Known as the world's salsa capital, this Colombian city pulses with music and dance. Its streets buzz with energy, filled with local flavors like ceviche and bandeja paisa.
Cali, Colombia's third-largest city, sits in the Cauca Valley and is known as the world's salsa capital. You can dance in lively clubs, visit the Cristo Rey statue, explore the Cali Zoo with its Colombian species, or wander through the colonial-era buildings in San Antonio neighborhood. The city's vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural scene make it a dynamic destination for travelers.
Exploring Cali's Salsa Scene
Salsa music is the heartbeat of Cali, echoing through the streets and clubs. Head to Juanchito, a neighborhood where salsa clubs come alive with locals showcasing their dance moves. If you're a beginner, take lessons at one of the many dance schools in the city. Don't miss the monthly Delirio salsa show, which combines professional dancing with circus acts for an unforgettable performance.
Colonial Architecture in San Antonio
San Antonio, Cali's oldest neighborhood, has narrow streets lined with colorful houses dating back to the colonial era. Walk up the hill to the San Antonio Church and take in the view of the city below. You'll find numerous cafes, art galleries, and restaurants in this area. On weekends, browse local artisans' crafts in the park.
Cali's Green Spaces
Take a break from the city center in Cali's parks. Walk along the Cali River and visit the Gato de Tejada, a park with cat sculptures. For a more challenging activity, hike up to Las Tres Cruces. The steep one-hour climb rewards you with panoramic views of Cali and the surrounding valley.
Taste of Cali
Cali's food reflects its cultural influences. Start your day with pandebono, a cheese bread popular among locals for breakfast. For lunch, try sancocho, a hearty soup made with chicken, plantains, and yuca. Street food is common - look for chontaduro, a palm fruit often served with salt and honey.
Getting Around Cali
Use Cali's MIO bus system to navigate the city efficiently. The system includes regular buses and cable cars that connect hillside neighborhoods. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive, but use official, metered taxis or ride-hailing apps for safety.
Safety in Cali
While Cali has become safer in recent years, stay vigilant, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and keep valuable items out of sight. The neighborhoods of Granada, El Peñón, and San Antonio are generally considered safe for tourists. Consider using a money belt and only carry the cash you need for the day.
Day Trips from Cali
Venture outside Cali to explore more of the region. Visit the town of San Cipriano, where you can ride a brujita (a wooden platform on train tracks) through lush forests to reach clear rivers. For a cultural excursion, go to Popayán, known as the White City for its colonial buildings painted in white.
