You know you’ve stepped into Cali when you find yourself in a spirited and cheery atmosphere. After all, the very nickname “Rumba Capital of Colombia” gives away the merry nature of this city.
From the first-class clubs of Juanchito to the antique architecture of its religious buildings, tourists have a lot to explore and admire here.
Read on to know how to make the best of your time in Cali.
Cali Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers — FAQs
Travel medical insurance for Cali is a must.
Tourists traveling to this exotic city are in for a treat, but there are certain preparations to be made if one is going on a vacation abroad. One of the most important is purchasing Cali travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Cali?
The Colombian government no longer requires tourists coming into the country to purchase travel medical insurance. However, travel medical insurance is still a must-have in Cali. Tourists need a proper plan to cover their medical expenses.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Cali?
While you’re abroad, the insurance you have in your home country is invalid. It will not help you out with your bills if you were to meet with a medical emergency in Cali. This job is taken up by travel medical insurance.
Thus, it becomes important to buy travel medical insurance, as it secures both your finances and your healthcare in a foreign country.
Cali Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers — FAQs
What is trip cancellation insurance? Think of it as a financial safety net in case your trip must be cancelled. Let’s learn how it can help.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Cali?
No one ever expects to cancel a long-planned trip abroad, but emergencies can happen. It could be a personal illness, family emergency, natural disaster, etc.
If cancellation is necessary, you could risk losing all the money you’ve spent on pre-paid expenses like airline tickets and hotel rooms. Trip cancellation insurance can help you recoup these prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if your trip must be cancelled for a covered reason.
What can be covered under trip cancellation insurance for Cali?
Before heading to Cali, make sure that your trip cancellation insurance offers the following coverages:
Don’t make the same mistake that other tourists have made. Make sure that you buy travel insurance and make your trip to Cali a memorable one in all aspects.
Things To Do for Travelers in Cali
Zoológico de Cali
Topping the list of things to do in Cali is Zoológico de Cali.
One of the best zoos in Colombia (if not the best), Zoológico de Cali is home to many species of animals, both native and from around the world. Here, you’ll find animals from white tigers to pink flamingos. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will have a great time here.
Museo La Tertulia
Featuring Colombian and international artists alike, Museo La Tertulia is a modern art museum in Cali, and one of the most important tourist destinations here. Along with a commendable collection of artworks, the museum also has other activities to offer:
- An art workshop for children
- An arthouse theatre and film library called Cinemateca, which shows films regularly. It even hosts film festivals.
El Gato del Río
The principal attraction in Parque El Gato De Tejada (or the “Cat Park”) is the El Gato del Río. This is an iconic sculpture created by the Colombian artist Hernando Tejada, and has become a culturally significant monument and a famous landmark.
Apart from the art exhibit, the beautiful park is also worth exploring. It’s a tranquil place where tourists can roam around, with a scenic view of the nearby Cali River enhancing the splendor of the park.
Iglesia Ermita
With its strikingly beautiful Gothic architecture and ornate decorations, the Iglesia Ermita is an opulent church in Cali. It blends styles from all around the world; from Dutch windows to French church bells, there’s a lot to admire in Iglesia Ermita.
Cristo Rey
This statue isn’t as big as Rio’s Christ the Redeemer — but that is no reason to miss out on visiting this culturally significant monument.
Perched on top of the picturesque hill of Cerro de Los Cristales, the statue is a great hangout spot for tourists. Admire the breathtaking panoramic views from the hill and relax in the cool weather atop.
You can also visit the Andoke butterfly farm nearby.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Cali
Heat
Tourists often complain about the heat in Cali. With a tropical climate, Cali’s weather is often warm – bordering on uncomfortable for those from cooler climates.
Always carry a water bottle with you; this will help you beat the heat. Consider supplementing water with electrolyte drinks.
Also, pack more light-colored and loose-fitting clothes. Do away with jeans and leather jackets.
Crime
Colombia is notorious for its reputation of being a place ridden with crime. But Cali is a safe city. Most of the crime here is petty — such as pickpocketing and (at most) robberies.
The violence is higher in Eastern Cali, so do your best to stay away from that area.
Water
In Colombia, tap water is only potable in the cities of Bogotá and Medellín. So do not drink the tap water as long as you’re staying in Cali.
To avoid drinking contaminated water, boil it. This will kill all the germs and viruses in it, making it safe to drink. You can even travel with a Lifestraw or Steripen so that will help you purify water anywhere you go.
Mosquitoes
In 2015 and 2016, Colombia recorded the second-largest Zika outbreak in the world. This clearly shows that Colombia has a mosquito problem — and tourists in Cali are not safe from them.
To avoid contracting Zika, dengue, or chikungunya, practice caution against mosquitoes. Carry mosquito repellent along with you, and apply it before stepping out into the streets of Cali.
Pollution
Cali constantly battles high levels of pollution. Be it because of overpopulation or over-industrialization, the air in Cali is more polluted than the WHO guideline.
We would advise tourists to wear an N-95 mask, as this will reduce the harmful particulate matter that enters the lungs.
Before You Travel to Cali — Do This
Pack the following:
- A mosquito repellent to avoid contracting Zika or dengue
- A sunscreen (SPF 35+) to shield you from the harsh sun
Learn some Spanish
Locals in Cali seldom have a firm grasp on languages other than Spanish. To do away with difficulties in communication, learn some common words and phrases in Spanish.
Buy insurance
Cali vacation insurance will make sure that your trip and finances are safe and sound. So, buy travel medical insurance or travel insurance.