Parrot Spotting in Cali: Urban Points Where Nature Endures

Introduction

If you live in Cali or visit often, it has surely happened to you: it's six in the evening, you're on a café terrace or leaving work in el Centro, and suddenly the sky fills with a racket of flapping wings and squawks. It's them: the yellow-eared parrots (Ognorhynchus icterotis), a species that, instead of fleeing to the mountains, decided to stay and live among the concrete and mango trees. In May 2026, this phenomenon remains one of the most impressive urban spectacles you can see without spending a peso. Here I tell you about the five key points where nature endures in Cali, so you can look for them, listen to them, and, if you dare, photograph them.

1. Parque del Acueducto: The Secret Roost

If there is one place that defines parrot spotting in Cali, it is the Parque del Acueducto, in the San Fernando neighborhood. It's not just any park: it's the main roost for a flock that can exceed 200 individuals. Arrive between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m., when the sun begins to set. The parrots arrive in small groups, then in waves, and make a racket that can be heard three blocks away. They perch on the mango trees and tall palms that border the old aqueduct. It's a spectacle that lasts about 20 minutes, right up until the last rays of light fade away.

Practical tip: Entry is free. Bring binoculars or a cell phone with good zoom. Don't use flash, as it scares them away. The park has benches and green areas, perfect for going with children. Open all day, but the key time is at sunset. Prices: free.

2. Universidad del Valle Campus: Unexpected Biodiversity

The campus of the Universidad del Valle, in the Meléndez neighborhood, is an ecological reserve in itself. Among its more than 100 hectares, there are artificial lakes, botanical gardens, and fruit trees that attract parrots throughout the day. Unlike Parque del Acueducto, here you see them flying in pairs or small groups, looking for food. It's common to see them in the mango and guava trees near the Engineering building. The best part is that the campus is quiet on weekends, so you can walk without rushing.

Fun fact: In 2024, a citizen census reported more than 50 yellow-eared parrots nesting on campus. The University has a monitoring program open to the public. Free entry, but if you come by car, parking costs about $5,000 COP. Hours: Monday to Sunday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. I recommend going early, between 7 and 9 a.m., which is when they are most active.

3. Santa Teresita Neighborhood: Morning Flights Between Buildings

This residential neighborhood, adjacent to el Centro, is another hot spot. Here, the parrots aren't in a park; they literally fly between the buildings. If you stand in the Plazoleta de Santa Teresita (in front of the church) between 6:30 and 8:00 a.m., you'll see them leaving their roosts in the trees on Calle 5 with Carrera 36. It's a low flight, passing at the height of the second floors. The locals are already used to it, but for the tourist, it's an image that breaks any expectation of a gray city.

Practical tip: There is no tourist infrastructure, so bring your own water and something to eat. The best place to see them is the corner of Carrera 36 and Calle 5. No cost. Time: only in the morning, because afterwards they disperse. If you're lucky, you'll see them perched on the power lines.

4. Cerro de las Tres Cruces: The Lookout with Feathers

Climbing the Cerro de las Tres Cruces not only gives you a panoramic view of Cali; it's also a spotting route. Along the way, especially in the middle part (between the first and second cross), there are flocks of parrots crossing from one side to the other. They aren't as numerous as in Parque del Acueducto, but the experience of seeing them fly while you climb the mountain is unique. Plus, you'll encounter other birds like the blue-gray tanagers and cattle egrets.

Practical tip: The climb takes about 40 minutes at a normal pace. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water and sunscreen. There is no entry fee, but on weekends there are drink vendors. Time: ideal between 6 and 9 a.m. to avoid the strong sun. I don't recommend going after 4 p.m. because the light fades and spotting is more difficult.

5. Parque de la Flora: The Northern Oasis

In northern Cali, the Parque de la Flora (near Avenida 3N with Calle 66) is a green lung that many underestimate. It has an artificial lake, large trees, and a pedestrian path. The parrots arrive mid-morning (between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.) to bathe and drink water. It's a quieter place than Parque del Acueducto, ideal if you want to observe without so much noise. There are also ducks and herons, so the visit is worthwhile.

Practical tip: Free entry. Open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. There are benches and shaded areas. Bring binoculars and a notebook to record species. Prices: free. If you come by car, there is parking on Avenida 3N.

Map or How to Get There

All these places are connected by the MIO system or by taxi/uber routes. Here's a quick guide:

• Parque del Acueducto: Take the MIO station "San Fernando" (route T47 or T51) and walk 5 minutes west.
• Universidad del Valle: Station "Univalle" (route T31 or T47). The campus is 2 blocks away.
• Santa Teresita: Station "Santa Teresita" (route T31). The square is one block away.
• Cerro de las Tres Cruces: From the "Centro" station (route T31), take a taxi or uber to the base of the hill (Carrera 1 with Calle 1).
• Parque de la Flora: Station "Flora" (route T57 or T62). The park is across the street.

If you come by car, all have nearby parking, although in Santa Teresita it's hard to park. I recommend using the MIO to avoid stress.

Conclusion or Final Recommendation

Cali is not just salsa and marranitas; it's also an urban sanctuary for yellow-eared parrots. Seeing them fly between the buildings or hearing them at sunset is a reminder that biodiversity doesn't need a jungle to survive. If you want to be an active part of their conservation, upload your photos with the hashtag #LorosDeCali and tag @CaliBiodiversidad on Instagram. This helps the citizen monitoring that has been tracking these flocks for years. And if you have time, join the guided walks organized by the Red de Observadores de Aves del Valle on the first Saturday of each month. Nature endures, but it needs us to look at it.

Numbered List (minimum 5 items with mini-review)

1. Parque de los Gatos

   This park is not only famous for its cat sculptures, but also for being a meeting point for spotting parrots in the afternoon. The dense trees and green areas are ideal for these colorful birds. Insider Tip: Visit the park between 5 and 6 p.m., when the parrots begin to return to their nests; bring binoculars for a better view.