33 Best Things To Do in Cali Colombia – Guide To Food and Activities

Would you like to visit the salsa capital of the world? If you are planning a memorable trip to this destination in South America, here are the 33 best things to do in Cali Colombia. 

Why Cali Colombia?

Cali is the third-largest city in Colombia and was included in the list of cheapest places to live in the world. It may not be well known because of its past security issues, or it might not be the most beautiful city, but it can be one of the best places to travel if you know where to go. 

There are plenty of terrific things that you can experience here. From hiking steep hills to strolling down the streets to enjoying the beautiful atmosphere, Cali has it all. 

And while salsa dancing did not originate from Cali, it is one of the city’s main highlights, with the Caleños mastering the techniques and attracting many tourists who watch them perform. 

Things To Do In Cali Colombia – Activities

Most people do not know where to go when they first visit the city. Cali has places that can make your trip the best ever; it is up to you how you plan your trip. 

Check out this list of the 33 best things you can do and places you can visit in Cali, Colombia. 

1. Salsa Dancing

Cali claims to be the city that first introduced salsa. Factual or not, it is now considered the best salsa destination. Plus, it’s named the salsa capital of the world!

So, if you are someone who does not know how to dance, there’s no better place to get started than Cali, Colombia. 

There are a lot of places where you can learn salsa, such as El Manicero and Son de Luz. People here are usually very nice, and they will teach you without making fun of your wrong moves. 

Personally, I learned salsa dancing in my hostel, Viajero Hostel Cali & Salsa School in Cali. We got salsa lessons a couple of times per week with a small group. After the lessons, we often visited the bars to dance in real life, which I absolutely loved.

2. Attend Delirio (The Salsa Circus)

Suppose you want to experience how salsa is performed on the highest level. Plan your visit during the last weekend of the month. This is the time when pro salsa dancers perform in Salsa Circus called Delirio, making Cali a popular destination. 

The circus takes place inside a tent with a seating capacity of around 1,000 people. 

The best thing about the show is that anyone can come on stage and dance in between performances. The show will truly make you feel alive with the combination of electric performances and exciting music.

3. Cali Free Walking Tour

You can go on a free walking tour with a Dutchman who came up with the idea of experiencing the city through a stroll down the streets. Meet this guy at the Iglesia (church) La Merced, a 10-minute walk from San Antonio. 

It is an excellent way of experiencing old churches and other sites as you listen to your favorite artist. Strolling is indeed one of the cheapest and most effective ways of admiring the beauty of the city. The whole tour lasts for about 2 hours. 

Be sure to check the availability online when you’re in Cali if you want to participate in the free walking tour.

4. Cali Nightlife

Cali’s nightlife is one of the best in Colombia. With numerous bars and restaurants within a few minutes’ drive, you can spend your whole night partying without keeping track of time.

One of the best neighborhoods with the best bars and nightclubs includes San Antonio, La Sexta, and Zaperoco. 

Colombia’s nightlife is entertaining, but keep your eyes open like any strange city. So, be careful! Don’t bring more money than needed, and leave your cards at home. 

That said, I had good experiences with Cali nightlife. When we went out, someone left their phone in the taxi without noticing, and the taxi driver brought the phone back without even being called first. 

5. Trekking Around Cali

Cali is one of the best places for outdoor adventures such as trekking. Just make sure that you engage one of the guided tours that can help you with directions, as most of the people get lost along the way. 

The trek that we recommend the most is Pico De Loro Ecotourism, which provides the best guide that leaves for hiking almost every day.

However, the packages these companies provide can be quite expensive, so we advise you to search for local groups on social media that are leaving for a hike. 

6. Cerro de Las Tres Cruces Hike

Cerro de Las Tres Cruces is a popular spot for hikers, starting from within the city and reaching the top in less than an hour. This is the best place to trek for the people who do not prefer walking or climbing long distances. 

To be on the safe side, we recommend you to hike in the morning when the place is crowded with people. 

You can also hike between 7 and 7:30 pm when hiking groups leave from Pacific mall in the presence of police escorts. Please make sure that you do not plan to leave during mid-day as it can be really exhausting to trek alone in the hot summer sun.

7. Enjoy La Feria de Cali

La Feria de Cali is the biggest festival in Cali. The celebration starts a week before the new year and lasts till new year’s night. Reduced working hours allow people to go out and enjoy the festival all night long. 

This awe-inspiring event is also known as the carnival of salsa, as top dance academies perform in the salsa parade of this beautiful event.

8. Exercising at La Canchas Panamericanas

The roads are blocked every Sunday between 8 am to 1 pm in Las Canchas, where hundreds of people come out to exercise. From a stage, an aerorumba instructor gives free classes to people. 

It’s one of the best ways to charge yourself for the journey ahead after a tiring Saturday night salsa party at the bar. 

9. Play Tejo

Tejo is a game where you need to throw a metal disc toward a clay board where a ring of triangular paper is placed. These triangular papers contain explosive material that detonates when the disc hits them. 

The goal is to hit the center of the clay circle. Playing this Colombian national sport is for free, making them worth experiencing at least once on your visit. 

It’s always fun to try new things, and this one is enjoyable. Go to a tejo bar, order some drinks, and enjoy a fun game that will only cause some minor explosions.

10. Canyoning

Rio Pance, a river near Cali, is a great place for canyoning. Descending from the waterfalls using ropes requires strength and technique, but you will clinch it in one or two attempts. 

More and more people are attracted to canyoning to showcase their abilities and adventurous natures. But if you are afraid of heights or water, we advise you to pass. 

11. Pacific Beach-Hopping

It is pretty easy to enjoy the Columbian coast’s Pacific beaches from Cali. 

You can get a boat from Buenaventura to Juanchaco, where you will have to get closer to La Barra to get the full experience of long beaches. 

If you visit during July and September, you are more likely to see humpback whales in that area as well.

12. Bird Watching

Ask one of the many bird lovers in Colombia: watching even a few of the most colorful birds in the sky can give you a calming feeling. 

Local agencies know the best areas to spot unique birds flying around, so getting their assistance is a good option.

To capture the sensational sight of these wonderful birds, you need to wake up early in the morning as it is the time when they are most active.

Things To Do In Cali – Best Places To Visit

13. El Cristo Rey

If you take a taxi to San Antonio, it will take only 20 minutes to reach this place where a giant statue of Jesus watches over Cali. The place in itself does not need special visiting, but if you are there for the first time, we advise you to take some time to experience this marvelous work of art. 

There are plenty of pizza restaurants toward the statue, so you can also take a break and eat some delicious pizza before you reach Cristo Rey. 

14. Capilla La Ermita

Capilla La Ermita is a church that is quite famous due to its beautiful architecture. Its construction took about 18 years, as the overall design includes Dutch windows, French Church bells, and Italian marbles. 

The bright white exterior captures the heart of its beholders. Although the overall size of the church is not that big, it still can set its place in your heart. 

15. Barrio San Antonio

Barrio San Antonio is the oldest place in Cali and is quite famous for its free walking tours. 

You can leisurely experience unique building designs and colorful cafés. The colorful and unique design represents the people living there in the past, as most of them were writers and artists. 

There is a hill nearby Iglesia San Antonio, which you can climb to get a beautiful view of the whole valley.

16. Cali Zoo

The family-friendly Cali zoo has the quality to make you feel like you are standing in a jungle. The animals there are quite active, and with a wide variety of animals available, it truly is a great place to visit and spend time with your family or friends.

Another advantage is that the Cali River runs through the Zoo, which further enhances the beauty of the place. 

17. Parque Artesanal

Parque Artesanal is the best place for shopping, and there are a lot of artisans in the park who sell handicrafts at a very low cost. 

You can enjoy your time here by shopping and eating at nearby bars and restaurants that provide delicious food at a reasonable price. 

Special events include salsa dancing with live music on weekends, making the visit more fun and exciting.

18. Parque Nacional Natural

National Park has some great activities to do. It is a good spot for you and your family to plan a weekend picnic. You will find vendors, food, and restrooms at the bottom of the park, where you can get everything you want to spend your night out. 

19. Galeria Alameda

Galeria Alameda is a food market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and flowers. You can also find women selling love potions and medicines. It’s a great place to taste and test different Colombian foods: it’s like going on a food tour. 

The whole experience is not like visiting any other marketplace. The market has some exceptional seafood restaurants, so you can taste the delicious ceviche made by expert cooks while shopping in the marketplace. 

If you’re wondering if ceviche is safe to eat, you can always ask the local vendor if they can cook the fish to make sure that you’re okay. When you’re asking yourself if ceviche is safe to eat when pregnant, just be on the safe side and avoid it. If you really want it, make sure it’s cooked. 

20. Plaza de Cayzedo

It is known as the main square in Cali, where government buildings and other monuments can be seen. The street food is absolutely delicious, and the neoclassical architecture enhances the ambiance. 

This place is usually crowded with a lot of people such as shoe shiners, street vendors, ticket salespeople, locals, and of course, tourists. 

21. San Cipriano

San Cipriano can be the main highlight of your trip to Cali. You can enjoy local waterfalls while lying inside your inflated inner tube above the river. The place is about 2.5 hours away from Cali, but the beauty of the place makes the traveling distance worth it. 

It is a small town completely isolated, so you have to travel on a motorbike that moves on train tracks. The whole traveling experience is somewhat tiring but still worth the experience.

22. Pance River

Since there are no beaches in Cali, Colombia, you have to travel some distance to reach the ones available. People satisfy their desire for swimming or water fun by visiting the Pance river. 

We advise you to visit this place on Sunday with a group of friends to enjoy this ice-cold river while eating Sancocho (Colombian dish) in the restaurants nearby.

23. Chorrera del Indio

Chorrera del Indio stands for “Indian spring.” It is a hidden waterfall unknown to most tourists. 

So, you can go there to enjoy the beauty of nature without a crowd of people disturbing you. Keep in mind that this place charges an entrance fee, which is around 8,000 pesos (2.12 USD). 

24. Mariposario Andoke

Andoke is a perfect place to spend your day if you bring along the kids (or the kids-at-heart). The place is full of colorful butterflies roaming all around the park. 

It is a foundation that serves as a butterfly habitat (mariposario) for educating future generations to keep the environment safe. 

You can also have a Spanish guide to help you with all the relevant information about butterflies and the foundation.

25. Aereo Fenix Museum

If you are a fan of museums, Aereo Fenix will give you the experience of a lifetime. 

The museum contains aircraft from World War 2, locomotives, and old cars. The place will keep you enthralled inside for a long time if you are a passionate history buff and a vintage vehicle lover.

26. Museo la Tertulia 

Artists worldwide display their magnificent works at La Tertulia’s museum of modern art. These temporary exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks are excellent for people who admire unique art. 

Remember that the artworks are only explained in Spanish, so get your online translators ready. 

27. Pico Loro View

Pico Loro has some of the most iconic views that you can experience from the top. However, there are some things that you need to consider before leaving. 

The most important is to hire a guide from the Pance Village, and he will help you get to the top, which takes about 4 to 6 hours of constant drive.

Once you have reached the top, though, the view will make you forget about the dangerous path you have covered to reach the place. 

28. Lake Calima

Lake Calima is an amazing place for kitesurfing and windsurfing. If you don’t know how, you can join kitesurfing schools that provide a 5-day stay with equipment and 10 hours of lessons. 

The overall time you spend there depends on how fast you learn the lessons. Some people are quick learners, allowing them to wrap up the whole visit in just 2 to 3 days.

Things To Do In Cali – Food And Restaurants

Go on a culinary trip all over Cali Colombia, and sample these delightful treats!

29. Cholado

Cholado is a mixture of condensed milk, fresh fruit, and syrup. It is refreshing, allowing you to defy the hot sun during the day. 

You can find the best quality Cholado in Las Canchas Panamericanas.

30. Aborrajado

Made with fried plantain and cheese, aborrajado is one of the most delicious dishes in Colombia. You can find them on selling stands that usually sell empanadas.

31. Ensalada de Frutas

Ensalada de Frutas is not your regular fruit salad; it has more stuff inside, such as ice cream, cheese, honey, peanuts, and coconut. Combining all the ingredients makes it the most luscious dessert you will ever taste.

32. Sancocho

Sancocho is Cali’s specialty. It is a soup served with chicken, rice, plantains, and avocados. The addictive taste will make you fall in love with it.

33. Special Cali Cuisines

There are some unique Cali cuisines that we highly recommend you to try.

• One of them is Lulado, a refreshing drink containing lulo juice mixed with ice and water. 
• Another cuisine worth trying is Pandebono, a simple bread roll with cheese inside. 
• The last one is Arroz Atollado, a dish containing rice and chicken mixed with vegetables.

Where To Stay in Cali Colombia

Magic Garden House (Budget)

Magic Garden House features both a terrace and a garden. Complimentary Colombian coffee, tea, fruits, and water are provided in the available kitchen. Each room includes a fan, and some rooms offer a private bathroom. Additionally, all units feature a seating area.

Hotel El Peñon by Bithotels (Mid-range)

Hotel El Peñon by Bithotels offers spacious rooms equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, and a minibar. Each room also includes a private bathroom with a shower.

Alko Hotel Casa Nispero (Luxury)

Alko Hotel Casa Nispero offers lodging with an outdoor pool, complimentary private parking, a garden, and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy a hot tub and car rental services. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service, and complimentary property-wide WiFi.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

How To Stay Safe During Your Visit In Cali Colombia

Here are some specific tips to help you navigate safely:

• Stay Alert in Crowded Places: Places like markets, bus stations, and festivals can be hotspots for pickpocketing.
• Avoid Walking Alone at Night: It’s safer to be in a group after dark, especially in less busy areas. Stick to well-lit, populated streets.
• Respect Local Culture and Customs: Understanding local customs can help you blend in better and avoid potential misunderstandings or conflicts.
• Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi: Use VPNs when accessing personal accounts or sensitive information over public Wi-Fi networks.
• Be Discreet with Valuables: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or smartphones in public. Flashy displays of wealth can attract unwanted attention from thieves.
• Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Conclusion – Your List of the Best Things To Do In Cali Colombia

At the end of your trip to this fantastic Latin American city, you will surely agree that it had been a marvelous journey. 

You will remember the various fun activities with fondness, sigh at the memory of the sights, find your mouth watering thinking about the cuisine, and unconsciously tap your feet to a salsa beat. That’s the lingering effect of Cali.

Providing you with a lowdown on the best things to do in Cali Colombia has been a pleasure. Have a happy, delightful trip!

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