The park everyone overlooks vs Parque del Perro
If you ask any local from Cali where to go for fresh air, they'll most likely say Parque del Perro, Parque de la Música, or Panamericano. But there's a green lung that locals themselves keep as an open secret: Parque Versalles. While Parque del Perro fills up with dogs, chatting owners, and restaurants until late, Versalles is the refuge for those seeking silence, shade, and space without the city noise. It's not a trendy park, but it's the favorite of moms with young children, early-rising runners, and retirees reading the newspaper under a tree. Here, there are no bars vying for attention, just well-kept grass, concrete benches, and air that smells of gardenias in the morning.
It is located in the Versalles neighborhood, in northern Cali, between 8N and 9N streets with 38th and 39th avenues. It's a rectangle of about 12,000 square meters that many people drive past without noticing. But if you stop, you realize it's the perfect neighborhood park: spacious, safe, and with an atmosphere you won't find in the more touristy areas. As of May 2026, it remains the same oasis as before, without major changes or renovations, giving it an authentic feel that "Instagrammable" parks have lost.
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What NO ONE tells you: magical times
Parque Versalles has two key moments that locals know well. The first is at 6:00 am. At that hour, the sun barely peeks through the trees, the dew wets the grass, and the park seems to wake up calmly. You see the first runners doing laps, a man with his Labrador who always greets you, and the ladies doing stretching exercises in the play area. If you're an early riser, this is your moment: the park is empty, cool, and full of wildlife. I've seen squirrels crossing the paths and even a small owl in a mango tree.
The second magical moment is at 5:00 pm, just as the sun begins to set. The golden light filters through the leaves, and the park fills with families arriving after work. It's the best time to sit on a bench with a book or just watch the sky. Unlike the morning, there's more movement here: children on the swings, couples chatting, and groups of friends laying blankets on the grass for an impromptu picnic. If you haven't been at these times, you haven't truly known the park.
The "dead" hours (between 11 am and 2 pm) are the hottest and least crowded. The sun beats down hard, and shade is scarce in some areas. If you go at that time, bring a cap and water, because the Cali heat is relentless. But if you're one of those who enjoy solitude, it's a good time to read without interruptions.
Activities: community yoga, games, and picnic
Community yoga
On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 am, a group of neighbors gathers on the north side of the park, near the basketball court, for outdoor yoga. You don't need registration or experience: just show up with your mat or towel, comfortable clothes, and water. The instructor, a lady named Marta who has lived in the neighborhood since the 80s, leads the sessions with a calm voice that barely competes with the birds. Classes last about 45 minutes and are free, though some leave a voluntary contribution. During the rainy season (October-November and April-May), they are sometimes canceled, so it's best to arrive and see if there's a group. Saturdays also have a session at 8:00 am, but it's more sporadic. Ask in the WhatsApp group "Amigos del Parque Versalles" to confirm.
Children's play area
In the center of the park, there is a play area with swings, monkey bars, a small slide, and two spring riders shaped like animals. It's not a theme park, but children aged 3 to 8 have a good time. The floor is made of recycled rubber, which reduces the risk of hard falls. Neighborhood moms sit on the surrounding benches while the children play, and it's common to see shared care groups. If you have young children, it's a safe place because the park has no direct exits onto busy streets. The only downside: the swings are sometimes occupied, so if you arrive in the afternoon, you might have to wait your turn.
Picnic area with tables
Next to the basketball court, there are three concrete tables with built-in benches, perfect for a picnic. There aren't many, so if you plan to go in a group, arrive early (before 11 am) to secure one. The shade from the mango and guayacán trees covers the area, making the heat more bearable. Locals often bring homemade food: empanadas, lulo juice, arepas with cheese. If you don't bring anything, you can buy something quick at the nearby cafés. However, there are no large trash cans, so bring a bag for your waste and keep the park clean.
Basketball court and sports spaces
There is a concrete basketball court, without net hoops (just the metal backboard), where neighborhood youth play informal games on weekends. There is also a large grass area that runners use for stretching or strength exercises. There is no outdoor gym or machines, but the space is enough for basic calisthenics routines. If you like running, the park's perimeter is about 400 meters, ideal for quick laps.
Surroundings: terrace cafés, artisanal ice cream, and more
Parque Versalles is not surrounded by fancy restaurants or trendy bars, but it does have some worthwhile spots for a break. Here are three terrace cafés that face the park, perfect for watching the activity while you have a drink.
- Café Versalles: On the corner of 8N Street and 38th Avenue. They have a small terrace with plastic chairs and metal tables. The coffee is house-made, roasted in Cali, and costs about $3,500 COP for a black coffee. They also sell pipián empanadas for $2,000 COP each. Open Monday to Saturday from 7 am to 8 pm, Sundays from 8 am to 6 pm. It's the favorite spot for gentlemen reading the newspaper.
- La Terraza de la 9: On 39th Avenue, with a direct view of the park. They have more comfortable chairs and a breakfast menu: calentado ($8,000 COP), arepa with egg ($5,000 COP), and natural juices ($4,000 COP). The coffee is from the Juan Valdez brand. Open from 6:30 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm. On weekends it gets busy, but there's always space on the terrace.
- Heladería Artesanal Mango Biche: Half a block from the park, on 8N Street with 37th Avenue. It's not a café, but they sell artisanal ice cream made from tropical fruits: lulo, passion fruit, soursop, and mango biche (hence the name). A single cone costs $4,000 COP, and the flavors change according to the season. The owner, Don Carlos, always offers a free sample before you decide. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm.
If you're looking for something more substantial, two blocks away is Restaurante El Solar (38th Avenue with 10N Street), which serves executive lunches for $12,000 COP: soup, main course, and juice. It's not gourmet, but it's homemade and hearty. On Fridays, they have bandeja paisa for $15,000 COP.
Spontaneous events: dance classes and flea market
Parque Versalles doesn't have a fixed schedule of events, but occasionally things happen that make it special. On Sunday afternoons (around 3 pm), a group of neighbors plays salsa music and dances in the basketball court area. It's not a formal class, but people gathering to dance for fun. If you feel like it, you can join; the locals are friendly and will teach you basic steps if you don't know. Bring your own speakers if you want, because sometimes the music is just from a cell phone.
The flea market is more sporadic. It appears without notice, usually one Saturday a month, when a neighbor organizes a sale of used clothes, books, crafts, and plants. There's no fixed date, but it's announced in the WhatsApp group "Amigos del Parque Versalles" a few days before. If you come across one, it's a good opportunity to find old books for $2,000 COP or handmade neighborhood pots. Don't expect big things, but rather a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
There are also occasional zumba classes on Saturdays at 9 am, organized by a neighborhood instructor. They cost $5,000 COP per person and last an hour. Ask at the Mango Biche ice cream shop if there's a schedule for the week.
How to get there and transportation
Getting to Parque Versalles is easy from any point in Cali. If you come by car, the exact address is 38th Avenue between 8N and 9N streets. There is street parking, but it's free and unguarded; locals recommend not leaving valuables in sight. If you come by MIO, the nearest station is Estación Versalles (North-South Trunk line), two blocks away on foot. From there, take 38th Avenue south and you'll arrive in five minutes. Feeder routes A14 and A15 also pass by, dropping you off on 8N Street with 39th Avenue.
By taxi or Uber, the trip from downtown costs between $8,000 and $12,000 COP (reference prices from May 2026). From the south of the city (neighborhoods like Ciudad Jardín), the trip goes up to about $20,000 COP. If you come by bicycle, there are a couple of improvised parking spots on light poles, but there is no official bike rack.
Local tips
- Bring repellent: Mosquitoes are intense, especially at dusk. The park has areas with stagnant water (in the planters) that attract them. A citronella-based repellent works better than strong chemicals.
- No public restrooms: This is the park's biggest issue. There are no bathrooms for children or adults. Locals use the restrooms at the nearby cafés, but only if you buy something. Plan your visit with this in mind, especially if you come with young children.
- Bring water: There are no drinking fountains in the park. The cafés sell water bottles for $2,000 COP, but it's better to bring your own.
- Safe hours: The park is safe during the day and until 7 pm. After that time, it becomes empty and dark, because there isn't good lighting in all areas. Locals avoid being there after 8 pm.
- Pets on a leash: Although many owners let their dogs run free, the municipal regulation requires leashes in public spaces. Also, there are stray dogs that sometimes approach, so it's better to be cautious.
- No free Wi-Fi: If you need internet, the cafés have Wi-Fi, but with a code given upon purchase. Don't expect a free signal in the park.
Frequently asked questions
Is Parque Versalles safe to go with children?
Yes, especially in the mornings and afternoons until 6 pm. The play area is in the center of the park, away from the streets, and there is good visibility. The neighbors look after the park and report any unusual situations. The only thing: there are no bathrooms, so if the children are small, plan stops at the nearby cafés.
Are there yoga classes every day?
# Community yoga classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 am, and sometimes on Saturdays at 8 am. There are no classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, or Sundays. To confirm schedules, it's best to join the WhatsApp group "Amigos del Parque Versalles", where instructor Marta posts changes or cancellations due to rain.
Can you have a large picnic (more than 10 people)?
Yes, but with limitations. There are only three concrete tables, so if you are a large group, you'll have to bring blankets and sit on the grass. The grass is well-maintained, but it's not an English lawn; it may have dirt and ants. Bring bags for trash, because there aren't enough bins. Also, avoid playing loud music, as the neighbors are quiet and may complain.
Does the flea market have a fixed date?
# The flea market is spontaneous and appears one or two Saturdays a month, with no official calendar. The best way to know when it is is to join the park's WhatsApp group or ask at the Mango Biche ice cream shop, where they sometimes post a notice. Don't expect a large market; it's about 5 or 6 tables with clothes, books, and plants.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes, you can park on the street around the park (38th Avenue and 8N and 9N streets) for free. There is no surveillance, so don't leave valuables in sight. On weekends there is more space, but on weekdays it may be fuller due to residents' cars.
If you want to stay updated on the park's activities, join the WhatsApp group 'Amigos del Parque Versalles' to find out about yoga, markets, and spontaneous events. You can get the link by asking at Café Versalles or at the Mango Biche ice cream shop. There, neighbors share photos, schedules, and even picnic recipes. It's not a massive group, but a cool community that takes care of this hidden green lung of Cali.
Historical or contextual introduction
Parque Versalles, although less known than other green spaces in Cali, has become a significant place for those seeking a break from the urban hustle. Its history dates back to the 1970s, when it was conceived as a recreational space for local families. Since then, it has evolved, becoming a refuge where the community gathered to enjoy outdoor activities, exercise, or simply relax under the shade of its century-old trees.
This park not only offers a green space but also highlights the importance of environmental conservation in a growing city. Over the years, various initiatives have been carried out to promote sustainability and care for the natural environment within the park.
For those who wish to explore this hidden lung, it is recommended to visit during the morning, when the weather is cooler and there are fewer people. Additionally, it is an excellent place to enjoy a picnic or practice outdoor yoga. Don't forget to bring your bicycle, as the park has trails ideal for a relaxing ride.
Where to eat or drink
La Pizzería
Known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, this place has become a favorite among locals. The combination of fresh ingredients and a perfectly crispy crust makes every bite a unique experience. The outdoor terrace is ideal for enjoying a craft beer while watching people go by.
Insider Tip: Try the grilled chicken pizza with pesto; it's one of the most requested and never disappoints. Also, ask about the selection of local beers, there are some hidden gems!
El Bar de los Abuelos
This bar is a tribute to Cali tradition, with a cozy atmosphere and decor that evokes the past. They offer a variety of cocktails and typical appetizers that are perfect for sharing. Live music on weekends attracts a diverse and lively crowd.
Insider Tip: Don't miss the sugarcane aguardiente, which is a house specialty. Also, on Thursdays they have promotions on picadas, ideal for enjoying with friends!