Ultimate Guide to Cali City Tour

If you are visiting Cali, Colombia for the first time, taking a guided tour of the city is an ideal way to explore and discover its iconic highlights. The Cali City Tour offered by Viator is the perfect choice if you want to discover the top sights of the city in just one day.

Tour Overview

The Cali City Tour is a guided tour that takes you around the city in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. You will also have the opportunity to walk around key points of interest and take photos. The tour has been designed to provide a great introduction to the city and its attractions for first-time visitors.

What’s Included

The Cali City Tour is an all-inclusive tour which includes the following:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
• Drinks
• Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
• Transportation to/from attractions

Tour Itinerary

The tour follows a well-planned itinerary that takes you to some of the most popular sights of Cali city. The itinerary includes:

1. Cristo Rey

A visit to Cristo Rey is one of the highlights of the tour. It is one of Cali’s most iconic landmarks, a 26-meter high statue of Jesus Christ that sits atop a hill and overlooks the city. You will have around 20 minutes to explore and take photos.

2. Mirador Sebastian Belalcazar

Mirador Sebastian Belalcazar is a viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cali city. From here, you get a stunning view of the city and the surrounding valley. You will spend around 20 minutes at the viewpoint.

3. Ermita Church

The Ermita Church is a beautiful Gothic-style church situated in the heart of Cali city. The church was built in the 19th century and is an important landmark of the city. You will have around 30 minutes to explore the church and its surroundings.

4. Food Tasting

The Cali City Tour also includes a food tasting, which is a great way to experience the local cuisine of the city. You will get to taste some typical dishes of the region, which adds a delicious dimension to your Cali experience.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour begins at 2:00 PM, and you will be picked up from your hotel or port. Viator offers multiple pickup points, and you can choose the one that is most convenient for you.

Book Your Tour Now

The Cali City Tour is an excellent choice if you want to explore the city’s top attractions in just one day. With the tour, you get a guided introduction to the city, including some of its most iconic landmarks, and a food tasting session. The tour includes transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience. To book the tour, book here through Viator.

FAQ About Cali: The Salsa Capital of the World

1. What is Cali?

Cali is the capital city of the Valle del Cauca department in western Colombia. Known as the “Salsa Capital of the World,” Cali is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history and a booming tourism industry. It is home to over 2 million people and is the third most populous city in Colombia.

2. What can I do in Cali?

Cali is a city full of fun activities and exciting experiences to enjoy. Here are some popular options:

• Learn how to dance salsa
• Visit the Cali Zoo
• Explore the famous San Antonio neighborhood
• Take a day trip to the nearby town of Buga
• Take a hike to the top of the Cristo Rey statue
• Visit historic landmarks like the Cali Cathedral and the San Francisco Church
• Shop for traditional Colombian crafts at the La Galería shopping mall

3. What is the weather like in Cali?

Cali has a tropical savanna climate with warm temperatures all year round. The temperature usually ranges between 22°C and 32°C (72°F and 90°F) during the day. However, Cali can also experience heavy rainfall during the wet season from April to November, so visitors should pack accordingly.

4. What is the best time to visit Cali?

The best time to visit Cali is during the dry season from December to March. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. Additionally, the city celebrates the Feria de Cali in December, which is a week-long dance festival that is a must-see for anyone who loves salsa music.

5. What is the Feria de Cali?

The Feria de Cali is a week-long celebration of salsa music, dance, and culture that takes place every year in December. The festival includes parades, concerts, dance competitions, and street parties that attract thousands of visitors from around the world.

6. What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Cali?

Cali has a variety of neighborhoods to suit any traveler’s preferences. Here are some of the most popular areas:

• Granada – Known for its trendy bars and restaurants
• San Antonio – A historic neighborhood with picturesque architecture
• El Peñón – An upscale area with luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants
• La Flora – A quiet residential area with easy access to downtown Cali

7. Is Cali safe for tourists?

Closely observe safety precautions and should not venture into unfamiliar territory or any neighborhoods that are known to be dangerous.

8. What is Cali’s currency, and where can I exchange money?

Colombia’s currency is the Colombian peso. Exchange bureaus, banks and ATMs are available throughout the city, although it is recommended to exchange money at recognized banks or at your hotel to avoid any counterfeit bills.

9. What is Cali’s cuisine like?

Cali’s cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, resulting in a unique blend of flavors and textures. Some popular dishes in Cali include:

• Bandeja Paisa – A platter with grilled steak, sausage, fried pork belly, beans, avocado, and a fried egg.
• Arroz con Pollo – A flavorful dish of chicken, rice, and vegetables.
• Chontaduro – A palm fruit that is popular as a snack or used in salads and desserts.
• Lulada – A refreshing drink made with lulo fruit, water, and sugar.

10. What are the transportation options in Cali?

Cali offers several transportation options for visitors, including taxis, buses, bike rentals, and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify. However, it is recommended to use registered taxis or ride-sharing services for added safety. Visitors can also walk around the city’s main attractions within the city center.

Book Your Tour Now

Cali is a city full of history, culture, and excitement. From its vibrant salsa music and dance scene to its delicious cuisine and natural beauty, there is so much to discover and enjoy in this Colombian gem. By following these FAQs and being respectful of the local culture, visitors can have an unforgettable experience in Cali.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cali

Cali, also known as Santiago de Cali, is the third-largest city in Colombia and is famous for salsa dancing, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. It is a city that should be on every tourist’s bucket list. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to spend your time in Cali and make the most of your trip.

1. Salsa Dancing

Salsa dancing is an integral part of Cali’s culture. It is a must-do activity for tourists visiting the city. You can visit clubs or bars to watch the locals do their thing or take salsa classes, which are offered at various dance schools or academies throughout the city. Here are some of the best places to learn salsa in Cali:

• Academia de Baile D’CORAZÓN – This academy is one of the best in Cali and offers classes for all levels of dancing, from beginners to advanced. They also have professional dancers who perform on weekends.
• Mundo Loco – This is a famous salsa bar and school that offers dance classes starting from 9 pm. It is a great spot to enjoy salsa music and dance the night away.
• Salsa y Timba – This academy is another famous spot in Cali where you can learn salsa. The instructors are highly qualified, and they offer private and group sessions.

2. Visit the Cristo Rey Statue

Cristo Rey is a famous statue located on a hill overlooking Cali. It is a symbol of Catholicism in the city and attracts tourists from all over the world. You can reach the top of the hill by foot or car, but be prepared for a steep climb. The view from the top is stunning and makes the climb worth it.

3. Try Local Cuisine

Cali is known for its delicious food, and trying the local cuisine is a must-do activity for any tourist. Here are some of the best local dishes you must try:

• Bandeja Paisa – This is a traditional dish made with beans, rice, beef, pork, chorizo, fried egg, and avocado. It is a hearty meal and a must-try for meat lovers.
• Ajiaco – This is a soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and herbs. It is a comfort food and a favorite among locals.
• Chontaduro – This is a fruit found only in the Pacific region of Colombia. It is usually cooked and served with salt, lime, and spicy sauce. It has a unique flavor that is worth trying.

4. Visit Museums and Galleries

Cali has many museums and galleries that showcase the city’s culture and history. Here are some of the best places to visit:

• Museo La Tertulia – This museum has a vast collection of contemporary art and is a great spot to learn about Cali’s art scene.
• Museo del Oro Calima – This museum showcases the gold works of the Calima people, who lived in the area before the arrival of the Spanish.
• Casa Museo Jorge Isaacs – This museum is located in a beautiful colonial house and is dedicated to the life and works of the famous writer, Jorge Isaacs.

5. Explore the City’s Architecture

Cali has a rich colonial past, and this is reflected in its architecture. Walking around the city can be a great way to discover the beautiful buildings and monuments. Here are some of the must-see buildings in Cali:

• La Ermita Church – This church was built in 1650 and is a beautiful example of colonial architecture.
• San Francisco Church – This church is one of the oldest in the city and has beautiful frescoes and paintings.
• El Gato del Río Statue – This statue is a famous landmark in Cali and is a representation of the river that runs through the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Cali is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip, and you have a great time discovering all that Cali has to offer. Remember to try the local cuisine, learn salsa, visit museums and galleries, explore the city’s architecture, and, most importantly, have fun!