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Internationally acknowledged as the salsa capital of the world, Cali is a city that thrums with rhythm and rumba. Often overlooked in favor of Medellin and Bogota, Cali is a worthy addition to any Colombian itinerary—it boasts eternally warm weather, cuisine inspired by its diverse cultural mix, and some of Latin America’s best nightlife. Add some striking Gothic and colonial architecture, leafy parks, and vibrant markets to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a life-affirming destination that’s guaranteed to get your toes tapping.
The best time to visit Cali is from Dec. through Mar., which is Colombia’s winter.This is the driest and most comfortable time to visit, although Cali enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. To see Cali at its brightest and brashest, visit during Cali Fair—an end-of-year festival that takes place from Christmas Day to New Year’s Eve. Expect parades that celebrate Cali’s cultural diversity, a horseback procession, live music concerts, and, of course, lots of salsa dancing.
Cali doesn’t have a subway system, but it does have a robust bus network called MIO that covers all of the city. You’ll need to buy and fill a MIO card from any of the bus stations (of which there are plenty throughout the city). There’s also a MIO cable car that departs from the central bus station and offers views of the city and its surroundings. Ride hail apps such as Uber also operate in Cali.
If your appetite for salsa isn’t satiated by dance lessons and bars, plan your Cali vacation around Delirio, a salsa-circus extravaganza that happens monthly. The show is a kaleidoscope of colorful costumes and high-octane choreography. Book in advance, as tickets fly off the shelves. For something quieter, head to the north of the city for a wander along the banks of the Cali River, where you’ll also find the famous Cat Park.
Local Currency Colombian Peso (COP) | Time Zone COT (UTC -5) | Country Code +57 | Language(s) Spanish | Attractions 12 | Tours 111 | Reviews 1,319 |
Cali is most famous as the salsa dancing capital of the world, although the high-tempo dance wasn’t invented here. No matter, as caleños (Cali residents) eat, breathe, and sleep the dance—you’ll find dance schools for lessons, as well as bars and performance halls that specialize in different interpretations of salsa.
...MoreYes, Cali's combination of natural landscapes and energetic culture makes it worth a visit. As the global salsa capital, it's a must-visit for lovers of the dance, as well as partygoers and nightlife fans. It's warm, year-round climate also makes it a great place to escape the winter blues.
...MoreOne of Cali's most famous sights is the Sebastian de Belalcázar Statue and Viewpoint, built to celebrate the city's 400th birthday. Other top attractions include the Cat Park, created by local sculptor Hernando Tejada, and the bustling Plaza de Caicedo in the city center.
...MoreSpend three to five days to experience the full spectrum of Cali's nature, culture, and nightlife. That gives you time to see the sights in the historic center, try a salsa dancing class, and take a day trip to the White City of Popayan or the coffee country of Salento.
...MoreThe best view in Cali is from the statue of Cristo Rey, a mountaintop statue of Christ with his arms spread wide. You’ll also find panoramic vistas and a striking Christian monument at the top of the Hill of the Three Crosses in Bataclan National Park.
...MoreSalsa dominates Cali’s nightlife scene, considered one of the best in Colombia. To dance to the pulsating rhythm of salsa, head to the party neighborhood of San Vicente. There, along Avenida 6 Norte, you’ll find buzzing bars and Zaperoco Bar, a Cali institution with DJs who pull high-energy revelers Thursday–Sunday.
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