Santiago de Cali
Colombia · Valle del Cauca · 995 m
Description
Santiago de Cali, usually referred to simply as “Cali”, is the capital of the Valle del Cauca Department in southwestern Colombia and the country’s third-largest city. Known as the “World Capital of Salsa”, the city captivates visitors with its vibrant music and dance culture, the unique “estilo caleño”, and an open, lively atmosphere. Cali blends colonial heritage with modern urban life and is also a major economic, cultural, and educational hub. Landmarks such as the Cristo Rey statue, the renowned Zoológico de Cali, and the nearby cloud forests of Farallones de Cali National Park complement the city’s diverse landscape. With its year-round warm climate, proximity to the Pacific region, and unmistakable zest for life, Cali ranks among Colombia’s most fascinating travel destinations.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 5 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: January – March
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Cali Salsa Culture & Live Salsatecas
- Salsa Dancing & Caleño-Style Dance Lessons
- San Antonio Historic Quarter & Hill
- Cristo Rey & Cerro de los Cristales
- Buga & Basilica del Señor de los Milagros(Day trip)
- Bulevar del Río & La Ermita Church
- Museo La Tertulia
- Cerro de las Tres Cruces
- Galería Alameda & Cali Food Culture
- Farallones de Cali National Natural Park(Day trip)
- Sebastián de Belalcázar Viewpoint
- Cali Zoo
- Hacienda El Paraíso(Day trip)
- Museo del Oro Calima
- Plaza de Cayzedo & Historic Centre
- Teatro Municipal Enrique Buenaventura & Teatro Jorge Isaacs
- San Cipriano Nature Reserve(Day trip)
- Parque del Gato de Tejada & Cat Sculptures
- Barrio Granada & Cali Dining Scene
- Anchicayá Canyon & Tropical Forest(Day trip)
- Cholado, Champús & Valluno Street Food
- Pico de Loro Hike(Day trip)
- Río Pance & Natural Swimming Spots
- Feria de Cali (December)
- Festival Mundial de Salsa (September)
- Petronio Álvarez Pacific Music Festival (August)
Getting there
- Airports:
- CLO