10 Best Things to Do in Cali

Have you heard of the world's most salsa-infused city? And by that, I mean Salsa as a dance. This city is not only characterized by salsa dancing, the people of this city dance to many types of music. It seems as though they give not only their bodies but also their souls and hearts with every movement they make.

If at this point, you're unfamiliar with the city I'm referring to, I want to tell you that I'm talking about Cali, one of Colombia's most iconic cities, known as the capital of salsa.

10 Best Things to Do in Cali List

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1 Visit Cristo Rey

2 Stroll through the San Antonio Neighborhood

3 Dance Salsa

4 Enjoy the Nightlife

5 Explore the Historic Center

6 Visit the La Tertulia Museum of Modern Art

7 Taste the Local Cuisine

8 Explore the Pance River

9 Visit the Cali Zoo

10 Explore the Cat Park

In trying to uncover the secret that makes the people of Cali renowned worldwide for their excellent dancing, thus making Colombia globally recognized for it, I've wanted to explore the characteristics of this culture. Starting with their cuisine and festivals, which I've talked about in other blogs, I now want to introduce to you what this city has to offer if you were to visit. This is why I'm listing 10 things you can do in Cali:

1 Visit Cristo Rey

This city has its own version of Christ the Redeemer. I invite you to climb to the top of the hill to enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the city from the statue of Cristo Rey.

2 Stroll through the San Antonio Neighborhood

Enjoy the closeness with the locals by exploring this picturesque neighborhood with its colorful colonial houses, art galleries, cafes, and craft shops.

3 Dance Salsa

If you're in the "Salsa World Capital," it's almost a requirement to let yourself be carried away by the joyful rhythms of this music. I recommend following the steps of the locals and enjoying dancing in the city's clubs and discos.

Salsa Schools and Workshops

For those eager to perfect their salsa moves, Cali offers a plethora of schools and workshops led by seasoned instructors. Whether you're looking to master the basics or fine-tune advanced techniques, these educational establishments cater to enthusiasts of all levels. The city's commitment to preserving salsa as an art form is evident in the quality of instruction available, making it an ideal destination for dance aficionados seeking growth and refinement.

Renowned Salsa Festivals

Cali takes pride in hosting some of the most prestigious salsa festivals globally, drawing enthusiasts from every corner of the world. Immerse yourself in the contagious energy of events like the Cali Salsa Festival and the World Salsa Championships. These festivals not only showcase top-tier talent but also create an atmosphere of celebration, uniting people through the universal language of dance.

4 Enjoy the Nightlife

As I mentioned earlier, Cali is famous for its vibrant nightlife. Go out dancing salsa, enjoy live concerts, or visit the city's bars and clubs to experience the energy and joy of the "rumba caleña."

5 Explore the Historic Center

Be a part of the history of this city by discovering its colonial architecture and visiting iconic places like the Cathedral of San Pedro and the Municipal Theater.

6 Visit the La Tertulia Museum of Modern Art

If you're an art lover, you can't miss a visit to this museum. There, you'll find an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art by Colombian and foreign artists.

7 Taste the Local Cuisine

Delight in typical dishes such as "sancocho de gallina" (chicken soup), "cholado" (a mix of fruits, shaved ice, and syrup), and "empanadas vallunas" (Valluna-style empanadas). In my blog post "3 Best Meals in Cali" you can learn more about Cali's cuisine.

8 Explore the Pance River

If you enjoy nature, you can spend a day by the banks of the Pance River, where you can go hiking, swim in natural pools, and enjoy the outdoors.

9 Visit the Cali Zoo

Even though I know not everyone likes these kinds of places, you can visit the zoo in Cali. It's recognized for its conservation efforts for endangered species and has a wide variety of animals from around the world.

10 Explore the Cat Park

If you're a fan of felines, this is the perfect place for you, as it houses a large number of sculptures and artworks related to these animals. El Gato del Río or the river cats can be found on the banks of the Cali River.

Summary

Let yourself be drawn in by the salsa and the good vibes of Cali. I assure you that you'll find a colorful and joyful city there, which is why I guarantee you'll have a pleasant time and what better way to maximize your experience than by knowing how to make the most of it and showcasing your best dance moves in the "Branch of Heaven."

This has been the 10 Best Things to Do in Cali. We are sure that there are more things to see and do, but at this time we ask you.

Where will you visit first?