Complete Travel Guide to Cali, Colombia

Cali Santiago de Cali, or Cali, is the capital of the Valle del Cauca department, and the most populous city in southwest Colombia, with 2,280,522 residents estimate by DANE in 2023. The city spans 560.3 km2 (216.3 sq mi) with 120.9 km2 (46.7 sq mi) of urban area, making Cali the second-largest city in the country by area and the third most populous. As the only major Colombian city with access to the Pacific Coast, Cali is the main urban and economic center in the south of the country, and has one of Colombia’s fastest-growing economies. The city was founded on 25 July 1536 by the Spanish explorer Sebastián de Belalcázar. Positioned at coordinates 3.41033°N, -76.58097°E, Cali occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Cali place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 1018.0 meters above sea level, Cali benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Cali creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 2471474 residents, Cali maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Cali represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Cali reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Colombia, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Valle del Cauca province, Cali contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Colombia’s regional character. The role of Cali in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Cali discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Colombia while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Cali

History See also: Timeline of Cali This section **needs additional citations forverification** Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources in this section Unsourced material may be challenged and removed _( July 2020)__(Learn how and when to remove this message)_ #Pre-Columbian era and settlers Calima culture gold ceremonial tweezers from Walters Art Museum.

Before the arrival of the Spaniards, the region was inhabited by indigenous tribes, mostly speakers of Cariban languages In the region between the Cauca River and the Western Cordillera, the Gorrones established themselves between the present day Roldanillo and Santiago de Cali.

The biggest town of the Morrones was sited on the River Pescador near the present-day towns of Zarzal and Bugalagrande The Morrones traded with the Quimbayas who inhabited the north of the Valle del Cauca On his way to Cali, Sebastián de Belalcázar first met the Timbas who ran away before the arrival of the men, leaving behind gold.

After the Timbas, towards the north, the Spaniards entered the territory of the chief Jamundí and his tribe, the Jamundíes, between the rivers Pance and Jamundí This tribe offered a strong resistance to the invaders, fighting with poisonous darts and arrows against the arquebuses and swords of the Spaniards.

Eventually, the Spanish prevailed in the struggle over the central valley Before taking control over the region, the Spaniards had to defeat the chief Petecuy, whose tribe inhabited the area between the river Lilí and the Western Cordillera Petecuy formed a large army with many tribes and fought the Spaniards on Holy Tuesday of 1536.

The natives lost to the Spaniards and the region was divided in _encomiendas_ Santiago de Cali was important for Belalcázar because it was outside the Inca Empire After the capture and execution of the Inca Atahualpa at Cajamarca, Francisco Pizarro had sent Belalcázar to take possession of Guayaquil and Quito on his behalf, but Cali, being outside the Quechua empire, was claimed by Belalcazar as his own territory.

After his death, his descendants maintained possession of much of the land until the war of independence against Spain #Founding and colonial period Sebastián de Belalcázar The founder of Cali, Sebastián de Belalcázar, came to the American continent in the third voyage made by Columbus in 1498.

In 1532, after serving in Darién and Nicaragua, he joined Francisco Pizarro in the conquest of Perú In 1534, Belalcázar separated from Pizarro’s expedition to find the city of Quito, and later in his search of El Dorado he entered the territory of what is now Colombia, founding the cities of Pasto and Popayán.

Belalcázar founded Santiago de Cali on 25 July 1536, a few kilometres north of its present location, near what are now the towns of Vijes and Riofrío Under the orders of Belalcázar, captain Miguel Muñoz moved the city to its present location in 1537, where the c.

The historical trajectory of Cali demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Cali reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Cali remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Cali is located on the Cauca Valley to the west of the Cauca River and to the east of the Western Mountain Range near the hills known as Farallones de Cali. The mountainous terrain surrounding Cali creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. The city rests approximately 1,000 metres (3,281 feet) above sea level. Approximately 100 kilometres (62 miles) west of Cali and over the Western Cordillera, lies the port city of Buenaventura on the Colombian Pacific coast. To the northeast are the manufacturing center of Yumbo and Cali’s international airport, the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón (CLO). It is Colombia’s third-largest airport in terms of passengers, transporting 2,667,526 in 2009. Panoramic Farallones de Cali Santiago de Cali is located in a valley. The valley location of Cali provides fertile agricultural land and strategic advantages for trade and communication. The city is completely bordered by mountains to the West; the Farallones de Cali mountains are the closest to the city. The mountainous terrain surrounding Cali creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. The Eastern part of the city is bordered by the Cauca River. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Cali, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. To the north and south are extended plains. In the first one you can find the industrial city of Yumbo which is part of Cali’s metropolitan area, to the south you can find Jamundí, also part of the metropolitan area. The city is mainly flat, but there are areas mostly to the west that are mountainous, like San Antonio and La loma de la Cruz, which are both tourist sites. The mountainous terrain surrounding Cali creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. There are several rivers that descend from the Western Mountain Range and empty into the Cauca River, passing through the metropolitan area of Cali. The mountainous terrain surrounding Cali creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. In the western part of the city the Aguacatal River flows into the Cali River, which continues on to the Cauca River. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Cali, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. In the south the rivers Cañaveralejo, Lilí, and Meléndez flow into the south channel which also empties into the Cauca River. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Cali, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Farther south, the banks of the Pance River are a popular place for recreation and leisure. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Cali, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. #Climate Guaiacum officinale tree flowered in Cali. Under Köppen’s climate classification, Cali features a dry-summer tropical monsoon climate (Köppen climate classification: Am), bordering a tropical savanna climate (Köppen: As). The Western Mountain Range rises from an average of 2,000 m (6,562 ft) above sea level in the northern part of the city to approximately 4,000 m (13,123 ft) to the south. The mountainous terrain surrounding Cali creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. Because of this variation in altitude, the weather in the northwest portion of the city is drier than in the southwest. The average annual precipitation varies between 900 and 1,800 mm (35 and 71 in) depending on the metropolitan zone for a citywide average of approximately 1,483 mm (58 in). Even though there is enough rainfall to make for lush surroundings, Cali is still in a strong rain shadow. Its closest seaport of Buenaventura about 80 kilometres (50 mi) away is among the rainiest locations in the world. This is due to Buenaventura being on the windward side of the coastal mountains that in return shield Cali from the Pacific monsoons. The mountainous terrain surrounding Cali creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. Cali’s average temperature is 24 °C (75 °F) with an average low temperature of 17. 4 °C (63 °F) and a high of 30. Owing to its proximity to the equator, there are no major seasonal variations in Ca.

The topographic characteristics of Cali result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Cali region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Cali area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Cali has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Cali demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Cali create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Guaiacum officinale tree flowered in Cali. Under Köppen’s climate classification, Cali features a dry-summer tropical monsoon climate (Köppen climate classification: Am), bordering a tropical savanna climate (Köppen: As). The Western Mountain Range rises from an average of 2,000 m (6,562 ft) above sea level in the northern part of the city to approximately 4,000 m (13,123 ft) to the south. Because of this variation in altitude, the weather in the northwest portion of the city is drier than in the southwest. The average annual precipitation varies between 900 and 1,800 mm (35 and 71 in) depending on the metropolitan zone for a citywide average of approximately 1,483 mm (58 in). Rainfall patterns in Cali determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. Even though there is enough rainfall to make for lush surroundings, Cali is still in a strong rain shadow. Its closest seaport of Buenaventura about 80 kilometres (50 mi) away is among the rainiest locations in the world. This is due to Buenaventura being on the windward side of the coastal mountains that in return shield Cali from the Pacific monsoons. Cali’s average temperature is 24 °C (75 °F) with an average low temperature of 17. Temperature patterns in Cali influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 4 °C (63 °F) and a high of 30. Owing to its proximity to the equator, there are no major seasonal variations in Cali like winter, spring, summer and fall. However, locals refer to the dry season as the city’s “summer”, in which temperatures can rise to 30 to 34 °C (86 to 93 °F) and go down to 15 to 17 °C (59 to 63 °F) at night. Temperature patterns in Cali influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. During the rainy season (or “winter”) temperatures can rise to 28 to 30 °C (82 to 86 °F) and go down to 18 to 20 °C (64 to 68 °F) at night. Temperature patterns in Cali influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. There are typically two rainy seasons: from March to May and from October to November. However, rain can be expected to fall at any point during the year, nourishing the city’s permanent green and lush vegetation. The highest temperature ever recorded was 36. Temperature patterns in Cali influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 5 °C (98 °F) in July 1997, and the lowest temperature ever recorded was 13. Temperature patterns in Cali influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 4 °C (56 °F) in August 1979. Climate data for Cali (Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport), elevation 961 m (3,153 ft), (1991–2020) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 36. 7) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 30. 2) Daily mean °C (°F) 24. 0) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 18.

The climatic regime of Cali reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Cali create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Cali determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Cali create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Cali demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Cali include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Arts and culture #Cultural centers Cultural center Cali at night * Casa de la cultura Proartes. Since 1871 this house has been a great influence in the culture in Cali. The building was restored in 1991 and it contains exhibition saloons, scenarios and a cinema. * Centro cultural de Cali. Its design was under the charge of the famous Colombian architect Rogelio Salmona, who built as well the Torres del Parque in Bogotá and several other buildings. Since 1997 it is considered the cultural center in the city and headquarters of the Municipal secretaries of tourism and culture. The cultural center dedicated to contemporary art was created under the direction of Oscar Muñoz. It’s a place offering exhibition saloons, weekly film screenings, a contemporary art focused library and residencies for both local and international artist, amongst many other things. #Museums * La Tertulia Museum, an art museum * Calima Gold Museum * Museo Arqueológico La Merced * Museo Religioso y Colonial de San Francísco * Museo del Oro Calima from the Rebublica bank * Museo Arqueologico de la Universidad del Valle * Museo Departamental de Ciencias Naturales * Museo Nacional del Transporte * Museo de Arte Religioso #La Feria de Cali (The Cali Fair) Main article: Cali Fair Feria de Cali. La “Feria de Cali” (The Cali Fair), also known as La Feria de la Caña (Sugar Cane Fair), is the most important cultural event in the city, celebrated since 1957. It is celebrated every year from December 25 to 30. The fair is not only the most important event for the cultural identity of the citizens, but it also stimulates the economic development of the city by significantly increasing tourism and seasonal employment, providing opportunities for independent merchants to sell their products during the events, and encouraging the improvement of the city’s infrastructure. Nowadays, the fair fhosts several national and international celebrities during the music festivals and concerts. [_citation needed_] #Salsa music Cali is also known as the Salsa Capital “Capital de la Salsa” given the city’s love for that genre of music. In early July there is the Summer Salsa Festival which lasts for one week. It usually includes concerts by some of the world’s great salsa bands as well as dance shows and “melomano” competitions in which salsa connoisseurs try to outdo each other by digging deep into the archives of salsa music and related sounds to find and reveal long lost tunes. On any night of the week small salsa clubs offer a variety of Afro and Caribbean beats. Furthermore, the last Friday of every month, the city has an event known as “Delirio”, already internationally known with the most spectacular salsa shows presented, “Las Vegas” style. #Events * Salsodromo (Salsa Marathon) * Carnaval de Cali Viejo (Old Cali’s Carnival) * Desfile de Autos Clasicos y Antiguos (Classic and Antique Cars Parade.

The cultural landscape of Cali represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Cali reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Cali continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Cali provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Cali demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Cali provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy This section **does notcite any sources**. Please help improve this section by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. _( June 2020)__(Learn how and when to remove this message)_ Cali and Valle del Cauca constitute the third largest center national and international economic exchange in Colombia. The city is an important stop on way to Ecuador, and is connected with the world through the seaport of Buenaventura. Building of Banco de Occidente. #Economic history The economic transformation of Cali and the Valle del Cauca during the twentieth century and its crisis of the century, and the outlook to the new century have been the subject of deep analysis of financial and academic institutions. This section is based on the analysis and recommendations of the report _Cali Colombia – Toward a City Development and Strategy_ published by the World Bank in 2002, and the Regional Economic Situation Reports (ICER) published quarterly by the DANE. In the early twentieth century the city’s economy was concentrated in the production of sugar, based on an agricultural model in which large tracts of land were cultivated with minimum use of labor. As a result, a few families owned vast areas of land in one of the most fertile regions of the country. This was an important factor in determining the power relations and the organization of the city through the twentieth century. In the period 1910–1930, the city’s economy shifted its focus from an agricultural model to become a commercial node at the national level through the development of basic infrastructure such as construction of the railway to Buenaventura and the creation of the department of Valle del Cauca with Cali designated as its capital. Although the industrial vallecaucana revolution of Cali did not begin until the third decade of the twentieth century, some companies had already begun to build the industrial development of the region, as the printing company Carvajal y Cia (which began operations in 1904). In 1929 there is the creation of Soap Varela Hermanos, in the 1930s other industries begin to grow as large scale factories of gas and beer, printing and cigarettes. Smaller companies also appeared focusing on textile clothing, chemicals, chocolates, building materials, leather articles and furniture. In 1940, Cali had already ceased to be a single point of trade and its economy was focused on industry. A few years before the decade began a major investment of foreign capital led to the establishment of many factories and local business grew to multinational corporations; as Croydon in 1937, Cementos del Valle in 1939, and Carton Colombia in 1941; Goodyear and Colgate- Palmolive came from the US in 1941. Later came other corporations like General CEAT (Centelsa) in 1955, and pharmaceutical laboratories were based in the Cauca Valley between 1940 and 1960, as Tecnoquímicas and Baxter. The flourishing industrial city att.

The economic structure of Cali reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Cali often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Cali serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Cali demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Cali has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Cali focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transport #Airports Santiago de Cali is served by Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (IATA: **CLO** , ICAO: **SKCL**), located in the City of Palmira. It is Colombia’s third largest airport in terms of passengers (transporting 3,422,919 in 2010) and fourth in cargo. Alfonso Bonilla Aragón is located in a long, narrow valley that runs from north to south, and is surrounded by mountains up to 14,000 feet (4,300 m) high. The airport is connected to the city by a highway known as the “recta a Palmira”, that in the last few years has been upgraded to make the airport more accessible to Cali and the surrounding city centers in the region. The airport has also been remodeled recently; some of the last significant events in those terms were the inauguration of the VIP room in the National terminal and the installation of a main electronic screen in the center of the check-in area. The Marco Fidel Suárez Air Base is a military airport close to the city’s downtown. It is located in the east side of the city and belongs to the Colombian Air Force. It is used as one of the main training centers for the country’s fighter pilots. #Public transport Masivo Integrado de Occidente (MIO) The city of Cali offers a variety of ways to move through the city; in March 2009, The Masivo Integrado de Occidente (MIO) began operations. It is planned to be the primary system that connects the city. Taxis and old buses are the secondary way to get around. Taxis are one of the best systems that tourists can use, as they are relatively inexpensive and are more secure. Non-MIO buses round out the system and are used primarily by the working class to get around and are less expensive to use. Buses are secure but not at the same level as taxis. This part of the transport in the city is awaiting a needed reorganization of routes. Masivo Integrado de Occidente (MIO): It is a bus rapid transit system of articulated buses that run on dedicated bus lanes in the middle of major thoroughfares, with stations connected to sidewalks by dedicated pedestrian crossings or bridges. The system layout is 243 kilometres (151 miles) distributed in trunk, pre-trunk and complementary corridors. The system also integrated the renovation and recuperation of the public space. The MIO system was not only designed for the public transport, but built for public use with extensive new sidewalks, parks, gardens and public squares for the public to enjoy. The system also includes a cable car line named MÍO Cable, which is fully integrated with the MIO network and directly serves the residents of the Siloé district. List of the Trunk or principal corridors: * Calle 5 * Carrera 15 * Calles 13 y 15 * Avenida de las Américas * Avenida 3N * Carrera 1 * Transversal 25 * Carrera 29 y Autopista Oriental * Autopista Simón Bolívar * Avenida Ciudad de Cali * Carrera 100 * Avenida Cañasgordas * Avenida Colombia * Autopista Sur More information about El MI.

Transportation infrastructure serving Cali reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Colombia. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Cali.

Regional connectivity from Cali provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education A large part of the population relies on the public educational system, which is underfunded and in some cases improperly managed. Schools are under municipal or departmental management, the former being the most common. The Municipal Secretary of Education manages a large part of the city’s budget, which has brought some politicians to try to control it as their personal organization. The city is endowed with the most sophisticated and high-quality secondary education institutions and universities in the region. Most universities are located in the south part of the city. Among the most prestigious are University of Valle (Public), Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (Private), and Universidad Icesi (Private). #Universities University Autónoma of Occidente (UAO). University Icesi and farallones of Cali. University of Valle. Pontificia University Javeriana. * University of Valle (Public) It is the largest higher education institution by student population in the southwest of the country, and the third largest in Colombia, with more than 30,320 students. Its Faculties of Medicine, Engineering, Sciences, and Social Sciences rank as the best of the region. The first three rank at the top in the national level. * Universidad Autónoma de Occidente (Private) Founded in 1975, this private institution has more than 7,400 students. * Pontifical Xavierian University (Private) Founded in 1970, Pontifical Xavierian University Seccional Cali serves as the sectional campus of the Pontifical Xavierian University of Bogotá (PUJ by its Spanish acronym) is a private higher education institution which currently has more than 5,700 students enrolled in its seventeen undergraduate and twenty graduate programs offered by its faculties of engineering, economic and administrative sciences, humanistic and social sciences and health sciences. With over 36,000 printed books spanning a wide array of academic topics, the university’s library is one of the biggest in the city. Beginning in 2010 the university will inaugurate its Medicine school bringing its total number of undergraduate degrees to seventeen. Pontifical Xavierian University is one of the universities in the city of Cali. * Universidad Icesi (Private) University ICESI was founded in 1979 by regional entrepreneurs looking to solve the lack of highly skilled professionals in the areas relevant to their business. It offers undergraduates programs, specializations and masters. It has more than 2,950 students and a library with over 30,000 books. On the second semester of 2009, the university started its highly anticipated Medicine School, which will use the Valle del Lily Health Center as its training and educational facility. * Universidad San Buenaventura (Private) Founded in 1970 by the Franciscan Order, it’s a private institution of higher education that serves like sectional for University of St. Buenaventura of Bogotá. * Free University of Colombia * Universidad Santia

Educational institutions in Cali serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Visitor Attractions and Cultural Experiences

Tourism Cali Tower General information Coordinates3°27′32.40″N 76°31′44.4″W / 3.4590000°N 76.529000°W / 3.4590000; -76.529000 Completed1984 Design and construction Architect(s)Jaime Vélez DeveloperJulián Echeverri cía. Structural engineerEnrique Martínez Romero Saint Francis’ square. #Historic district Santiago de Cali offers historical areas with cultural variety and other attractions. In downtown Cali there are many historic churches such as La Merced and La Ermita. Cali contains a well-preserved historical center. The most important zone is La plaza de Cayzedo, considered the center of the city, which is a square surrounded by many historical and modern buildings like El edificio Otero, La Catedral and El Palacio de Justicia. This plaza is close to other tourist places, like The Saint Francis church (in Spanish, _Iglesia de San Francisco_), the municipal theater and La Merced church. The city is also rich in monuments, parks, squares and museums. The most emblematic sculptures are Cristo Rey, located upon a mountain range; Sebastian de Belalcazar, founder of the city; and Las tres Cruces, a place of pilgrimage during the days of the Holy Week. #Other tourist attractions Ermita Church. Church La Merced, Sede Banco de Occidente al fondo. San Antonio church. Plaza de Cayzedo (Cayzedo Square). Salsa show at the XIII International Art Festival Cali. Main touristic centers: * Plaza de Caicedo: The main square of the city, located in downtown Cali. The plaza is named after Cali’s hero, Joaquín de Caicedo y Cuero. * Parque del perro: Located in the _San Fernando_ neighborhood, this is one of the most popular areas in the city. It is full of restaurants and bars. The park gets its name because it has a dog monument in the middle of it. * Avenida San Joaquín: Located in the _Ciudad Jardín_ , it is a popular place in the city. * Sebastian de Belalcázar’s monument: It is the most visited and popular monument in the city[_citation needed_] located in the hills overlooking the city. The monument is famous due to its pointing finger which is pointing to the opposite direction of the valley, while its face is looking down at the city. * Cali River: The river is located in the west and is surrounded by restaurants, hotels and museums like La Tertulia, an art museum. * El Gato del Río: Located next to the river, a sculpture of a cat by Hernando Tejada * Cristo Rey: A religious monument located on a hill that offers the best view of the city. It is 31 m high, of which 5 m belong to the base. * Boulevard del río Cali: (Colombia Avenue Boulevard) is located by the Cali river side in the historic center of the city of Santiago de Cali, Colombia. It carries the name of the avenue where vehicles used to transit but today is the boulevard where there is a tunnel located directly below it. This boulevard is about 980 meters long. * San Antonio: This is the most traditional neighborhood of Cali. In the c

Tourism opportunities in Cali emphasize authentic cultural experiences and meaningful interaction with local communities rather than commercialized attractions, providing visitors with genuine insights into traditional ways of life.

Planning Your Visit to Cali

Successful visits to Cali require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Cali often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Cali include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Cali extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.

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Source: This article incorporates material from the Wikipedia article “Cali”.