Valle del Cauca Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally diverse Valle del Cauca. Find out about attractions, hiking and biking routes, and more. Learn about where to stay, what to buy, and local customs.


Introduction to Valle del Cauca

Valle del Cauca is situated in the southwestern region of Colombia, South America. Known for its year-round warm climate, this lush and verdant area is surrounded by the Western and Central Andes and is home to several bustling cities, such as Cali, the capital city of the region.

With its rich cultural heritage and diverse array of natural attractions, Valle del Cauca is a popular destination for both local and international visitors, seeking to explore the many hidden treasures that this region has to offer.

This comprehensive travel guide to Valle del Cauca provides an overview of the top places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, and other essential information to help you make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Valle del Cauca

Valle del Cauca boasts many popular tourist attractions, including historical landmarks, natural attractions, museums, and more. Here are some of the must-see sites:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cali Historic Center

Cali’s historic center is an excellent starting point for your cultural journey. Steeped in history and heritage, this neighborhood is a vibrant mix of colonial-era architecture and modern-day amenities. It’s worth taking time to explore some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the San Francisco Church, the Municipal Palace, and the Cali Cathedral.

Calima Lake

Calima Lake is a massive natural reservoir that is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters and brisk winds make it an ideal spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, or sailing equipment. Hikers will appreciate the stunning views from Cerro de la Teta, named after its distinctive shape.

Hacienda El Paraiso

This picturesque 19th-century hacienda in Jamundi is well known for its connections to the famous Colombian author, Jorge Isaacs. The author of “Maria,” Isaacs wrote his famous novel while living on the property. You can tour the house and the gardens and learn about the history of the place.

Natural Attractions of Valle del Cauca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Farallones de Cali National Park

The towering Farallones de Cali National Park is one of the most important ecological areas in Colombia. It covers nearly 500,000 acres and boasts over 500 bird species, 300 butterfly species, and 200 mammal species. Those who enjoy hiking will enjoy the beautiful mountain trails that offer stunning views of the Andes.

Los Nevados National Natural Park

Los Nevados National Natural Park stretches out over more than 58,000 acres in the western Andes. The park features a spectrum of landscapes ranging from rain forests to glaciers, and sports peaks that rise more than 5,000 meters. The Pico de Quindío is a popular hiking trail.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Valle del Cauca

Valle del Cauca offers various hiking and biking routes and paths. The destinations offer stunning views of the Andes and serve as adventure spots while exploring natural wonders.

Best Things to Do in Valle del Cauca: Activities and Tours

The region has many activities that you can enjoy with family and friends. Here are some of the best things to experience in Valle del Cauca.

Aguacatala

Agucatala is a picturesque small town located just 45 minutes from the city of Cali. It offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities such as river fishing, picnicking, trekking, and rock climbing. The waterfall is one of the town’s highlight attractions, and visitors can swim in its refreshing waters.

Salsa Dancing

Cali, known as the “Capital of Salsa,” offers visitors the chance to learn Salsa dancing in many of its schools and studios. Salsa dancing is a perfect way to immerse yourself in Colombian culture, and you’ll find it to be a fun and exhilarating experience.

Coffee Tours

Valle del Cauca is home to some of Colombia’s best coffee farms. Visitors can take tours through lush plantations to see how coffee beans are grown, harvested, and processed. Along the way, you can sample some of the world’s best coffee blends on your journey.

Week-Long Itinerary for Valle del Cauca

Here is a one-week itinerary for your trip to Valle del Cauca, including some of the best and most popular attractions of the region.

Day Itinerary
1 Visit Calima Lake - Windsurfing, kitesurfing or sailing day trip
2 Explore Farallones de Cali National Park - hiking trails, birdwatching, and other activities.
3 Visit Hacienda El Paraiso and Cali historic center - City sightseeing
4 Enjoy Salsa dancing in the evening
5 Visit Aguacatala town - Trekking, swimming and river fishing
6 Take a Coffee tour in one of the coffee farms
7 Explore The Los Nevados National Natural Park

## Food and Drink Scene of Valle del Cauca

Must-Try Dishes

Cali has a vibrant food scene, and it offers some tasty local delicacies that have been part of the Valle del Cauca culture for decades. Here are some dishes that you must try during your visit:

  • Pandebono - a dense, sweet bread made with cheese.
  • Empanadas - fried or baked turnovers stuffed with potatoes, meat, or cheese.
  • Sudado de Carne - Slow-cooked meat with vegetables and potatoes.
  • Chontaduro - A type of fruit that is typically eaten with salt and butter.

Local Beverages

Try some of these refreshing Colombian beverages during your visit:

  • Colombiana - A popular soda with an exotic taste similar to that of bubblegum.
  • Champus - A typical fruit drink, made of Lulo, pineapple, cinnamon, and cloves.
  • Lulada - A refreshing juice made from the Lulo fruit, known for its sweet and sour taste.

Where to Stay in Valle del Cauca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Valle del Cauca has plenty of options for lodging, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in the region:

  • Hotel Intercontinental Cali: One of the finest hotels in the city of Cali, this property boasts modern and comfortable accommodation, excellent dining options, and a fantastic location with easy access to top sights.

  • Hostal Ruta Sur: A popular budget-friendly option in Cali, this hostel offers clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms, friendly staff, and a social atmosphere.

  • Hacienda El Paraiso: For a unique and luxurious eco-lodge experience, stay at one of the hacienda’s three exquisitely designed guesthouses tucked away in a lush-tropical garden.

What to Buy in Valle del Cauca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some recommendations for souvenirs and local products to take back with you as a reminder of your visit to Valle del Cauca:

  • Coffee beans - Valle del Cauca is famous for its delicious coffee beans, which you can purchase by the bag to enjoy at home.

  • Hand-Blown Glass - You can find exceptional glassware here made by local artisans, often hand-painted and richly detailed, a striking souvenir.

  • Traditional Colombian Craft Products – Local markets and craft shops sell handicrafts such as woven baskets, hats, embroidery, textiles, and interesting jewelry worth buying as collectors.

Local Culture and Customs of Valle del Cauca

Colombians are warm and welcoming people, and visitors from different parts of the world are often surprised by the hospitality here. Cultural customs include:

  • Greeting people with a hug and a cheek kiss
  • Being punctual when invited to someone’s home
  • Dress modestly when visiting churches

Best Time to Visit Valle del Cauca

The best time to visit Valle del Cauca is during the dry season, which is from June through August. These months provide sunny and crisp weather, excellent for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing. However, there is no bad time to visit, as the region has a relatively stable climate throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Valle del Cauca

Do:

  • Learn the local customs and culture
  • Be open to trying the local food and drink
  • Wear sunblock and a hat when you go outside

Don’t:

  • Go out for a walk at night alone
  • Leave your belongings unattended
  • Take chances with potentially dangerous wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Valle del Cauca

Valle del Cauca is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to take precautions to avoid theft and pick-pocketing when travelling around the region.

Health in Valle del Cauca

Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, and yellow fever are recommended before travelling to Colombia. Visitors should also be cautious about drinking tap water and only drink bottled water.

Getting to Valle del Cauca: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Valle del Cauca

The Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport, located 41 km from Cali, offers an excellent service connecting passengers to other cities in Colombia and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Valle del Cauca

Cali has several bus terminals that offer regular service to other Colombian cities. These terminals include the Terminal de Transportes de Cali and the Terminal del Sur Cali.

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars are an excellent way to explore the region and are widely available in most cities.

How to Get Around in Valle del Cauca

Public transportation is readily available throughout the region, including taxis, buses, and metro systems. Another excellent option is to rent a car or scooter from one of the local rental providers, allowing you to explore the region at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Valle del Cauca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Valle del Cauca is connected to several other popular Colombian destinations that are worth visiting, including:

  • Medellín: Known worldwide for its evolving urban culture, outstanding food, nightlife, and artistic identity.

  • Bogotá: The capital city of Colombia, Bogotá offers a mix of cultural landmarks and museums, food, and street art, amongst other things.

Conclusion

Valle del Cauca is a beautiful and vibrant region in South America, offering an incredible array of natural and cultural attractions that are sure to leave you enchanted. Whether you are an adventure seeker, history buff, or simply looking to relax and enjoy the local culture, there is something here for everyone. This travel guide is a comprehensive resource to help you plan your trip and make the most out of your visit to Valle del Cauca.



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