101 Things To Do In Cali

The list below includes a wide range of stuff to do and does not necessarily mention the best rated or most expensive places. In fact, many of the activities are free, but most importantly is the diversity meaning that there should be something for everybody whether, young, old, rich or poor.

Nightlife

Cali's has, in my opinion, some of the best nightlife in Colombia.

1 - As the capital of salsa, no visit to Cali is complete without a a night out swinging your hips in one of the city's many salsa bars. The list of places is long, but make sure to check out La Topa Tolondra, Zaperoco, El Rincon de Heberth, Club Living or Siboney to get you started.

2 - Rooftop club La Pergola Clandestina must be one of the coolest bars in the city. It's huge and with different ambiences. One part could play reggaeton, while another plays electronic, rap or deep house. No matter what, you're sure to have a blast! Open Tuesday to Sunday. Rated as one of the top-100 best clubs in the world! Los Santos Food truck park in front of the entrance is fun, too!

3 - Bourbon St is the best rock 'n roll bar in Cali with live music every weekend.

4 - Rooftop cocktail bars Callao on top of the Aristi Hotel or Zorro Azul by Plaza Caicedo are the perfect places to grab some cocktail and snacks before hitting town.

5 - Dance tango with Caleño aficionados at La Matraca in barrio Obrero. This place is an institution that has been in operation for decades. Thursday afternoon is supposedly the best time to go. Great spot for seniors.

6 - In operation since 1942, the La Colina bar in San Antonio is the perfect bar to begin any night.

7 - The River Boulevard and La Calle del Sabor - Cali's famous street party that takes places every Friday afternoon and keeps going until wee hours. It's also active on Saturdays and less crowded.

8 - A favorite among students, el Parque del Perro on Carrera 34 is full of little, cheap waterholes.

9 - Hang with the local jetset at cocktail bars Penélope Martini or Abesenta on Carrera 2 in El Peñon. Also check out Astro Soda in Granada.

10 - Sonido Central is a dark underground electronic night club that plays deep bass until the early hours in downtown Cali. Great cocktails as well.

Restaurants

Good food on any budget.

11 - Peru Peñon serves some of the best seafood I have ever had in my life. Try the Pescado a la Chalaca or the Salmon de la Casa. You won't regret it.

12 - Crepes & Waffles is the best chain operation in Colombia. Delicious salty and sweet pancakes. It’s one of the few place that unites the entire population. The value is incredible. Located all over town.

13 - Very reasonably priced Pampero - offer a great meal for meat lovers!
If you want the ultra high-end steak house, then Palomulata is the absolute best steak in town.

14 - La Comitiva in San Fernando is super trendy eatery specializing in local food from the Valle del Cauca.

15 - Don't leave Colombia before trying the food from the coast. Rice with coconut, seafood stews, coconut shrimps. You name it, Fogón del Mar or any of the other seafood restaurants by Galeria Alameda got it!

16 - If you're craving sushi and are willing to splurge, then Izumi in Granada is the one of the in town. For a more affordable yet delicious option, try Sushi Good in El Peñon. If you’re looking for an insanely unique experience then KIBDO Barra Izakaya is the most exclusive Japanese place you’ll find - potentially - anywhere in Colombia. They only have space for 10 people, so make reservations in advance and be ready to spend around $500K COP per person.

17 - If Mexican food is your thing, then Cantina La 15 in Granada is for the full, big-wallet experience with live Mariachi band. for the smaller budget, but still yummy and authentic experience. Los Weros is offers a subtle and low-key street food feel but is also an instant favorite.

18 - Our favorite pizzas in western Cali (tough competition) are made by La Bella Pizza in El Peñon, or La Fugitiva in Granada with Storia d'Amore a few blocks up Avenida 9 is close runner up.

19 - At Frutos del Sol by Parque del Peñon, Mario and his little box of spices will make any carnivore enjoy a vegetarian meal.

20 - Constantly rated as one of Cali's best restaurants, Platillos Voladores in Centenario is always an amazing experience.

21 - If you're looking to escape the Cali heat, then Mamma Mia has offers great Italian fare or La Cabaña, that serves traditional Colombian food, both at KM 18 on the road towards Buenaventura are great spots for families, friends and lovers. Llámame Lupe in Dapa serves amazing Mexican food.

Snacks

I'm a huge fan of snacking both salty and sweet. Here are my local favorites.

22 - Cali's best salpicón gets served with ice cream at Manzana Verde along the Autopista.

23 - The choripan at la Parrillada Uruguya is the best we’ve had in Cali!

24 - Empanadas are sold on every corner in Cali, but none better than the ones at Triologia Valluna on la Avenida 6N.

25 - You haven't been to Cali before you've had a cholado the famous slushy, juicy, fruity thing with condensed milk and shaved coconut. The best ones are made in front of Canchas Panamericanas on Calle 9 or on Carrera 83 in front of Parque del Ingenio.

26 - Ware - the maker of Colombia's best arepa. Quite a statement, but I'm sure you'll agree.

27 - Awesome coffee and home-made goodies at Barakha and Krost bakeries (hint: try the almond crossaint at Krost). Macondo in San Antonio is also a great spot to stop for a cup of coffee and a dessert. Café Gardenia is a new comer but is quickly gaining a loyal following.

28 - When it comes to cakes, I have found no one above the Israeli pastry shop Zahavi. Their Maracuya or blueberry chocolate dessert is to die for.

29 - Ice cream lovers better head to El Peñon where artisanal ice cream shops Patti (pricey), Montalegro (cheap), and Calathea deliver mouthwatering home-made ice creams.

Sports

Watch or play.

30 - Master the skillful art of throwing metal bricks at clay stuffed with envelopes of dynamite. Tejo is a great excuse to drink beers and hang out with the locals. Cancha Los Amigos is where to go. Fun fact: This is also where Anthony Bourdain went when he came to Cali.

31 - The only thing more important than Mom and God in Colombia is futbol. A game at Cali's stadium with either America or Deportivo Cali or even better - a game between the two local rivals - is sure to be a thrilling event. Just don't wear the wrong colors at the wrong tribune.

32 - Cali has two climbing schools, Akua and Arawata Whether you're looking to join the club or just have fun for a day, you're more than welcome. They also do excursions to Jamundi and Dapa.

33 - Cali and Roldanillo north of Cali are world class paragliding destinations. Whether looking to do a course or just do a tandem flight, Parapente Cali will take good care of you.

34 - Parque del Ingenio is the perfect place to go for an outdoors workout, yoga, a little run or to play futbol with the locals.

35 - No better place to cool off, than in one of Cali's 20+ public waterparks. Also, private waterparks like Tardes Caleñas in Rozo is absolutely worth a visit - especially with kids.

36 - Pico Aguila, Tres Cruces, Vuelta del Mundo, La Castilla, Pichindé, Cristo Rey, Dapa and Jamundi are all splendid destinations to go mountain biking. If you're really aggressive and have a full-suspension bike, then check out the downhill tracks at Ventiaderos. Wepa Tours arrange guided mountain bike tours.

37 - Football, swimming, tennis, high-diving, karate, basketball, baseball - everything is possible at Canchas Panamericanas. Club social Tequendama is one of the few places in the city where you can play tennis without a membership.

38 - Get your swing on at one of Cali's many salsa schools.

39 - Spend a few days learning to wind or kite surf at Lago Calima just north of Cali. Calima Kitesurf, Velas y Vientos</a> or Cool Wind all have the gear and instructors to get you going.

40 - Fly a kite in windy season from August to October with the local kids. Just north of the city, along the highway, Cristo Rey or anywhere else with lots of wind is sure to be packed with kids that can detach themselves from their iPads.

41 - Join one of the daily Texas Hold'em poker tournaments at the casino in Unicentro or play roulette and blackjack in any of the other casinos around town.

Sights

Your next instagram shoot is waiting for you.

42 - Downtown Cali, around Plaza Caicedo is the perfect place to find a bench, people-watch, read the newspaper, drink a tinto, have your shoes shined and enjoy the organized chaos.

43 - The historic district of San Antonio with its quirky colonial architecture, many restaurants, park, and a chapel is a great place to wander around late in the afternoon.

44 - Cali Zoo is voted among the most beautiful zoos in South America. Kids love it and the garden is one of the most beautiful the city has to offer. Located in Santa Teresita it’s a short ride (or good walk) from any of our rentals.

45 - Local artist, Hernando Tejada left his mark on Cali with the famous Cat Park next to the river. A great spot to get your photo taken and stroll around.

46 - The famous Cristo Rey statue offers one of the best 360-degree views you'll find of Cali along with some nice walking trails. Best to go end of afternoon on a clear day.

47 - Caliwood is a museum for the lovers of the cinematic art.

48 -  Cali is famous worldwide as a bird-watching destination. The city and the surrounding mountains are literally packed with rare and gorgeous birds. 1913 different species have been spotted to be exact. Best time to go is during the annual Bird Fair or hiring one of the guides listed on their site. Here’s a teaser to get you excited!
Finca Alejandria by KM18 is also a great place to observe especially the hummingbirds.

49 - Cali was founded in 1536 with the idea of having plenty of fresh water and flat, fertile farmland available. No crop has historically been more important to the Valle del Cauca than cane sugar. Museo de la Caña de Azucar will tell you all about it.

50 - Bring your kids to the Andoke Mariposario, a gorgeous butterfly garden located on the road up to Cristo Rey.

51 - Stroll Cali's iconic river boulevard(Bulevar del Rio) all the way down to La Ermita church. The boulevard is great for kids on skateboards, bikes and rollerblades and the is often hosting different events with street food and music.

52 - Cali at night, the best view is from the pizzerias on the road up to Cristo Rey.

53 - The controversial statue of Cali’s founder, conquistador Sebastian de Belalcazar and surrounding parks offer great views and a chance for a great walk. The story of his life is quite fascinating.

Culture

Intellectual fun.

54 - Hang with hipsters, gays, and artists at Parque Artesanal La Loma de la Cruz. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, there is usually an event going on, whether is be an indigenous group dance, story-telling or a concert.

55 - Museo Tertulia is THE museum in Cali. Last time I went, they had a Rembrandt exposition with 69 of his original works. The museum also has a movie theater - La Cinemateca - showing independent films every week from all overt the world.

56 - Concerts, musicals, dancing, and theater awards come together at Teatro Jorge Isaacs in downtown Cali. Tickets are usually available on Colboletos

57 - Fans of aviation can get their fix at the Museo Aereo Fenix by the Cali airport. Often overlooked but has the the most amazing collection of old cars, train and airplanes. It's a private collection which includes one of Latin America's largest model train circuits and is a wonderful experience for both kids and adults.

58 - Barrio Obrero with Museo de la Salsa is going through a complete urban rejuvenation and the city is betting hard this place as a new tourist hot-spot.

59 - For a fun interpretation of tango dancing, head to Fundacion Jacaranda where world-renowned pros show off their skills.

60 - Treat yourself to VIP trip in one of Cali's many movie theaters. Cinemark and Cinecolombia have great VIP theaters with super-comfy reclining chairs and table serving. Wednesday equal 50% discount is most theaters.

61 - The El Peñon park (Parque del Peñon). On Sundays from around 9:00 AM until late afternoon, the park becomes an art gallery with local artists showcasing and selling their work.

62 - Check out Cali's Philharmonic Orchestra for upcoming classical, live music concerts.

63 - Every time the national football team - La Selección Colombia - plays, La Avenida 6 becomes turns into a wild spectacle - and even more so if the Colombians win! Bring your jersey to blend in.

64 - Get lost in Spanish literature at the Biblioteca Departamental on Calle 5.

65 - The Paseo de la Aurora is a magical universe of music, salsa and circus for kids. A wonderful experience without comparison.

66 - El Teatro Calima is an old theater that recently underwent a complete renovation and features many wonderful live event — including stand-up comedy.

Outdoors

For naturelovers.

67 - An early morning hike up to Cali's Three Crosses is the perfect way to start the day. Outdoors gym, fresh juices, home-made banana bread and awesome views await you. Either start by the stairs in Juanambú or from the trailhead in Normandia. Just follow the crowds and you won’t get lost.

68 - Swim with the locals in the Pance river in southwest Cali. Sundays get packed. It's quiet on weekdays.

69 - Just outside the city limits, in the mountains behind Cristo Rey, lies Pichindé - a tropical village in the Farallones national park with a gorgeous and freezing cold river. The best way to cool off on a hot day and far from the gringo trail. Great for bird spotting, too!

70 - La Virgen de Yanaconas is the statue behind Cristo Rey is maybe the best viewpoint in the city. From here there are trails all the way to southern Cali. The Comfenalco Yanaconas recreational center behind the statue is a great place to bring kids as well.

71 - South of Cali, in Potrerito near Jamundí lies Charco Escondido - the hidden natural pool - a great place off the beaten path to go for a swim. Also popular with mountain bikers.

72 - One of the toughest hikes around Cali is Pico Pance in the Farallones Nationalpark in Pance. It takes you up to 4100 meters above sea level. VERY experienced hikers can ascend and descend in one 16-hour day. Everybody else should expect to spend 2 days. Bring a headlamp, drinking water, lots of food, and warm clothes. Do not try this hike without a professional guide. People have gotten lost and died on this trail. Pico Loro Tours and Valley Adventours are the best operators.

73 - A gorgeous hike that can be done in about 6 hours (up and down) is the trail up to Pico Loro, also in Pance. Expect breathtaking views, if you're lucky to get a clear day. A guide is recommended, same as in # 72 offer this tour.

74 - Take a stroll through Cali's botanical garden located behind the zoo. Pro tip: Avoid Sunday afternoons as the river in front fills up with people blasting loud music which ruins the experience.

75 - Two hours from Cali lies the tropical village San Cipriano nestled deep in the jungle. Railway moto-rafting, waterfalls, river tubing, tree jumping, and coconut bread describe it best. One of my favorite experiences! Go with guide unless you speak some Spanish.

76 - El Danubio is the emerald green river and spectacular waterfalls that lie between Cali and Buenaventura. Ask about local safety before embarking in this direction. Again, best to go with a guide unless you speak some Spanish.

77 - From July to October, humpback whales jump in the waters around Buenaventura. A day trip from Cali is the way to go. If you want to stay longer, then check out the remote village Ladrilleros for a taste of the real Pacific. Destino Pacifico is the best boat service. You arrive in Juanchaco and moto-taxi to Ladrilleros. One of our friends owns Casa Pacó - probably the coolest cabins in the area. Highly recommended!

78 - The Purecé volcano about two hours south of Cali by Popayán, makes for a nice day trip (if you're an early bird). Beautiful nature, thermal water, great hikes — and if you bring rotten meat, you might get to feed the condors. Very unique experience. 7Travel organizes the tour from Cali.

79 - Bring your bike, rollerblades, skateboard, baby stroller or running shoes to ciclovida on Sundays in Cali. A fantastic way to start your day surrounded by other health freaks.

Events

Begin marking your calendar.

80 - One of the best events of the year is the weeklong Pacific music festival, el Petronio Alvarez, celebrating the Afro-Latino culture in Colombia. Fantastic vibes, artisanal products and food. Takes place in August every year by the Coliseo del Pueblo.

81 - Cali's most famous event, La Feria, is a weeklong salsa celebration that takes place between Christmas and New Years every year. Concerts and events non-stop. Book your stay in advance and get ready to dance in the streets!

82 - The Mundial de Salsa is the annual world championships in salsa dancing. Usually around September/October.

83 - For five straight days in October or November every year, Cali hosts the Festival International de Cine — a movie festival dedicated to underground, independent, dogme and other types of anti-mainstream films from all over the world.

84 - Although Cali is known for its salsa, the Ballet Festival in October has become a recurring event that has been happening for more than 10 years.

85 - The last Friday of every month and every day during the Feria in December, a show called Delirio puts on the most amazing performance in what is a mix of salsa, circus, and orchestra. An event not to be missed!

86 - El Mulato, Cali's famous dancer who trained J.Lo, for the Superbowl show, has a weekly cabaret which is getting raving reviews. Dancing, live music and food. Fridays and Saturdays at El Mulato Cabaret is where it's at.

87 - Every year, starting on December 7th and until January 1st, the city of Cali puts on an amazing light show — el alumbrado navideño — on Cali's boulevard in honor of the Christmas celebrations. Perfect for your evening stroll.

89 - Flower and nature lovers flock to Cali's annual Orchid Festival — CaliOrquídia — that takes place over the course of 3 days in October or November every year.

Wellness

Feel good.

90 -  Spoil yourself with a massage in one of Cali's many spas. Corpobello in El Peñon or Prana Spa in Granada are two great options in western Cali.

91 - All beauty salons in Cali make pedicure and manicure for less than $10 dollars - for both! Guys are very welcome!

92 - The CrossFit and fitness wave is taking over Cali. Get your daily exercise and make friends in one of the many boxes like UrbanBox or 931 Fitness Center. SmartFit or Bodytech are the top choices for regular gyms with many locations around town.

93 - Rejuvenate yourself and find your inner balance with either a Yoga class or a retreat at Yogendra Ashram (west) or ShyamAshram (south).

94 - Quality dental care is so cheap in Cali, that the savings alone will pay for your airfare and hotel. Our co-founder’s wife - Dr. Sindy - has a top rated and very affordable clinic in Centenario close to all our listings.

95 - With more than 50.000 cosmetic surgeries performed every year, Caleño plastic surgeons have lots of experience and deliver high quality at low-priced, private medical clinics. Non-cosmetic surgery is also booming in Cali, especially for people without health insurance their home country. 50-80% savings are not uncommon and many doctors speak a fluent English.

Shopping

"If I come home and I haven't maxed out my credit card, I don't feel like I've been anywhere!" - quote from a friend.

96 - Caleña designer Michú makes girly knees go wobbly. They make designer bags of leather and banana leaves. They have a physical store in El Peñon.

97 - Galaría Alameda is the best place in town to sample exotic fruits, veggies and mingle with vendors.

98 - Colombia is famous for its textile and fashion industry. Big brands like Levi's has a big production here. Local sports brands like Grama have a store in Chipichape shopping center. But the high-end designer brands from Cali are located on Avenida 9 in Granada. Rafael Cure is a favorite for the gentlemen. And for the ladies there are way too many to list. Walk the strip and get inspired. Fun fact - Studio F is also from Cali now has stores all over LATAM.

99 - Leather brands like Vélez or Bon-Bonite have been producing world-class products by hand for decades and only seem to be getting better.

100 - If you prefer the breeze of the A/C to that of the Pacific, then Chipichape (north) or Unicentro (south) are the best shopping centers in town.

101 - La Caleñita next to Galería Alameda is the best place to buy quality, artisanal souvenirs in Cali.

That's it! With this list, there should be plenty of activities to keep you occupied for weeks in Cali. A local, anonymous blogger, also wrote an article suggesting more than 100 different things to do in Cali. It's in Spanish and we do have some activities in common, but it's still worth checking out.

Have fun :)