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Tourist guide: what to do and see in Cali
The spice of life
A city with almost five centuries of history, full of beautiful monuments and with first-class gastronomic flavours. Its night life is one of the liveliest on the continent. Visit lwww.colombia.travel and plan your trip to this destination surrounded by unspoilt nature and perfect landscapes for adventure sports. welcome to the capital of Valle del Cauca. Welcome to Cali!
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
Long live arroz atollado!
Meat, vegetables and rice are combined in an unforgettable dish. Finger-licking good.
The essence of Valle del Cauca
There is no other dish that brings together the gastronomic soul, the seasoning and idiosyncrasy of Valle del Cauca in such a heavenly way. Not just Cali but the whole region is justly proud of Arroz Atollado; so much so, that it has even crossed borders to become one of the most popular dishes throughout Colombia. It is distinctive because it perfectly combines the different ingredients and gets the most out of them, creating an unparalleled combination: various cuts of pork and chicken (some people also add beef) are cooked with vegetables and rice in such a way that the rice soaks up the characteristic taste of the mixture, and the result is a filling, and really tasty dish. The intense flavours of spices such as pepper and cumin provide the final touch; it is served accompanied by avocado, chorizo and green plantain. Ready for a delicious meal?
Calima Gold Museum
Stunningly beautiful works in gold and ceramics from the Calima culture. Sublime!
Brilliant
Thanks to its initial design, the Calima Gold Museum has become, in its own right, one of the most significant exhibition centres in the city. It is located in the modern Banco de la República building, right in the city centre, and it has hundreds of pieces made in gold on display; the pieces originate from the Calima culture, people who were living in Valle de Cauca before the arrival of the Spanish. You will be dazzled by so much beauty! What’s more, you will also have the chance to see items of pottery, decoration, objects made from shells, stone or bone and ethnographic displays relating to other ancient cultures in the area which will help you to understand what their day-to-day life was really like: in total, there are more than six hundred pieces on display. As a bonus, the visit includes explanatory videos and you can also join a guided tour. The museum was opened in 1991.
Mrs Doyle
Accessories and decorative items famous for their eye-catching colours.
Out of the ordinary
Do you want to surprise your loved ones with a truly unique present? Are you looking for a typical souvenir that is not run-of-the-mill and which will become an exclusive piece? Then, Mrs Doyle has a lot to offer you. This shop is a landmark of design in Cali thanks to its unique, individual items, which have been created with the aim of giving a distinctive touch to your home and your wardrobe: its workshop offers original decorative items and clothes featuring warm, gorgeous colours that will definitely catch your eye. Paintings, cushions and fabric which will give a unique ambience to the rooms in your house; bags, umbrellas, shoulder bags and leather articles that will make you look super chic and add a certain je ne sais quoi to your appearance. The prints are inspired by nature and imbue each piece with the essence of Colombia. It will be love at first sight.
Buying books in Cali
Take the opportunity to discover works by local authors such as Jorge Isaacs or Miguel Caicedo.
A whole new world
Listen up, all you bookworms, because you can let your imagination run free in Cali; and not just because of the magic realism which proudly permeates Colombia from the hand of the Nobel prize winner Gabriel García Márquez, but also because of local authors who are less well-known, but none the less brilliant: take the opportunity of your visit here to be beguiled by the writing of Jorge Isaacs, Eustaquio Palacios or Arturo Alape, as well as by the daring novels of Miguel Caicedo. These books can only be found in the country, making them almost exclusive purchases. One of the most well-known bookshops in the city is Nueva Atenas, which is famous for its collections of poetry and narrative and also for selling second-hand books; it is open every day. As a contrast, the quantity of religious bookshops in the city is particularly interesting, shops such as El Sembrador, Ediciones Paulinas and Tierra de Dios; some of them even celebrate the Eucharist.
El Palomar Ceramics Workshop
Exquisite pieces made with patience and attention to detail, perfectly finished.
Four successful decades
If you talking about ceramics the name of El Palomar will definitely crop up, a family-style workshop that, because of its beautifully crafted designs and its unique artisanal style, has managed to set up its own school. Since 1975, for more than forty years, they have been working clay with patience and utmost care. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it has succeeded in developing its own recognizable style, that combines colours, shine and contrasts superbly; the passion with which they produce their pieces can be seen in the perfect finish and in the purity of the colours chosen, resulting in works of particular beauty. What can you buy here? Tea sets, original Nativity scenes, fruit bowls, decorative pots, candelabras, charming figures of local people, gravy boats and even murals made by hand and bearing its own exclusive stamp (these are made to order). If you want to buy something typical and different, this is the place for you.
Artesanías La Caleñita
Pay special attention to the pre-Colombian figures, a distinctive and elegant choice.
It will be so hard to make up your mind!
If you are looking for original crafts, with personality, you must not miss the great selection offered by La Caleñita, definitely one of the most extensive in Cali. This small shop, well-known in the city, stands out for offering products from the different regions of Colombia and so providing visitors with an overview of the country’s most deeply-rooted idiosyncrasies, displaying the distinctive characteristics of each area; they are exclusive creations made with high-quality material and full of colour. Native clothes, beautiful pieces of jewellery, bags, backpacks, ponchos, baskets and cane chests, t-shirts with Valle del Cauca motifs, necklaces, hats and a myriad of possibilities. With so much to choose from….. it will be hard to make up your mind! Particularly attractive are the figures inspired by pre-Hispanic works, a purchase which will make a very distinctive present or which will make an elegant and innovative addition to your house. Go on, treat yourself!
Loma de la Cruz Artisan Park
Open every day with over sixty artisan stalls. You will love it!
A one-off
This park was opened in 1990 and is the best place to buy artisanal items and handicrafts made in the city. The Loma de la Cruz Park has over sixty stalls where artisans from Colombia and other countries like Ecuador and Peru exhibit their miniature works of art, authentic gold filigree: you will also find bags, fashion garments, decorative items, ceramics, hammocks, musical instruments, paintings, beautifully designed jewellery and a thousand and one typical souvenirs to make your friends green with envy; this is the perfect place to find that beautiful souvenir you’ve been looking for for a while. It is open every day, making your shopping easy. Out of interest, several cultural activities also take place here, adding life and colour to the park, such as open-air rock concerts, music workshops and gastronomic events. You will have a really enjoyable day.
Cali's Organic Markets
Great quality food produced traditionally and without damaging the environment.
Indulge your tastebuds
There are few places where you will have the chance to find products as fresh and of such high quality as in the organic markets which take place in the city every Friday and Saturday: the first, at the junction between Avenida Guadalupe and the southeast motorway; the second at the intersection of Avenida 9 and Carrera 50. Small growers and producers from Valle de Cauca come together, who continue to produce excellent raw materials without the use of additives which harm the environment; and of course, this is reflected in the delicious flavour of the food. Fruit, vegetables, meat, milk, eggs, nuts and other food like marmalade and coffee, produced with huge amounts of love and care. Everyone is a winner at this type of market: you, the shopper, because you buy exceptional products at an unbeatable price; the producer, because he avoids the middle-man and enjoys a better profit margin. A good choice all round.
Taller Tejada
Buy yourself a replica of this symbol of Cali made in the artist's own studio.
A souvenir cat
After visiting the charming work beside the river by the great Colombian artist, Hernando Tejada, you will definitely want to take a copy of the famous cat home with you. Well you’re in luck, your wishes will be granted: close to the monument is the workshop where the great master designed some of his most famous creations, which is currently converted into a museum and shop run by his family. In the Taller Tejada you will have the chance to purchase a wide selection of feline figures, in wood, marble, stone, pyrographied… and different fabulous souvenirs to remind you of your visit to Cali. You can also take in some very colourful photographs and pictures by both the artist and his sister, Lucy, who also dealt with similar themes, as well as purchasing a biography of any of the geniuses of Colombian art to learn more about their work. How can you resist?
Designer fashion
In the districts of Granada and Ciudad Jardín you will find unqiue and exclusive outfits.
Dress to impress
Away from the shopping centres, there are two areas in Cali which stand out because of their fashion offering: these are the districts of Granada and Ciudad Jardín. This is where the up-and-coming national designers and those who have already acquired a certain reputation have set up their elegant boutiques with the aim of displaying their unique, different and trend-setting designs. They are daring designs to be worn at any type of event, from a celebration to a formal meeting. Famous designers such as María Elena Villamil, MaunaLoa and Viviana Mejía every season show off the cream of Colombian high couture and combine popular lines with subtle, autochthonous touches, to create exclusive garments which will delight anyone wishing to dress to impress. These two districts are also known for their young fashion and for their enviable atmosphere. Unmissable!
UNICO Outlet
Discounts of up to 70% and big name items for next to nothing.
Bargains at your fingertips
This is where you will find the best value for money in the city, which is why it is a good bet for serious shoppers. The UNICO shopping centre was opened in 1997 and it is special because it offers top brand articles at bargain prices, all within the concept of outlet shopping: discounts of up to 70%, items for almost next to nothing and a huge range of possibilities to suit any budget. It has over four hundred shops, some as classy as Mango, Levi’s, OndadeMar, Nike, Diesel, Puma, Esprit, Josh and Totto, which offer you a wide range of options and give you the chance to buy top-quality items without maxing out your credit card. No less appealing are the occasional promotions and their famous ‘everything must go’ sales. It also has a welcoming food square inside.
Chipichape Shopping Centre
Special because of its wide selection of national and international boutiques.
Do you love fashion?
Located near the airport, this is one of Cali’s new shopping centres with over five hundred shops in operation at the present time. In Chipichape you can buy anything you can think of, as it has a huge number of stores: sporting franchises selling high-quality items, accessories for men and women, shoe shops, music shops, decoration and household items, jewellery from the top brands on the market, bookshops and a massive selection when it comes to national and international fashion, with famous names such as Zara, Tommy Hilfiger, Diesel, Levi's, Arturo Calle, Jon Sonen and Chevignon, to mention just a few. Throughout the year it holds different events, for example the Women’s Season, with the chance to win large prizes. It also has seven cinema screens showing the best new releases and an interesting food square, with fast-food and restaurant options of all types. Totally unmissable.
Unicentro Shopping Centre
Perfect for enjoying a days shopping with hundreds of opportunities.
The largest in the city
It calls itself the most important shopping area in the region, and who are we to contradict: recently extended and renovated, it has 546 shops and almost three hundred offices. Unicentro stands out not only because of its size, but also because of its model of growth, thanks to its ecological design which distributes the heat efficiently around the facilities; this, combined with the fact that it has more than eight hundred trees, makes it an ecologically sustainable space. What will you find here? Practically everything you need, from international fashion boutiques, to chemists and telephone shops, hairdressers, jewellers, shops selling leather accessories and a plethora of opportunities for shopping. It is the ideal place for keen shoppers. Particularly noteworthy from its gastronomic offer are the restaurants with food from around the world and those specializing in grilled meat. Mouth-wateringly delicious!
The Sugar Cane Museum
You will learn about the tools used for working the canes and what colonial houses were like.
A sweet story
We are now setting our sights on another area of the history of Valle del Cauca related to its financial activity. The Sugar Cane Museum has been in operation since 1990 and is located in La Hacienda Piedechinche, between the towns of El Cerrito and Palmira, as this is where the first machines for cultivating and working the sugar cane were introduced. During your guided visit, which lasts about two hours, you will learn about the history of the sugar cane industry in the region and the effects it had on the life of people at the time; you will also see the tools that were used to harvest the cane. And not only this: the house, which dates back to the XVIII century, will astonish you with its graceful architectural style and with the elegance of its interior decoration and furnishings; this is an authentic large colonial house. It also has a garden centre where you can purchase exotic and medicinal plants.
Rayo Museum
Over two thousand 'geometrical-optical' works by the great Colombian artist.
Contemporary art
Omar Rayo was one of the most prolific and recognized Colombian artists of the twentieth century. His style was characterized by optical illusions and geometric figures, an approach which allowed him to describe his creations as ‘geometric-optical’ art, in which he combined circles, rectangles, squares and zigzag lines with warm and neutral colours to produce truly appealing, and even provocative, works. This museum, located in Rayo’s native town of Roldanillo, has over two thousand graphic works by the artist, works as diverse as caricatures, engravings, oils, pen and ink and pastel drawings, from the forties up to the beginning of this century; as well as his own collection, the centre also exhibits Latin American engravings and drawings with pieces by many national and international masters as famous as Tamayo, Grau, De Szsyszlo and Polesello. Designed by the Mexican Leopoldo Gout, the museum was opened in 1981.
Phoenix Air Museum
It has planes from World War II, a large number of models and a flight simulator.
Not to be missed
If you are a fan of the world of aviation, you will have a lot of fun here. The Phoenix Air Museum has a really interesting collection of aeroplanes from the Second World War up to the present day, such as a Stearman PT-17, a Beechcraft C-45 and a Douglas C-47B, as well as a large displays of objects related to this glamorous world, such as flying suits and aeroplane engines. It also has a large number of scale models, a collection which is gradually increasing, and a flight simulator allowing visitors to experience what it feels like to be in the cockpit. It also has a section specializing in trains which is home to several steam trains from the beginning of the last century and a stunning model railway covering an area of 45 square metres which is very realistic and reputed to be the third largest in the world. Impressive!
Salsa Museum + Jairo Vela Museum
A photographic and musical tour through the history of salsa, the cultural symbol of Cali.
A different perspective
To say that salsa is the backbone of popular culture in Cali is not to give away any secrets, but it would be interesting to enjoy this music without moving your hips, and to plunge into its history from the inside. The city has two museums where you can learn about the essence of this music and experience it in a different way: firstly, the Salsa Museum which is home to hundreds of photographs of artists who have strutted their stuff in Cali, instruments and thousands of records, all related to this music, many of them considered to be genuine relics. The atmosphere here is truly magical; secondly, the Jairo Varela Museum which provides an overview of the life of this unique artist, founder of the Niche Group and one of the most loved characters in the city. It has pictures and personal belongings of the musician which go back over his long career. This is a unique way of entering into this fantastic world.
Museum of Natural Sciences Federico Carlos Lehmann Valencia
Insects, a collection of animal skins and… a whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling!
Live life
Nothing better to spend a family day than combining fun and educational activities. If you travel with your children, this space will become a must during your visit: its more than 19,000 pieces will guide you through a universe of color to immerse yourself in the depths of life and will allow you to discover from a scientific point of view how works to preserve natural resources. The Federico Carlos Lehmann Valencia Science Museum was inaugurated in 1963, and is currently considered one of the most important in Colombia thanks to the great value of its samples. Here you can see exotic specimens of white rhinoceros, eagles or Bengal tigers up close, its complete collection of animal skins, archaeological collections and an interesting exhibition of insects; and, of course, you can't miss the skeleton of a huge whale that hangs from the ceiling of the room. It's awesome!
Caliwood - Cinematography Museum
A fantastic way of finding out about the development of this important industry in Cali.
Inside cinema
Cali has always been regarded as the cinema capital of Colombia, so it was only a matter of time before it had its own museum dedicated to this cultural sector. So, Caliwood – Cinematography Museum was opened in 2008 to show the workings of the cinema and to shine a light on details little-known by the public at large: the excellent collection in this centre comprises recording equipment, more than a hundred photographic cameras (including the largest and the smallest in the world), phonographs, magic lanterns, ferrotypes, cine projectors and a fabulous display of film posters and advertising, really fascinating. Here you can find out at first-hand not only how the cinema industry has developed in Colombia and the world, but also what happens behind the scenes before a film arrives on the large screen. There are guided tours in both Spanish and English.
Julio Cesar Cubillos Archaeological Museum
It exhibits more than three thousand historical pieces: statues, vessels, ceramic objects...
of incalculable value
Five decades have given birth to this symbol of Cali culture, a center belonging to the Universidad del Valle. Despite the fact that it only shows a tenth of its collections, its large number of pieces is only comparable to their intrinsic value: the more than three thousand exhibited works correspond to pre-Hispanic times, some of them even exceeding two thousand years of age. antiquity. Statues, vessels, objects made of ceramic, stone or wood, anthropomorphic carvings and an endless number of representations that will allow you to see first-hand how the ancestral cultures of Colombia lived. We are talking about an authentic sign of identity for the nation's heritage. The Julio César Cubillos Archaeological Museum, which honors its first administrator with its name, also participates in excavations within the campus itself and in other archaeological zones outside the city, developing additional research and cultural dissemination work.
La Merced Archaeological Museum
It is home to many everyday items of the region's pre-Colombian cultures.
Exploring the depths
If you would like to find out about the history of Cali from the inside, you are in the right place. La Merced Archaeological Museum, which is part of the religious complex from which it takes its name, is significant because it houses a large collection of items belonging to the most important pre-Columbian cultures in the Cauca region, the Calima, Quimbaya, Tumaco and Tolima, to name just a few: through its six rooms (plus one more dedicated to temporary exhibitions) it provides a comprehensive overview of different aspects of daily life of these civilizations, such as the religious acts, the different trades and funeral rites: the beauty of its pottery pieces is unparalleled, and its urns, pots and effigies will take you into a fascinating world. The replica of the hypogeum which is in its central patio, built underground, is particularly noteworthy. The museum was opened in 1978, and since then it has programmed seminars, workshops and conferences on the culture of the region.
La Tertulia Museum
80% of its over 1,500 works are works on paper. Truly remarkable.
Avant-garde everywhere
Lovers of modern art are in luck, as this is one of the largest collections in all Colombia: the Tertulia Museum houses over 1,500 contemporary pieces, works by national and international artists from the middle of the XX century up to the present day. Its key feature, and despite also exhibiting pictures, sculptures and photographs, is that approximately 80% of its collections is comprised of works on paper, from engravings to pencil or pastel drawings: the peculiarity of the display means that, for reasons of conservation, every four months almost half the collection is restored, so you there will always be something new to look at. The centre building also boasts extraordinary, avant-garde architecture, very fitting with what you will see inside. Throughout the year, it hosts very interesting temporary exhibitions, and has a film archive and a small stage where open-air concerts are held.
Museum of Colonial and Religious Art
Works from the XV century up to well into the XX century. Unmissable!
A stroll through history
Opened in 1978, this centre was created from the restoration of the La Merced Convent, within the religious complex after which it is named. The great value of this museum lies in the beauty of its works, of which the authorship is known of only a small percentage, and in the comprehensive overview it provides of the different historical eras of the city, with pieces from the XV century up to well into the XX century. Another of its strengths is its heterogeneity, as the collection which it exhibits comprises pictures painted on a huge variety of different materials, for example, wood, stone, metal, canvas and glass, giving the collection a truly multi-faceted character. You can also see here some beautiful sculptures in stone and wood, colonial art, religious garments, furniture from the convent and the nearby chapels and, as a point of interest, the oldest wall, still standing in the city of Cali.
Riding in the south of the city
Explore the Pance River and the area around it from totally different point of view.
On horseback
There are many ways of getting into the great outdoors, but none as authentic and fun as doing it on horseback. In Cali there are riding schools where you can hire beautiful horses for a typical trail ride, cabalgata as they are known here, and pass an agreeable afternoon from a totally different point of view; it will be really good fun. The most famous trail rides are in the south of the city, around the Pance River: they are educational excursions along the river (some even cross the river) which take you into wild areas with the guides explaining the characteristic features of the area; this is a very original option if you are travelling with your children. The most well-known centre is probably ‘La Z’, a school which has been in operation for over 25 years and which offers a wide range of possibilities. And do you know what’s best? There are prices to suit every budget.
Plaza San Francisco
A place to relax and contemplate the every day life of the city.
To watch time pass by
Some people find this square by chance after visiting the impressive religious complex after which it is named, but the attraction of the Plaza San Francisco is not just its monuments, it is much more than that. It is a place that is full of life, very crowded on every day of the week, but particularly busy on Saturdays and Sundays. People of all ages come here, whole families come here to enjoy a lazy afternoon with no other plan than to spend a few pleasant hours in the open air: walking, enjoying the privileged surroundings, feeding the multitude of pigeons who are keen to make friends and, in short, enjoying a relaxing day. It’s hard to beat this square as a place to savour a delicious cholado or candy floss; or to contemplate the daily life of the locals as they carry out their daily tasks. If you want to feel like just another local, this is the place for you.
Plaza de Cayzedo
It is remarkable for its very tall palm trees, elegant gardens and the buildings around it.
The heart of the city
We are not exaggerating when we say that this is the heart and soul of Cali, a symbolic place both because of its historic significance as well as because of the important role it played in the city’s development; this was the place where the expansion of the city started. The Plaza de Cayzedo pays due homage to Joaquín de Cayzedo y Cuero, leader of Valle del Cauca’s independence, by naming the square after him and erecting a large bronze statue to him in the centre. This square is famous for its very tall palm trees, the elegant architecture of its gardens and the important buildings around it: San Pedro Cathedral, the National Palace and the Otero Building, palatial treasures in a variety of styles. We could say that this is the busiest square in the whole city, perfect for investigating the urban lifestyle and seeing the day-to-day routines of Cali at first hand, listening to spontaneous discussions and taking the opportunity to chat to street vendors. Unmissable!
Enjoy the San Antonio neighborhood
Bohemian area with a special charm.; its artists and its gastronomy will do the rest.
colonial essence
If it were necessary to select an area that perfectly represented the intrinsic values of the city of Cali, there is no doubt that the Barrio de San Antonio would take the cake. The essence of the capital is concentrated here: an area full of magical corners, beautiful colonial architecture that reminds one of past times and a first-class historical heritage; not in vain, it is also known as 'Cali Viejo'. Its beautiful low-ceilinged buildings now house antique dealers, artisan workshops and artistic centers that have filled the neighborhood with life, keeping intact the soul that lives in it; We are talking about a bohemian place, full of artists who give free rein to their imagination and who will take you on a flight to a dream world. Its traditional restaurants and endless cultural activities will make walking through its twisted streets an unparalleled experience. What are you waiting for to meet him?
Pan American Park
Esplanade which hosts cultural events such as the Cali Fair and the Álvarez Petronio Festival.
With its flags flying
This is also known as the Park of the Flags, and with good reason: three dozen masts fly flags of Colombia and other countries from around the world, explaining why the flag has become the symbol by which this place is recognized. This was where the Olympic flame stayed before the opening of the Pan-American Games in 1971, which is the origin of its official name; the park was designed by the architects Manuel Lago and Jaime Sáenz Caicedo. On one side of the square, there is a fountain which is popular with families, particularly at weekends; the parents relax while the children run and play to their hearts content. As it is such a large esplanade free from buildings, it is often the site of large cultural events such as the Cali Fair or the Petronio Álvarez Festival. It is located very near the Pascual Guerrero Olympic Stadium.
Las Garzas Ecopark
Perfect for disconnecting from the noise of the city, with a special birdwatching dock.
An oasis of tranquility
The green lungs in the city centre act as a powerful counterweight to the traffic and stress of daily life; the park is situated in the southern area of the city, and was opened in 1996. Arriving at Las Garzas Ecopark means entering into an oasis of peace and tranquillity, which will allow you to disconnect from the daily noise and enjoy nature without having to leave Cali: inside you will find a large dock from where you can spot fish and birds, many footpaths with information boards on the flora and fauna of the park, and even, a picnic area where you can eat in unique surroundings. The park is particularly attractive as night falls, when the herons who live here, after which the park is named, return to their nests with their young and clothe the horizon in beautiful white.
Hill of the Three Crosses and its Holy Week pilgrimage
There are more than half a million people who go up to this monument every year.
On Thursday and Good Friday
Are you looking for a sample of the religious fervor in Cali beyond the historic buildings? Yes, Easter will be the right time. The pilgrimage to the Cerro de las Tres Cruces is perhaps the most awaited event of the year by Cali believers, a tradition that has been celebrated since 1837, when two friars reached the top of the hill to place these symbols of the current city. The figures, attention, are inexorable: more than half a million people of all ages make the pilgrimage between Thursday and Good Friday, numbers that increase every year; It is an event that is held again every May 3. There are those who make the ascent as an opportunity to atone for their sins and present promises before the Most High, but also those who take advantage of the occasion to play sports and gallop up the sections. These are days in which the capital is paralyzed to celebrate this unique event.
Cali Botanical Garden
Hundreds of specimens that will amaze you with their color and vividness. An oasis of peace.
reflection of biodiversity
Located in the immediate vicinity of the river, this beautiful open space houses the best representation of Valle del Cauca flora in the city. The Cali Botanical Garden extends over twelve hectares full of typical plants of the region and many other endemic species, creating a contrast of colors and shapes that powerfully attracts attention: samanes, chickadees, carnivorous plants, huge snails, ceibas , the curious flowers of the dance, chiminangos, acacias and, of course, orchids, you will consider as the national flower of Colombia. It will not be difficult for you to see first-hand the immense biodiversity of the area. It also offers the possibility of guided tours to learn about the unique characteristics of these native ecosystems and the birds that live and reproduce in them. Beyond the merely natural, the garden stands as a true haven of peace within the urban nucleus, perfect for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle and enjoying a pleasant walk.
Swim in the Pance River
Even its cold water will not spoil your enjoyment of this unforgettable moment.
A unique experience
Without a doubt, this is one of the best open-air activities that you can do in Cali. The Pance River, named after the mountain where it rises, is located outside the city and has been a favourite place with the locals to commune with Mother Nature; and with good reason, as the landscapes along its 25 kilometre length are absolutely fascinating, unspoiled and full of life. The water in the river is cold, but even this will not stop you enjoying this place in all its splendour. Just imagine it: swimming in a river with crystal-clear water, surrounded by views to die for. It sounds incredible, doesn’t it? Our personal advice is to go to the area between Pance town and the Vorágine, where the experience will be even more enjoyable as it won’t be busy. This will be an unforgettable experience.
Wander along the Bulevar del Río
A pedestrianized avenue beside the river and close to several monuments. It also hosts exhibitions.
Walk at your leisure
A city where the public spaces are dedicated to the recreation of its inhabitants is a city which has been designed with people in mind: this is exactly what happened in 2013 in Cali, when they opened the renovated Bulevar de la Avenida Colombia, also known as Bulevar del Río (River Boulevard) because of its proximity to the river. This is a pedestrian avenue which, since it was opened, has become one of the most popular places in the capital, a place where locals meet to enjoy a pleasant walk and feel the legendary city breeze blow away their everyday cares. Two intrinsic aspects make it particularly impressive: firstly, its privileged location, which makes it the central point around which several important city monuments are located; secondly because of the vitality it imparts, hosting occasional cultural exhibitions which will add to the enjoyment of your walk. One piece of advice? If you can, visit it at Christmas. It is spectacular!
Andoke Foundation and its butterfly house
Have you ever wanted to see butterflies close up and even touch them. This is your chance.
A pleasure for your senses
Colombia’s biodiversity is one of the country’s greatest attractions, and in centres like the one run by the Andoke Foundation it is possible to admire the magic of Mother Nature’s creations. Not far from the capital, it is home to an important collection of autochthonous plants, aquatic gardens, national flowers and birds that will make you feel you are in paradise: once you have immersed yourself in the landscape, you will think there is no more wonderful place on earth. But, without a doubt, the highlight is its enormous butterfly house, a place where these stunningly beautiful insects fly free, reproduce and grow, and you can also discover how caterpillars turn into butterflies; of course, you can touch them and feel their gentle movements in your hand as you get a close look at their striking colours. An unbeatable feeling! Its fascinating scalable map of Colombia is another point of interest.
Rural areas around Cali
Beautiful countryside and hiking trails which will allow you to discover some very special places.
Count yourself lucky
And that’s not all, near the capital there are two particular places of interest which stand out: firstly, the famous Vuelta a Occidente which encompasses several sites of unparalleled beauty, such as Los Andes, the home of the Virgen de Yanaconas and where you can revel in an enormous variety of landscapes, Felidia, situated inside the Farallones Natural Park of Cali, or La Elvira, deep within a forest reserve area. This description itself is all that’s needed to imagine this leafy paradise; secondly, the Ruta de la Montaña, perfect for hikers, passes through the towns of Pance, Villacarmelo and La Buitrera. Hiking here will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in stunningly beautiful places formed by rivers, natural pools, hills, waterfalls and leafy vegetation. This is a perfect place for bird watching, with recreational facilities and really appealing activities available. Ready to have fun?
Trips to Dapa, Yumbo and Racamandapa
Just outside Cali, here you will be able to disconnect and enjoy the essence of Valle del Cauca.
Nature in her purest state
If you thought that all Valle del Cauca’s charm was concentrated in Cali, you will soon discover that places outside the city also have a lot to offer: there are several nearby places where you can enjoy ambiences which are totally different, perfect choices for a day trip. The municipality of Yumbo is one of these places, famous because of its natural contrast with Cali and because of its incredible landscapes; it is a perfect place to disconnect while admiring the heavenly views, meeting the local fauna and being enthralled on the stunning hiking trails. A good choice for lovers of adventure sports. The town of Dapa and Racamandapa Park, also in this area, are two more beautiful destinations that show off the local area in its purest form. There is life outside the capital!
Discover Colombia's Pacific Coast
Look out for the baby humpbacked whale in Bahía Malaga. Its awesome!
Unparalleled beauty
The Pacific Ocean coast is one of the best kept secrets of the Valle del Cauca region. It is divided into two areas, the jungle plains and the coastline, each of them with its own special charm; there are also two stand out places: Buenaventura and Bahía Málaga. The first is noteworthy because it is the most important port on the Colombian Pacific coast, because it is a place where the jungle and the sea meet and because the beaches are to die for, picture postcard perfect; it will be an easy place to fall in love with. In addition, you can dive on the islands of Lampelo and Gorgona and swim through shoals of fish; Bahía Málaga is the place chosen by humpbacked whales to bring up their young between August and November, which provides visitors with an amazing natural spectacle, a pleasure for the senses. The Uramba National Park is the cherry on the cake: beautiful beyond description.
Adventure Sports in Valle del Cauca
50% of the municipalities in the area are suitable for practising extreme sports.
Only for the brave
On land, sea and air. The privileged location of Valle del Cauca has allowed this region to become a significant area in Colombia as far as adventure sports are concerned, and it is its biodiversity and its impressive natural scenery that draw more and more people here to enjoy an adrenaline rush: lakes, valleys, hills, plains, mountains, coast, canyons and rivers which offer visitors a thousand and one possibilities. Places such as Cerrito Valle, Maloca de los Vientos, Calima Lake, La Buitrera and Roldanillo offer you the possibility of practising paragliding, zip wire, mountain biking, rafting, rappel, hiking, spider web, tubing, kayaking, climbing, Tibetan bridges and any other sport you can dream up. And it’s not surprising, as it is a fact that 50% of the municipalities in this region are suitable for practising extreme sports. Find your inner adventurer!
Cali's cultural festivals
Music, ballet, cinema and even a sun worshipping festival. Impressive!
The deepest roots
Aside from salsa, Cali exudes culture on every corner. Its festivals touch on all artistic spheres, so you will always find something to suit you: the acclaimed International Film Festival, in November, one of the most important in Latin America, brings together the best independent artists; the famous International Ballet Festival, in June, which garners greater public following every year; or the Pacific Music Festival, in August, which focuses on local music and is responsible for keeping the traditional tunes of national folklore alive. However, do you want to attend something that is very typically Colombian? Then don’t miss the ‘Inti raymi’ Festival, in June, where the indigenous people worship the sun in an act of pure communion with nature and show themselves to be justly proud of the region’s ethnic diversity. In one word: impressive.
Dance shows and events
You won't believe your eyes at these amazing shows.
Ready for an exceptional show?
Dance is in the bones of people from Cali; so much so, that throughout the year events of all types are put on to celebrate this beautiful cultural form. There are venues that organize occasional shows, such as Carpa Delirio, where you can enjoy fabulous live shows with dancing and an orchestra, or Cabaret Salsa Show, which combines salsa and cabaret and even allows visitors to dance with the professional artists. These are events of the highest quality. No less attractive are other events such as Cali’s salsa schools’ internal championships or the competitions known as ‘Salsa Hombre’ and ‘Salsa Ladies’ where the cream of Colombian salsa come together to astonish friends and foreigners with their golden steps. And, as an unforgettable climax, every year the World Salsa Festival takes place here, with entry open to the best dancers from other countries.
Enjoy a trip to the theatre
Classical theatres, independent companies and a festival which fills the streets with colour.
Illusions brought to life
Enjoying a trip to the theatre is a genuine tradition in Cali, and a must while you are in the city. The theatre is a deeply-rooted cultural sphere which is becoming more and more popular: so much so, that occasionally the shows leave the theatre and are performed in the open air, for example, during the Festival of Popular Live Street Theatre, which takes place every year at the end of March and which fills the streets with magic and colour. There are legendary theatres, even at a national level, such as the Enrique Buenaventura Municipal Theatre or the Jorge Isaacs Municipal Theatre, both leading players in Cali’s cultural life. There are also a good number of independent companies, such as Esquina Latina, Salamandra or La Máscara, which have interesting programmes with works for everyone, from events for children to short experimental theatre pieces. You will be spoiled for choice.
Cali Zoo
A perfect way to spend a fun day en famille and be surrounded by the magic of nature.
More than two hundred different species
Its high-quality facilities, the perfect recreation of different habitats and its enormous variety of animals means that this zoo is considered to be one of the best in all Latin America. Cali Zoo is one of the best attractions in the city, the perfect way to spend a day with your family while the children enjoy the magic of nature: the zoo has over two hundred different species so you will be able to see close up animals as diverse as otters, lions, ostriches, brown bears, tapirs, llamas, snakes, zebras and crocodiles, and learn about their habits. The journey through the Colombian ecosystems, with their impressive diversity, is particularly eye-catching, as is its butterfly house, which houses over a thousand butterflies and where the colours are truly amazing. It was opened in 1969. Its breeding programme is recognized internationally.
Experience a football match
Going to a Deportivo or América de Cali match will be unforgettable.
Get your pulse racing
Passion cannot be expressed in words; it has to be felt and experienced. And what better way to understand the depths of passionate feeling than through football. In the capital there are two historic teams, both honoured nationally because of the titles they hold: the América de Cali, with thirteen national championships, and Deportivo Cali, with nine, which also has the honour of being the doyen of Colombian football. Attending a match of either of these teams is a unique experience, which will remain in your memory for ever: on match days, the stadiums are full of colour, flags, chanting and a tidal wave of fans who come to cheer on their players. The atmosphere inside the arenas is overwhelming from start to finish, ninety minutes of frenzy, dedication and hope: yes, ninety minutes of passion. Football fan or not, this is a date for your diary.
Let's go to the aquaparks
The best way to escape the heat. Affordable too.
Childish fun!
In the months when the heat hits the capital, there is nothing more refreshing than enjoying the real sensation of a water park. Cali has two water parks which will delight both children and adults: firstly, the Caña Water Park offers really exciting attractions like a swimming pool with waves, water slides with loops and the famous ‘kamikaze’ slides whose spectacular drops will take you by surprise. It has a semi-Olympic sized pool where you can swim at your leisure; secondly, the Tardes Caleñas Water Park, which is more family-oriented, has a swimming pool which also serves as an artificial river where you can enjoy some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Of course, it also has water slide, exciting attractions and a good restaurant serving typical local food. The perfect leisure choice.
Dancing in Cali
Visiting Cali and not salsa dancing is practically unforgivable. Care to dance?
The heart and soul of the party
Yes, we are repeating ourselves: Cali’s nightlife did, does and always will revolve around salsa, it’s defining characteristic; this is why, visiting the Valle del Cauca capital and not dancing along to this music is practically unforgivable. All around the city there are a large numbers of dance clubs where music starts in the early evening and doesn’t stop until dawn. However two areas stand out because of their traditional salsa spirit: Avenida Sexta and Carrera 66. Discos as famous as Kukaramakara, Cuba Libre or Baiao are hotspots for the thousands of people from Cali who meet up to let themselves by carried away by the rhythms and spirit of salsa, the back and forth and twirling dance moves that will leave you open-mouthed. Are you brave enough to step onto the dance floor?
City night life
Discos, live music shows, lounges… What are you waiting for?
Something for everyone
The night life in Cali is probably the liveliest, most atmospheric and convivial in the whole country. Salsa is the undisputed queen of the party, but there is something here for everyone: from open air terraces where you can enjoy a good dinner and a cocktail to follow to venues for alternative music, without forgetting, of course, the huge discos that will keep you entertained until the wee small hours. Some legendary places? You can visit Route 66, for lovers of good rock, the Chango club, with its traditional festive atmosphere, or the Sagsa disco, where you can dance to music as different as vallenato or electronic. And if you prefer something a little quieter don’t forget to call in to the Blue Martini Lounge, famous for its exclusive atmosphere and its extensive cocktail menu. Now, all you have to do is decide just how you are going to enjoy the lively capital night life.
Food squares in the shopping centres
You can order food in different establishments and then meet up and eat together.
Perfect if you are shopping with friends
A well-established tradition in Cali is to go to a shopping centre not just to enjoy a day’s shopping, but also for lunch or dinner; and many people will visit the shopping centres just to satisfy their culinary cravings. The reason is simple: in the same space you can choose between many different types of food, some unimaginable in a traditional restaurant; Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Greek, Mexican, American, Spanish… all under the same roof, there for the asking. The food squares are successful because when several people go shopping together, each person can choose what they feel like eating and they can then eat together at a table in the square. The restaurants are usually chains, not necessarily fast food, that offer good quality menus at reasonable prices.
Antigua Contemporánea Restaurant
Its combination of romantic ambience and designer dishes make it an absolute must.
Fusion on and off the plate
Its name is not accidental, and you will understand why when you see the how the colonial-style building contrasts hugely with the presentation of its dishes. Situated in the bohemian district of San Antonio, the Antigua Contemporánea is famous for the romantic ambience that pervades the restaurant and for its truly unique décor, where eclecticism is the order of the day: vintage furniture, natural vegetation, Arabic elements, fountains, buddhas… and some of these decorative items are even for sale. Interested? On the purely gastronomic side, its menu mixes flavours and textures to create daring, elegant recipes, which will surprise even the most demanding palates; fusion is their raison d’être, in both decoration and menu. Their loin contemporáneo, their crusty prawns, salmon cooked in the oven or the famous buffalo cheese montadito will give you a complete culinary experience.
Tardes Caleñas Restaurant
Specialists in grilled meat. Your evening is enhanced by live music.
A typical city atmosphere
This is the perfect place to eat local dishes if you are visiting the city with your family as the restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its menu comprises traditional dishes of local cuisine, although it specializes in grilled meat: baby beef, flank steak, Valluna chops, marranitas (meat balls) and roasts in general, everything cooked perfectly and with a fabulous flavour. Do pay particular attention to their empanadas and the delicious chicharrones (pork crackling) that are offered as an aperitif. You will want to come back again and again! The portions are generous, well served and at a reasonable price, making it the perfect place for any budget. Tardes Caleñas also stands out for its live music performances, which enhance the meal and will encourage more than one person to strut their stuff on the dance floor. If you want to find a place with the typical atmosphere of the capital city this is the place for you.
The Buen Alimento vegetarian restaurant
A healthy alternative which keeps the essence of Colombian flavours. It will amaze you!
Another side of the national cuisine
Cali also has a place for lovers of vegetarian food. The Buen Alimento Restaurant was set up at the beginning of this decade with the clear intention of becoming a leader in vegetarian cuisine in Cali, and wow has it succeeded: its dishes offer a healthy and tasty alternative way to discover another side of the national gastronomy. Chick pea hamburgers, dishes with bean sprouts, falafel sandwiches, vegan tamales, lasagnes, oriental-inspired pasta, grilled vegetables and much more, a plethora of options comprise a truly original menu. Its products are top quality, such as the tofu, which is traditionally prepared in house, and the house sauces will delight any diner, even the most committed carnivore; these delicious recipes will make them change their mind. They offer a menu of the day with very competitive prices.
Patio Valluno Restaurant
Its menu offers the classic dishes of Cali gastronomy.
The home of tradition
To talk about the Patio Valluno Restaurant is to talk about the gastronomy of Cali in all its splendour, a place where the dishes are prepared with the affection that can only be offered by local knowledge. Here you will be able to try the country’s traditional dishes and dive into a world of flavour: marranitas, stuffed potatoes, bistecks a caballo, chicharrones, tamales, yucca pastries, patacones, ribs and myriad choices that will take you on a fascinating culinary journey; there is no traditional dish from the Cauca region which is not on this menu. And if you want to spoil yourself, order their legendary beef tenderloin in shrimp sauce, a dish which is as appetizing as it sounds. Natural juices, lemonades and tradition drinks like lulada or champús complete the top-class menu. And its value for money is among the best in the city.
La Comitiva Restaurant
Dishes with ingredients from the Pacific make for a convivial shared dining experience
Sharing platters
Have you ever imagined a restaurant where the dishes and the ambience work together to delight all your senses at the same time? Well, this is the place you were looking for. The Comitiva Restaurant has deservedly won its privileged position on Cali’s culinary scene through the traditional approach of placing dishes in the centre of the table for all the diners to share, to come together over a convivial meal. Its chef, Juan Carlos Quintero, strongly believes that Pacific elements should feature in his dishes, and offers such appealing choices as fresh fish tiradito, shrimp sultanitas, prawns with chontaduro or the famous ‘sobrebarriga pinchada’, a meat dish. His arroz atollado contains sea food as well as chicken and pork. Take a close look at the cocktail list as it offers cocktails with relatively uncommon gins which are particularly interesting. You will love it!
Platillos Voladores
Typical Cali cuisine reinterpreted with a touch of sophistication, and constantly evolving.
A menu with personality
The magic of this restaurant lies in the reinvention of traditional Cali cuisine, reinterpreting its complex flavours and adding new ideas without losing its deepest roots. The chef Vicky Acosta specializes in investigating new fusion possibilities between national and foreign ingredients, which gives her creations a strong personality and it is constantly evolving; it not surprising that Platillos Voladores is one of the most well-known and loved venues in the capital. Its menu? Wraps with chontaduro (a popular fruit in Cali), prawn fufú, fish with a reduction of mango and kiwi, salmon with passion fruit sauce or chicken with mandarin are some of her most requested recipes, a selection which is complemented with other delicious choices of meat, seafood and an enviable variety of salads. Its romantic terrace is the cherry on the cake, a perfect place to enjoy dinner in a dreamy atmosphere.
Teatro Mágico del Sabor
The chef cooks infront of you and delivers a truly original performance.
Meal + a show = a unique experience
You won’t believe it until you have seen it with your own eyes: here, the food is the star of a live show, where the chef cooks in front of the diners while delivering a genuinely entertaining performance. At the Teatro Mágico del Sabor (the Magical Theatre of Flavour), originality is the order of the day and will make your visit an one-off culinary experience. Its offer is based on international dishes with adventurous Colombian touches, such as pork loin cooked in coconut, prawns with anise and lemon or lentil hummus, both original and appetizing; also, if you want to try a little of everything, you can order a tasting menu. And don’t forget the extensive wine list, perfect accompaniment to an excellent meal. This is the ideal place to enjoy a fun evening with friends. Remember to book in advance.
A gastonomic tour of Cali
Gourmet shops, bohemian districts, areas to have dinner and drinks….
Which area will you choose?
Do you want to know where to go to find the best seasoning? Then a good idea would be to discover the culinary hot spots of the city. Alongside its fashion shops, the Granada district started Cali’s venture into gourmet restaurants and nowadays there are several high-profile restaurants in this area. Young, but sophisticated. The district of Ciudad Jardín is not far behind, another haven to good taste, with restaurants characterized by international-style fusion food, where you can choose Japanese, Mediterranean or state-of-the-art cuisine. San Antonio district offers a more bohemian atmosphere, with choices which are both tasty and surprising; the best thing here is the welcoming atmosphere in its streets. Finally, another gastronomic area in Cali worth noting is the El Peñón district, which has restaurants and bars all within easy reach of each other, so you can enjoy a whole evening here from start to finish. Which style will you choose?
One champús, please.
Cold drink (frozen!) made with honey, fruit and cinnamon. Original, to say the least.
An iconic drink
Listen up, because it is time to try one of Colombia’s most authentic recipes. Champús is a genuine emblem of the gastronomy of Valle del Cauca, a drink that epitomizes the unique character of the people who prepare it. Although it is drunk in other countries such as Peru or Ecuador, it is unique in Colombia because here it is served cold, very cold, and is considered to be a natural remedy for high temperatures: this beverage is prepared with honey, maize and different fruits (it is most often prepared with pineapple and lulo, a striking fruit because of its orange skin and green inside) spiced with cloves, cinnamon and bitter orange leaves; the mixture is original, to say the least. Our recommendation is to try this drink with some tasty local empanadas and spicy chilli sauce. A fabulous combination!
Try an authentic cholado
Crushed ice accompanied by fruit, flavoured syrup and condensed milk. Divine!
Perfect for hot days
Enjoying a refreshing cholado is an unmissable date to be marked in red on your tourist schedule. This is a delicious mix of crushed ice, (also known as a raspado (referring to the crushed ice) by the locals, fruit like green apple, banana, pineapple, strawberry or papaw, different flavoured syrups and, to top it all off, condensed milk. The result is a super sweet, generous fruit salad, a perfect solution for hot days; and not only that, it is also said to help with the morning after hangovers. It is usually served in large plastic glasses and you can find it at street stalls around the city, in the Pan American Park, for example. And as we are sure that this will become one of your favourite choices, why not try it in the city of Jamundi, just one hour out of Cali, where it originally came from.
More typical recipes
Marranitas, Valle del Cauca chops, tamales, aborrajados, luladas… Who could want more?
Variety first and foremost
If there is one defining feature of Cali’s cuisine, it is, without a doubt, its diversity: meat, stews, vegetables and typical drinks that will make your mouth water just at the thought. Pork is a popular ingredient, appearing in authentic dishes such as marranitas (green plantain fried and stuffed with pork crackling) or Valle del Cauca chops, simply prepared but really delicious. The ubiquitous tamales, empanadas and the delicious sancocho de gallina (chicken and vegetable soup), are the perfect main course to be followed by heavenly puddings like blancmange, pandebono (rolls) or aborrajado which is fried mature plantains stuffed with cheese. The wide selection also includes traditional drinks such as masato, which has pre-Hispanic origins and is based on the fermentation of pineapples or yuccas, or lulada, which is prepared with lulo, a native fruit. And do you know the best thing? Whatever you choose will always be delicious!
Monument to the María Mulata
This quintessentially South American bird seen on all national beaches will show you the way to the Pacific Ocean.
The pride of Cali
It was just a matter of time before Cali’s proximity to the coast and its historical relationship with the Pacific Ocean would be reflected in a monument praising these autochthonous values. The choice of subject was very original: a tribute to the María Mulata, the great-tailed grackle, a bird seen on all Colombian beaches. This monument gives due recognition to the country’s diversity of fauna, which is one of the greatest in the world. The statue is made of iron and its main characteristic is its shiny black colour; it is located, how could it be otherwise, on the city’s road out towards the sea, showing travellers the way. It is the work of the fabulous sculptor Enrique Grau, and was inaugurated in 1997. It also represents Cali's links with other cities in the country as similar monuments are found in Cartagena, Medellín and Barranquilla.
The River Cat
Donated by the great artist Hernando Tejada, it is one of the most visited monuments.
A curious, curious set
Did you think you had seen it all? Wait then to discover this surprise that Cali has in store for you: the River Cat is one of the most visited monuments in the capital, a nice sculpture that rests on the banks of the river that gives it its name and that has been delighting visitors for two decades. neighbors and visitors. Donated by the famous artist Hernando Tejada, it is 3.5 meters high and almost five meters wide, weighing... three tons! Incredible true? It is made of bronze, and was inaugurated in July 1996. So that he would not sleep alone, an initiative called 'Las novias del gato' was carried out in 2006; Thanks to her, fifteen other colorful felines are in charge of keeping our attractive protagonist company, with names as seductive as Campfire, Coquette or Golosa. Important Colombian sculptors such as Omar Rayo or Lucy Tejada, the artist's sister, participated in it.
Sebastián de Belalcázar Monument
A bronze statue inaugurated to commemorate Cali's four hundredth anniversary.
A tribute to the city's founder
It is almost five hundred years since the Spanish conquistador, Sebastián de Belalcázar, founded the city of Cali, on July 25th, 1536. In order to commemorate the four hundredth anniversary of this important date, the authorities in Cali decided to erect a monument to pay tribute to this famous explorer, one of the historic names in Colombia’s history. They erected a large statue made of cast bronze in which Belalcázar is standing, his right hand pointing towards the Pacific Ocean and his left hand holding the Tizona sword. The statue is on a pedestal which displays the city’s coat of arms, and is positioned on a viewpoint with beautiful views out over the city. The statue was created by the Spanish sculptor Victorio Macho and was inaugurated in Cali in June 1937.
Monument of the Three Crosses
They were erected to drive away a demon who had put a curse on the city. So the legend says….
A compulsory pilgrimage
We can safely say, if we refer to the story that is attached to this monument, that the devil was responsible for these three crosses being built here. In 1837, two monks decided to climb up to this high hill carrying three cane crosses, their purpose being to drive away the demon Buziraco, who had cursed the city and foretold its downfall. They continued to do this in subsequent years, and this pilgrimage started to gain more followers each time; so much so that today hundreds of locals come here on May 3rd every year to attend mass and to worship at the Holy Cross. The cane crosses were replaced by new cement crosses in 1938, which are still here today reaching up to the heavens: the central cross is 26 metres high; the two side crosses are 22 metres high. They are situated at a height of 1,480 metres above sea level.
Monument to Cristo Rey (Christ the King)
26 metres high and almost 1,500 metres above sea level. Awesome!
Watching over the city from on high
There are two reasons why this is one of the iconic monuments of Cali: firstly, because of the monument itself, an enormous effigy of Christ the King, 26 metres high (the pedestal itself is 5 metres high), 25 metres wide due to the position of its arms and weighing 464 tons; secondly, because of the incredible views that you will be able to see from this privileged spot, on the highest point of the famous Cerro de los Cristales (Hill of the Crystals), at almost 1,500 metres above sea level. It was inaugurated in 1952, and was designed by the Italian artist Alideo Tazzioli. The monument also has a small chapel. On the journey up here you will have the chance to enjoy the fascinating work of Carlos Andrés Gómez, an artist who has sculpted images on the stones of the ravines leading to the top of the Hill.
San Francisco religious complex
The Mudejar Tower and the San Francisco Church are two landmarks in Cali.
Religious eclecticism
A tower, a convent, a church, a chapel and a museum in the same place; yes that’s right. And if you add to this, an impressive mixture of architectural styles, a walk to the San Francisco religious complex is an absolute must during your stay in the city. This is an area where the Capilla de la Inmaculada, with its attractive pale green façade, is a perfect counterpoint to the Mudejar Tower, perhaps the most important example of this style in the entire American continent: it is 23 metres high, and its roof is covered with a selection of green and blue tiles. However, without a doubt, the jewel in the crown is the beautiful church after which the complex is named, the San Francisco Church, which boasts an elegant neo-Classical style. The marked contrast between the exterior and interior of the church is remarkable, to say the least.
San Antonio Church
The white façade contrasts with the red tower and the green of the surrounding landscape. Truly stunning!
A beautiful colonial building
Rather than for its outward appearance, San Antonio Church is famous for its symbolic importance and for the great affection held for it by people of Cali. This building has become, over the years, a wonderful example of Colonial architecture, with a façade that is both simple and attractive: its white exterior contrasts vividly with the red bricks of the portico and the tower and the green of the surrounding countryside. The overall impression is spectacular. Inside, of particular note is the beautiful, Baroque-style altar which crowns the chapel and which is decorated in blue and gold; and above it, of course, an impressive statue of San Antonio who used to guide the faithful who came to this elevated area of the city every day. It was built in 1747 and was restored at the end of the last century.
La Ermita Church
A small church built in an attractive Gothic style. Its main altar is a highlight.
Will take your breath away
Located right in the old quarter, this is perhaps the most stylized building you will see in Cali. This Catholic church was built on the site of a former XVII chapel, which was totally destroyed in the earthquake of 1787. It wasn’t until the middle of the XX century that it was decided to build a new, beautiful Gothic-style church here. It was consecrated to Nuestra Señora de los Dolores (Our Lady of Sorrows), although inside it houses a remarkable carving of Señor de la Caña (Lord of the Sugar Cane) which survived the earthquake intact, and to whom the locals attribute miracles. The Ermita is a church with three naves, and its interior decoration is particularly noteworthy: the main altar is made of Carrara marble, and is accompanied by beautiful stained-glass windows, an elegant rose window above the central nave and statues that are several centuries old, such as that of Saint Roch, Saint Francis Xavier and Saint Joseph.
La Merced religious complex
This is where the first mass was celebrated for the foundation of the city, in 1536.
This is where it all started
Few places are of such historical significance in Cali as this area; and this is not surprising, as it was built in the very place where the first mass was celebrated, on the occasion of the city’s foundation back in 1536. The construction of the La Merced religious complex was finished in 1545, and has three chapels, a convent and two museums, one archaeological and one of religious art. Its exterior appearance is characterized by a distinctive white colour and by the lack of decorative elements, a simplicity which is also exemplified in the Iglesia de la Merced, the most important building here: it was consecrated to Our Lady of Mercy, patron saint of the city and has two naves and inside houses a very valuable carving of the virgin which dates back to the VII century. Of particular note are its wooden colonial-style altar and the rosary given as a gift by Pope John Paul II during his visit to Cali in 1986.
The Metropolitan Cathedral
The simplicity of its façade leads to a sumptuous artistic display inside
With striking contrasts
A true symbol of the city and one of its great architectural gems. The Metropolitan Cathedral is the most important Catholic church in Cali; it was built over the course of several decades and has undergone various renovations over the years: its construction started in 1772 in a Baroque style, however, it wasn’t until 1841 that it was finished with the addition of the elegant tower which crowns it, built in a neo-Classical style; the damage caused by subsequent earthquakes meant that the façade and the bell tower had to be taken down and rebuilt, resulting in its present-day appearance. The simple exterior façade contrasts hugely with the artistic wealth of the interior, where of particular note are the impressive colourful stained glass windows, the lamps and the imposing main altar, which houses an elegant silver altar. No less remarkable is its tubular organ, one of the largest in Colombia, which has been in operation for almost a hundred years.
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