Emblematic places

The capital of Valle del Cauca, Santiago de Cali or simply Cali, is one of the tourist destinations that offers the greatest joy and delight. As the third largest Colombian city in population, it is always synonymous with strength, civility, kindness and of course: rumba, as it is the world epicenter of salsa.

The branch of heaven, as Cali is also known, is a destination to enjoy with all the senses. Its climate, its gastronomy, its cadence, are one of those additions that make it a unique experience.

Business travelers also have the city as a must-see destination in Colombia, as Cali is recognized for its strong industrial, agro-industrial, financial, commercial and economic activity, being a place full of business opportunities.

What to see in Cali?

Immerse yourself in the historical and cultural essence of Cali!

There are sectors that have become true icons of the city, they tell the history of Cali with each alley and corner. From historic plazas to majestic structures, these places are silent testimonies to significant moments.

By exploring the treasures of Cali, you will feel the authentic connection to the city's unique identity and can proudly say: "I was in Cali, you must visit the city."

Welcome to the city where every step is a journey through time!

Cali, the branch of heaven

Cali is a vibrant city, which offers with its benevolent climate a large number of activities to get to know it.

Its architecture and urban passage are friendly, its tree-lined and fresh avenues and boardwalks around the river are an invitation for mornings of energetic sports or peaceful walks on afternoon winds. The historic center preserves its colonial charm that blends harmoniously with a new city.

Cali is full of traditions that offer the best of itself, as a cultural destination Cali: International dance and music festivals of salsa and Afro from the Colombian Pacific and of course, the Cali Fair, have a fame that transcends national borders.

Likewise, travelers can enjoy tours of museums, monuments, a network of libraries, art galleries and small independent theaters.

Cali, salsa and diversity

Salsa is an integral part of Cali's cultural identity. Travelers can immerse themselves in this experience by taking dance classes or visiting places that celebrate the genre. They can also enjoy impressive shows such as Delirio, a cabaret tent.

Innovation in local cuisine is another highlight in Cali, where new chefs rescue and fuse traditional flavors with modern techniques, offering an exceptional culinary experience.

Annual events such as Exposhow underline Cali's growth as a fashion center, with prominent designers and a variety of offers in the sector.

In addition, Cali is an important sports destination in Colombia, hosting national and international events in first-class facilities such as the Pan American Fields, the Pascual Guerrero Stadium, the Alberto Galindo Sports Unit and the Alcides Nieto Patiño Velodrome.

Granada neighborhood

The Granada neighborhood in Cali has its roots in lands that belonged to Don Benito López and the Sarasti and Caicedo families until the end of the 19th century. Since 1917, the republican buildings stand out, some of which are still preserved, providing a nostalgic atmosphere with stories and leafy trees. Today, the Granada neighborhood is known for its varied cuisine , haute couture workshops , and a safe and fun nightlife . For the Hotel Granada Real , being in this area is a great advantage, as it allows guests to enjoy a wide gastronomic offer, including Japanese, Italian, Mediterranean and Colombian fusion cuisine. Additionally, several of Cali's best restaurants, according to TripAdvisor, are located here. The neighborhood is also a fashion center , hosting workshops and warehouses of renowned designers, and organizing events such as "December in Granada", with the participation of international figures such as Nina García and Sebastián Guzmán.

San Antonio

Barrio San Antonio is a bohemian and central enclave in Cali, known for its colorful architecture and the relaxed atmosphere of its large mansions, which evoke the feeling of a small town within the city. Located on the hill that bears its name, this neighborhood is crowned by a beautiful colonial chapel that adds charm to its landscape. It is a quintessential viewpoint that offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from restaurants serving typical local dishes to bars, cafes and a variety of crafts. Among the notable places is El Palomar, the home-workshop of Mauro Phazan, recognized for his exceptional craftsmanship.

Statue of Sebastian de Belalcázar

From the top of Sebastián de Belalcázar Hill, one of the most emblematic points of Cali, the statue of its founder, Sebastián de Belalcázar, emerges majestically, pointing towards the vast horizon of the Pacific Ocean. This imposing figure stands as an enduring symbol of the city and its history. It was erected on July 25, 1937, just one year after the celebration of the quadricentennial of Cali, thus marking a milestone in the commemoration of its foundation. The presence of this statue not only honors the Spanish conquistador, but also represents the legacy and deep-rooted identity of Cali.

Gato de Tejada

El Gato de Tejada is a monumental sculpture on the banks of the Cali River, by the renowned painter and sculptor Hernando Tejada. The sculpture has a height of 3.5 meters, a width of 3.40 and a thickness of 1.95 meters. It weighs three tons. It was inaugurated on July 3, 1996. Its presence has beautified the left bank of the river, at 4th North West Avenue. National and international artists exhibit the cat's brides on this same margin. Bars and restaurants are part of the surrounding offer.

La Tertulia Art Museum

The La Tertulia Art Museum, located on Avenida Colombia with Calle 5ª Oeste. The current building was inaugurated in 1962. Its architecture is modern, a stylized semblance of the ancient Greek temples with a large colonnade that precedes them. The complex currently consists of three blocks. Here you can enjoy the permanent exhibition of more than 300 works by national and international artists with samples of painting, sculpture, engraving and drawing; cinema; concerts and a large program of exhibitions.

Cali Center

In the area there are many places of interest to visit, such as the La Merced Religious Complex. It is a national monument with several parts, including chapels, a convent and a museum of colonial and religious art. Here you can see ceramics that show what life was like before the arrival of the Spanish. Also nearby is the Calima Gold Museum, the Casa Arzobispal, the Alejandro Buenaventura Municipal Theater and the Santiago de Cali Cultural Center, which is a beautiful construction designed by Rogelio Salmona.