Cali, the capital of Valle del Cauca, is one of the best cities for digital nomads in Colombia. Despite being heavily populated, this city invites remote workers and digital nomads from all over the world. Not only is it one of the oldest cities in south America but it’s also the main economic center of Colombia. You can settle here as a digital nomad to enjoy a wide array of facilities. From the low cost of living to friendly locals, Cali has it all.
If you are thinking about packing your bags and moving here, make sure to learn some basic essentials about this city. This ultimate guide covers everything that you should know before making Cali your next home.
Where is Cali located?
Located in the Cauca Valley, Cali is the third most populous city in Colombia. It lies east of the western mountain range near Farallones.
Fact: Did you know that Cali, Colombia is known for characteristic street parties and salsa dancing?
Why Choose Cali as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
Much like any other city, Cali has its fair share of flaws. Before you make any permanent commitments, make sure to weigh the pros and cons of living in this city. Let’s delve into some major details and see if this city is a good place for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Vibrant culture | Not very safe |
| Rich history | Overcrowded |
| Low cost of living | |
| Friendly locals | |
| Central location | |
| Developed public transport | |
| Plenty to do | |
| Stunning architecture and colonial buildings |
If you don’t have a problem with safety concerns and other mild problems, Cali can be a great experience. You can enjoy a high quality of life and experience a strong cultural essence in this city while enjoying a low cost of living! Cali might not be the most amazing colombian city but it has its own charm and distinct beauty.
How to Get to Cali?
Air travel is the best option for those of you who are coming to Cali from abroad. In case you have landed at the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón international airport, here’s how you can get to the city centre.
MIO bus service
The MIO bus service is an extensive and efficient bus network in Cali that is not only safe but reliable as well. MIO is the best form of public transportation in the city so we highly recommend you access it to get to the city. The airport is located 30 minutes out of the city so it shouldn’t cost too much.
Airport transfer
If you don’t want to depend on public transport after a long flight, you can also book an airport transport service beforehand. All you need to do is go to the AtoB website and submit your details. You can even choose your desired vehicle and customize the journey.
Taxis
Taxis are also a perfectly viable way of getting to the city center from the airport. Make sure that the taxi driver uses the fare meter before you get on and beware of scams.
Transportation and How to Get Around Cali?
Since all Colombian cities have an extensive bus system, Cali is no exception. You can access the Masivo Integrado de Occidente (MIO) to get around on a daily basis.
Taxis
Taxis are abundant in Cali and you can easily find one on the street. They also tend to be reliable, convenient, and easily accessible for day-to-day travel. Reputable services such as Uber and InDriver also operate in the country. Legal taxis are distinguishable by their yellow color and taxi meter.
Buses
Cali also has a good and safe bus network. The MIO is a well-connected and well-developed network that allows easy access to almost every corner of the city. Additionally, you can travel affordably without having to deal with maintenance problems. However, they can get crowded during peak hours.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Cali
Another good thing about Cali is that there are tons of good neighborhoods and accommodation spaces in the city. Make sure to look around and choose the one that resonates with you and your lifestyle.
El Engenio
If you want to live in a quiet and tranquil neighborhood that is rich in natural beauty and refreshing tendencies then El Engenio is the best neighborhood for you. This area houses a ton of green spaces and offers a great living experience. It’s certainly a coveted area, perfect for laid-back digital nomads.
Pance
For those of you who wish to live in a modern, unique, and contemporary neighborhood, Pance is the perfect place for you. This area is packed with large and open accommodations that are well-developed and designed. Located near the Pance River, this neighborhood lies in Communa 22.
Ciudad Capri
If you are looking for affordable accommodation then Ciudad Capri is the best option for you. This neighborhood might not be as upscale as some other popular options but it offers an authentic Colombian experience. Belen is a diverse area, consisting of residential parts and commercial zones. You can enjoy a budget-friendly residence, a low cost of living, and a high sense of community in this neighborhood.
Internet Connectivity in Cali
The good news for remote workers is that Cali, Colombia has great internet connectivity. The internet speeds are fairly decent and perfectly suitable for remote work. The city experiences an average download speed of 112.86 Mbps and latency of 28 which shows that digital nomads can keep a remarkable work-life balance. You can depend on Cali’s reliable internet speeds to meet last-minute deadlines and strive at work!
If you want extra reliability, you can always buy a local SIM card upon arrival and opt for mobile data. However, note that there are a lot of good providers in the city so make sure to compare data packages beforehand.
A lot of cafes, co-working spaces, and local restaurants offer free wifi as well. You can certainly maintain a good work-life balance and access fast connections to meet deadlines.
E sim
If you don’t like the hassle of a physical SIM card, then consider opting for Esims. They are a reliable and efficient alternative.
Make sure to compare these data packages before you make a decision.
Holafly
| Data Package | Availability | Price |
| unlimited | 7 days | 29$ |
| unlimited | 10 days | 37$ |
| unlimited | 15 days | 51$ |
| unlimited | 20 days | 62$ |
| unlimited | 30 days | 75$ |
Airalo
| Data package | Availability | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7.00$ |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ |
| 5 GB | 30 days | 13.00$ |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 21.00$ |
3 Best Places to Work from in Cali
When it comes to coworking, there are plenty of good options in the city.
Insight coworking
Insight coworking is undoubtedly one of the best coworking spaces in Cali. They offer a ton of facilities including but not limited to private offices, meeting rooms, and conference rooms. You can enjoy their comfortable working environment and engage in beneficial networking.
Instant offices
Located only a short distance away from the city center, instant offices are also a good option for coworking in Cali. The smart and convenient location allows you to access supermarkets, public transportation, and other necessities too. You can work here for hours and enjoy a seamless workday.
El lab
El Lab is a great option for those of you who prefer flexibility and comfortability. This coworking space offers amazing memberships and facilities for remote workers. You’ll be sure to enjoy the high-speed internet and comfort zone of this place.
Cost of Living in Cali
Cali’s affordable cost of living is one of the many factors that make it a popular destination. Not only is it a great place but it is 15% less expensive than Medellin and cheaper than some other destinations in Colombia.
You can enjoy a high quality of life without having to spend a lot of money. Here’s a rough breakdown of average prices there.
| Meal at a restaurant | 2.51$ |
| Coffee | 1.06$ |
| One-bedroom apartment (in the city center) | 183.49$ |
| Beer | 0.75$ |
| Fitness club | 17.99$ |
| Internet | 25.64$ |
| Basic utilities | 53.45$ |
As you can see, Cali is a lot cheaper than other major cities and digital nomad destinations. However, make sure to remember that these costs are average estimates. Your cost of living will be ultimately determined by your spending patterns and lifestyle.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Cali
Cali is nothing short of a vibrant cultural tapestry and a historical hub. The city is surrounded by art and it is well depicted in every single corner. Colombian culture is a beautiful concoction of Spanish heritage, indigenous traditions, and African culture. The local culture of Cali represents just that and offers a colorful mix. Additionally, Cali is home to friendly people and it hosts a ton of cultural festivals.
Cali is also a good place for nature lovers. There are tons of places where you can go and reconnect with nature and there is a wide scope for outdoor activities as well. There are some mountainous regions in the west as well.
As for the food, Cali is home to a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars! You will find some of the world’s most delicious cuisine in the city and enjoy traditional recipes. The street food scene is also pretty huge as most vendors offer flavorful and affordable food. Other than that, you can also shop for rich spices and fresh produce from local markets.
Best Time to Visit Cali
Since Colombia is located in the equatorial zone, it has a consistent climate all year long. This means that Cali doesn’t typically experience the variety of four seasons due to this geographic uniqueness. You can visit at any time and expect to see a similar condition in terms of weather.
However, the dry season lasts from December to January while the rainy season stretches between April and May. The general Savanna climate calls for summer clothing and rain attire so prepare accordingly!
12 Best Things to Do in Cali
There is plenty to do in Cali but here’s a list of the best 12 things.
1. Enjoy a city tour
Cali is a city that has a lot to offer. If you happen to find yourself in this mesmerizing place, take advantage of the situation and explore it properly! We recommend you take one of the many guided tours and learn more about the place. City tours are also recommended because you get a chance to learn essential details.
2. Go hiking
If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity, consider going hiking and spending some time in refreshing nature. Since this city is mountainous, there are plenty of good hiking spots in the west of the city. You can go to
- Las Tres Cruces Hill
- Pico de Loro. Hard
- Cali to La Glorieta de Alfaguara
- Cerro de La Horqueta
- Peñas Blancas Trail
- Pico Pance
Hiking also allows you to see beautiful and scenic views once you have reached the top.
3. Take a food tour
Cali has a foodie culture and the only way to experience the best of it is by joining a food tour. You can meet other people, interact with the locals, and enjoy amazing Colombian food all at the same time. While it is possible to explore the best food on your own, a professional guide will make it so much more interesting and easier.
4. Visit the art galleries.
Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, make sure to visit the popular art galleries in Cali. This city is a creative hub filled with unique talent and innovation! You can visit the art galleries to appreciate art, support artists, and see some of the best exhibitions. Here are some great options:
- El Palomar Cerámicas
- La Linterna
- Taller Tejada
- Galeria de arte ceramico Phazan
- Artesanías D&d
5. Visit the museums
If you want to learn about Cali’s rich history, make sure to visit the historical museums in the city. They are a great way to appreciate the heritage and understand the city. Some of the best options include:
- Museo de la Cana de Azucar
- Caliwood Museo de la Cinematografía
- Museo Del Vinagre
- Museo La Tertulia ·
6. Attend the cultural festivals
For those of you who want to experience Cali’s rich culture to its very core, attend the local events and participate in the cultural festivities. This city houses friendly locals and welcoming people who make you feel right at home. You can blend in with them at such events. Some of the best ones include the following.
- Feria de Cali
- Barranquilla Carnival
- Cali fair
- Carnaval de Cali Viejo (Carnival of Old Cali)
7. Visit the markets
Cali’s markets are popular tourist areas and something else entirely. With a bustling environment and colorful aura, the local markets are simply vibrant. Some markets offer delicious street food, fresh produce, and clothing while others are known for their architecture. The popular options include 1. Centro Comercial UNICENTRO · 2. Galería Alameda · 3. Centro Comercial Jardin Plaza · 4. Pacific Mall · 5. Centro Comercial.
8. Enjoy the nightlife
Cali is somewhat famous for its vibrant nightlife so make sure to enjoy that during your time here! You can find amazing bars, tons of nightlife activities, and live music in this city. Colombia’s bustling environment and cultural diversity make nightlife so much more interesting. Make sure to visit the popular spots as well.
9. Go cafe hopping
Another great thing to do in Cali is go cafe hopping. Almost every Digital Nomad and remote worker has a special inclination and liking towards coffee shops. You’ll be happy to learn that this city houses tons of them. The cafe culture is pretty big around here and offers a variety of options.
10. Go bar hopping
An interesting thing to do in Cali is go bar hopping. There are tons of good cocktail bars, wine bars, and breweries in the city and each offers a good experience. For a fun night out, consider visiting them and enjoying the lively environment!
11. Connect with the digital nomad community.
One of the best things you can do in any destination is to connect with fellow digital nomads. They can provide a sense of community and companionship, making your trip much more fulfilling. You can meet digital nomads the old-school way (at coworking spaces and cafes) or you can also join Facebook groups.
12. Take a day trip
When you are done exploring the beautiful city of Cali, take advantage of your convenient location and visit nearby cities. Colombia is a stunning country that has a lot to offer so consider taking a day trip and exploring as much of it as you can. You can go to Buga, Cristo Rey, Pance River, or El Gato del Rio.
Is Cali safe?
Unfortunately, Cali is not the safest place in the world. Its safety and health standards do not compare to other cities at all. The measures are minimal at best and certainly not dependable. While violent crimes are rare among tourists, petty crimes are regular. Since Cali is a largely populated and bustling city, pocket-picking and mugging are very common.
However, its crime rate is not that different from metropolitan cities (and Western countries) such as London and New York City. In short, vigilance and caution can take you a long way here. Some neighborhoods are more shady than others so the only way to remain safe out here is by staying cautious at all times.
Furthermore, digital nomads in a foreign country are recommended to follow some general safety tips.
- Look out for tourist scams
- Trust reputable companies
- Stay away from isolated areas
- Stay on your guard
- Stay away from shady neighborhoods
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
- Don’t carry flashy items
Visa Requirements in Cali
Colombia has an easy visa policy overall but it’s different for everyone, based on their nationality and citizenship. For instance, United States and EU citizens can enter the country visa-free for a period of 90 days as long as they are here for tourism purposes.
Other citizens can attain a tourist visa, also known as the V visa, to enter the country for 180 days per year. Colombia offers over 30 visa alternatives for foreigners and visitors which means that you can easily find a good fit.
Luckily, the Colombian government has also introduced a Colombian digital nomad visa. This visa remains valid for 2 years and allows applicants to stay for 180 days each year. The application process is pretty standard and easy as well.
Here are some of the visa requirements:
- Valid passport
- Employment letter (proof that you work remotely)
- Health insurance
- Passport photo
- Bank statements
Conclusion
Upon evaluating all the relevant factors, it is safe to say that Cali is a great city for digital nomads, especially those who have been in the community for a longer period. If you want to enjoy a strong cultural influence, low cost of living, and natural beauty then this city will amount to a suitable destination.
Despite having some problems, Cali makes up for it by offering other modern amenities and the deal balances out. We hope this article helped you understand what it’s like living in Cali as a digital nomad. If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help!
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