Cali: Salsa, Sun, and Soul

Welcome to Cali! It's known as the "Salsa Capital of the World" or "The Heaven's Branch."

Cali, the capital of the Valle del Cauca, is Colombia's most populous city-with a population of over 2.25 million music lovers. It's located about 170 miles Southwest of Bogotá.

It's known for its rich Afro-Colombian culture, fascinating salsa rhythms, the delicious Pacific food, breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. Cali is music, food and adventure.

In short, Cali is the perfect city for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Caleños are known for their warm, friendly, and welcoming spirit, making every visitor feel at home. Whether you’re asking for directions, joining a salsa class, or chatting with a local at a café, you’ll quickly feel embraced by their kindness.

Expect to be greeted with a smile and often with phrases like "¡Bienvenido!" (Welcome!) or "¿Te ayudo?" (Can I help you?). Caleños love engaging with visitors, offering recommendations for hidden gems, and teaching you a few dance moves if you’re up for it.

Pro Tip:

We recommend you plan your visit during the dry season December through March and July & August. December is especially fun...Colombians really know how to do Christmas!

Prepare to leave with new friends and treasured memories!

Here are our top picks of things to do in Cali from Tatiana, your local Caleña:

1) Cristo Rey

Cristo Rey is Cali’s iconic monument, standing 26 meters (85 feet) tall atop a hill overlooking the entire city. This majestic statue of Christ, similar to Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, offers unparalleled views of Cali’s skyline and lush valleys. The hike up the hill is a favorite among locals, but you can also take a short cab ride to the summit. Don’t forget to stop by the small food stalls and restaurants selling fresh juice, traditional Colombian snacks and pizza while enjoying the scenery.

2) San Antonio Neighborhood

"Not all those who wander are lost" - J.R.R. Tolkien

San Antonio is Cali’s bohemian heart, known for its colonial-style houses, cobbled streets, and artistic soul. You can spend an afternoon wandering through local art galleries, stopping by cozy cafes, or enjoying street performances at the San Antonio Park.

The neighborhood’s namesake, San Antonio Church, sits at the top of a hill—perfect for a picnic while watching the sunset over Cali’s skyline. This area also offers a lively nightlife scene with bars and restaurants that come alive as the sun sets.

3)  Zoológico de Cali (Cali Zoo)

The Cali Zoo is often ranked as one of the top zoos in Latin America for its focus on conservation and animal welfare. This zoo is located in a natural environment alongside the Cali River, providing the perfect atmosphere for a day out.

Here, you’ll meet animals native to Colombia, such as Andean condors, spectacled bears, jaguars, an amazing butterfly farm, as well as species from around the world. It’s a great outing for families or anyone interested in wildlife.

4) Museo La Tertulia

Art lovers will adore Museo La Tertulia, a modern art museum that showcases Colombian and Latin American artists. The museum is divided into indoor galleries and outdoor sculpture gardens that offer a serene place to relax by the Cali River. In addition to its permanent collection, La Tertulia frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events, making it a hub for the city's artistic community.

Pro tip:

Take a 5-minute walk from Museo La Tertulia to El Gato del Río (The River Cat), an outdoor large bronze sculpture by artist Hernando Tejada. From here, take a short Uber or cab ride to the Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz, an artisanal market that offers handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs.

5) Bulevar del Río and La Ermita Church

Bulevar del Río is one of Cali’s most iconic urban spaces, located along the banks of the Cali River. At the north end of this pedestrian-friendly boulevard sits La Ermita Church, a beautiful neo-Gothic structure that stands out as one of Cali’s most beloved landmarks.

Built in the 20th century, the church’s intricate design and stained glass windows are inspired by European cathedrals. Inside, you’ll find a peaceful sanctuary and historic statues, including the Virgin of the Sorrows. 

Pro tip: 

Come here in the late afternoon or at night so you can see the church when it's illuminated. Also, the boulevard is a popular spot for evening walks, and often hosts live events, such as concerts, cultural festivals, and open-air film screenings.

Check out their Instagram for upcoming events.

6) Bird Watching

Cali’s rich avian diversity and its surrounding natural reserves make it a fantastic destination for birdwatching. Whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher or just beginning, the region offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and witness the beauty of Colombia’s birdlife.

Get camera ready! More than 560 registered species that flutter and sing through our sky, make Cali one of the cities with the most bird species in the world.

 7) Alameda Market Plaza

Plaza de Mercado Alameda is one of Cali's most popular markets, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive selection of local products. Discover new flavors like lulo, granadilla, and chontaduro.

8) Pance River

Just a 30-minute drive from the city center, Pance River is the go-to spot for locals looking to cool off. You can swim in the natural pools, enjoy a picnic, or take a leisurely hike along the riverbanks.

Pro Tip:

Head there on a Sunday! Caleños have a ritual of going to the Rio Pance with family and friends on Sundays, cooking sancocho on the banks of the river, enjoying a refreshing swim and a walk, and eating the freshly prepared stew.

What to eat in Cali and where to find it

Cali’s culinary scene is as diverse as its people, blending African, Andean, Coastal and International influences into unforgettable flavors.

You cannot leave Cali without trying this:

Here is a short list of traditional dishes you'll find in Cali with their "loose" English translations. You'll need to visit Cali to tell us what you think about our English here ;)

• Sancocho de gallina - chicken stew
• Chuleta Valluna - pork milanese
• Arroz Atollado - pork risotto 
• Tamal Valluno - tamales, but make them meatier
• Pandebonos - bread made with cassava starch
• Empanadas - official translation: YUM!
• Aborrajados - sweet plantain with cheese and guava paste. deep fried!
• Marranitas - fried green plantains with chicharrones inside
• Lulada - lulo, lime, water and sugar. And sometimes a shot of Aguardiente ;)
• Cholado - condensed milk, shaved ice, a wafer cookie and fruit.
• Chontaduro - peach palm fruit 
• Champus - pineapple, lulo and corn. A drink served with a spoon. 
• Manjar blanco y Cortado - our version of dulce de leche

Gastronomic Zones in Cali:

• Granada
• El Peñón
• Ciudad Jardín
• San Antonio
• Bulevar del Río
• Parque del Perro
• Alameda

Recommended Restaurants:

• Ringlete - this one belongs to Tatiana's aunt! 
• Platillos Voladores
• Antigua Contemporanea
• El Zaguan de San Antonio
• La Comitiva
• Teatro Magico del Sabor
• Lengua de Mariposa
• Karen's Pizza
• Cafe Macondo

Salsa Music: The Heartbeat of Cali

Cali is considered the salsa capital of the world, and no visit would be complete without immersing yourself in its vibrant dance culture. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just getting started, there are plenty of ways to dive into the city’s musical spirit.

Top Salsa Clubs

• Delirio: A unique show experience with Salsa, Circus, Live Music and food all night long!
• Zaperoco
• La Topa Tolondra
• Tin Tin Deo
• Siboney
• Changó
• Malamaña
• El Rincón de Heberth

Salsa Schools:

If you’d like to improve your skills, Cali is home to several renowned dance schools that offer classes for all levels, from beginners to experts. These schools also provide a great way to connect with the local dance community and dive deeper into Cali’s passion for salsa.

• Diverson
• Rucafe
• Swing Latino

Feria de Cali: The most important event

Every year at the end of December (from 25 to 30 December), "La Feria de Cali" celebrates the city's cultural heritage and is renowned for its lively atmosphere: salsa, dancing, concerts, gastronomy and the warmth of its people will make you fall in love with "La Sucursal del Cielo".

Celebrated since 1957, the fair opens with the Salsódromo (also known as the Salsa Marathon), a parade of more than 1,500 salsa musicians and dancers, inspired by the Sambodromo in Brazil.

Pro Tip: 

Bring some Colombian pesos in smaller denominations for some shops and street vendors, although most restaurants and hotels accept credit cards.

Click here to download a full travel guide from Cali's Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Join us at EVAMAIA as we explore more Colombian cities! Next destination: CARTAGENA!