Cali on Two Wheels: The Night Bike Route of the Western Lookout Points (Exclusive Insider Route)

Introduction to the Topic

Tired of the same old Avenida Sexta bike route, dodging skateboards and dog walkers? There is another Cali, one that lights up when the sun hides behind the Farallones. It is the route of the western lookout points, a secret that local cyclists are careful not to shout too loudly. Climbing the hillsides at night, with the city noise fading below like a murmur of ants, is an addictive plan. And the best part: you don't need to be an elite athlete. In May 2026, this remains the best night ride you can do without leaving Cali.

Comparative Table

Here is the direct showdown between the classic Avenida Sexta bike route and the night route of the western lookout points. So you can decide based on your mood and fitness level.

Analysis by Option: Pros and Cons

Option 1: The Traditional Avenida Sexta Bike Route (Day)

It is the one everyone knows. On Sundays, the Sexta is closed from Calle 5 to Calle 34. It is flat, wide, and full of vendors selling mango biche and cut fruit. Perfect for riding with the family or if you have a casual bike.

• You don't need lights or climbing experience.
• You can go on any bike, even one with internal gears.
• There are hydration stations and public restrooms in some parks.
• It is safe in terms of traffic: the road is only for cyclists and pedestrians.

Cons:

• The views are the same as always: buildings and shopping malls.
• On Sundays it is packed with people. Hard to pick up speed.
• The Cali sun at 10 am is already scorching. You end up sweaty and sunburned.
• There is no "wow" factor of seeing the city from above.

Option 2: The Night Route of the Western Lookout Points

This is the gem. It starts at Parque del Perro, goes up Avenida 2A Oeste to the San Antonio neighborhood, then continues along Carrera 1 to the Mirador de Sebastián de Belalcázar, and if you have the legs, up to Cerro de las Tres Cruces (though that is another league). The calmer version reaches the Mirador at Calle 5 with Carrera 1, right above La Ermita.

• The views are out of this world. All of Cali spreads out like a tapestry of lights. Night photographers go crazy.
• The air is fresher. Literally, the temperature drops a few degrees compared to downtown.
• There are fewer cyclists. You feel like an insider, not part of a crowd.
• You can combine the climb with a coffee or a beer at a bar in San Antonio or at a kiosk at the lookout point.
• It is an authentic outdoor experience: urban nature, silence, and the city.

Cons:

• The climbs are tough. If you are not used to slopes, you will suffer (and walk).
• You share the road with cars, buses, and motorcycles. On some tight curves, you need to be fully alert.
• You need a bike in good condition: responsive brakes, mandatory front and rear lights, and preferably gears.
• There are no public restrooms or hydration stations on the route. Bring your own water.
• If you get a flat tire at night, getting help is more complicated than on the Sexta.

Final Verdict

If what you are looking for is to sweat buckets, feel the wind in your face while watching Cali shine below, and have a story to tell that isn't "I went to the Sexta on Sunday," the night route of the western lookout points is for you. It is not for every day or every bike, but it is the perfect plan for a Friday or Saturday night. The Avenida Sexta bike route is still functional for morning exercise and riding with the family, but it won't give you that postcard view that you can only see from the hillsides.

My recommendation: Do both. The Sexta on Sundays to maintain your base, and the night route once a week to remember why you love this city. Bring a camera (or a good cell phone), a light jacket because it gets breezy up there, and a bottle of water with electrolytes. And please, check your bike lights before you leave. There is nothing sadder than being left in the dark on a downhill slope in the west.

Fun fact: The Mirador de Sebastián de Belalcázar, the one with the conquistador statue, was built in 1937. But few know that the best photo is not taken from the main platform, but from the roundabout 50 meters below, where the curve of the road perfectly frames the city. That is the spot for photographers in the know.

Equipment and Safety for the Night Ride

It is not optional. At night, on the western climbs, safety comes first. Here is a list of what you cannot miss:

• Lights: A white front light (minimum 200 lumens) and a flashing red rear light. On Avenida 2A Oeste there are sections without street lighting.
• Helmet: Mandatory. If you fall on a slope, the asphalt is unforgiving.
• Brakes: Check that the pads are not worn out. The descents from Mirador de Belalcázar are steep and curvy.
• Water: Bring at least 1 liter. There are no open shops up there after 8 pm.
• Tools: A multi-tool, a spare inner tube, and a hand pump. Taxis go up, but they charge the minimum fare plus a night surcharge.
• Reflective Clothing: A vest or reflective bands. Drivers in Cali don't always expect cyclists on those roads.
• Cell Phone with Battery: In case you need to ask for help or call someone you know.

Ideal Schedule: Sunset + Ride + Nightlife in the Upper Neighborhoods

This is the perfect plan that combines everything. Adjust according to your pace:

1. 5:00 pm: Meeting point at Parque del Perro (Carrera 34 with Calle 5). Final bike check and stretches.
2. 5:30 pm: Departure. Climb up Avenida 2A Oeste to San Antonio. The sun starts to set, the city lights slowly turn on. It is the golden hour for photos.
3. 6:30 pm: Arrival at Mirador de San Antonio (Calle 1 Oeste with Carrera 1). 20-minute stop for photos and to catch your breath. If you bring a cup, you can buy coffee at the corner store.
4. 7:00 pm: Continue climbing towards Mirador de Belalcázar (Avenida 2 Oeste with Calle 1 Oeste). It is 10 more minutes of climbing, but the view is even wider.
5. 7:30 pm: Arrival at the lookout point. Stay here for 30-40 minutes. The city lights are all on now. It is time for the panoramic photo.
6. 8:15 pm: Controlled descent (don't speed up, the curves are tight). Return via the same route or going down Carrera 1 to Calle 5.
7. 8:45 pm: Arrival in San Antonio. Option

Analysis by Option (Pros and Cons)

Pros of the night bike route of the western lookout points:

• Unique atmosphere: The night bike route offers a different experience, illuminated by the city lights and the starry sky, ideal for enjoying the architecture and nature in a quieter environment.
• Less congestion: Being a less traveled route than Avenida Sexta, you can pedal with greater freedom and comfort, avoiding the usual hustle and bustle.
• Panoramic views: The western lookout points offer spectacular views of Cali, especially at nightfall, making the ride a visual delight.

Cons of the night bike route of the western lookout points:

• Safety: It is crucial to consider personal safety and the safety of your belongings. Some areas may be less traveled, so it is advisable to go in a group.
• Variable lighting: Although some parts are well lit, there are sections that may lack sufficient light, making it necessary to bring additional lights for the bicycle.
• Accessibility: Not all lookout points are easily accessible for all cyclists, and some slopes can be challenging for beginners.

In summary, the night bike route of the western lookout points in Cali is an exciting and visually appealing alternative, but it requires precautions and preparation to fully enjoy it.