Transportation in Cali is a vital aspect to consider when planning a trip to this beautiful Colombian city, known for its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Cali is located in the valley of the Cauca River, in the western part of the country and is the third most populous city in Colombia. The city is well-connected to the surrounding main cities in the country, making it easy to get to and move around. In this blog post, we will cover the different options for getting to Cali from the surrounding main cities in the country, as well as the different ways to move around the city, including ease, cost, and safety.
Getting to Cali from the Surrounding Main Cities:
One of the most popular ways to get to Cali from other cities in Colombia is by bus. There are several bus companies that operate daily routes to and from Cali, with the most popular being Expreso Palmira, Expreso Bolivariano, and Flota Magdalena. These companies offer comfortable and convenient bus services, with prices that vary depending on the route and the level of service. The journey from Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, to Cali takes approximately 10 hours by bus and the cost ranges from COP $90,000 – COP $120,000.
Another option is to fly to Cali. Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) is the main airport serving Cali, with daily flights to and from major cities in Colombia and some international destinations. This is a good option if you want to save time, but it can be more expensive than taking the bus.
Moving Around the City:
Once you have arrived in Cali, there are several options for getting around the city. The most popular way is by taking a bus, as the city has a well-developed bus system with several routes that cover the main areas of the city. The cost of a bus ride is COP $1,800 and you can purchase a bus card which is rechargeable to use on different bus routes.
Another option is to take a taxi, which is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Taxis in Cali are easily recognizable by their yellow color, and the cost of a ride depends on the distance traveled. It is important to note that it’s better to call a taxi company or use a ride-hailing app than to hail one on the street, for safety reasons.
Another option for getting around the city is to rent a bike. Cali has a well-developed bike-sharing system, which is a good option for those who want to explore the city in a more environmentally friendly way.
Finally, you can also opt to walk around the city. Cali has a number of pedestrian-friendly areas, including the historic center, where you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the city.
Ease, Cost, and Safety:
In terms of ease, getting around Cali is relatively easy, as the city has a well-developed transportation system. The cost of transportation in Cali is affordable, with bus and taxi rides being the most economical options. However, it is important to be aware of safety when traveling in Cali. As with any major city, there is a risk of crime, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
In conclusion, transportation in Cali is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Whether you prefer to take the bus, taxi, bike or walk, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and budget. With a little planning and awareness, you can safely and easily explore all that Cali has to offer.
It’s also worth noting that Cali is known for its vibrant nightlife and many of the popular spots can be found in the city center. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. If you’re planning to go out at night, it’s best to take a taxi or ride-hailing service.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that traffic in Cali can be heavy, especially during rush hour. Keep this in mind when planning your itinerary and allow extra time to get to your destination.
Overall, transportation in Cali is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, but safety should always be a top priority. With a little planning and awareness, you can safely and easily explore all that Cali has to offer. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Cali offers a wide range of transportation options to suit your needs and budget.
