The capital of the Valle del Cauca is a city whose tourist attractions have their own history, active cultural life, and musical rhythms that are famed around the world.
Cali's music, thanks to the city's rich ethnic diversity, ranges from the currulao of the Pacific coast to the city's star: salsa, the contagious, frenetic rhythm that is ingrained in the country's culture.
Cali is known by the rest Colombia as the "Rumba Capital" and by the world as the "Salsa Capital", thanks to its characteristic street parties and dance.
Cali
What is there to do in Cali?
In Cali, your clients can explore the Cali riverbanks, admire colonial architecture like Ermita Church, visit key sites such as Zoológico de Cali, Barrio Granada, and the Cristo Rey statue. Cali also boasts several museums including the La Tertulia Museum and Calima Gold Museum.
The city's diverse cuisine features dishes with Spanish, indigenous, and African influences, and includes traditional foods like arroz atollado and empanadas vallunas. Sweets from the region are made with local sugar cane, including manjar blanco and cocadas. A visit to Cali isn't complete without experiencing its vibrant nightlife, particularly in the Juanchito area.
Unique experiences
The Feria de Cali in December is a major event featuring salsa music and a Superconcert. The fair also includes cultural and sports events. Other notable festivals are the Petronio Alvarez Pacific Music Festival in August and the World Salsa Festival. Cali also offers various dance schools for learning salsa.
Visitors can explore natural sites like Hacienda El Paraíso and the Pance River, where locals relax on Sundays. The Farallones Foundation camp provides shelter and guided tours of the area.
Recommendations
Traveling to Cali is easy via the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, which offers flights from Colombia and other countries. From within Colombia, airlines like Viva Air and Wingo provide affordable options. By land, buses or rental cars can cover the 286 miles between Cali and Bogotá.
Within Cali, the MIO Integrated Transportation System with its 8 routes is efficient; make sure your clients familiarize with the routes and city maps beforehand. Various lodging options fit different budgets. Taxis from recognized companies or their apps are also available. The climate is warm and humid, so pack light, cool clothes and attire for salsa dancing.