Cali - Discovering Colombia

Travelling to Cali

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cali, a pretty good destination in Colombia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cali and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cali, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Colombia, here's everything to know about Cali for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cali

Cali is a vibrant city located in the southwest region of Colombia. It is known as the salsa capital of the world, and the locals are known as Caleños. The city has a rich cultural heritage, and the architecture is a mix of modern and colonial styles. The climate is tropical, and the average temperature is around 24°C. Some of the main attractions in Cali are the Cristo Rey statue, the San Antonio neighborhood, La Ermita church, and the Cali Zoo. The city also has numerous salsa clubs, museums, and restaurants that serve traditional Colombian cuisine. Additionally, Cali is a hub for business and commerce in Colombia, making it an important destination for business travelers.

What to visit in Cali

Certainly! Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Cali, Colombia along with a brief description of each: 1. Cristo Rey - A giant statue of Jesus Christ that overlooks the city from a hilltop. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top for panoramic views of Cali.
2. Cali Zoo - This large and well-regarded zoo has a wide variety of animal species as well as plenty of green space for visitors to enjoy.
3. Cat Park - A park filled with colorful cat sculptures and mosaics. A great spot for taking unique photos or just relaxing in a playful atmosphere.
4. Ermita Church - A historic church located in the center of the city with beautiful architecture and religious significance.
5. Gato de Tejada Monument - Another cat-themed attraction, this monument is a large bronze sculpture that has become an iconic symbol of Cali.
6. San Antonio Neighborhood - Known for its colorful buildings, street art, and culinary offerings, this bohemian neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone interested in local culture.
7. Chipichape Mall - One of the largest shopping centers in Cali, Chipichape offers a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
8. Tertulia Museum - This museum features a broad collection of 20th-century Latin American art, including works by many Colombian artists.
9. Hill of the Three Crosses - Another popular lookout point with stunning views of the city, this hill is also known for the three crosses that stand atop it.
10. Parque del Avion - A unique park that features a decommissioned airplane as its centerpiece. Visitors can climb inside the plane and explore its interior.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Cali, Colombia!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Colombia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Cali.

When to go on holiday to Cali

The best time to visit Cali (Colombia) is from July to September, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is generally warm and sunny, with relatively low humidity. It's also the season when many festivals and events take place, such as the Feria de Cali, which is a popular salsa dance festival. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak season for tourism, so prices may be higher and places may be more crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and save a little money, consider visiting during the off-season from March to June or October to December. During these months, you may experience some occasional rain, but you should still find plenty of things to see and do in Cali.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cali

There are several options for getting to Cali, Colombia. Here are a few: 1. By air: The easiest way to get to Cali from abroad is to fly into Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, which is located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. There are direct flights to Cali from major international airports in the United States, Europe, and other parts of Latin America.
2. By land: If you're already in Colombia, you can get to Cali by bus or car. There are several bus companies that run regular routes to Cali from other major cities, including Bogotá and Medellín. It's also possible to rent a car and drive to Cali, but keep in mind that the roads can be challenging, and it's important to exercise caution.
3. By train: While there are no direct train routes to Cali, you can take a train from Bogotá or Medellín to a nearby city and then continue on to Cali by bus or car.
No matter how you choose to get to Cali, it's important to plan ahead and make arrangements for transportation and accommodation in advance.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cali, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cali

Cali is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, here are some typical foods you can find in Cali with a short description for each of them: 1. Chontaduro - a fruit that is boiled and served with salt or honey 2. Cholado - a refreshing drink made with shaved ice, fruit pieces, sweetened condensed milk, and fruity syrups 3. Empanadas - fried or baked dough pockets usually filled with meat, potatoes, and veggies 4. Pandebono - a small bread roll made with cheese and cornmeal 5. Aborrajados - fried plantain slices stuffed with cheese and served with honey 6. Arroz Atollado - a rice dish made with chicken, bacon, and different vegetables 7. Lulada - a drink made with lulo fruit, water, and sugar 8. Cochinita - grilled pork marinated in orange juice and herbs 9. Ceviche - a fresh and delicious seafood dish made with diced raw fish, lime juice, and cilantro 10. Champús - a traditional drink made with maize, pineapple, cinnamon, and lulo.
You can find general info about typical foods in Colombia here.

Is Cali an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in Colombia, Cali can be considered as a relatively expensive destination for tourists. However, it is still affordable compared to many other international destinations. The cost of accommodations, food, and transportation can vary widely depending on the time of year, the neighborhood, and the level of luxury you prefer. It is recommended to plan ahead and research prices to get a better idea of what to expect during your trip to Cali.

Where to find accomodation in Cali

When visiting Cali, there are several areas where it is best to find accommodation based on your preferences and interests. 1) Granada: Known for its trendy nightlife, Granada is a good area for travelers looking to enjoy the city’s vibrant social scene. 2) San Antonio: This neighborhood is known for its colonial-style architecture, art galleries and cultural landmarks. 3) El Peñón: This area offers upscale accommodation options and is located in close proximity to Cali’s main attractions, including the zoo and the iconic Cristo Rey statue. 4) Ciudad Jardín: This neighborhood is located on the outskirts of the city and offers a quieter, more tranquil atmosphere. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a relaxing stay away from the city centre. 5) Ciudadela Comfandi: This neighborhood offers affordable accommodation options and is located near popular attractions like the Pascual Guerrero Stadium and the Calima Gold Museum. Ultimately, your choice of accommodation will depend on your preferences and needs for your trip to Cali.
You can check hotel prices at Cali here:
Booking.com

Is Cali a safe destination for tourists?

Cali, Colombia is generally considered safe for tourists; however, it is still important to exercise caution, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow basic safety rules when traveling to any city. Petty street crime (such as pickpocketing or theft) can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas, so it's a good idea to keep your valuables close and avoid flashing expensive items in public. It's also advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid dark alleys or streets, and try to travel with a companion if possible. Additionally, it's always a good idea to do some research on the specific areas you plan to visit in Cali to get a better understanding of any potential safety concerns.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Colombia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cali.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cali the most?

Cali, Colombia is a destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. Here are some examples: - Couples: Cali is known as the "Salsa Capital of the World" and has a vibrant nightlife scene that couples can enjoy. There are many clubs and bars that offer live salsa music and dancing, which can be a romantic and fun activity to do together.
- Young people looking for fun: Cali has a lively and youthful atmosphere, with plenty of activities to keep young people entertained. The city has many parks and outdoor areas that are popular for picnics and sports, and there are also many shopping centers and restaurants to explore.
- Families: Cali is a family-friendly destination, with many activities that are suitable for all ages. The city has several museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Natural History Museum, which are great for educational outings. Families can also enjoy playing in the parks, visiting the zoo, or taking a trip to the nearby sugar cane farms.
In summary, Cali can be enjoyed by a wide range of travelers, including couples, young people, and families.

How to get around Cali

In Cali, you can get around by public transportation such as buses, taxis, or the Millenium system (a rapid transit system). You can also find ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, Didi, and Beat are also available in the city. Additionally, if you prefer to rent a vehicle, you can find car rental companies like Avis, Budget, and Enterprise. However, it is important to note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so taking public transportation or ride-hailing services may be a better option to avoid traffic jams.

What to see around Cali

Certainly! Here are some beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Cali, Colombia: 1. Buga: A historic town known for its beautiful cathedral and religious pilgrimages.
2. San Cipriano: A jungle village accessible only by a traditional bamboo train, offering a beautiful forest hike and natural refreshing pools to swim in.
3. Lago Calima: A beautiful lake with water sports, hiking trails, and restaurants.
4. Laguna Sonso: A beautiful National Park with a birdwatching tower and mangrove forest.
5. Hacienda El Paraiso: A historic sugar plantation with a beautiful manor house and gardens.
6. La Chorrera: A beautiful waterfall located in the mountains, perfect for hiking and picnicking.
7. Popayan: A colonial town with beautiful architecture and a diverse culinary scene.
8. Palmira: A town known for its agricultural products, including sugar cane, coffee, and mangoes; they also have an interesting aviation museum. I hope this helps you plan your day trips from Cali!
For every travel information about Colombia you can click here.

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