Cali
Because of its bad reputation, many travelers decide to skip Cali. What a mistake!
The city, also known as the Capital of Salsa, is a must to visit if you want an insight into the Colombian culture. While it’s damn hot during the day, a cool breeze starts blowing around 5 pm. It’s the daily signal that tells locals it’s time to hang out in the streets. Then, at night, folks head to salsa bars for practicing their move and spend a good time.
From a historical point of view, you won’t get many things to do. There are a few churches and museums scattered between the Center and San Antonio.
However, it’s a fantastic place to learn about Salsa and an excellent base to explore the area. Indeed, the Pacific Coast is only 4 hours away, and the mountains and rivers around offer many activities like hiking, canyoning, and paragliding.
Like any big city in the South of America, I advise you to take a cab at night and don’t show off with your valuables.
Our Colombia itineraries for visiting Cali
Where to stay in Granada
Granada is the party district of Cali. It's also one of the wealthiest. Most of the tourists don't know about it. Therefore, you won't meet many of them. There are delicious restaurants and it's one of the safest areas in Cali.
Hostel
Pelican Larry
Perfect location. Many activities like Salsa and bike tours. Great common area and breakfast.Get the best price-
Hotel
Guadalupe
White colonial house. Clean and well located in Granada. Large rooms with comfy beds.Get the best price -
Hotel
Casa Centenario
Economical option with a perfect location and a delicious breakfast. Good staff.Get the best price -
Hotel boutique
Leclerc
Upscale hotel with lovely bedrooms. Great value for money. Small and personalized services.Get the best price -
Luxury
Movitch
One of the best hotels in Cali. Fantastic staff and facilities. Tasty breakfast. Location.Get the best price
Where to stay in San Antonio
San Antonio is the kingdom of the backpackers. They like to hang out in the park, drinking cheap beers at night from the shops around. Locals love to do it. There are many good restaurants and lovely cafes, which are perfect stops after a short wander in the district. Be cautious when it's late at night.
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Hostel
El Viajero
Famous hostel with a pool and a salsa studio. Good if you're looking for parties.Get the best price -
Hostel
Ruta Sur
Upscale hostel. Private room only. Lovely courtyard. Delicious breakfast and staff.Get the best price -
Boutique Hotel
San Antonio
Excellent value for money and perfect location. Comfy rooms and delicious breakfast.Get the best price
Where to stay in San Fernando & Pance
San Fernando is an up and coming district. There is no tourist. Many local bars and restaurants near Parque del Perro. Pance is a small town located in the mountains, at 2 hours from Cali. It's a perfect option to get some fresh air and swim in cold water.
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Hostel
Oasis
Many social events and tours. Salsa studio. Clean with many social areas. BreakfastGet the best price -
Hotel in Pance
Batara
Small hotel with a great view. Birds everywhere. Natural pool. Awesome owners!Get the best price
Things to do in Cali
While there are not many things to do in the city of Cali (expect dancing Salsa), the surroundings offer many great activities and day trips.
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Dance
Salsa
Learn the basic steps of Salsa then go looking for partners in bars and practice! Great vibesLearn more -
Tour
City tour
There are not many highlights in Cali. A quick city will help you to get the most of it.Learn more -
Tour
Food tour
Alameda is the biggest market in Cali. Try fruits and street foods. Buy magic potions.Learn more -
Museum
Aero Fenix
Impressive aircraft collection from before WWII. Perfect to spend a couple of hoursLearn more -
Museum
Caliwood
How did the industry of cinema begin in Colombia? Lots of film posters and projectors.Learn more -
Museum
La Tertulia
Art museum. Interesting and interactive. Three floors. Cool activities and cafe nearby.Learn more -
Museum
Salsa History
Learn about the history of the Salsa and why it became such a thing in Cali.Learn more -
Tour
Salsa & Art
If churches and old building are not your things, wander in Cali while learning about other stuff.Learn more -
View
Christo Rey
A short cab ride from the center. Cool view of Cali, especially at night. Site closes at 8 pm.Learn more -
Hike
3 Cruces
Sunday hike. Do it early so you won't get burnt. Don't do it alone during the week.Learn more -
Butterfly
Andoke
Admire thousands of beautiful butterflies. Specific hours for the tours. Good explanations.Learn more -
Social event
Loma de la Cruz
People meet every Thursday at 7 pm for Andean dancing. Fun moments. Handcrafts shops.Learn more -
Social Event
Parque El Peñon
Musicians get there around 5 pm to perform live music. Lovely and safe area. Good music.Learn more -
Tour
Birdwatching
The areas of Cali are extremely famous for observing birds. Wake up early and enjoy!Learn more -
Tour
San Cipriano
Go to San Cipriano for chasing waterfalls and going down the river on an inner tube.Learn more -
Extreme sport
Paragliding
The best view is always from the sky. Run till the cliff and jump. Don't forget your glider.Learn more -
Extreme sport
Canyoning
With its 7 rivers, canyoning is a must around Cali. Rappelling, toboggan and big jumps.Learn more -
Hiking
Pico Loro
A fantastic view of the Valle del Cauca, the Andean mountains. 4-5 hours hike. Medium.Learn more -
Waterfall
La Sirena
Located 2 hours away, El Danubio offers some gorgeous natural pools. Take your swimming shorts!Learn more -
Weekend trip
Pance
2 hours away from Cali, Pance is small town perfect for taking a deep breath of fresh air.Learn more -
Beach
Pacific
From Cali, the Pacific is only 4 hours away. Explore these black sand beaches. Raw nature.Learn more
More travel ressources
We spent 2 months in Cali and wrote about our travel experiences.
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