Things To Do
in Cali
Cali, Colombia is known as the salsa capital of the world, with a lively music and dance scene that permeates the city's culture. It boasts a warm climate year-round, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is home to a variety of parks and green spaces.
Cali is also recognized for its delicious cuisine, vibrant street art, and welcoming locals.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Cristo Rey statue for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, sampling arepas or calentado.
Visit the Cali Zoo, one of the best in South America, to see its diverse wildlife. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Parque de los Gatos, appreciating art and nature.
Dine at a restaurant in the Granada neighborhood, known for its vibrant food scene. Later, immerse yourself in salsa dancing at a local bar.
Begin with a visit to the Museo de la Salsa to learn about Cali's rich salsa heritage. Enjoy a Colombian coffee at a café nearby.
Head to the El Gato Del Río Park to relax and take in the river views. Explore art installations throughout the park for a cultural touch.
Savor dinner at a traditional Colombian restaurant and try sancocho. Participate in a salsa dancing class to connect deeper with local culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant culture with lively festivals and events.
- Pleasant year-round climate, generally warm.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Rich in natural beauty, with nearby mountains and parks.
- Growing expat community making it easier to connect with others.
- Concerns about safety and crime in certain areas.
- Limited public transportation options in some regions.
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
- Higher humidity and rainy seasons can be uncomfortable.
- Healthcare can vary in quality depending on the facility.
Best Activities in Cali
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of the Andes mountains through various hiking trails in the region.
Experience the thrill of river rafting in the beautiful natural surroundings of the Pance River, offering exciting rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Discover the rich biodiversity of Colombia by visiting Los Farallones National Park, where you can engage in activities like bird watching, wildlife spotting, and nature walks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cali with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cali
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Iconic statue overlooking the city, providing stunning views for photography.
Historic neighborhood with charming streets and viewpoints for capturing the cityscape.
Food in Cali
Cali Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This iconic dish features a hearty combination of grilled steak, fried pork belly, rice, beans, plantain, avocado, and a fried egg. For an authentic taste, head to La Sucursal, a popular restaurant known for its traditional Colombian fare.
Must-Try!
Ajiaco, a comforting chicken and potato soup, is a beloved Colombian dish. Visit Restaurante Platillos Voladores, where you can savor a delectable rendition of this local favorite.
Crispy on the outside and bursting with savory filling, empanadas are a must-try street food. Cali's streets are dotted with vendors selling these delectable treats, but make sure to stop by Empanadas El Macho for a truly authentic experience.
To beat the Cali heat, indulge in a cholado, a refreshing fruit cocktail topped with condensed milk and shredded ice. Dive into this tropical delight at Cholados Mary, known for its irresistible concoctions.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cali better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Pascual Guerrero Market to discover a kaleidoscope of fresh produce, local ingredients, and authentic street food. Indulge in everything from grilled meats to freshly squeezed juices while immersing in the vibrant market atmosphere.
Head to Plaza de Cayzedo, a popular spot for street food in Cali. Here, you can sample an array of traditional snacks like arepas, tamales, and buñuelos, all freshly prepared by local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cali, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid excessive physical contact when interacting with others.
Showing effort to communicate in Spanish, the local language, is appreciated and demonstrates respect for the local culture.
Punctuality is highly valued in Cali, so it's important to arrive on time for social and professional engagements.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cali with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cali
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cali, Colombia, tipping is not mandatory and is usually given as a token of appreciation for good service. It is common to leave a small amount of around 5-10% of the bill at restaurants, especially if the service was exceptional. In other service industries such as taxis and hotels, tipping is also appreciated but not compulsory.
Payment practices in Cali, Colombia are similar to those in many other countries. Cash is widely used, especially for small transactions and in local markets. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in most establishments, particularly in larger cities like Cali. It's always good to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller vendors and taxis.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cali.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cali, Colombia with less rainfall and vibrant salsa festivals such as the Cali Fair in December.
Expect heavier rainfall, lush green scenery, and fewer tourists compared to the dry season.
Moderate rainfall, comfortable temperatures, and a good balance between crowd sizes and weather conditions.
Cali at Night
Hiking in Cali
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park that offers various trails with beautiful views of the Andes mountains, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
A small park located in the city that features trails that wind through art installations and lush greenery, perfect for a casual hike.
A popular hiking spot with challenging trails leading to panoramic views of Cali and the surrounding valleys.
While a bit farther from Cali, this scenic lagoon offers hiking trails around its perimeter, showcasing diverse flora and fauna.
A natural park offering misty cloud forest trails, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems to explore on foot.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cali through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cali by plane.
The main international airport serving Cali, Colombia, located about 15 km northeast of the city.
Located in Bogotá, it is the largest and busiest airport in Colombia, approximately 445 km from Cali.
Located near Medellín, approximately 370 km from Cali, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located in Santa Marta, around 550 km from Cali, it serves various international routes.
Located in Cartagena, approximately 620 km from Cali, it operates international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Cali, primarily of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
A significant cultural group, with roots tracing back to African ancestors, contributing to the city's vibrant music and cultural scene.
Comprising various native groups, with a small but important presence in the region, linked to their ancestral lands.
Individuals of European descent, often involved in urban and business sectors.
Includes various immigrant communities and expatriates, contributing to the city's diversity.
The Soul of Cali
Discover the essence of Cali through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Cali, with a passionate fan base supporting local teams, including Deportivo Cali and América de Cali.
Cali is known for its strong cycling culture, hosting numerous competitions and events, and is a hub for both professional and amateur cyclists.
While not a sport in the traditional sense, salsa dancing is a vital part of Cali's identity, with many considering it a competitive and athletic activity.
Basketball is growing in popularity in Cali, with local leagues and clubs fostering competitive play among youth and adults alike.
Tennis has a presence in Cali with several clubs and facilities available for both recreational and competitive players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cali.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Colombian cuisine often features meats, many restaurants in Cali offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes. Visit Govindas Vegetariano for an extensive selection of plant-based delights.
For those seeking gluten-free options, El Buen Alimento provides a range of healthy, gluten-free dishes in a welcoming setting.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cali with these cultural adventures.
