Cali is situated in the southwestern region of the country, offering destination that fuses vibrant culture,
history, and scenic beauty. As Colombia’s third-largest city, Cali serves as an epicenter of salsa music and
dance. Founded in 1536, Cali has a rich historical background, but the city mainly developed in the 1950’s
for a juxtaposition of Spanish colonial architecture against a backdrop of modern skyscrapers.
Geographically, Cali is the gateway to Colombia’s Pacific Coast, an area known for its Afro-Colombian
culture. Cali occupies a privileged location in the Cauca River Valley, flanked by the Farallones de Cali
mountains and the Western Range of the Andes. Its temperate climate is like the South of France or Santa
Barbara California.
What to do in Cali? The San Antonio district is home to artist studios, galleries, and restaurants. The
historic core has the pre-Colombian artifact La Merced Archaeological Museum, and the river district is
filled with public art installations leading to the La Tertulia contemporary art museum. For boutique
shopping the Granada neighborhood is easy and fun to explore.
Cali truly comes alive at night. Known as the Salsa Capital of the World, the city pulses to the beats of
salsa music. You can dance the night away in the salsa clubs of the Juanchito district.
The local cuisine in Cali draws influence from indigenous dishes and ingredients, as well as the
Afro-Colombian cuisine of the nearby Pacifico region. The Sancocho de Gallina, a traditional chicken stew,
is a culinary must-try.
From lively festivals like the Feria de Cali to bustling food markets like La Alameda, Cali offers
experiences as diverse as its inhabitants. Whether you’re an art aficionado, dance enthusiast, or nature
lover, Cali promises a palette of exhilarating experiences.
