The Best Time to Visit Cali: A Detailed Guide

Cali, also known as Santiago de Cali, is a vibrant city located in the southwestern region of Colombia. It is known as the salsa capital of the world and offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its year-round warm weather, Cali can be visited any time of the year. However, depending on your preferences, some months may be better than others. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the best time to visit Cali and why.

Seasons in Cali

Before we dive into the best time to visit Cali, let’s take a quick look at the city’s seasons. Cali experiences a tropical savanna climate, which means that it is hot and humid all year round. However, the city has two rainy seasons: from March to May and from October to November. These months are characterized by short, intense rain showers, which can sometimes lead to flooding.The dry seasons, from December to February and from June to September, are the best times to visit Cali. During these periods, the weather is sunny and warm, with a few scattered clouds. The humidity is lower, making it more comfortable to explore the city and participate in outdoor activities.

December to February: High Season

The period from December to February is considered the high season in Cali. The weather is warm and dry, and there is less chance of rain. This is the best time to visit if you’re looking to soak up the city’s festive atmosphere. Christmas and New Year’s Eve are major celebrations in Cali, and you can expect lively music, street parades, and fireworks.Cali is also home to the Feria de Cali, a week-long festival that takes place in late December. The Feria de Cali is a celebration of salsa music, dance, art, and culture. During this time, the city comes alive with concerts, dance performances, and street parties. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about salsa, meet locals, and try some delicious Colombian food.Since December to February is the high season, it’s also the most expensive time to visit Cali. Hotels and flights are likely to be pricier, and popular attractions can be crowded. If you’re planning to visit during this time, be sure to book your accommodation and tours well in advance.

June to September: Shoulder Season

The period from June to September is considered the shoulder season in Cali. The weather is still warm and dry, but there may be a few scattered showers. This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and save some money.June to September is also a good time for outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking. The weather is not as hot and humid as during the high season, making it more comfortable to explore the surrounding areas. You can take a day trip to the nearby Andes mountains or visit the San Cipriano natural reserve.If you’re interested in experiencing the local culture, June to September is a great time to visit. You can attend the Festival de Música del Pacífico Petronio Álvarez, a music festival that celebrates Afro-Colombian culture. The festival features traditional music, dance, food, and crafts. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about Colombia’s diverse cultural heritage.

March to May and October to November: Low season

The rainy seasons from March to May and from October to November are considered the low season in Cali. During these months, it’s best to avoid the city if you don’t like rain. The weather can be unpredictable, with heavy showers and thunderstorms.However, if you’re willing to brave the rain, you can find good deals on flights and accommodation during the low season. The city is less crowded, and you can have a more authentic experience. You can also explore the city’s museums, galleries, and indoor attractions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cali can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. If you’re looking to experience the city’s festive atmosphere and join in its celebrations, visit during the high season from December to February. If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, visit during the shoulder season from June to September. And if you don’t mind the rain and are looking for a bargain, visit during the low season from March to May and from October to November.Whatever time you decide to visit Cali, remember to pack light and comfortable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a raincoat or umbrella. Also, be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and plan your activities accordingly. With its vibrant culture and warm weather, Cali is sure to captivate you no matter when you choose to visit.