Cali by Bike: How to Tour the City Like a Local Dodging Traffic and the Sun

Hidden bike lanes: from the river corridor to the residential neighborhoods you avoid

If you think Cali is just chaos of motorcycles and buses, you are missing the best part. The city has a network of bike lanes that connects the center with the south, passing through parks, art galleries, and even the Pance River. But beware: not all of them are signposted or obvious to the tourist. The locals who cycle daily know that the key is to avoid the main roads and take the green corridors.

The crown jewel is the Ciclorruta del Río Cali, which starts at Parque de la Flora (near the Unicentro shopping mall) and goes down to Parque del Ingenio. It is about 8 kilometers one way, completely flat, with trees that protect you from the sun and benches to stop for water. The best part: it is separated from vehicular traffic. As of June 2026, most sections are in good condition, although some areas near Calle 5 have potholes due to recent rains.

Another route few tourists know about is the one through barrio San Fernando. This residential area, with old houses and tree-lined streets, is perfect for stress-free cycling. It connects with the Ciclorruta de la Avenida 2 Norte, which takes you straight to the Zoológico de Cali and Parque de los Gatos. However, avoid Avenida 3N between 7 and 9 am, because it gets crowded with cars heading to the center.

For the more adventurous, there is the route towards Pance. It is not a bike lane per se, but a lane shared with motorcycles and cars on the road to Pance. But locals know that if you leave early (before 8 am), traffic is minimal and the scenery is worth it. The climb from Universidad del Valle to the entrance of Pance is about 5 kilometers with a gentle slope, ideal for a mountain or hybrid bike.

Bike rentals: where locals get the best prices

Forget the tourist rental shops at Plaza de Cayzedo that charge you $50,000 COP per hour. We locals know there are much cheaper and more reliable options. Here are the best ones:

• BiciCali (MIO office at Calle 15 with Carrera 4): The public bike-sharing system. It costs $2,500 COP per trip (up to 30 minutes) or $15,000 COP for a full day. Stations are at key points like Estación del MIO on Calle 5 and Parque de la Caña. However, the bikes are basic (no gears) and heavy, but perfect for flat routes.
• Taller de Bicicletas "El Pedal" (Carrera 66 # 5-45, barrio Granada): A family-run shop that rents mountain and hybrid bikes from $20,000 COP per hour or $50,000 COP per day. Includes helmet and lock. The owner, Don Carlos, gives you route tips based on your level.
• Cali Bike Tours (Carrera 9 # 3-12, San Antonio): More tourist-oriented, but with fair prices: $35,000 COP per hour for electric bikes. They offer guided tours in Spanish and English. Recommended if you want to learn about the city's history while pedaling.
• WhatsApp Group "BiciCali Turistas": Locals organize rentals among members. They often get mountain bikes for $30,000 COP per day. Ask to join and ask for "Don Jaime", who has several bikes for rent at his home in El Peñón neighborhood.

A fun fact: during the Sunday Ciclovía (see events section), many locals rent out their personal bikes to tourists for $10,000 COP per hour. It is informal, but it works. Just ask in the WhatsApp group or at the BiciCali stations.

Themed 2-3 hour routes: salsa circuit, urban art, or nature in Pance

If you have half a day free, these three routes show you the best of Cali on two wheels. Choose according to your mood:

Salsa route: from barrio Obrero to Juanchito

Start at Plaza de la Salsa (Carrera 1 with Calle 5, barrio Obrero). There you will find the famous statues of salsa musicians. Follow Calle 5 eastward, but watch out for traffic: it is better to use the bike lane on Avenida 4 which runs parallel. You will reach Puente de Juanchito (about 4 kilometers), where the historic salsa clubs like La Matraca and La Topa Tolondra are located. Even if you don't go in to dance (it is livelier at night), it is worth stopping for a photo and listening to salsa from the street. Return the same way, but if you are hungry, detour to Mercado de la Alameda (2 kilometers from the bridge) to try a freshly baked pandebono.

Urban art route: San Antonio and the Historic Center

Start at Parque de San Antonio (Carrera 2 with Calle 1). There are several murals by local artists there, such as "La Gorda de la Salsa" on the facade of the open-air theater. Go down Calle 1 towards the center, but be careful with the cobblestone streets: it is better to use Calle 2 which is flatter. You will arrive at Plaza de Cayzedo, where there is a giant mural of Afro culture on the side of the Gobernación. Continue along Calle 12 to Plaza de San Francisco, with its colonial churches and another mural of "Cali Vieja". The entire route is about 3 kilometers, ideal for an hour and a half of easy pedaling, with stops for photos.

Nature route: Pance by bike

This one is for those who want to sweat. Start at Universidad del Valle (Meléndez campus, Carrera 100). Rent your bike there if you didn't bring one. Take the road to Pance, which is a two-lane road with a gentle slope. After 3 kilometers, you will see Parque Ambiental de Pance, where you can leave your bike and walk to the river pools. If you continue another 2 kilometers, you will reach Finca "El Paraíso", which has a restaurant with natural juices and a mountain view. The return is downhill, a pleasure. I recommend doing it on a weekday, early (7 am), to avoid motorcycle traffic. In total, it is about 10 kilometers round trip, about 2 hours pedaling at a leisurely pace.

Keys to surviving the heat: hydration, schedules, and shaded stops

Cali is a pressure cooker: average temperature of 30°C, with a heat index of up to 35°C at noon. If you don't take care of yourself, in 20 minutes you will be red as a tomato. Here are the tips we locals apply:

• Smart schedules: Only cycle between 6 am and 10 am, or after 4 pm. The sun from 11 am to 3 pm is criminal. The Sunday Ciclovía starts at 7 am, just in time to enjoy without dying.
• Constant hydration: Bring a 1.5-liter water bottle per person. On the river routes, there are public drinking fountains at Parque de la Flora and Parque del Ingenio. But in Pance, there are none: buy water at the store at the entrance of the environmental park ($2,000 COP per bottle).
• Sun protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen (I recommend the one sold at the pharmacy on Carrera 66 with Calle 5), a cap or helmet with a visor, and sunglasses. Locals wear long-sleeved lightweight (dry-fit) shirts to avoid getting burned.
• Shaded stops: The trees on the Ciclorruta del Río Cali are your best friend. Also, Parque de los Gatos has benches in the shade. In San Antonio, Parque de San Antonio has a giant mango tree where locals stop to rest.
• Light food: No heavy empanadas before pedaling. Better a lulo juice at Plaza de la Salsa ($5,000 COP) or a fruit at Mercado de la Alameda.

Weekly cycling events: the Ciclovía on Calle Quinta and other surprises

On Sundays, Cali transforms. The Ciclovía de la Calle 5 is the biggest event: from 7 am to 1 pm, Calle 5 (between Avenida 6 and Carrera 100) is closed to traffic and fills with bicycles, rollerblades, dogs, and mango biche vendors. It is a party. Locals bring their bikes, but there are also improvised rental spots (ask in the WhatsApp group). The route is flat, ideal for families. Additionally, there are fruit stalls, juices, and even dance classes at Plaza de la Salsa.

But there is more: on Wednesday nights, the "BiciCali Nocturna" Group organizes rides from Parque de la Caña (Carrera 1 with Calle 5) at 7 pm. They are 10-15 kilometer tours through the center and south, with stops at salsa bars like La Matraca or El Viejo Almacén. It is free and open to tourists. Just bring bike lights (you can buy basic ones for $10,000 COP at the store on Carrera 66 # 5-45).

Another event you can't miss is the "Rodada de la Luna Llena", once a month (check the calendar in the WhatsApp group). They leave from Parque de los Gatos at 8 pm, go up to San Antonio and down through the center. At the end, everyone has a beer at Plaza de Cayzedo. It is a very local experience.

CTA: Join the WhatsApp group 'BiciCali Turistas' for free guided rides on Saturdays at 8 am. Just search for "BiciCali Turistas" on WhatsApp or ask at the BiciCali office on Calle 15 with Carrera 4. There is no cost, just the desire to pedal.

Local tips

• Don't use headphones: Traffic in Cali is unpredictable. Listen for car horns and motorcycles. Better to bring a small Bluetooth speaker for music, but at low volume.
• Double lock: Bikes get stolen, even in tourist areas. Use a U-lock for the rear wheel and a cable lock for the frame. At Parque de San Antonio, there have been thefts at noon.
• Carry cash: Many fruit stalls and shops on the routes don't accept cards. About $20,000 COP in small bills is enough for water, fruit, and an emergency.
• Download the app "Cali en Bici": It shows BiciCali stations and bike lanes in real time. It works without internet if you download the map beforehand.
• Greet the locals: A "good morning" or "good afternoon" while pedaling is normal. People are friendly and can give you directions if you get lost.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to ride a bike in Cali?

Yes, but with precautions. The river bike lanes and residential neighborhoods like San Fernando and El Peñón are safe during the day. Avoid cycling alone at night through the center or areas like barrio Obrero after 8 pm. Always use a lock and don't leave the bike alone on the street. During the Sunday Ciclovía, there are police and private security.

Where can I rent a bike by the day in Cali?

In addition to the options mentioned (BiciCali, El Pedal, and Cali Bike Tours), the WhatsApp group "BiciCali Turistas" has members who rent bikes by the day from $30,000 COP. Also, at Hostal El Viajero (barrio Granada) they rent bikes to guests for $25,000 COP per day. Always check the condition of the brakes and tires before leaving.

What is the best route for beginners on a bike?

The Ciclorruta del Río Cali, from Parque de la Flora to Parque del Ingenio. It is completely flat, shaded, and traffic-free. Ideal for families or people who haven't ridden a bike in years. Do it early (7 am) to avoid the heat and midday crowds.

Historical or contextual introduction

Cali, known as the "Sucursal del Cielo", has evolved from its beginnings as a small village in 1536 to become one of the most vibrant cities in Colombia. Although it is often associated with the rhythm of salsa and the warmth of its people, the city has also developed infrastructure that promotes the use of bicycles as an effective and sustainable means of transportation.

The history of bike lanes in Cali dates back to the early 2000s, when an effort began to encourage the use of bicycles as an alternative to heavy traffic and pollution. Currently, the bike lane network has expanded significantly, connecting various neighborhoods and facilitating access to key areas of the city.

Additionally, Cali has a growing cycling culture, where events like the "Ciclorruta Nocturna" and cycling groups that tour the city every week are organized. These events not only promote the use of bicycles but also create a sense of community among the locals.

By touring the city by bike, you not only avoid traffic and the sun, but you also immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Cali, from its parks to its squares. Here are some tips to make the most of your experience on two wheels:

...

What to do

Parque de los Gatos

An iconic place in Cali, full of art and color, where you can enjoy a bike ride among cat sculptures. It is also an excellent spot for photos and relaxation. Insider Tip: Visit the park in the mornings, when there are fewer people and the weather is cooler. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the artistic essence of the place.

Sendero del Río Cali

This trail allows you to enjoy nature while pedaling alongside the Cali River. It is ideal for a quiet and refreshing ride. Insider Tip: Bring a snack and take a break in one of the green areas along the trail. Listening to the murmur of the water is a revitalizing experience.

La Candelaria

A neighborhood full of history and culture, perfect for exploring by bike. Its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture offer a unique experience. Insider Tip: Take the opportunity to stop at one of the small local cafes and try a "tinto" (black coffee) while chatting with the locals about the history of the place.

Parque Panamericano

This park is a popular meeting point for cyclists and families. With wide areas for pedaling and enjoying the outdoors, it is an ideal place to spend the afternoon. Insider Tip: On weekends, there are often cultural activities and food fairs, so check the local calendar and don't miss the chance to try typical dishes.

...

Where to eat or drink

La Pizzeria

This place is famous among locals for its delicious wood-fired pizzas. In addition to its varied menu, the terrace offers a perfect atmosphere to enjoy a hot afternoon. Insider Tip: Order the chicharrón pizza, a classic that will surprise you.

Platillos y Sabores

An ideal spot to try typical Cali food. Its bandeja paisa is well-known and the service is very friendly. Insider Tip: Don't leave without trying the ajiaco; it is a dish that reflects the warmth of the people of Cali.

La Tertulia

This café is a cultural meeting point where you can enjoy a good Colombian coffee and a variety of desserts. It is a space where exhibitions and artistic activities often take place. Insider Tip: Ask about coffee promotions in the afternoon; they often offer interesting discounts.

El Rincón de los Abuelos

Perfect for enjoying a traditional lunch in a family atmosphere. The sopa de costilla is one of its most outstanding dishes. Insider Tip: Arrive early to make sure there is soup, as it sells out quickly.

...