In Colombia, the city of Cali ranks only third in importance. It is inferior to the capital in terms of tourist attendance, but this does not prevent it from being very beautiful and interesting. The city was founded in 1536. Cali is considered to be the most modern and most pleasant to visit in the entire region. Today we will tell you about this interesting place. Where is it located? How can you get here? What do tourists say about it?
How to get to the city
There aren't many ways to get here. If you live somewhere near this city, then it will be more convenient for you to get there by bus or car. But if you are thousands of kilometers from this wonderful place, then to get here, you will have to use the services of airlines. For those who live in Russia, we remind you that there are no direct flights. First you can fly to Bogota, and only then, using any mode of transport, get to the city of Cali in Colombia.
About climate
The next question you probably havearose: "When is the best time to visit the city?". It's easy enough to answer. After all, in fact, there is no difference when to come to this excellent place. The weather here is good all year round. The temperature very rarely drops below 25 degrees during the day and 15 at night. In Cali, the rainy season falls in all months of spring, as well as October, November and December. So if you do not like rainy weather, then you better not come here during this period. True, the locals assure that the amount of precipitation is very small and will not be able to interfere with your vacation.
Also, if you do not want to leave a lot of money in this city, then you should not visit it at the end of December and in the middle of September. At this time, large-scale and spectacular festivals are held here, due to which housing and food prices rise.
Safety. What problems can arise and how to prevent them
One of the safest cities in Colombia is Cali. Here you can safely walk in the evenings and enjoy the performances of street artists at a later time. However, do not forget that although Kali is quite safe, it is simply necessary to follow the precautionary rules here:
- Remember not to take short cuts in unknown areas of the city, because who knows how it might end for you, so it would be better if you call a taxi.
- Hitchhiking in the evening is also unsafe.
- And, most importantly, in any city in Colombia, you should not visit the slums that are notprotected.
Using these tips, you will be 90 percent safer and save only the most pleasant impressions from the trip.
Popular attractions
- The hallmark of the city is considered to be a reduced copy of the statue of Christ the Savior, the original of which is much larger and is located in Rio. For local residents, this sculpture symbolizes a peaceful life and the absolution of sins. You can visit this attraction at any time, but we recommend visiting here at night, because it is at this time of day that the lighting is very beautiful.
- The second no less significant place in the city are the salsa clubs "La Matraca" and "Habanero". Here you can see a show that will definitely not leave you indifferent. Here you can not only dance, but also drink coffee or something stronger. Also, professional dancers often perform in these cafes, which are very interesting to watch.
- If you want to see the city from a bird's eye view, then the observation deck of Sebastian de Belalcazar is the best fit for this. It got its name in honor of the founder of the city, here a monument was erected to him. From this place you have a beautiful view of the surroundings. It is here that you can take excellent photos of Cali in Colombia.
- For lovers of active and educational holidays, we advise you to visit the Piede Chinche sugar cane estate. The museum consists of 21 ranches. Here you will be shown the whole process of growing and processing sugar cane. At the endexcursions all participants will be offered to taste drinks and sweets.
- Another very interesting and beautiful place is the Church of San Antonio. It is considered one of the oldest in the city. The church was founded in the middle of the 18th century. Although we must warn you: it is not always possible to get here, since, according to local residents, the church is often closed. But even seeing this place from the outside will be good, because it is really unusually beautiful.
Travel Tips
- The main language in this country is Spanish, so it would be nice if you learn at least the most necessary phrases.
- Don't forget that it's always warm here, so if you're not used to these temperatures, we recommend bringing a bottle of water and a hat.
- If you are going to walk for a long time, then take care of comfortable shoes in advance.
- Also remember that if you want to eat in a restaurant, it will be cheaper to do so away from the tourist areas.
- There are a lot of extreme sports in Cali. If you are new to them, then it is best for you to use the services of an instructor.
Cali cartel in Colombia
Speaking of the city, it would be wrong not to mention the Colombian criminal organization that was involved in the sale of drugs, including cocaine and opium. This group lasted 21 years and controlled nearly 90 percent of the world's drug trade. By the mid-1990s, the cartel had become the largest ever organized crime syndicate.or existing. But, fortunately, in 1998 the group was destroyed, the leaders were sent to the United States, where they were sentenced to 30 years in prison. It was this event that began to be considered the collapse of the cocaine empire. So, visiting the city these days, you can be completely calm and confident in your safety.
Cali (Colombia): reviews
It is no coincidence that the city attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world. It has a mild climate, amazing nature, exotic fruits and plants. Travelers who have visited Cali (Colombia) note relatively low prices for accommodation and souvenirs. And also tourists really like the fantastic and enchanting festivals that take place right on the streets of the city.
