Walking tours in Cali cut straight to the heart of Colombia’s salsa capital.
I’ve found the Historic Center tour particularly worthwhile, with guides who really know their stuff and take you beyond the obvious landmarks.
The Street Food tour stands out as a smart introduction to local flavors – you’ll sample everything from empanadas to fresh tropical fruits.
For nature enthusiasts, the Butterfly Walk delivers a peaceful escape with an impressive variety of species.
Two tours deserve special mention: the compact City Discovery tour (perfect for orientation and colonial architecture) and the Granada Neighborhood Foodie tour, where local guides showcase the city’s best eateries.
Both offer excellent value and authentic experiences.
Let’s explore these top tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Historic Center of Cali City walking tour offers a personalized experience with a 96% traveler recommendation, featuring hidden sights, local fruits, and drinks.
- Butterfly Walk at Mariposario Andoke allows visitors to explore over 500 butterfly species and Colombian flora, with a short guided tour and flexible booking.
- Cali Street Food Walking Tour provides a highly-rated experience with a 5.0 out of 5 stars rating, including engaging history lessons and local street food sampling.
- The Two Hours Walking Cali City Discovery Tour covers downtown landmarks, the vibrant salsa music scene, and colonial history, with a stop for a traditional local drink.
- The Highlights and Old Town Self-guided Walk offers an engaging exploration of the city’s landmarks, accessible through a downloadable tour with an offline map.
Walking Tour in the Historic Center of Cali City
While steeped in history, the Walking Tour in the Historic Center of Cali City offers travelers a chance to explore the city through a local expert’s eyes.
Boasting a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 49-review tour provides a personalized experience for groups of up to 7 people.
Participants will discover hidden sights and stories, sample local fruits and drinks, and come away with a deeper understanding of Cali’s rich culture.
With comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a water bottle recommended, this tour is accessible to most travelers, though not suitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
The tour starts and ends at Valley Adventours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Walking Tour in the Historic Center of Cali City Review
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The Best Thing to Do in Cali – Butterfly Walk
What better way to experience the natural splendor of Cali than with a visit to the Mariposario Andoke, the renowned Butterfly Garden?
This private tour offers a chance to explore over 500 butterfly species and other Colombian flora and fauna. The short, guided tour includes health insurance and a specialized guide, making it ideal for nature lovers, families, and those pressed for time.
While not wheelchair accessible, the garden is near public transportation, and infants can join. Priced from $11, with flexible booking and a 94% recommendation rate, this is the best thing to do in Cali.
Read our full review: The Best Thing to Do in Cali – Butterfly Walk Review
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The Cali Street Food Walking Tour
Cali’s vibrant street food scene comes alive on the The Cali Street Food Walking Tour.
Led by knowledgeable guides like Juan and Andrés, this highly-rated experience takes travelers on a delectable journey through the city’s culinary highlights.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars with 100% recommendation, the tour includes all food consumption and covers wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
Participants rave about the engaging history lessons and the opportunity to sample a variety of local street foods and treats.
Whether you’re a family or a group, this tour offers an informative and fulfilling way to learn about Cali’s unique food culture, with La Calle del Sabor as a particularly notable highlight.
Read our full review: The Cali Street Food Walking Tour Review
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Cali: Two Hours Walking Cali City Discovery Tour
This 2-hour guided walking tour provides an engaging introduction to Cali’s historic city center. Priced from $36.97 per person, it explores downtown landmarks like the Iglesia La Merced, Plazoleta Jairo Varela, and Teatro Municipal.
Guests will learn about Cali’s vibrant salsa music scene and colonial history, culminating at the iconic Iglesia La Ermita. The tour covers 2-3 miles, with a stop for a traditional local drink.
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option make this an accessible and flexible activity.
The tour operates rain or shine, catering to English and Spanish-speaking visitors.
Read our full review: Cali: Two Hours Walking Cali City Discovery Tour Review
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Cali: Highlights and Old Town Self-guided Walk
Situated on the banks of the Rio Cali, the Highlights and Old Town Self-guided Walk allows adventurous visitors to explore Cali’s cultural gems at their own pace.
Priced at just $8.33 per person, this 2-hour self-guided tour introduces highlights like the impressive Jairo Varela Sculpture, the historic Teatro Calima, and the iconic La Ermita church.
Along the way, engaging tasks and riddles enhance the experience. Travelers can download the tour via smartphone and access an offline map, making it easy to navigate.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this flexible tour is a fantastic way to discover Cali’s old town at one’s own rhythm.
Read our full review: Cali: Highlights and Old Town Self-guided Walk Review
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Cali: Granada Neighborhood Walking Foodie Tour
Nestled within the vibrant heart of Cali, the Granada Neighborhood Walking Foodie Tour offers an immersive culinary adventure. Priced at $93.12 per person, this 4-hour tour takes you on a journey through the local flavors and stories of the neighborhood.
Explore four locally-owned restaurants, indulging in nine food and beverage tastings that showcase the unique Vallecaucana cuisine and the influence of Pacific flavors. Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, you’ll uncover the history and culture behind these delectable offerings.
With a maximum group size of 8 and wheelchair accessibility, this tour provides an intimate and inclusive experience. Enjoy the flexibility of reserve now, pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Cali: Granada Neighborhood Walking Foodie Tour Review
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Recap
Cali’s diverse walking tours offer visitors a chance to explore the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine. From the historic center to the lively neighborhoods, these tours provide an immersive experience, allowing travelers to discover Cali’s hidden gems. Whether you’re interested in architecture, nature, or local flavors, there’s a walking tour to suit your interests and make the most of your time in this captivating Colombian city.