Cali, Colombia—often called “La Sucursal del Cielo” (The Branch of Heaven)—is a city pulsing with rhythm, color, and life. As the undisputed Salsa Capital of the World, Cali offers a unique blend of vibrant nightlife, rich history, lush nature, and warm hospitality.
Whether you’re here to dance, explore, or simply soak up the local culture, Cali has something for everyone. This guide covers the best things to do in Cali, Colombia, with practical itineraries, fascinating facts, and essential tips for your visit.
Interesting Facts About Cali
Salsa Capital: Cali is considered the world capital of salsa, with more salsa schools and clubs per capita than any other city.
Festival City: The Feria de Cali is one of Colombia’s biggest and most famous festivals, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Cultural Melting Pot: Cali is home to a large Afro-Colombian community, whose influence is evident in the city’s music, dance, and cuisine.
Sporting Legacy: Cali has hosted major international sporting events, including the Pan American Games and the World Games.
Climate: Cali enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures around 26°C (79°F).
Top Things to Do in Cali, Colombia
1. Dance the Night Away: Salsa in Cali
People know that Cali has a great salsa scene. The city has world-class salsa schools, famous clubs, and yearly events that bring dancers from all over the world. You should attend a salsa class or dance at famous places like La Topa Tolondra, Tin Tin Deo, and Zaperoco. To learn more about salsa culture, go to the Jairo Varela Museum, which is named after the man who started the famous Grupo Niche.
Interesting Fact: The Feria de Cali, which takes place every December, is one of the most prominent salsa festivals in the world. It has parades, concerts, and dancing competitions.
2. Check out the San Antonio Neighborhood and the Historic Center.
Cali’s historic core is full with colonial buildings, lively plazas, and colorful markets. Plaza de Caicedo is the center of the city, and it is home to prominent buildings including City Hall and the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Pedro Apóstol. The San Antonio area, which is close by, is charming with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, art galleries, and comfortable cafes. For great views, climb to the top of the hill. You may also visit the San Antonio Church, which is a superb example of colonial baroque architecture.
Interesting Fact: San Antonio is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Cali and a popular place for artists and free spirits.
3. Stroll Along the Cali River and Visit El Gato del Río
The Cali River runs through the city, offering a peaceful green space in the urban center. Walk along the Boulevard del Río, a pedestrian promenade lined with cafes, bars, and public art. Don’t miss the El Gato del Río sculpture, a giant red cat created by artist Hernando Tejada, and the “Cat’s Girlfriends,” a collection of whimsical feline statues scattered throughout the park.
Interesting Fact: The Boulevard del Río was built on the site of a former highway and is now a beloved gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
4. Visit Cristo Rey and Hike the Tres Cruces
For breathtaking views of Cali, make your way to Cristo Rey, a 26-meter statue of Christ on a hill overlooking the city. The climb is steep but rewarding, and the site is especially magical at sunset. For a more challenging hike, tackle Cerro de las Tres Cruces (Hill of the Three Crosses), another popular viewpoint offering panoramic vistas.
Interesting Fact: Cristo Rey was erected in 1953 to commemorate 50 years of peace after the War of a Thousand Days.
5. Discover Cali’s Museums and Cultural Sites
Cali boasts a rich cultural scene with several noteworthy museums. The Museo La Tertulia is one of Colombia’s top art museums, featuring contemporary and modern works in a striking riverfront building. The Caliwood Cinema Museum is the only cinema museum in Colombia, showcasing vintage projectors, cameras, and film memorabilia. For history buffs, the Museum of the Sugar Cane (Museo de la Caña de Azúcar) offers a glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage.
Interesting Fact: The Sugar Cane Museum is housed in a restored 18th-century hacienda, surrounded by lush gardens.
6. Enjoy Nature and Wildlife
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in and around Cali. The Cali Zoo is one of the best in Latin America, home to over 200 species in naturalistic habitats. For a more adventurous outing, visit Parque Nacional Natural Farallones de Cali, a vast protected area known for its biodiversity, hiking trails, and birdwatching opportunities. The Pance River is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and escaping the city heat.
Interesting Fact: Farallones de Cali is home to more than 540 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
7. Experience Cali’s Food and Markets
The food scene in Cali is a tasty mix of traditional Colombian dishes and local favorites. At Plaza de Mercado Alameda, you may have street food such empanadas, ceviche, and fresh fruit. Local foods you should try are sancocho de gallina (chicken stew), chontaduro (a tropical fruit), and lulada (a cool drink made from lulo fruit).
Interesting Fact: Cali is known for its “raspao,” a shaved ice treat perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
8. Attend a Festival or Special Event
Cali is a city that loves to celebrate. In addition to the Feria de Cali, the city hosts the Petronio Álvarez Festival in August, a vibrant celebration of Afro-Colombian culture featuring music, dance, and food. Throughout the year, you’ll find concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural events that showcase the city’s creative spirit.
Interesting Fact: The Petronio Álvarez Festival is one of the largest Afro-Colombian cultural events in the country.
Sample 3-Day Cali Itinerary
Day 1: Learn about history and salsa culture
In the morning, go around Plaza de Caicedo and go to the Metropolitan Cathedral. Visit the San Antonio area and take in the view from the chapel on the hill.
In the afternoon, go to either Museo La Tertulia or the Caliwood Cinema Museum. You can see the El Gato del Río sculpture by walking along the Cali River.
In the evening, you may take a salsa class or dance the night away at a club like La Topa Tolondra or Tin Tin Deo.
Day 2: Food, nature, and views from the area
In the morning, hike to Cristo Rey or Cerro de las Tres Cruces to obtain a magnificent perspective of the city.
In the afternoon, head to the Pance River for a relaxing swim or the Cali Zoo.
Dinner: Go to a local restaurant and taste some traditional foods. Don’t forget to eat a dessert of raspao.
Day 3: Shopping, culture, and nightlife
In the morning, you can go to the Sugar Cane Museum or the Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz to see local crafts.
In the afternoon, go shopping at Plaza de Mercado Alameda and have some street food. Take it easy at a café in San Antonio.
In the evening, you can watch a dance show or listen to live music. Check out the nightlife in Juanchito, which is Cali’s salsa area.
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Questions that people ask a lot (FAQs)
Q: Is it safe for tourists to go to Cali?
A: Cali is normally safe, but like any big city, you should always be on the alert. Don’t walk alone at night in places you don’t know, and keep your things safe.
Q: What time of year is ideal to go to Cali?
A: The best time to go is when it’s dry (from June to September and from December to February). The Feria de Cali in late December is a big deal, but Cali is always busy.
Q: How do I get around in Cali?
A: It’s easy and affordable to take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Uber or DiDi. There are public buses, although they could be hard for travelers to understand. Walking around downtown is a terrific way to see it.
Q: What should I eat in Cali?
A: Don’t miss local specialties like sancocho de gallina, chontaduro, lulada, and raspao. Street food markets like Plaza de Mercado Alameda are a must-visit.
Q: Do I need to speak Spanish in Cali?
A: Basic Spanish is helpful, especially outside tourist areas. Many people in the hospitality industry speak some English, but learning a few key phrases will enhance your experience.
Q: What are the top festivals in Cali?
A: The Feria de Cali (December) and the Petronio Álvarez Festival (August) are the city’s biggest and most famous events.
Q: Where should I stay in Cali?
A: The San Antonio neighborhood is popular with tourists for its charm, safety, and proximity to attractions. The city center and Granada are also good options.
Q: Are there day trips from Cali?
A: Yes! Popular day trips include Lake Calima (for water sports), San Cipriano (for jungle adventures), and the sugar cane haciendas of Piedechinche and El Paraíso.
Insider Tips
Learn to Dance: Even if you’re a beginner, take a salsa class—it’s a quintessential Cali experience.
Stay Hydrated: Cali’s climate is hot and humid, so drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.
Visit Early: Popular attractions like Cristo Rey and Tres Cruces are best visited in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
Try Local Drinks: Don’t miss lulada, a refreshing local beverage made from lulo fruit.
Explore Nightlife: Cali’s nightlife is legendary—venture out to Juanchito for the ultimate salsa experience.
Final Thoughts
Cali, Colombia, is a city that captivates with its energy, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re dancing salsa until dawn, exploring historic neighborhoods, or hiking to panoramic viewpoints, Cali offers an unforgettable travel experience. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and vibrant festivals, it’s no wonder Cali is known as the “Branch of Heaven.”