Cali is rich with history, passion and modernism. Before the days of civilization, much of South America was inhabited by indigenous tribes; Cali was no different. The lands were used for slave-holding and agriculture prior to Cali's independence in 1811. Most of the land was utilized for agricultural purposes: plantations, cattle farms or mango fields. More recently, sugar cane and gold mines have been an integral part of Cali's resources.
According to the world atlas, "Colombia is positioned in the northern, southern and western hemispheres. It is located on the northwestern corner of South America and bordered by Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Central America and the country of Panama and by the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean." Cali is located west of Bogota and north of the Ecuador border. With Panama City to the north and both the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean outlining the region, Cali is considered a botanist's paradise.
The climate of Cali is tropical because of its proximity to the Equator. Although Colombian geography provides several different areas of elevation, the climate is typically hot and humid throughout the year. The locals refer to two seasons: wet and dry, wet being winter and dry being summer. Because Cali is located in the Andean highlands, drier conditions tend to persist. The average high temperature throughout the year is 86 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average low is 67 degrees. In addition, precipitation is greatest in April, averaging just over 4.8 inches, while the slightest is in July, with roughly only one inch falling.
Anytime is a good time to visit Cali. Whether vacationing in nearby Brazil or Panama, a trip to Cali offers a different landscape than that of the lowland Amazonian jungle. In addition, the rich history of Colombia offers travelers an exciting glimpse into South American culture. During the drier months of July and August, travelers will deal with fewer weather precautions.
A specialist on Colombian tourism, Bonnie Hamre notes, "Although the Cali cartel officially is no longer a threat, drug trafficking still continues. The usual safety measures apply, and it is wise to take caution after dark." Cautionary measures should be taken when traveling to any foreign country; however, this should not leave you confined to your hotel suite. Cali hosts several tourist regions, most notably the Grenada district and "la sexta," or Sixth Avenue. Here you will find a plethora of nightclubs, restaurants and hotels.
