Free Cultural Tours Resumed
The Mayor’s Office of Santiago de Cali has reinstated the ‘Cultural, Historical, and Patrimonial Route’—a series of free tours designed to immerse both locals and tourists in the city’s rich heritage. These bi-monthly excursions showcase iconic landmarks such as the Jairo Varela Square, La Ermita Church, Jorge Isaacs Theater, and the La Merced complex. Participants are encouraged to monitor the Tourism Secretariat’s social media channels for registration details and are advised to dress comfortably and use sun protection. Tropicana Colombia
‘La Salsa Vive’ Documentary Premieres
Highlighting Cali’s deep-rooted salsa culture, the documentary “La Salsa Vive,” directed by Colombian filmmaker Juan Carvajal, made its U.S. debut on March 7, 2025. The film traces salsa’s journey from its origins in New York to its flourishing preservation in Cali, featuring interviews with renowned musicians and extensive archival footage. The documentary underscores Cali’s unwavering commitment to salsa, evident in events like the annual Feria de Cali and the vibrant Barrio Obrero neighborhood. Colombia News | Colombia Reports+3El País+3Colombia Travel+3
Upcoming Festivals and Events
Cali continues to solidify its reputation as a cultural hub with a lineup of upcoming festivals:Visit Valle Travel
- Petronio Álvarez Pacific Music Festival (August): Celebrating the rich musical traditions of Colombia’s Pacific coast, this festival is a must-see for music enthusiasts. Colombia News | Colombia Reports
- World Salsa Festival (September-October): Attracting top salsa dancers from around the globe, this event features electrifying performances, concerts, and workshops. Aventure Colombia
- Cali Fair (December 25-30): Known as Colombia’s biggest party, the Cali Fair offers six days of salsa music, parades, concerts, and vibrant cultural events, drawing visitors from all over the world. Visit Valle Travel+1Colombia Travel+1
Enhanced Tourism Infrastructure
In response to a significant increase in international visitors, Cali has invested in improving its tourism infrastructure. The city now offers a variety of accommodations, enhanced transportation options, and expanded cultural offerings to cater to the growing number of tourists. breakingtravelnews.com
These developments highlight Cali’s dedication to providing enriching experiences for travelers, making it an increasingly attractive destination for U.S. tourists seeking vibrant culture, music, and history.