Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Cali, Colombia

Cali, the third-largest city in Colombia, is often perceived negatively due to crime; however, it is a vibrant city where one can maintain safety by being informed about the areas to visit. Although the city may lack significant tourist attractions, it offers abundant opportunities to immerse oneself in its culture, cuisine, neighborhoods, and vibrant nightlife.

Visitors can engage in various activities, ranging from salsa dancing in its birthplace to hiking to stunning viewpoints and exploring the Río Pance in the nearby national park. Moreover, Cali features a riverside promenade in its downtown area, along with palm tree-lined plazas, exceptional cuisine, and bustling markets, making it a delightful way to spend the day.

Let’s delve into the top activities to experience in Cali:

1. Go Salsa Dancing

Cali is recognized as the birthplace of salsa, making it essential for visitors to either learn the dance or confidently join in.

With lively music playing throughout the city, numerous dance schools offer salsa lessons, including El Manicero, Son de Luz, and Swing Latino.

For an authentic salsa experience alongside seasoned dancers, notable venues include Zaperoco, Tin Tin Deo, and La Topa Tolondra.

If visiting during the festive season from Christmas to New Year’s, attendees can enjoy salsa parades and street dancing during the city’s La Feria de Cali, featuring performances from renowned artists.

2. Delirio

For salsa enthusiasts, securing tickets in advance to experience Cali’s renowned salsa circus, Delirio, is a must.

This captivating performance features dancers who have traveled globally and showcases shows on the last weekend of each month, so it is advisable to plan accordingly. The performances blend music, dance, and elements reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil, accented by cabaret flair.

The talented salsa dancers, trained in Cali’s prestigious salsa schools, include exceptional performers of all ages.

Shows take place in a circus-style tent that accommodates 1,000 spectators, with opportunities for attendees to join in dancing between acts.

3. Walk Along the Río Cali and Visit the Cat Park

The Río Cali, located in the northern part of the city, features pedestrian paths, bicycle lanes, sculptures, and shady spots for relaxation.

Visitors will discover Cali’s notable Cat Park, or El Parque del Gato de Tejada, a cultural project showcasing a massive bronze cat sculpture donated by Colombian artist Hernando Tejada.

The park now boasts an additional 15 smaller cat statues, all crafted by local artists.

Nearby is Parque del Peñon, a vibrant area filled with outdoor seating and vendors offering ice cream, raspados (flavored shaved ice), and refreshing beverages.

4. Capilla La Ermita

This church is a prominent architectural marvel that attracts every visitor in Cali.

Constructed in an elaborate neo-Gothic style, the chapel’s construction commenced in 1930 and concluded in 1948, featuring Dutch windows, French bells, Italian marble, and design inspiration from a German cathedral.

The striking white façade is hard to overlook, and visitors are welcome to explore its modest interior.

Continuing to stroll through this area offers a chance to admire well-preserved colonial architecture and visit the Plaza de los Poetas, adorned with statues of distinguished writers.

5. Barrio San Antonio

The bohemian enclave of San Antonio represents the oldest section of Cali, ideal for leisurely strolls along its winding streets.

Historically, this district has housed numerous Colombian artists and writers, revealing its rich heritage through beautifully crafted buildings, theaters, and artistic cafes, perfect for a quick bite and people-watching.

The area has transformed into a trendy locale for those seeking coffee, while the ascent to Iglesia San Antonio offers both spiritual solace and breathtaking views of Cali and the surrounding valley.

6. Eat Local Cali Cuisine

While visitors may have sampled a variety of Colombian dishes, Cali is particularly renowned for several culinary specialties.

A must-try is the cholado, a delightful assortment of mixed fruits topped with a sweet condensed milk syrup.

Refreshing drinks like lulado, composed of lulo fruit juice mixed with ice and water, are also popular.

Additionally, pandebono, a cheese-filled bread roll commonly enjoyed at breakfast, and arroz atollado, a savory rice dish featuring pork, chicken, and various vegetables, should not be missed.

For an unusual treat, try champus, a soupy delicacy made from corn and fruits, usually enjoyed with a spoon.

To further explore Cali’s gastronomy, visitors may consider a food tour experience.

7. Walk up to El Cristo Rey

While it may not rival Christ the Redeemer in Rio, the statue of Christ here stands at 26 meters and provides a rewarding visit both for its breathtaking scenery and the physical activity it entails.

This spot offers the finest panoramic views of Cali, so ensure your camera is at the ready.

Temperatures can be lower atop Cerro de los Cristales, prompting visitors to bring along a sweater and some mosquito repellent.

Along the route, vendors sell snacks and fresh juices for those in need of refreshments.

This hike can also be conveniently combined with a visit to the Andoke Mariposario, an exquisite butterfly sanctuary located nearby.

8. Zoológico de Cali

The Cali Zoo ranks among the most stunning zoos in South America, and is highly recommended for a visit.

With well-cared-for animals, organized exhibits, and clean pathways, the zoo immerses visitors in a lush jungle-like environment, making it an enjoyable day for families.

The zoo hosts a vast array of native Colombian species, alongside animals from across South America, including lions, tigers, and kangaroos.

The Cali River flows through the zoo, complemented by fish ponds, native plant species, and freely roaming iguanas and peacocks.

As visitors might spend several hours here, there are refreshment options available for snacks or drinks.

9. Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz

This area serves as an excellent representation of the local Cali culture, while providing opportunities for shopping.

Visitors can purchase handicrafts directly from artisans, some of whom may be creating items right on site, with prices being reasonable.

Numerous affordable bars and restaurants surround the park, providing refreshments as one shops or enjoys a stroll.

Additionally, the park often features entertainment, especially on Thursdays and into the weekend, ranging from salsa dancing to live music performances and storytelling events.

10. Río Pance and Parque Nacional Natural Farallones de Cali

Río Pance is a favored local getaway, ideal for weekend relaxation.

Visitors can relish in the clear waters, enjoy lush hiking trails, and partake in birdwatching and wildlife observation.

For those not driving, public bus services are available for a convenient trip.

Bringing a picnic for swimming and hiking along the national park trails reveals spectacular views.

At the base of the park is Pance EcoPark, a hot spot featuring restrooms, food vendors, and a manmade lake.

Ascending further to La Voragine sees a decrease in crowds, unveiling dramatic vistas, a rushing river, and eateries offering sancocho (a traditional Colombian soup). For those seeking adventure, the area also contains waterfalls and more challenging hikes such as Pico de Loro.

11. Experience Cali Nightlife

Cali boasts an exceptional nightlife scene, possibly among the best in Colombia.

The city features multiple “Zona Rosas,” areas characterized by a vibrant concentration of upscale restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Barrio Granada is a favored neighborhood known for dining and entertainment, albeit located further from the center.

La Sexta and its surroundings are buzzing with bars, nightclubs, and salsa dancing venues (such as Zaperoco). Many tourists enjoy the nightlife around San Antonio; however, it is worthwhile to visit Parque del Perro to witness locals and students gathering for nighttime festivities.

This park includes a dog statue, a gathering space where musicians, artists, and festivals frequently occur, showcasing the colorful local culture.

Adjacent to this park, a plethora of bars and restaurants with outdoor seating enable socializing and leisure under the vibrant night sky.

12. Galería Alameda

Cali invites exploration of a dynamic, authentic market that offers opportunities for shopping, photography, and culinary sampling! Galería Alameda stretches nearly an entire block and features an array of exotic fruits, vegetables, herbs, unconventional meat cuts, and flowers.

Additionally, one may encounter Indigenous vendors offering love potions and traditional medicines.

The market is home to a variety of food stalls tempting visitors with Cali specialties, such as champus and lulado.

Adjacent restaurants predominantly focus on seafood, offering guests a chance to try Colombian ceviche, which intriguingly includes ketchup as a secret ingredient!

13. Cerro de las Tres Cruces

Although this hike poses a bit of a challenge, the views from the summit are truly remarkable.

The Hill of the Three Crosses is a local landmark visible from nearly any point in the city, attracting numerous locals for exercise, particularly on Sundays.

Embarking on a weekend morning hike provides companionship; however, it is advised not to go alone. The ascent should take approximately one hour, and fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the presence of an outdoor gym at the top.

The trail is well-marked but can be steep in certain sections, prompting hikers to carry ample water, sunscreen, and their camera.

14. Plaza de Cayzedo

The principal square of Cali, this palm tree-adorned plaza functions as the city’s cultural core and is a prime spot for observing the vibrant local activity.

Visitors can appreciate the elaborate government buildings, national monuments, and indulge in street food amidst the bustling atmosphere.

Notable structures include the Palacio Nacional, San Pedro Cathedral, and Edificio Otero, providing an opportunity to savor coffee or tinto while admiring the neoclassical architecture.

The plaza teems with diverse individuals, from locals and tourists to lottery ticket sellers and street vendors, creating a dynamic and colorful scene.

15. Hit the Museums

While Cali may not boast an abundance of tourist attractions, it features a variety of museums worth exploring.

Museo La Tertulia serves as the city’s modern art museum, showcasing a compact yet refreshing collection of art alongside a regularly screening film library.

For automobile or aviation enthusiasts, Museo Aereo Felix includes exhibits featuring full-sized planes, trains, tractors, cars, and helicopters.

Finally, visitors can explore Museo de la Caña de Azúcar, dedicated to sugarcane, situated in a historic garden setting, where guided tours reveal the old machinery utilized in sugar processing.