An informative blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Cali: The World Capital of Salsa and Jewel of the Cauca Valley

Introduction

Known as the 'Branch of Heaven', Cali is the third largest city in Colombia and one of the most vibrant and colorful. This city, located in the southwest of the country, is famous for its music, its culture and its friendly people. Cali is a tourist destination that offers a wide variety of attractions for all tastes.

The Charm of the City

The city of Cali is a fascinating mix of old and new. The historic city center, with its cobblestone streets and colonial buildings, is a perfect place to walk and explore. Here you will find the Church of San Francisco, one of the oldest in the city, and the Cathedral of San Pedro, an impressive neo-Gothic style building.

On the other hand, the modern neighborhoods of Cali offer a wide variety of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, where visitors can enjoy the famous Cali salsa. The city also has several shopping centers and leisure areas, such as Parque del Perro and Avenida San Joaquín.

The World Capital of Salsa

Cali is known throughout the world as the capital of salsa. This city is home to numerous dance schools, where visitors can learn to dance this Caribbean rhythm. In addition, every year the Cali Salsa Festival is held, an event that attracts dancers and musicians from all over the world.

The surroundings of Cali

The surroundings of Cali also have a lot to offer. To the west of the city is the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park, a perfect place for nature lovers. This park offers a wide variety of activities, such as hiking, bird watching,or birds and rafting.

North of Cali is Lake Calima, one of the largest reservoirs in Colombia and a popular place for water sports. Additionally, in the vicinity of Cali you can visit several coffee plantations, where visitors can learn everything about the Colombian coffee production process.

Caleña Gastronomy

Gastronomy is another of Cali's attractions. The city is famous for its typical dishes, such as sancocho de gallina, lulada and shampoos. In addition, Cali offers a wide variety of restaurants, where visitors can taste Colombian and international cuisine.

The Warmth of its People

Last but not least, Cali is famous for the warmth and kindness of its people. Cali people are known for their hospitality and their love of music and dance. Without a doubt, the best way to get to know Cali is through its people.

Gastronomic products of Cali

• Cholado

  Cholado is a refreshing and sweet drink typical of Cali. It is prepared with shaved ice, fruit syrup, chopped fruits such as pineapple, mango and papaya, and is topped with condensed milk and a cherry. It is a delight that is enjoyed especially on hot days.

• Sancocho de gallina

  Chicken sancocho is a traditional dish from the Valle del Cauca region, where Cali is located. It is a thick soup made with chicken, potatoes, plantains, corn cobs and yucca. It is served hot and is a very popular dish at family gatherings.

• Pandebono

  Pandebono is a traditional cheese bread from Cali. It is made with fresh cheese, cassava starch, eggs and sugar. It is baked until golden brown and served hot. It is a perfect accompaniment to coffee for breakfast or snack.

• Manjar blanc

  Manjar blanco is a typical sweet from Cali. It is made with milk, sugar and rice. It has a smooth texture and a sweet, creamy flavor. It can be eaten alone or used as a filling for other desserts.

• Ceviche

  Originally from Peru but popular in many coastal South American countries, ceviche is a refreshing dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juice, usually lemon or lime, and seasoned with onion, cilantro and chili. It is known for its freshness and vibrant flavor.

• Empanadas

  These are filled pastas that can be found almost everywhere.two South American countries, although their fillings and shapes can vary significantly from one place to another. Empanadas can be filled with meat, chicken, cheese, ham, or combinations of ingredients such as meat with olives and eggs. They can be baked or fried, and are popular as snacks or quick meals.

• Pisco

  Pisco is a grape spirit that is very popular in Peru and Chile, where each country has its own designation of origin and unique production traditions. It is the main ingredient of the famous Pisco Sour cocktail, which combines pisco with lemon juice, egg white, sugar and Angostura bitters. This liquor is a distinctive drink of the region and is celebrated with festivals and competitions in both countries.

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Sports Activities in Cali, Colombia

Salsa

Known as the world capital of salsa, Cali offers numerous dance schools where tourists can learn to dance this Latin rhythm. There are also many salsa clubs where you can practice your moves.

Paragliding

For lovers of extreme sports, Cali offers the opportunity to paraglide. With panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, it is an unforgettable experience.

Cycling

Colombia is famous for its cyclists and Cali is no exception. There are numerous cycling routes in and around the city, suitable for all skill levels.

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Football

Football is the most popular sport in Colombia and Cali has two teams in the Colombian professional league. Tourists can attend a game at the Pascual Guerrero Stadium or even play a game at one of the city's many fields.

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Hiking

The surroundings of Cali offer numerous opportunities for hiking. You can explore the rainforest, climb the mountains or visit natural reserves.Urals such as the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park.

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Places near Cali

If you are in Cali and want to explore a little more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Buga, a Colombian gem, attracts visitors with its famous religious sanctuary, the Basilica of the Lord of Miracles. Its rich gastronomy includes delicacies such as sancocho de gallina, marranita valluna and shampoos, a local refreshing drink.

Salento, Colombia, is a vibrant tourist destination known for its colorful colonial architecture, coffee plantations and the stunning Cocora Valley. Visitors can enjoy authentic Colombian cuisine, especially trout and local coffee.

Popayán, known as the White City ofe Colombia dazzles with its colonial architecture and its rich gastronomy. It is famous for its Holy Week and its Gastronomic Festival, where you can taste delicious Caucasian food.