The city of Cali, with its urban rhythm and characteristic warmth, sometimes makes us forget that just a few kilometers away, landscapes that seem taken from another world are hidden. Places where time stands still and nature reclaims its space, inviting us to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with what's essential.
Waterfalls That Captivate
Just 45 minutes from Cali, in the district of Pichindé, lies the Pichindé Waterfall. The path to get there is an experience in itself: a trail of approximately 1.5 kilometers that winds through coffee plantations and native forests. The hike is of moderate difficulty, ideal for families and beginners. The sound of water hitting the rocks announces your arrival before you can see it. When it finally appears, with its 25 meters of free fall, you understand why the effort is worth it.
Further north, 1 hour and 20 minutes away, is the Anahuac Natural Reserve. Here you won't find just one waterfall, but an entire system of water falls connected by well-marked trails. The Sirena Waterfall is the most famous, with its natural pool where you can refresh yourself after trekking. The difficulty here varies from moderate to difficult, depending on the trail you choose. I recommend bringing shoes with good grip and a swimsuit.
Towns With Soul
Dagua, just 50 minutes away via the Pan-American Highway, is that town that seems to have stopped in time. On Sundays, its main square fills with farmers selling their products directly from the farm. Don't miss the chicken sancocho at one of the local restaurants, and if you're lucky, you'll see artisans working with tagua, that seed that becomes jewelry and buttons.
A bit further, 2 hours away, is Buga. Many know it for its Basilica of the Lord of Miracles, but Buga has more secrets. The Guadua Park is a space where nature and culture meet. Walking among the guadua groves, those giant bamboos that sway with the wind, is an almost meditative experience. On weekends, there are usually gastronomic exhibitions with regional products.
Healing Trails
The Farallones de Cali National Natural Park offers some of the most challenging and rewarding routes. The trail to Pico de Loro is for experienced adventurers: 6 hours of hiking with steep slopes, but the views from the top make every drop of sweat worth it. The best time to do it is between December and March, when rains are less frequent.
For something more accessible, the La Elvira Ecological Trail, just 30 minutes from downtown Cali, is perfect for a morning of exercise. The path is mostly flat, surrounded by native trees and with several natural viewpoints overlooking the city.
Practical Logistics
Most of these excursions are accessible by public transportation. For Pichindé and La Elvira, buses depart frequently from the Transport Terminal. For more distant destinations like Buga or the Farallones, I recommend renting a car or hiring a guided tour.
Basic equipment includes: comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, enough water, and energy snacks. During the rainy season (April-May and October-November), add a raincoat and verify that the trails are open.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time to visit these places? The dry season between December and March is ideal for hiking and waterfall visits.
- Do I need a guide for these tours? For Pichindé and La Elvira it's not necessary, but for Farallones and more complex routes, a local guide is recommended.
- Are there food options in these places? In towns like Dagua and Buga yes, but for waterfalls and trails, bring your own food.
- Is it safe to visit these places? Yes, they are established tourist destinations, but always travel in a group and follow local recommendations.
These getaways remind us that sometimes the best adventures aren't on the other side of the world, but just around the corner, waiting for us to have the courage to go out and find them.
