, melodic and rhythmic elements respectively.

There’s also a Gastronomic and Cultural Market , where you can try different types of foods.

7. Go for a Walk along Cali River

A relaxing thing to do in Cali is to take a stroll down Río Cali. The river flows through the north of Cali, skirting around the city centre. It originates from Farallones de Cali, a mountain range that towers over the west side of the city.

The river bank is lined by a nice promenade (Bulevar del Río) and also filled with tree-lined green spaces. These provide the perfect place for a walk or bike ride, and you can just enjoy some shade when its hot. It reminded us of the leafy river walk we did in Cuenca, Ecuador .

There are also a few points of interest along Río Cali that are worth stopping at. One of them is Museo La Tertulia , an art museum containing a collection of Colombian and international art. There’s also Parque del Peñon , a small park where you might spot a few vendors selling their artwork. You can also stop by the Iglesia la Merced , an old church that is part of the La Merced Religious Complex. Make sure to pop into the Gold Museum too, located just behind the church.

8. Stop by Cali’s Cat Park

As you make your way along the river, you’ll come across Cali’s cool cat park called El Parque del Gato de Tejada . Now, unlike the cat park in the Miraflores district of Lima in Peru, you won’t find any real cats in this park.

Instead, you’ll see a giant bronze cat statue called El Gato del Río and an additional 15 colorful smaller ones. They were installed as part of an improvement project to make this area of Cali more inviting. The huge statue was donated by Hernando Tejada, a Colombian artist, and the smaller statues were all painted by different local artists.

9. Wander Around San Antonio

Being the oldest part of Cali, you should definitely spend some time wandering around the San Antonio neighbourhood. It is basically the bohemian, hipster area of the city with narrow streets, colourful houses, antique shops, and plenty of street art. Many Colombian artists and writers used to live in this part of Cali.

As you can imagine, there are lots of artsy cafes and restaurants here where you can stop for lunch or a drink.

San Antonio is considered a safe barrio and many visitors book their accommodation around here. As always, we still advise you to be cautious.

10. Enjoy the Views from Parque San Antonio

If you’re walking around San Antonio, then you should definitely make your way up to San Antonio Park.

On top of San Antonio Hill (Colina de San Antonio) , there’s an old church called Iglesia San Antonio . This small church was built back in 1747, making it the oldest church in Cali. Inside, there is a collection of 17th century wooden statues of saints.

The best part about this park is that from this vantage point, you get to enjoy some lovely views of Cali.

11. Try Some Cholado

Every part of Colombia seems to have an interesting dish that you may only be able to try in that location. Cali is no exception and is known for some unique foods. One of these is called cholado . It is essentially a cup of shredded ice, mixed tropical fruits, condensed milk, jam, and biscuits and wafers, all topped off with ice cream.

However, there are other typical dishes that you might want to taste when in the city, such as pandebono, sancocho de gallina , chontaduro , or champús del valle .

Top Tip. If you’d like to learn more about Cali’s cuisine, then definitely sign up for a street food tour like this free tour of the Alameda Market or this affordable tour that takes you to multiple parts of the city.

12. Enjoy the Views from El Cristo Rey

Note. Access to Cristo Rey is currently closed due to renovation works.

If you’d like to get panoramic views of Cali and its surrounding area, then definitely head up to Cristo Rey Monument. The 26-metre high statue is located on top of Cerro de los Cristales to the west of the city.

Some people choose to hike up there on a trail from the city centre, although our taxi driver told us that it can be quite dangerous. If you want to hike this trail, then make sure to only do it earlier in the day, don’t do it solo and don’t take a lot of valuables with you.

Alternatively, you can also take a taxi up. Just bear in mind that the taxi can cost a fair amount (drivers normally have a set price), since it’s a bit of a drive out of the city. We personally walked back down along the road (which is much safer if you do want to walk one way or the other), but if you want to return with the taxi then just ask the driver to wait for you.

Top Tip. If you get a bit peckish, then definitely stop at one of the many pizza places lining the road on the way up.

How to Get to Cali, Colombia

Depending on where you’re coming from, there are a few ways you can reach Santiago de Cali.

Plane. The quickest way to get to Cali is to fly. Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport (CLO) is located to the north of Cali and services both international and domestic flights. It depends on where you’re coming from, but there are many direct flights between Cali and other major cities in Colombia, such as Bogota and Medellin. There are also a few direct international flights to Cali from North, South, and Central America, as well as one from Spain in Europe. You can check where you can fly direct to Cali from on  this website.

Find Flights to Cali ✈️

Bus. Bus travel between cities in Colombia is a popular and affordable way to travel for both locals and backpackers alike.

You can reach Cali by bus from either Terminal de Salitre or Terminal del Sur in Bogota. All buses will drop you off at Terminal de Transporte Cali. The journey takes between 10 to 12 hours depending on the bus company and route.

There are also direct bus services running between Medellin, the second largest city in Colombia, and Cali. Buses leave from Terminal del Sur in Medellin and will drop you off at Terminal de Transporte Cali. The journey takes anywhere between 8 to 12 hours depending on the bus company and route.

If you’re coming from Salento, you can easily get to Cali by travelling to Armenia first, then hopping onto another bus to Cali. They leave very regularly and the journey is only about 3.5 hours long.

You can book your ticket to Cali with  Busbud  or at the bus station in person.

Where to Stay in Cali, Colombia

The best neighbourhood to stay in in Cali is San Antonio . It’s close to the city centre and there are plenty of amenities in the area. There are plenty of hotels and hostels, such as the popular Viajero hostel which offers free walking tours and even some free salsa lessons to its guests. Since its a popular hostel, it can be pretty lively. Alternatively, you can also book La Casa de Adry , La Vaina hostel or Magic Garden House hotel.

To the north of San Antonio is El Peñon , which is possibly the safest area you can stay in. It is the upscale neighbourhood of Cali, so bear in mind that prices are going to be higher here than other parts of the city.

You can also consider booking something around Caicedo Square in the centre of Cali. There are some affordable places to stay here too and plenty of amenities. Versalles and Granada are also great areas to stay in in Cali. They are more residential and quieter neighbourhoods.

Read Next: 3 Week Colombia Itinerary – How to Plan a Trip to Colombia

Where to Eat in Cali, Colombia

There are plenty of places to eat in Santiago de Cali. Below we’ve listed a few of our favourite places:

Alameda Market is a fantastic place to find something delicious. The market is filled with stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as plenty of other traditional dishes. A lot of street food tours come here.

Alma & Café is a lovely restaurant serving delicious vegetarian and vegan food in the San Antonio neighbourhood. They have a great daily menu too.

Madre Selva is another great vegan place with lunch deals in the San Antonio area of Cali.

Pizza from one of the pizzerias on the way up to Cristo Rey viewpoint. Whilst its not a traditional Colombian dish, and they probably won’t taste quite as good as in Italy, it’s still nice to have a slice of comfort food when travelling.

Juan Valdez Cafe  is basically the Starbucks of Colombia. Whilst it’s a large chain, we definitely enjoyed popping in here for a quick coffee and some pastries.

Best Time to Visit Cali, Colombia

Cali is located at 1,014 m (3,327 ft) above sea level in close proximity to the equator. You can visit Cali all year round, but there are better and worse times to visit the salsa capital.

The dry season is from December to February and from July to August. Then there’s the rainy season, which lasts from March to May and from September to November. The high tourist months in Cali are between July and September, then in November and December.

You may want to visit Cali during one of its popular festivals. La Feria de Cali is held in December every year. It’s a week of salsa shows, cultural events and music performances, so you’re guaranteed a ton of fun. 

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Cali, Colombia

Whilst we didn’t think that Cali would be jampacked with attractions like Bogota or Medellin , we were pleasantly surprised by just how much you can do in the city. It was actually nice not to see as many tourists here as we did in popular places like Cartagena .

We think it’s safe to say that attending the weekend salsa event organised by Delirio had to be the best part of our stay. It’s a shame that we couldn’t watch the actual monthly show, but thankfully we could still enjoy their performance and can only imagine how fantastic the main event would be.

Have you ever been to Cali before? If so, what was your experience? Did you sign up for a salsa class? If not, would you add Cali to your Colombia itinerary? Let us know in the comments below.

Now, let your adventure begin,

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Accommodation:  For hotels we always use  Booking.com  and  Hostelworld  for hostels. We also book longer stays on Airbnb or  Vrbo.

Flights:  To find the best flight prices we always check  Skyscanner ,  Google Flights  or  WayAway.  Then we also check the airlines’ websites too for comparison.

Car Rentals:  We use  Discover Cars  when we want to rent a car as it compares local, national and international companies.

Activities:  If we book organised tours we always check either  GetYourGuide  or  Viator.

Foreign Currency:  Whenever we can we prefer to pay in local currency and for that we always use our  Wise card.   We can easily withdraw money from the ATM or pay by card at most shops and restaurants.

Travel Insurance: We never go anywhere without travel insurance. You never know what will happen on your trip, so good travel insurance like SafetyWing can protect you in case of injury, illness, theft and cancellations.

eSIM and VPN: To get data abroad we use  Airalo which is an app that allows you to download a prepaid eSIM to your phone in over 190 countries. Make sure to have a VPN to avoid hackers accessing your personal data when using public WIFI. We use  Surfshark  which is the only VPN that offers one account on unlimited devices. 

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Cali Colombia – Top 10 best tourist attractions in Cali Colombia – The Top 10 Things to See and Do in Cali, Colombia

• Cali Travel Guide

A visit to Cali is, without a doubt, a complete experience thanks to the great diversity of activities to do and places to visit. In just one day you can visit the best attractions of the city and take a wonderful memory of the diversity of Colombia with you.

Cali’s cheerful nature is manifested in salsa, a Caribbean rhythm that is danced here among the sugarcane in its own unique way. In this city, nicknamed “Branch of Heaven,” the peaks of Cristo Rey, the hill of the Three Crosses, and the hills of San Antonio jut upwards from the plains that make up most of Valle del Cauca.

The Hill of the Three Crosses Cali (Cerro de las tres cruces) Tourist Attractions in Cali Cali Colombia places to visit in colombia Tourist Attractions in Colombia Colombia Travel Guide Colombia

The Hill of the Three Crosses Urban Hiking in Cali, Colombia located in the corregimiento of Montebello in the rural area of the municipality. It is located north-west of the city and has 1480 masl. At its top are the Tres Cruces monument…

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The Banco de la República’s Calima Gold Museum features displays of pieces of jewelry, pottery, stone, bone, and shell from the Ilama, Yotoco, and Sonso pre-Hispanic cultures, who settled in the archaeological area known as Calima. Hunters…

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Families with children will love a visit the zoo in west Cali. Founded in 1970, it is intersected by the Cali River and is home to about one thousand animals distributed across 170 species, 80 percent of which, such as…

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Visiting the Sebastián de Belalcázar observation point (Mirador Sebastián de Belalcazar) is helpful in understanding the geography of Cali. Here on the hill bearing the name of the city’s founder, the right hand of the conqueror’s statue…

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Known for its Gothic style, La Ermita Church is the quintessential postcard image of Cali. This temple was built between 1930 and 1948, and the 18th century marble altar was brought over from Italy. The musical clock and windows…

Los Farallones de Cali National Nature Park Tourist Attractions in Cali Cali Colombia places to visit in colombia Tourist Attractions in Colombia Colombia Travel Guide Colombia

The Farallones de Cali National Natural Park is a spectacular site where the forms of cultural and natural diversity of the Andean mountains and the Pacific slopes converge. The impressive blue peaks of Los Farallones, which rise up from the plain…

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The Park of the Dog (Parque del Perro) is located in the San Fernando district, the dog park is an important economic point of the city for its gastronomic show and the amount of shops and boutiques of the place. The park owes…

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23 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Colombia

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on March 3, 2024

One of the most rewarding countries to travel around, Colombia is a natural draw for tourists to South America. From idyllic Caribbean isles and charming colonial towns to jungle-clad mountains, lush coffee plantations and pulsating nightlife scenes; one could spend months exploring it all.

The only nation on the continent to boast both a Caribbean and Pacific coastline, Colombia is one of just seventeen megadiverse countries on the planet. While sweeping valleys, snow-capped volcanoes and, of course, the endless Amazon rainforest coat its interior, breathtaking beaches and scenic little coves line its sun-kissed shores.

Just as diverse are its cities and towns with Cartagena and Popayan being famed for their attractive old colonial centers and Cali and Barranquilla for their colourful nightlife, salsa scene and carnival. The capital Bogota and second-largest city of Medellin both also have their charms with good food, great views and top tourist attractions found throughout the vibrant metropolises.

Whether it is pristine national parks and nature spots you are after or unique historic sights and age-old indigenous cultures, there are plenty of things to do in Colombia for visitors to discover. And despite it reputation for violence, improved security conditions means now is the the time to go.

23. Colonial Churches of Popayan

Mostly known for its collection of colonial churches, the wonderful ‘white city’ of Popayán is set in the southwest, nestled away between various mountain ranges. Due to its strategic location and rich mines, countless beautiful churches have sprung up over the centuries with the historic city still acting as Colombia’s religious center today.

Dotted about its charming cobbled lanes are impressive architectural gems such as the Iglesia de San Francisco and Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption. Even older than these two large churches and their elaborately decorated interiors is Iglesia La Ermita which remarkably dates to 1546. Much simpler and smaller, its old building houses a refined altar and religious paintings.

While the art, architecture and history of the city’s churches are always a treat to take in, the best time of year to visit is Easter. This is when the Semana Santa celebrations take place and thousands of people parade through the streets starting outside Iglesia Santo Domingo; yet another of Popayán’s pretty white-washed places of worship.

22. Whitewater Rafting in San Gil

If you are after an exhilarating experience like no other, then make sure to go whitewater rafting in San Gil. At Colombia’s adventure sport capital, there are three rivers for you to navigate. Among the most thrilling things to do in Colombia, there are some peaceful parts suitable for first-timers and others only for expert adrenaline junkies.

From the center of town, numerous companies run exciting excursions out to the nearby rapids with gorgeous scenery and gasp-inducing drops guaranteed wherever you go. While rafting trips upon the Rio Fonce are much calmer yet no less scenic, those along the challenging Rio Chicamocha and Rio Suarez are sure to put your skills to the test.

As you paddle and shoot down the rivers’ rushing rapids, you’ll pass craggy canyons, verdant woods and striking rock formations on either side. With an experienced guide on hand, visitors can enjoy the Santander region’s startling beauty while bravely navigating its rivers and rapids in safety.

21. Guatape Town

Often called the most colourful town in Colombia, Guatape boasts lots of absolutely stunning street art and blocks and blocks of brightly painted buildings. On top of all its cheery colors, the popular resort town is located in a picture-perfect lakeside spot, just two hours drive east of Medellin.

A photographer’s dream, the tiny town’s traditional houses are decorated with hundreds of zocalos – magnificent murals that depict various animals, events and images of down-to-earth village life. As well as strolling about and snapping photos of its vibrant streetscapes, you can shop for handcrafted souvenirs or stop for a coffee or meal at one of its lovely little local eateries.

After having ambled about its beautiful bright colored center, you can enjoy a boat ride around the lake or clamber up to the top of La Piedra del Penol. From atop the hulking great rock and its 740 narrow, steep steps, you can bask in divine views over the reflective lake and romantic town below.

20. Valle de Cocora

Sure to delight both nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, the vast Valle de Cocora is home to some of the most arresting scenery and views in the country. Part of Los Nevados National Natural Park, it lies almost equidistant from Bogota, Medellin and Cali, just outside the popular eco-tourist town of Salento.

Tucked away in the Central Cordillera of the Andes, the sweeping valley and its flanking foothills are famed for the lofty wax palms that stud their lush green slopes. Colombia’s national symbol, the tall trees sometimes tower over sixty meters into the sky with their unusual appearance making for a surreal sight and some superb photos.

Visitors can either hike around the fetching valley and its steamy cloud forest alone or take a guided tour to learn more about its distinctive fauna and flora. After enjoying a delicious fresh trout dish at one of the valley’s restaurants, you can stop by the Acaime Natural Reserve and have dozens of cute little hummingbirds flit about your head.

19. Johnny Cay

If after all the strenuous adventure activities and sightseeing you are looking for some much-needed rest and relaxation, then you can’t beat the sun-kissed sands of Johnny Cay. Nestled just north of the neighboring San Andres, the small coral islet lies in the shimmering Caribbean Sea, more than 750 kilometers from the Colombian mainland.

Also known as Cayo Sucre or Islote Sucre in Spanish, the idyllic isle and its palm tree-lined beaches are only accessible from San Andres by boat. Now protected as part of a regional park, its towering coconut groves are home to hundreds of iguanas while the reefs around it teem with marine life.

As swimming and snorkeling in its twinkling turquoise waters can be challenging things to do due to the rough waves and rocks, many spend the day sunbathing on the island’s pristine white sands. Cocktails and seafood platters can also be enjoyed at its handful of restaurants pumping out reggae music.

18. Tour a Coffee Plantation

As Colombia is famed around the world for its rich blends and roasted beans, it is well worth taking a tour around a coffee plantation if you have the chance. Dotted all about the Coffee Triangle in the northwest of the nation are numerous farms to visit that explain how the high-quality coffee is harvested, processed and packaged.

One of the largest producers of coffee on the planet, Colombia’s fertile plantations mainly lie in the mostly rural and mountainous Paisa region. From its main cities of Manizales, Pereira and Armenia, you can arrange to explore some of the innumerable estates and family-run farms that coat the area’s charming countryside.

As you tour the plantations, you’ll learn about the rich history of coffee growing in the region and see how the dark beans are harvested before sampling some strong cups of coffee. There is even a fun coffee theme park home to rollercoasters, rides and educational exhibits for you to stop by.

17. San Agustin Archaeological Park

While Colombia is blessed with lots of breathtaking scenery and nature, it also has more than its fair share of fascinating historic sites. One of the best to explore is the San Agustin Archaeological Park which is located in the eastern foothills of the Colombian Massif, not all too far from Popayan.

Unlike the city’s colonial-era churches that were erected by the Spanish, its sprawling site contains a large number of pre-Columbian religious sculptures, monuments and burial mounds. Believed to be the largest necropolis in South America, its striking stone statues of animals, humans and spirits are a treat to slowly wander around.

To gain a greater understanding of the significance of the intricately carved images, it is a good idea to get a guide with most megalithic monuments having been made between 100 and 1200 AD.

16. Tatacoa Desert

Once a lush tropical forest, the Tatacoa Desert is now home to a whole host of remarkable red rock canyons and otherworldly-looking landscapes. Due to its pitch-black night skies and other ideal atmospheric conditions, it also hosts one of the most important observatories on the continent.

Ominously called the ‘Valley of Sorrows’ by conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada, the desert’s heavily-eroded landforms are painted a magnificent mix of yellows, reds, oranges and greys. As you hike or bike about, you can sometimes spy snakes, scorpions and even wildcats hidden away amidst its arid confines.

Before heading back to the nearby city of Neiva in the south-center of the nation, it is worth staying a night at a hotel in the desert. Aside from giving you more time to explore, it also means you can observe all the bright stars studding the night sky.

15. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Just one of the coastal city’s many must-see attractions , the enormous and imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas has protected Cartagena for well over four centuries. The largest fort built by the Spanish in their colonies, its hulking great walls look out over both the land and sea from atop San Lazaro Hill.

Initially completed in 1536, the already colossal fortress was slowly enlarged and strengthened over the following centuries. Big batteries and bunkers now lie alongside a grand entrance and confusing mess of tunnels that helped the soldiers fend off attacks by both pirates and other European powers.

Other than ogling its impressive architecture and enjoying fine views from its parapets, guests can learn more about the fort’s interesting past through artifacts, exhibits and video installations.

14. Piedra Del Penol

Boasting arguably one of the best views in all of Colombia is the phenomenal Piedra Del Penol, just outside Guatape in the Andes area of the country. Renowned for the steep, zigzag flight of stairs that make their way up one side of it, the gigantic granite rock is one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Colombia. At the top you’ll find spellbinding panoramas of the mountains, forests and lakes all around it.

Formed many millennia ago, the Rock of Guatape, as it is also known, rises dramatically above the stupendous scenery surrounding it. Towering 2,137 meters at its highest point, the standalone rock’s soaring summit can be reached by panting your way up 740 narrow, steep concrete steps.

Once you finally arrive at the top of the massive monolith, you can gaze out over the glinting waters of the ginormous reservoir before you. Perched atop the rock are several cafes and an observation tower, should you want a drink and rest before making your way back down.

13. Laguna de Guatavita

Head just a couple of hours’ drive northeast of Bogota and you’ll come across the lovely Laguna de Guatavita which is where the centuries-old legend of El Dorado first began. Hemmed in on all sides by verdant forests, the small, circular crater lake makes for some fantastic photos and viewing with tours teaching you all about its unique history and nature.

For years, Spanish colonizers and conquistadors had heard rumors about a sacred lake in the Eastern Ranges of the Andes and elaborate indigenous rituals involving gold. Although now thought to be a far-fetched myth, the local Muisca people did perform various celebrations out on the reflective lake and throw precious offerings into its waters.

On guided tours, you’ll learn more about their culture and hear how these initiation rites and rituals eventually formed the basis of the ‘lost city of gold’ legend we all know today.

12. Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali

As you travel around Colombia, you can hardly fail to hear the infectious rhythms and beats of salsa pouring forth wherever you go. Each year, Cali , the ‘Salsa Capital of the World’ puts on a week-long festival where you can dance the night away while listening to top-class bands and watching world-class competitions.

Established in 2005, the Festival Mundial de Salsa sees thousands of dancers, musicians and group acts pack out the city’s lively streets and nightclubs. Over the course of the week, countless classes, competitions and parties take place with rolling congas and playful trumpets heard at almost every minute of the day.

Besides enjoying all the creative choreography and colourful costumes, there are also plenty of fun concerts, food stalls and informative talks and workshops to attend.

11. Providencia Island

Even further north of San Andres and Johnny Cay is the paradisaical Providencia Island which is set much closer to Nicaragua than it is to Colombia. The perfect spot to relax and unwind, it has loads of superb sunbathing, swimming and scuba diving to enjoy with relaxing little guest houses and local restaurants dotted here and there.

Coated in vast swathes of tropical rainforest, the mountainous Caribbean island is lined by gorgeous beaches and colourful coral reefs. Once the site of an English puritan colony and the base of famed pirate Henry Morgan, its remote reaches now instead attract tourists and holidaymakers looking to enjoy some fun in the sun.

On top of basking in the astounding beauty of its untouched scenery, visitors to the isle can enjoy its friendly, laidback atmosphere and try out some exciting watersports.

10. Gold Museum, Bogota

Long one of the capital’s top tourist attractions , the Gold Museum is full of incredible artworks and interesting exhibits on the country’s rich history, culture and heritage. Situated right in the center of the city, it displays one of the world’s most important and impressive collections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.

Founded back in 1939, the museum’s sleek, modern building now contains over 55,000 stone, bone, ceramic and textile pieces belonging to various pre-Hispanic peoples. Delightfully displayed, these highlight their craftsmanship, cultures and creation myths with exhibits and video installations also accompanying them.

Perusing its glittering masks, plates and anthropomorphic figures is an amazing experience with the marvelous Muisca raft being one of the museum’s main highlights. Discovered in 1969, it depicts eleven intricately carved gold figures on a raft with many researchers convinced it refers to the gold offering ceremony that spawned the legend of El Dorado.

9. Medellin Cable Car

For some of the best views imaginable of Medellin and its scenic surroundings, make sure to take a ride on the Metrocable; the city’s extensive network of aerial gondolas. While many visitors think of them as a tourist attraction, the cable cars are also an important part of its public transport system.

Due to the city’s challenging topography and all the informal settlements that coat its steep hills, the imaginative mass transit system was opened in 2004 to help locals get around. Nowadays, there are six lines to explore with phenomenal views of the barrios below and massive mountains all around.

Some of the most popular places to head on the Metrocable are up to Santo Domingo and further on to Parque Arvi. While the former offers up an interesting look into local life and, of course, provides you with spectacular views of the city, the latter has pretty nature trails and hikes for you to enjoy.

8. Cano Cristales

Whether it is known as Caño Cristales, the Liquid Rainbow or the River of Five Colors, this is one natural landmark that should be on every traveler’s itinerary. Unfortunately Caño Cristales, has been closed to tourism since 1989 due to FARC presence in the surrounding areas but a few tourist agencies have recently began offering carefully crafted tours to the area.

The river is located just outside of the small town of La Macarena in the national park known as Serranía de la Macarena. Plants, rocks, sand and algae give color to the river, which can look black, white, green, yellow or bright red depending on location.

Hiking along the banks of the Caño Cristales is an adventure on its own, but travelers can also head to the waterfall of Los Cuarzos or swim in the natural pools formed by the river itself.

7. Carnaval de Barranquilla

While most people associate Carnaval with Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, the Colombian city of Barranquilla is actually home to the world’s second largest Carnaval. During Carnaval de Barranquilla, the city is overrun with festivals, live music and street parades.

The festivities kick off with La Batalla de Flores, or the Battle of the Flowers, where parade floats are decorated with flowers in magnificent and colorful designs. Attendees often wear bright colors or costumes that represent a figure or a fable in Colombian heritage.

6. Santuario de Las Lajas

Just north of the border with Ecuador is the Santuario de Las Lajas, one of the most fascinating religious structures in all of Colombia. Built spectacularly on a bridge that spans the Guaitara River, the Santuario de Las Lajas looks like it is straight from a fairy tale.

The Gothic style cathedral was built in the early 20th century thanks to a financial donation from locals, and there is now a small museum located within the building. Getting to the Santuario de Las Lajas is easy from the nearby town of Ipiales, where travelers can join guided tours to the cathedral.

5. Monserrate

The Colombian city of Bogota is a unique capital because of its high elevation, something that becomes pronounced with a visit to Monserrate. At the top of the mountain of Monserrate, which overlooks the city, there is a 17th century church that serves as a mecca for religious pilgrims.

One of the best ways to experience Bogota is by riding either the funicular train or the aerial tramway to the top of Monserrate. From there, it is possible to view the sun setting over Downtown Bogota in a truly spectacular fashion.

4. Ciudad Perdida

Much of Colombia is still undeveloped jungle, and Ciudad Perdida is nestled right in the heart of that jungle. Also known as the Lost City of Teyune, Ciudad Perdida is a pre-Columbian settlement that was constructed around the eighth century by the Tayrona Indians.

The settlement was once a thriving hub of culture, but today all that remain are stone terraces in circular shapes, many of them overgrown by the surrounding jungle. The area is popular for longer guided treks, where participants can hike from camp to camp and experience the pristine, natural environment of the jungle.

3. Cartagena’s Old Town

An absolute must when in Colombia, Cartagena’s Old Town is home to a mesmerizing mess of little cobbled lanes and beautiful colonial buildings. One of the first Spanish settlements in the Americas, its well-preserved center is a delight to wander around as loads of historic churches and picturesque plazas lie within its walls.

Bordering the Caribbean Sea, the charming city was first founded in 1533 and soon flourished as an important port for both exploring the Americas and exporting silver back to Spain. Dozens of sturdy fortresses sprung up to protect the strategic coastal settlement as did countless churches, convents and cloisters such as La Catedral and Iglesia de Santo Domingo.

See also: Where to Stay in Cartagena

Besides admiring the architectural gems and taking in the laidback atmosphere in this old neighborhood, you can also enjoy some delicious local dishes and live music in the Getsemani part of town.

2. Tayrona National Park

Often said to boast one of the loveliest stretches of coastline in South America, Tayrona National Park’s gorgeous reaches can be found just half an hour’s drive from Santa Marta. Just like Colombia itself, it is incredibly biodiverse with forest-clad mountain ranges overlooking its pristine beaches, lagoons and coral reefs.

Established back in 1964, its secluded coves and palm tree-fringed sands are so picture-perfect they could easily feature on the cover of a travel magazine. While many swim and snorkel at either Cabo San Juan or La Piscina – an almost unimaginably beautiful lagoon – others hike and horseback ride about its steamy jungle and steep mountainsides.

While exploring the park, keep an eye out for some of the many macaws, monkeys and iguanas that inhabit its stunning confines. There is also an ancient archaeological site overlooking the ocean for you to check out near the top of one of its prominent peaks.

1. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

Just an hour’s drive north of Bogota is Zipaquirá, a city known as the salt mining capital of Columbia. As a result of salt mining, Zipaquirá has long had a concentration of extreme wealth.

One of the things that highlights this is the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, which is a Catholic church constructed almost entirely of salt within a now defunct mine. Although this is a major tourism destination, the Salt Cathedral actually accommodates nearly 3,000 parishioners every Sunday, and attending a church service can be an unforgettable experience.

Surrounding the cathedral is an area known as the Salt Park, where visitors can see other landmarks within the mines and learn more about the industry at the Brine Museum.

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10 Cities With the Best Public Transportation, From Medellín to Stockholm

By Laura Walsh

From the cable cars of Medellín to London’s double-decker buses, cities with the best public transportation systems make it easy to travel efficiently, affordably, and sustainably—all while offering a unique glimpse into a society's values.

In some cities around the world—as in Stockholm and Moscow —public transportation isn’t just about getting from point A to point B either. Instead, these transitory spaces have been elevated to become attractions in their own right, featuring impressive feats of art, architecture, and design. Most of the cities included on this list have also excelled at providing step-free access, making independent travel accessible for those using wheelchairs or strollers.

These are truly exceptional global systems: well-designed with residents and dignity at their core, but thoughtfully executed to warmly welcome travelers from around the world. Below, see the 10 cities with the best public transportation around the world—ranked in no particular order—based on a variety of factors including accessibility, sustainability, efficiency, dependability, cleanliness, and design.

1. Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s public transit system offers such extensive, affordable, and accessible service that the majority of residents do not own cars.

Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway has an unbelievable on-time rate of 99.9%, with 97 of its 98 stations accessible from the street level. Additionally, each station offers free WiFi, charging stations, and clean public toilets; many now include breastfeeding rooms, too. With rides that cost only about 60 cents, it is impossible to find a cheaper, faster, or more predictable way to get where you want to go.

You can also take in the spectacular sights of the city while riding the double-decker Hong Kong Tramway, or gaze down below from the impressively steep heights of the Peak Tram funicular. For island hopping, take the Star Ferry across the harbor from Hong Kong Island to visit Kowloon while enjoying the jaw-dropping skyline.

How to experience it: Take the 10-minute Star Ferry from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon for $3.70 HKD (US$ 0.50) for an upper deck seat.

The Delhi Metro is a beacon of cleanliness and a model of safety and efficiency. India’s largest mass rapid transit system connects the country’s capital to adjoining satellite cities with a total of 12 color-coded Metro lines and 288 stations (an additional 45 new stations expected by 2026). The Delhi Metro was also the world’s first transit system to receive UN carbon credits for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and today gets 35% of its power from renewable sources.

Trains run every 2-5 minutes during peak hours (and every 10 minutes during off-peak). With clean bathrooms and elevators at every station, the Delhi Metro is ahead of many in providing a transportation system that affords independent access with dignity for all.

To help prioritize a safe environment, the Delhi Metro introduced women-only carriages in 2010 that are now available on each train.

The trains and stations are all air-conditioned, making Delhi's metro a fast and comfortable way to traverse the vast city that’s often hot and humid. Fares are calculated based on distance and start at just $0.12.

How to experience it: Relax in Delhi on the Yellow Line: explore the Garden of the Five Senses (Saket Station) or Lodhi Gardens (Jor Bagh Station).

The Moscow Metro cruises onto this list thanks to its unwavering commitment to efficiency and its extraordinary stations. During rush hour, the trains of the Moscow Metro run every 90 seconds. But once you step into these breathtaking stations—also known as the “palaces of the people”—you may find yourself slowing down to take it all in. Emulating the grandeur of Russia’s historical palaces, Moscow’s Metro is an attraction in itself and demonstrates that even something as seemingly basic as public transportation is deserving of care and artistry.

The Moscow Metro probably won’t win any awards in the easy-to-understand category, but with almost 300 stations and 17 lines—including two circular lines which eliminate the need to travel to the city center for transfers—it is the fastest, most affordable, and the most inspiring way to get around.

How to experience it: Stations you won’t want to miss: Park Kultury, built with five types of marble and connected to Gorky Park, the stained-glass filled Novoslobodskay, and Mayakovskaya station, named for the famed Soviet artist.

Tokyo’s metro is vast, clean, fast, and reliable. It’s a breeze to figure out where you need to go—even if you don’t know the Japanese alphabet. Thanks to the sensible naming, numbering, and color-coding of the stops, there are numerous ways to locate your destination all while enjoying a comfortable ride (in almost virtual silence).

Convenient to almost every attraction in the city of Tokyo, the metro serves nearly 7 million people every single day and is globally recognized for its rigorous cleaning and maintenance (the trains are deep-cleaned every 15 days). Tickets are available for purchase at every station; adult fares start at 180 Yen (around $1) and increase depending on how far you’re traveling.

Many stations are equipped with elevators and lifts, making the metro accessible for those using wheelchairs or with strollers or luggage.

How to experience it: Check out Shinjuku Station, the Guinness Book of World Records holder for the world’s busiest train station serving over 2.7 million passengers per day on 12 different train lines.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

5. Singapore

Singapore is a city and a nation rolled into one on an island nearly the same size of New York City. As the third-most densely populated country in the world, well-designed transportation that can move millions is essential for this small nation.

Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) currently has 6 lines with 140 stations and is scheduled to double in size by 2040. In a country of just over 5.5 million people, Singapore’s MRT carries an outstanding 3 million every day.

The MRT’s trains are fast and predictable, running every 5 to 7 minutes most of the day and every 2 to 3 minutes during the morning rush. The MRT’s reach is complemented by the LRT, a light rail system with 2 lines and another 40 stops.

With station signage and announcements in Singapore’s four official languages—English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil—the MRT makes it remarkably easy to navigate without a car or a care. They have also installed protected walkways on every quarter-mile leading to every MRT station, making it easier to walk to transit, monsoon or shine.

How to experience it: Don’t miss Singapore’s breathtaking Garden by the Bay located at the MRT station with the same name on the Thomson–East Coast Line.

London’s transit is such an integral part of the city that their red double-deckers are instantly recognizable as national symbols of the UK. Pioneers of the world’s first underground railway, London’s transit system is vast and continues to expand. The “Tube” serves 5 million people every day on 11 lines and 272 stations—nearly half of which operate 24 hours a day.

Beyond the traditional Underground is the newest addition to London's transit system, the Elizabeth line . First launched in 2022, the new energy-efficient railway connects London's outer suburbs to the heart of the city, bringing an additional 1.5 million people within a 45 minute commute of central London. Visitors can travel from Heathrow Airport to central London in 45 minutes onboard Elizabeth line trains that run every half-hour.

Numerous above-ground options allow for simultaneous sightseeing, like the Overground with 6 lines and the iconic double decker buses with 675 routes, the IFS Cloud Cable Car, or the robust bikeshare system tied to an ever-expanding network of “cycleways.”

How to experience it: Stroll through one of London’s 3,000 parks, like Hyde Park, located at the Paddington Station on the Elizabeth line.

Seoul is home to some of the world’s largest, fastest, and most reliable public transit systems. The city goes the extra mile to make sure its public transportation is easily navigable by people from all over the world.

For example, stations have signage in Korean and English and stops are announced in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese. To make navigation even easier, each line is color-coded and numbered, and every station has a corresponding number for identification. Many stations also feature restaurants, shopping boutiques, convenience stores, and even surprise concerts.

Buses are also color-coded by distance and destination type, and all bus stops are clearly marked—plus, many offer heated seats. Every metro station is accessible by elevators, climate-controlled, and equipped with clean public restrooms and breastfeeding rooms.

Onboard the trains, every subway car has yellow “priority seats” reserved for the elderly, those with physical disabilities or illnesses, and people with young children. Additionally, every car has pink seats reserved for pregnant women.

How to experience it: Take Seoul’s metro to Anguk Station (Line 3) to the 1000-year-old Changdeokgung Palace , a UNESCO Heritage site with opulent grounds and gardens featuring 56,000 plants.

8. Medellín

Medellín’s metro system is a stellar example of how well-executed transit can be fun, functional, and help uplift an entire city.

The Metro de Medellín opened in 1995 and is the only rail-based transit system in Colombia . In addition to its clean and rapid rail options, the city is also served by a tram, a bus rapid transit line, and hundreds of other bus lines—many of which can be used in conjunction with the Metro.

The real show stopper is the Metrocable, a gondola lift system with a 7-line network that soars over the city and connects numerous neighborhoods.

Though cable cars have typically been used for tourism, Medellín was the first city to include them as part of a mass public transportation system. The cable cars connect downtown Medellín to communities isolated by the steep hills surrounding the mountainous city—in some cases cutting a 2 hour commute to just 30 minutes. Medellín’s Metro was thoughtfully-planned with community input and is a symbol of pride for the city.

How to experience it: Take in the lush hillsides around Medellin while riding Metrocable Line K to Parque Arvi where you can find unbeatable bird-watching, wildflowers, and over 50 miles of hiking trails.

9. Washington, DC

Washington, DC’s transit system is the second busiest in the United States and serves the nation's capital as well as surrounding areas in Virginia and Maryland. With extensive rail and bus service, complemented by a bikeshare system, the DC Metro makes it incredibly easy to live in or visit Washington, DC without a car.

Each Metro station is reachable by elevator, ensuring everyone, including those with strollers or wheelchairs, has access to the entire system to travel independently—without having to rely on the kindness of strangers.

DC’s Metro stations also demonstrate a commitment to health and hygiene. Last month, the Metro completed renovations of all 169 of its public restrooms, a massive undertaking that took 14 years.

Trips on the DC Metro start at just $2 within Washington, DC but traveling to/from Virginia or Maryland is distance-based.

How to experience it: The Smithsonian stop on the Orange, Blue, and Silver lines is home to numerous free museums like the African American History and Culture Museum and the Air and Space Museum .

10. Stockholm

Last but certainly not least is Stockholm . Sweden's capital city is made of 14 islands connected by a robust public transport network including a metro system with 100 stations, ferries, buses, and trams.

Stockholm’s metro, the Tunnelbana (or T-bana) forms the world’s longest art gallery . Though initially envisioned as a way to reduce traffic, Stockholm’s underground embraces another worthy goal: making art accessible to people of all economic backgrounds. Today, 94 of the T-bana’s 100 stations feature the work of 250 artists, including paintings, sculptures, and large-scale installations.

The art at most stations depicts the history and culture of the surrounding neighborhoods, providing a colorful escape from the city’s gray winters. If you have a chance to visit, don’t miss the otherworldly Rådhuset station or Solna Centrum. The red cave-like ceiling mimics a forest sunset—look closer and you’ll find sporadic wall illustrations depicting social commentary from 1970s Sweden. Free guided art tours are available from June to August every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 3p.m., starting from the SL Customer Centre at T-Centralen.

As you’d expect, the Stockholm metro is clean, climate-controlled, and sustainable. When you’re done soaking in the stunning stations of Stockholm metro, you can also see the city and attractions by ferry, for the same price as a bus or metro ticket (SEK 42 or about $3.86).

How to experience it: To see Stockholm from the water, hop on the SL ferry line 80 and visit popular tourist attractions such as the Abba museum or wander around nature in Djurgården, a National City Park.

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