Is Cali, Colombia Worth Visiting?
Renowned for its vibrant salsa dancing scene, Cali stands as a prominent nightlife hub in Colombia. Yet, beyond its nocturnal allure, the city beckons with splendid churches, captivating artworks, and delectable restaurants for daytime exploration.
Established in 1536, Cali stands as one of South America’s oldest cities, boasting a captivating fusion of Indigenous, African, and Spanish traditions. This cultural amalgamation renders it one of Colombia’s most intriguing destinations. Nestled in the Andes on both banks of the Cali River, the city sits at an elevation of 3,327 feet and holds the distinction of being the major Colombian city with the closest access to the Pacific Ocean.
While now the third-largest city in Colombia, Cali grapples with the remnants of its Narco days, making it less renowned than Medellín or Bogotá. Nevertheless, the city draws visitors for a singular reason: salsa.
Cali proudly claims the title of the salsa dancing capital of the world. The inhabitants, known as Caleños, live, breathe, and dream salsa. Many enthusiasts flock to the city for extended periods to master the dance at one of its numerous world-class schools.
Even for non-dancers (like myself), experiencing one of the many captivating salsa shows in the city’s clubs is an enjoyable spectacle. How do they move their feet so fast?!
How do I get to Cali?
If you are already in Colombia I personally would consider flying. A flight from Bogota will take about an hour or so and cost about $50-$60USD. Yes you have to get to the airport and deal with all the airport “stuff” but it might be worth considering just for the time savings. Especially if you are only in Colombia for a short amount of time.
You could opt for a bus trip. A bus will take about 10 hours!! A bus ticket will cost about $18 to $25USD. But 10 hours!!
What is the climate and weather in Cali?
Cali, Colombia, enjoys a tropical savanna climate marked by consistent warmth throughout the year. With relatively stable temperatures, ranging between 19°C (66°F) and 30°C (86°F), the city provides a pleasantly warm environment.
Cali experiences two distinct seasons: a dry season from June to September and a wet season from October to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between April and May.
Humidity levels are generally moderate, contributing to the lush greenery that graces the city. While Cali is spared from extreme temperature fluctuations, visitors should be mindful of the seasonal variations when planning their trip, as the dry months offer ideal conditions for outdoor exploration and cultural activities.
When I was there in February of 2019 I found it to be HOT and a bit humid. Maybe not quite as bad as Cartagena but be prepared and plan accordingly when mapping out your daily activities.
What Should I Do When in Cali?
How many days should you allow for travelling to Cali? I would start with a 3 day trip and if you enjoy it and want to experience more of what this vibrant city has to offer you can always add a day or two.
Devoting three days to Cali affords you the opportunity to leisurely discover Colombia’s third-largest city and its picturesque surroundings. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic world of salsa dancing, appreciate the charm of colonial architecture, delve into the lush landscapes of a cloud forest or a coffee plantation, and savor the local flavor by exploring markets and indulging in authentic culinary experiences.
Indulge in Salsa: Cali, hailed as the salsa capital of the world, invites you to immerse yourself in the vibrant dance culture. Join the lively atmosphere at popular clubs like Tin Tin Deo, offering free salsa lessons on Thursday nights. Don’t miss the spectacular Delirio, a circus-like performance held on the last Friday of the month, with tickets starting at 165,000 COP.
Witness the Iglesia de la Ermita: Marvel at the Gothic beauty of the Iglesia de la Ermita, a striking piece of architecture in Cali. Originally built in 1678 and later reconstructed after an earthquake in 1925, the church boasts Dutch musical clocks, French bells, Italian marble adorning the altars, and exquisite stained-glass windows.
Embark on a Street Food Adventure: Explore the unique flavors of the region on a street food tour with Callejeros Tours. A local guide will lead you through a bustling market, providing insights into Colombia’s diverse culinary offerings. This informative and tasty experience is available for 55,000 COP.
Discover the Museum of Religious Art La Merced: Step back in time at the Museum of Religious Art La Merced, housed in a building dating back to 1678. This historic site, the oldest in Cali, encompasses chapels, an archaeological museum, and a collection of religious art. Once a convent, school, and military fort, it offers a rich glimpse into the city’s past.
Embark on a Coffee Journey: Experience Colombia’s renowned coffee culture by joining a coffee tour. Visit a working farm, interact with coffee pickers, farmers, and Jeep drivers behind the scenes, and gain insight into every stage of production, from farm to cup. Prices start at around 210,000 COP and include generous coffee samples.
Explore the Butterfly Farm: Venture just beyond Cali to discover the expansive Andoke butterfly farm, also recognized as Andoke Mariposario and Paseo de las Mariposas. Housing more than 15 exotic butterfly species, the farm provides guided tours that include the added delight of birdwatching. Immerse yourself in the experience and indulge in the surprisingly delectable Valle del Cauca cuisine available, featuring fresh tropical fruits.
Explore La Tertulia Museum: Discover the rich artistic tapestry at La Tertulia Museum, showcasing a diverse collection of over 300 Colombian and international artworks. The museum hosts dynamic exhibitions featuring contemporary paintings, sculptures, and photography. La Tertulia Museum is not just a static display; it buzzes with regular events, including film screenings, concerts, and poetry readings. Stay updated on the schedule by checking the website to ensure you don’t miss any cultural highlights during your visit. Admission is priced at 10,000 COP.
Embark on a Hike to Christ the Redeemer: Similar to Rio’s iconic monument, Cali boasts its own Christ the Redeemer, a towering 26-meter structure perched atop Cerro de los Cristales (Hill of the Crystals), offering a breathtaking vantage point overlooking the city. Erected in 1950, reaching the summit involves a steep ascent, yet the panoramic views of the surrounding area make the effort truly rewarding. Admission to this awe-inspiring site is free.
Join a Complimentary Walking Tour: I love the walking tours all cities offer. You WILL learn stuff. Explore Cali’s rich history with the free historical walking tours offered by Callejeros Tours. These tours cover key historical sites, including Iglesia la Ermita, Parque de los Poetas, and Plaza San Francisco. Opt for this experience at the start of your journey to gain a comprehensive historical understanding as you familiarize yourself with the city. Don’t forget to show appreciation for your guide’s efforts with a tip at the conclusion of the tour!
Embark on a Hiking Adventure: For those yearning to escape urban confines and immerse themselves in the outdoors, Cali offers abundant hiking opportunities in its vicinity. Explore the wonders of Farallones de Cali Natural National Park, boasting waterfalls, trails, mountains, and rivers. Alternatively, take on the ascent of Cerro Pico de Loro (Parrot Beak Hill), a 2-3 hour climb to its summit. Both destinations, teeming with natural beauty, are accessible within approximately 90 minutes from Cali.
What hostels should I stay at while in Cali?
There are lots of hostels to choose from in different areas of the city. First of all you have a few different areas to consider.
Downtown – Serving as the city’s focal point, Centro is where you’ll encounter the cathedral, exquisite churches such as La Ermita, and fantastic shopping options around Plaza Caicedo.
Sought-After Districts in Cali Juanchito – Positioned to the east of the city center, Juanchito stands as Cali’s salsa hub, brimming with vibrant bars like Zaperoco and La Topa Tolondra.
Ciudad Jardin – As Cali’s premier upscale neighborhood, Ciudad Jardin boasts ample green spaces and outstanding dining establishments such as Mister Wings and Cuuc.
Hostels in Cali worth considering
The Pelican Larry stands out as the ultimate hostel experience in Cali, and you’re sure to be thrilled! It’s a challenge to find a hostel that genuinely caters to everyone, but that’s precisely why The Pelican Larry earns the title of the best hostel in Cali for 2021—they cater to every guest in every possible way. The incredibly friendly and warm-hearted staff ensures that guests feel instantly comfortable upon arriving at The Pelican Larry.
The dorms are not only spacious but also cozy and well-lit. For those seeking more privacy, there are fantastic private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Ample communal spaces are available for socializing and connecting with fellow travelers. The charming garden and patio areas, complete with hammocks and abundant sunshine throughout the day, add to the hostel’s appeal. Whether you’re a novice explorer or a seasoned backpacker, The Pelican Larry in Cali is sure to win your heart. Dorms from about $8USD!!
Viajero Hostel Cali & Salsa School – The ultimate party hostel in Cali is El Viajero Cali Hostel & Salsa School. Featuring a swimming pool, a lively bar, and abundant communal spaces, El Viajero provides an ideal setting for nomads to effortlessly connect, socialize, and enjoy vibrant festivities. I see a bed in a dorm room from $10USD per night.
La Sucursal Hostel – La Sucursal stands out as a highly recommended hostel in Cali, perfect for digital nomads. Boasting ample communal spaces that can easily serve as a workspace, excellent internet connectivity, and a tranquil yet sociable atmosphere, La Sucursal is a delightful choice. Situated in the Granada neighborhood, it adds to the overall appeal for those seeking a conducive environment for remote work. Prices from $13USD for a dorm bed.
Colombian Home Hostel emerges as the top choice for solo travelers in Cali. For those eager to connect with a new community and acquire fresh skills, Colombian Home is the place to be. With complimentary salsa and bachata classes, along with Spanish lessons offered throughout the week, solo travelers have the opportunity to expand their horizons in multiple ways. Move into Colombian Home now for an enriching and dynamic experience!
These are just a few of the highly rated hostels in Cali, Colombia. There are so many to choose from. I have a bad habit of trying to pick the “perfect” hostel. Try to not overthink it too much. Book a spot and if you don’t like it you can always move to another one. I have done that more than a few times.
Cali, Colombia: So much to offer
Visiting Cali promises an enriching experience that captivates travelers from all walks of life. The city’s dynamic fusion of vibrant salsa rhythms, historical landmarks like La Ermita, and the breathtaking views from Cerro de los Cristales create an unparalleled atmosphere. With world-class salsa schools, diverse culinary delights, and historical sites there is much to see and do.
Whether you’re drawn to its lively nightlife, outdoor adventures in the nearby hills, or the warmth of its locals, Cali weaves a tapestry of cultural richness and joy that lingers long after your visit. In every corner, Cali exudes an energy that resonates, making it a destination where diverse interests converge, ensuring that each visitor discovers something uniquely captivating and memorable in this Colombian gem.
Awesome. I have always wanted to check out Colombia and Cali is certainly on my list!
Great post
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