Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

Cali travel guide

Cali Tourism | Cali Guide

You're Going to Love Cali

Famous for its salsa dancing clubs, Cali is one of Colombia's great nightlife centers. It's more than that though, with fine churches, gorgeous artworks, and mouthwatering restaurants to explore during the day.

Article

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Cali

1. Salsa

Salsa beats accompany you almost everywhere you go in Cali. Take classes or dive into the bars of Juanchito, and dance until dawn to the most infectious rhythm around.

2. Superb Restaurants

Before you dance, dine in style at La Cocina, Roset, Platillos Voladores, or El Bochinche - home to some of the best pork dishes you'll ever taste.

3. Beautiful Churches

Cali is a 500-year-old colonial city, and the Spanish left some stunning churches, including the neoclassical San Pedro Cathedral and La Ermita, an intricate gothic creation in the downtown area.

4. Lively Festivals

Cali is a party city, but it really comes alive during the fabulous Feria de Cali in late December, making the city a great New Year's destination.

5. Fantastic Excursion Destinations

The waterfalls of Pance and the famous pilgrimage site at Buga are both nearby, and Lake Calima is an excellent spot to try windsurfing or sailing.

1. Salsa

Salsa beats accompany you almost everywhere you go in Cali. Take classes or dive into the bars of Juanchito, and dance until dawn to the most infectious rhythm around.

2. Superb Restaurants

Before you dance, dine in style at La Cocina, Roset, Platillos Voladores, or El Bochinche - home to some of the best pork dishes you'll ever taste.

3. Beautiful Churches

Cali is a 500-year-old colonial city, and the Spanish left some stunning churches, including the neoclassical San Pedro Cathedral and La Ermita, an intricate gothic creation in the downtown area.

4. Lively Festivals

Cali is a party city, but it really comes alive during the fabulous Feria de Cali in late December, making the city a great New Year's destination.

5. Fantastic Excursion Destinations

The waterfalls of Pance and the famous pilgrimage site at Buga are both nearby, and Lake Calima is an excellent spot to try windsurfing or sailing.

What to do in Cali

1. Caicedo Square: Awaken Your Senses

Caicedo square is a landmark located in front of the cathedral of San Pedro, and it is the civic and commercial heartbeat of Cali. Unwind underneath the tall palm trees and experience the culture of Valle del Cauca. The alluring smell from the sale of fruits and the hustle and bustle of hawkers will awaken your senses to the vibrant urban activities afoot. Enjoy presentations from street performers or explore any of the eight trails that extend from the square's center.

2. Zoológico de Cali: The Home of Colombia's Indigenous Species

Located two kilometers southwest of the center in Barrio Santa Terestia, Zoolologica de Cali stands out as being one of the best zoos in the country. Marvel at the scenic beauty and the spectacular array of species indigenous to Colombia and from around the world, including the capybaras, butterflies, Bengal tigers, and monkeys. Plus, the serene Cali River runs directly through the zoo's grounds. Due to its location, the zoo is best accessed by taxi.

3. Ermita Church: Discover The Source of Miracles

The Ermita Church is known locally as the La Iglesia de la Ermita del Rio. This Roman Catholic church looks more like a small castle and can be found right at the center of the city and on the western side of Cali river. Admire the church's facade, which was greatly inspired by Gothic Cathedral of Cologne in Germany, and be mesmerized by the original interior architecture as well as the 18th-century carving of El Señor de la Caña (Lord of the Sugarcane) housed in the Neo-Gothic church. The carving is believed to be the source of many miracles by locals after it survived the earthquake of 1787 fully intact.

4. St. Peter the Apostle Cathedral, Cali: Explore A Neoclassical Cathedral

Located on Third Avenue in the El Centro neighborhood, the Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the largest and most important religious centers in the city of Cali, and its main Catholic church. It's also a national monument of Columbia and an Architectural Heritage site due to its beautiful neoclassical architecture. After exploring the historic church, relax and unwind at the Central Park Luis Alonso Barahona that is situated right opposite the Cathedral.

5. Museo de Arte Religioso La Merced: Admire The Remnants of History

Museo de Arte Religioso La Merced or The Museum of Colonial and Religious Art houses some of Cali's best colonial art collections with some pieces dating back to the 16th century. It's also a national monument. Indulge in the unique ambiance of tranquility and walk through the olive doors past the pristine, white walls to the unpolished stone alters. Admire the Spanish pottery adorned with Arabic motifs, sculptures, furniture, silverware, ornaments, books, spectacular wall paintings, and other objects.

1. Caicedo Square: Awaken Your Senses

Caicedo square is a landmark located in front of the cathedral of San Pedro, and it is the civic and commercial heartbeat of Cali. Unwind underneath the tall palm trees and experience the culture of Valle del Cauca. The alluring smell from the sale of fruits and the hustle and bustle of hawkers will awaken your senses to the vibrant urban activities afoot. Enjoy presentations from street performers or explore any of the eight trails that extend from the square's center.

2. Zoológico de Cali: The Home of Colombia's Indigenous Species

Located two kilometers southwest of the center in Barrio Santa Terestia, Zoolologica de Cali stands out as being one of the best zoos in the country. Marvel at the scenic beauty and the spectacular array of species indigenous to Colombia and from around the world, including the capybaras, butterflies, Bengal tigers, and monkeys. Plus, the serene Cali River runs directly through the zoo's grounds. Due to its location, the zoo is best accessed by taxi.

3. Ermita Church: Discover The Source of Miracles

The Ermita Church is known locally as the La Iglesia de la Ermita del Rio. This Roman Catholic church looks more like a small castle and can be found right at the center of the city and on the western side of Cali river. Admire the church's facade, which was greatly inspired by Gothic Cathedral of Cologne in Germany, and be mesmerized by the original interior architecture as well as the 18th-century carving of El Señor de la Caña (Lord of the Sugarcane) housed in the Neo-Gothic church. The carving is believed to be the source of many miracles by locals after it survived the earthquake of 1787 fully intact.

4. St. Peter the Apostle Cathedral, Cali: Explore A Neoclassical Cathedral

Located on Third Avenue in the El Centro neighborhood, the Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the largest and most important religious centers in the city of Cali, and its main Catholic church. It's also a national monument of Columbia and an Architectural Heritage site due to its beautiful neoclassical architecture. After exploring the historic church, relax and unwind at the Central Park Luis Alonso Barahona that is situated right opposite the Cathedral.

5. Museo de Arte Religioso La Merced: Admire The Remnants of History

Museo de Arte Religioso La Merced or The Museum of Colonial and Religious Art houses some of Cali's best colonial art collections with some pieces dating back to the 16th century. It's also a national monument. Indulge in the unique ambiance of tranquility and walk through the olive doors past the pristine, white walls to the unpolished stone alters. Admire the Spanish pottery adorned with Arabic motifs, sculptures, furniture, silverware, ornaments, books, spectacular wall paintings, and other objects.

1. Caicedo Square: Awaken Your Senses

Caicedo square is a landmark located in front of the cathedral of San Pedro, and it is the civic and commercial heartbeat of Cali. Unwind underneath the tall palm trees and experience the culture of Valle del Cauca. The alluring smell from the sale of fruits and the hustle and bustle of hawkers will awaken your senses to the vibrant urban activities afoot. Enjoy presentations from street performers or explore any of the eight trails that extend from the square's center.

2. Zoológico de Cali: The Home of Colombia's Indigenous Species

Located two kilometers southwest of the center in Barrio Santa Terestia, Zoolologica de Cali stands out as being one of the best zoos in the country. Marvel at the scenic beauty and the spectacular array of species indigenous to Colombia and from around the world, including the capybaras, butterflies, Bengal tigers, and monkeys. Plus, the serene Cali River runs directly through the zoo's grounds. Due to its location, the zoo is best accessed by taxi.

3. Ermita Church: Discover The Source of Miracles

The Ermita Church is known locally as the La Iglesia de la Ermita del Rio. This Roman Catholic church looks more like a small castle and can be found right at the center of the city and on the western side of Cali river. Admire the church's facade, which was greatly inspired by Gothic Cathedral of Cologne in Germany, and be mesmerized by the original interior architecture as well as the 18th-century carving of El Señor de la Caña (Lord of the Sugarcane) housed in the Neo-Gothic church. The carving is believed to be the source of many miracles by locals after it survived the earthquake of 1787 fully intact.

4. St. Peter the Apostle Cathedral, Cali: Explore A Neoclassical Cathedral

Located on Third Avenue in the El Centro neighborhood, the Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the largest and most important religious centers in the city of Cali, and its main Catholic church. It's also a national monument of Columbia and an Architectural Heritage site due to its beautiful neoclassical architecture. After exploring the historic church, relax and unwind at the Central Park Luis Alonso Barahona that is situated right opposite the Cathedral.

5. Museo de Arte Religioso La Merced: Admire The Remnants of History

Museo de Arte Religioso La Merced or The Museum of Colonial and Religious Art houses some of Cali's best colonial art collections with some pieces dating back to the 16th century. It's also a national monument. Indulge in the unique ambiance of tranquility and walk through the olive doors past the pristine, white walls to the unpolished stone alters. Admire the Spanish pottery adorned with Arabic motifs, sculptures, furniture, silverware, ornaments, books, spectacular wall paintings, and other objects.

Where to Eat in Cali

Superb restaurants in Cali are easy to come by. Some favorites include Platillos Voladores, with its outdoor gardens; Mister Wings, which is a great place for chicken fans; and the seafood specialists Cali Viejo. Meals should come to around COL$40,000 per head.

When to visit Cali

Cali in June
Estimated hotel price
S$ 96
1 night at 3-star hotel
Cali in June
Estimated hotel price
S$ 96
1 night at 3-star hotel

Try to avoid the rainy season in September and October. Instead, high season tends to stretch from November through March. If you plan to enjoy some whale watching on the Pacific Coast, July could also be a good (and dry) time to go.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Cali

Plane

Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport (CLO) is around 10 miles north of Cali. From there take a bus to the main bus station in downtown Cali (around COL$3,000, 30 minutes). Expect a taxi to cost about COL$30,000.

Car

From Bogota, take highway 40 through the mountains to Cali. If you are coming from Medellin, take highway 25, then highway 23 at Cartago.

Bus

Buses run into Cali's Terminal de Transportes from all over Colombia. Expect to pay about COL$60,000 for the ticket from Bogota with Expreso Bolivariano.

Plane

Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport (CLO) is around 10 miles north of Cali. From there take a bus to the main bus station in downtown Cali (around COL$3,000, 30 minutes). Expect a taxi to cost about COL$30,000.

Car

From Bogota, take highway 40 through the mountains to Cali. If you are coming from Medellin, take highway 25, then highway 23 at Cartago.

Bus

Buses run into Cali's Terminal de Transportes from all over Colombia. Expect to pay about COL$60,000 for the ticket from Bogota with Expreso Bolivariano.

Airports near Cali

AXMArmenia El Eden
CLOCali Alfonso B. Aragon Intl
NVANeiva La Marguita

Airlines serving Cali

Lufthansa
Good (7,199 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,372 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (7,953 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (3,896 reviews)
Iberia
Good (2,828 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (8,847 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (3,285 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,694 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (1,222 reviews)
TAP AIR PORTUGAL
Good (1,914 reviews)
ITA Airways
Good (1,001 reviews)
Spirit Airlines
Good (8,055 reviews)
Avianca
Good (2,374 reviews)
LATAM Airlines
Good (1,807 reviews)
Air China
Good (89 reviews)
Aeromexico
Good (1,719 reviews)
Copa Airlines
Good (1,475 reviews)
GOL
Good (1,085 reviews)
American Airlines
Good (11,116 reviews)
JetSMART
Good (204 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Cali

Centro - the heart of the city is where you'll discover the cathedral, beautiful churches like La Ermita, and great shopping opportunities around Plaza Caicedo.

Popular Neighborhoods in Cali

Juanchito - located to the east of the city center, Juanchito is Cali's salsa district. It's packed with great bars like Zaperoco and La Topa Tolondra.

Ciudad Jardin - Cali's most upmarket neighborhood, Ciudad Jardin is full of green space and excellent restaurants like Mister Wings and Cuuc.

Juanchito - located to the east of the city center, Juanchito is Cali's salsa district. It's packed with great bars like Zaperoco and La Topa Tolondra.
Ciudad Jardin - Cali's most upmarket neighborhood, Ciudad Jardin is full of green space and excellent restaurants like Mister Wings and Cuuc.

Where to stay in popular areas of Cali

Most booked hotels in Cali

See all
Intercontinental Cali
4 stars
Excellent (8.7, Excellent reviews)
S$ 140+
View
Hotel El Peñon
4 stars
Excellent (8.6, Excellent reviews)
S$ 53+
View
ibis Cali Granada
3 stars
Excellent (8.3, Excellent reviews)
S$ 47+
View
Hotel Spiwak Chipichape Cali
4 stars
Excellent (8.2, Excellent reviews)
S$ 113+
View
Torre de Cali Plaza Hotel
3 stars
Good (7.9, Good reviews)
S$ 50+
View
NH Cali Royal
4 stars
Good (7.7, Good reviews)
S$ 67+
View

How to Get Around Cali

Public Transportation

MIO run bus services across Cali. Single tickets cost COL$1,800 and you need to purchase a rechargeable MIO card before traveling.

Taxi

Taxi fares start with a basic price of COL$4,200, followed by around COL$1,700 per mile.

Car

You can rent a car from companies like Atlantis Renta Car, Elite, and Budget. Rates start at around COL$60,000 per day.

Public Transportation

MIO run bus services across Cali. Single tickets cost COL$1,800 and you need to purchase a rechargeable MIO card before traveling.

Taxi

Taxi fares start with a basic price of COL$4,200, followed by around COL$1,700 per mile.

Car

You can rent a car from companies like Atlantis Renta Car, Elite, and Budget. Rates start at around COL$60,000 per day.

Car hire agencies in Cali

Avis

Avis
Find car hire in Cali

The Cost of Living in Cali

Shopping Streets

Plaza Caicedo is the main shopping area in the center of town, but much of Cali's commercial life revolves around malls like Centro Comercial Chipichape or Unicentro, which are a little out of town.

Groceries and Other

Supermarkets in Cali include La Gran Colombia and Makro, and prices should be low. Expect a gallon of milk to cost about COL$10,000.

Cheap meal
S$ 3.84
A pair of jeans
S$ 68.05
Single public transport ticket
S$ 0.77
Cappuccino
S$ 1.89

Everything you need to know for your stay in Cali

Cali Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Cali city guide for the best Cali travel tips. To help you organise your Cali trip ideas, this Cali visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.