Available options
In Cali, the gourmet picnic has gone from being an impromptu plan to a fully curated experience. Since May 2026, the local offering includes everything from catering services that set up a complete picnic on a private rooftop to chefs who bring you sushi valluno to a forest clearing at Cerro de la Bandera. The key is knowing what kind of atmosphere you're looking for and how "secret" you want the spot to be.
Private rooftops with city views
Some buildings in the San Antonio and Granada neighborhoods offer terraces that can be rented by the hour. They are not public spots but are managed through direct contact with the administrators or through premium picnic services like Picnic Caleño (a local venture that creates experiences with tablecloths, cushions, and tableware). These places have views of Cerro de las Tres Cruces, and at sunset, the light is spectacular.
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Clearings in the urban forest
In Parque Natural Regional El Vínculo (20 minutes north of Cali), there are trails leading to clearings with natural shade. There is no tourist signage, but locals know the "mirador del guayacán." Bringing your own picnic here requires planning, but the silence and the sound of birds make it worth it. There are also options at Cerro de la Bandera, though you have to walk 15 minutes from the entrance.
Hidden gardens in the city
In the El Peñón neighborhood, there are old houses with interior gardens that rent out spaces for small events. One example is Jardín Secreto de la 5ta (it has no official name, but is recognized by the green facade on Calle 5ta with Carrera 34). Here you can order delivery from Sushi Market or La Taberna de Pepe to put together a cheese and wine board.
Updated costs
Prices are as of May 2026 and may vary depending on the day and demand. It is always best to confirm directly with the providers.
- Premium picnic service (all-inclusive): From $120,000 COP per person. Includes tablecloth, cushions, tableware, floral decoration, and gourmet food. Companies like Picnic Caleño or Al Aire Libre offer packages for two people starting at $240,000 COP.
- Gourmet food delivery: Sushi valluno boards (with mango biche and chili) from $45,000 COP per person at Sushi Market. Reinvented criolla boards (with stuffed chócolo arepas, artisan chorizo, and patacones) from $35,000 COP at La Taberna de Pepe.
- Private rooftop rental: Between $80,000 and $150,000 COP for 3 hours, depending on the view and services (some include umbrellas and chairs).
- Park entrance fees: Parque Natural Regional El Vínculo charges $10,000 COP per person. Cerro de la Bandera is free, but it is recommended to go in a group for safety.
Estimated times
The ideal duration of a gourmet picnic depends on the place and the food, but here are the typical estimates:
- Picnic on a rooftop or private garden: 2 to 3 hours. Perfect for sunset (5:30pm to 8:30pm).
- Picnic in a forest clearing: 3 to 4 hours, including hiking time (15-20 minutes round trip). Recommended to start at 10am or 3pm.
- Food delivery: Delivery wait times vary: Sushi Market delivers in 45-60 minutes in most neighborhoods. La Taberna de Pepe takes 30-40 minutes if you order cold boards.
- Premium picnic setup: Catering services arrive 30 minutes before your reserved time to set everything up. They dismantle everything in 15 minutes at the end.
Practical tips
Here are some local tips so things go smoothly:
- Bring insect repellent: In parks and clearings, mosquitoes are intense, especially after 4pm. Use a citronella-based one so it doesn't ruin the vibe.
- Pack dry ice or thermal bags: The Cali heat can ruin sushi or cheese in less than an hour. Ask your delivery to send the food in thermal packaging or bring your own portable cooler.
- Check the weather: May is the rainy season in Cali. Check the forecast before you go and have a plan B (a covered rooftop or a garden with a canopy). Rains are usually short but intense between 2pm and 4pm.
- Don't forget a thick blanket: The grass can be damp even if it doesn't rain. A waterproof blanket underneath and a cloth one on top is the winning combination.
- Book in advance: Premium picnic services and private rooftops sell out quickly on weekends. Make your reservation at least 3 days in advance.
- Fun fact: In the San Antonio neighborhood, there is a rooftop known as "El Balcón de los Poetas" (no official name) that is only rented by referral. If you ask at La Tienda de los Milagros (a local café), they can give you the owner's contact.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if it rains during my picnic?
If you hired a premium service, many offer relocation to a covered space or rescheduling at no extra cost if you notify them 2 hours in advance. If you're going on your own, look for spots with natural shelters like those at Parque de los Cholados in the El Cedro neighborhood, which has an area with a palm roof.
Can I order delivery to any park in Cali?
Not all parks allow delivery drivers to enter. In public parks like Parque de las Banderas or Parque del Perro, delivery drivers can leave your order at the entrance, but you'll have to walk to your picnic spot. In private spaces like rooftops, the delivery driver goes straight up if you give clear instructions to the doorman.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options for the gourmet picnic?
Yes, several services offer adapted menus. Sushi Market has vegan rolls with palm heart and avocado. La Taberna de Pepe prepares boards with goat cheese, dried fruits, and peto corn arepas. Always specify your diet when ordering, because not all dishes can be modified on the fly.