Cali, the salsa capital of the world, is a vibrant city located in the Valle del Cauca region of Colombia. With its rich culture, beautiful parks, and lively nightlife, Cali is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Colombia. If you only have 3 days to explore this amazing city, we’ve got you covered with our ultimate travel guide.
Top Attractions in Cali
Cali is full of incredible attractions, from historic sites to beautiful parks. Here are some of the most important places to see:
- Cristo Rey: This iconic statue of Jesus Christ is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views.
- San Antonio Neighborhood: This colorful neighborhood is known for its colonial architecture, art galleries, and trendy restaurants.
- Plaza de Caycedo: This central plaza is the heart of the city and features a beautiful fountain and the historic Cathedral of San Pedro.
- Parque del Perro
- Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz: This handicrafts market is located on a hill and offers beautiful views of the city.
- Cat Park: This park is home to dozens of friendly cats and is a great place to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
- Cali Zoo: This popular zoo is home to over 1200 animals, including lions, tigers, and monkeys.
- La Ermita Church: This historic church is located in the San Antonio neighborhood and features beautiful architecture and artwork.
These are just a few of the many amazing attractions in Cali. Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your 3 days in the city.
Routes in Cali
There are many great routes to explore Cali, depending on your interests and time available. Here are some suggestions:
- Salsa Tour: Cali is known for its salsa music and dance, and this route takes you through some of the best salsa clubs and schools in the city.
- Historic Walking Tour: This route takes you through the historic center of Cali, where you can see some of the most important colonial sites and buildings.
- Park Hopping: Spend a day visiting some of Cali’s beautiful parks, including Parque del Perro, Parque Artesanal Loma de la Cruz, and the Botanical Garden.
- Street Art Tour: Cali is home to many talented street artists, and this route takes you through some of the best murals and graffiti in the city.
- Coffee Tour: Visit a coffee plantation in the nearby countryside to learn more about Colombia’s famous coffee and try some for yourself.
There are many other routes to explore Cali, so make sure to do some research and plan ahead.
Where to Sleep in Cali
Cali has many great options for accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some of the best places to sleep:
- Hotel Dann Carlton: This luxury hotel is located in the Granada neighborhood and features elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and beautiful views of the city.
- Cali Marriott Hotel: This upscale hotel is located in the financial district and offers spacious rooms, a pool, and a fitness center.
- El Viajero Cali Hostel & Salsa School: This hostel is located in the San Antonio neighborhood and offers dormitory and private rooms, as well as salsa classes and events.
- Casa Miraflores: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the historic center of Cali and features colorful rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many accommodation options in Cali. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Where to Eat in Cali
Cali is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes traditional Colombian dishes as well as international options. Here are some great places to eat:
- La Ermita: This elegant restaurant is located in the San Antonio neighborhood and offers delicious Colombian cuisine with a modern twist.
- El Cielo: This upscale restaurant is located in the Granada neighborhood and features creative dishes made with local ingredients.
- La 14: This popular market chain is a great place to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks.
- El Patio de las Guacas: This lively restaurant is located in the San Antonio neighborhood and offers a variety of traditional Colombian dishes, including bandeja paisa and sancocho.
- Farley’s: This cozy café is located in the Granada neighborhood and offers excellent coffee and light bites.
Make sure to try some of the local specialties, such as empanadas, arepas, and chontaduro, while you’re in Cali.
Free Tours in Cali
If you’re on a budget or want to learn more about Cali from a local perspective, there are many free tours available. Here are some options:
- Cali Free Tour: This tour company offers a free walking tour of the historic center of Cali, as well as a salsa tour and a street art tour.
- Salsa Adventures: This tour company offers a free salsa class and tour of the best salsa clubs in Cali.
- Free Walking Tour Colombia: This tour company offers a free walking tour of the historic center of Cali, as well as a food tour and a nightlife tour.
These tours are a great way to explore the city and learn more about its history and culture. Make sure to tip your guide if you enjoy the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time to visit Cali? The best time to visit Cali is from June to September, when the weather is dry and sunny.
- What is the official currency in Colombia? The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian peso. Make sure to exchange some money before you arrive, as not all places accept credit cards.
- Do I need a visa to visit Cali? It depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries can enter Colombia without a visa, while others need to apply for a visa in advance. Check with your local embassy or consulate for more information.
- What is the best way to get around Cali? Cali has a good public transportation system, including buses and taxis. However, it’s also easy to explore the city on foot or by bike.
For more information, visit the official tourism website of the city of Cali: https://www.cali.gov.co/turismo/
