Cali's Urban Art Route: Murals That Tell the City's Story

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Cali is a city that breathes art on every corner, and its urban art route is a manifestation of this. The murals that adorn the city's walls not only beautify the surroundings but also tell deep stories about the culture, history, and struggles of the Cali community. Here are some of the most notable areas to explore urban art in Cali:

• San Antonio neighborhood: This is one of Cali's most emblematic and bohemian neighborhoods. Here you'll find murals reflecting the daily life and history of its inhabitants.
• The historic center: In Cali's old town, you can find works that pay homage to music and dance, fundamental elements of Cali's culture.
• La Loma de la Cruz: This place is famous for its viewpoint and its murals depicting the city's cultural diversity.
• Obrero neighborhood: Here, artists have captured the community's resistance and identity through impactful works.
• Parque de los Gatos: This park is known not only for its cat sculptures but also for the murals decorating its surroundings.

Updated Costs

Exploring Cali's urban art route is an activity that can be done without a large budget. The good news is that most murals are outdoors and completely free to visit. However, here are some costs you might consider:

• Transportation: If you decide to use public transport, a ride on the MIO (Cali's transport system) costs around $2,300 COP (reference prices from April 2026).
• Tour guides: If you prefer a more structured experience, you can opt for a guided tour. Prices for these tours usually range from $30,000 to $50,000 COP per person.
• Food and drink: After a tour, you'll likely want to try some of the local cuisine. Meals at restaurants or street food can cost between $10,000 and $30,000 COP.

Estimated Times

The time you spend on the urban art route can vary depending on your interests. Here are some estimates to help you plan your visit better:

• Walking tour: If you decide to explore on foot, a tour of the San Antonio neighborhood and the historic center can take between 2 to 3 hours.
• Visit to several neighborhoods: If you want to cover more areas like La Loma de la Cruz and Obrero neighborhood, you might need between 4 to 6 hours.
• Guided tour: Most guided tours usually last between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the route you choose.

Practical Tips

• Visit early: To enjoy the murals without large crowds and with good light for photos, it's best to visit in the morning.
• Bring water and sunscreen: If you plan to walk a lot, make sure to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
• Interact with the artists: Some murals are painted by local artists who are often present. Don't hesitate to ask them about their work and its message.
• Use public transport: It's an economical and efficient way to get around between different neighborhoods. The MIO system is easy to use and connects many of the urban art areas.
• Stay informed about events: There are often urban art festivals and temporary exhibitions. Check social media or tourism offices so you don't miss anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to tour Cali's urban art route?

In general, the neighborhoods where the murals are located are safe for visitors, especially during the day. However, as in any city, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and avoid uncrowded areas or visiting at night.

Can I do a bike tour?

Yes, many tourists choose to do the urban art route by bicycle. There are several companies that offer bicycle rentals and guided tours on this mode of transport, allowing you to cover more ground in less time.

Are there murals that change frequently?

Some murals are temporary and may be replaced or modified during urban art events. It's recommended to visit regularly to discover new works and emerging artists on the local scene.