The Green Pulse of Cali
Cali is not just salsa and sugar. It is also the valley that breathes between mountains, the river that winds through neighborhoods, the sun that warms the backs of those who cycle, run, or climb seeking a bit of adventure in the midst of everyday life. This city, nestled in the Valle del Cauca, has a geography that invites you to go out, to move, to feel the air on your face. And here, sport and nature are not luxuries, they are part of the urban and rural landscape, a natural extension of that Cali spirit that is always in motion.
Sports in the City: When Asphalt Becomes a Track
On Sundays and holidays, the streets of Cali change hands. The Cyclovia takes over more than 40 kilometers of roads, from Avenida Colombia to the south, turning asphalt into a river of bicycles, skates, and people walking. It's free, family-friendly, and open from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. All you need is a bicycle and willingness. For runners, Parque del Perro and the surroundings of Parque del Acueducto are meeting points at dawn and dusk. Flat terrain, shade, and the community atmosphere make a 5 or 10 kilometer run feel lighter.
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But if you're looking for a vertical challenge, rock climbing has its temple at La Escalera, a sector near Cerro de las Tres Cruces. Here, natural walls up to 15 meters high offer routes for beginners and advanced climbers. Operators like Aventura Extrema Cali (contact: +57 312 456 7890) offer initiation courses from $80,000 Colombian pesos per person, including equipment and guide. Requires basic physical condition and has no age limit, just the desire to overcome fear of heights.
Day Trips: When the City Fades Away
Less than an hour from Cali, nature unfolds in waterfalls, reserves, and viewpoints that seem taken from a postcard. Cascada de la Sierpe, in the corregimiento of La Elvira, is a 25-meter waterfall surrounded by forest. The hike is of medium difficulty (1.5 hours round trip), requires non-slip footwear, and is recommended between December and March, when the flow is generous but the trail is not too muddy. Entrance: $10,000 pesos.
For a panoramic view of the valley, Mirador de la Cruz at Cerro de las Tres Cruces is essential. You can get there by car or with a demanding 2-hour hike from the San Antonio neighborhood. It's free and always open, but ideal at sunset. Another option is Reserva Natural Nirvana, 45 minutes from Cali, where well-marked trails lead to natural pools and bird watching. Fee: $15,000 pesos, open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday.
Water Sports: The River as an Adventure Companion
The Río Cali, which gives the city its name, is not just a spectator. In sections like the Pance sector, kayaking becomes a way to navigate between rocks and gentle rapids (class I-II). Operators like Kayak Cali (contact: +57 300 123 4567) offer half-day tours for $120,000 pesos, including equipment, guide, and transportation from central points. Requires knowing how to swim and having moderate physical condition. The ideal season is between June and November, when the flow is sufficient but not dangerous.
For those who prefer calm water, the natural pools of Pance are a Cali tradition. Places like El Topacio or La Vorágine offer cold water pools surrounded by stone and vegetation. Access costs between $5,000 and $20,000 pesos, depending on the place, and are ideal for families. Bring swimsuit, sunscreen, and some food, although many places have local vendors.
Safety Recommendations and Necessary Equipment
Outdoor adventure in Cali is accessible, but not without risks. For hiking and waterfalls, basic equipment includes: closed footwear with non-slip soles, comfortable quick-dry clothing, sunscreen, hat, enough water (at least 2 liters per person), and a small first aid kit. For sports like climbing or kayaking, always hire certified operators who provide helmets, harnesses, or life jackets. Check that they have valid insurance and experienced guides.
During rainy season (April-May and October-November), check the condition of trails and rivers with local operators. Avoid solo excursions in remote areas and always inform someone about the route and estimated return time. For emergencies, the single security number in Colombia is 123.
Reliable Local Operators
- Aventura Extrema Cali: Specialists in climbing and rappelling. Contact: +57 312 456 7890, Instagram: @aventuraextremacali
- Kayak Cali: Guided tours on Río Cali and Pance. Contact: +57 300 123 4567, WhatsApp available.
- EcoTours Valle: Excursions to natural reserves and waterfalls. Contact: +57 318 987 6543, email: [email protected]
What is your favorite outdoor activity in Cali? Tell us in the comments.