La Cali that you don't hear on the radio
When you think of Cali, the first thing that comes to mind is salsa. The Feria, the dance halls, the rhythm you breathe on every corner. But there is another Cali that beats more slowly, in hidden warehouses, old downtown houses, and industrial sheds in the south. That Cali doesn't sound like salsa, but like distorted guitars, experimental synthesizers, and raw rhymes. It's the underground scene, the one that doesn't appear in traditional travel guides but has its own map, its own code, and a community that has kept it alive for decades.
This guide is for the traveler who has already danced salsa in Juanchito, who has already visited Cristo Rey, and who now wants to see what really moves the young people of Cali when they are not in a trendy nightclub. From house concerts to urban art galleries, to experimental music festivals that defy any label. Welcome to the other side of Cali.
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What is the Cali underground?
The term "underground" in Cali is not a pose. It is born out of necessity. For years, spaces for alternative music, non-conventional art, and expressions outside the mainstream have had to fend for themselves. There are no large theaters for noise bands, nor museums dedicated to graffiti. But there is a network of people who have turned their homes, their workshops, and their warehouses into temples of counterculture.
The scene moves in cycles. There are times of the year when everything explodes (like during the Feria de Cali, when alternative events take advantage of the flow of people), and others when everything becomes more intimate, almost secret. What is never lacking is self-management: artists organize their own gigs, sell their own records, and keep alive a circuit that does not depend on big sponsors.
Since May 2026, the scene has seen a resurgence thanks to collectives that bet on the fusion of genres: electronics with Afro-Colombian rhythms, punk with marimba, hip hop with live instruments. It is an interesting time to arrive with open ears.
Alternative cultural spaces
Here there are no fixed addresses because many spaces are temporary. But there are places that have earned a fixed spot on the city's alternative map.
La Casa de la Luna
Located in the San Antonio neighborhood, this old two-story house is a meeting point for art workshops, acoustic concerts, and independent film screenings. It doesn't have a big sign, just a wooden door that is sometimes open. Events are announced on social media a couple of days in advance. The atmosphere is relaxed, with an inner patio where people smoke and chat between shows. Tickets usually cost between $10,000 and $20,000 COP, depending on the event.
El Galpón del Sur
In the Ciudad Jardín neighborhood, a former mechanic's workshop was transformed into a space for rock, metal, and punk concerts. The sound is not perfect, but the energy is genuine. Local bands like Los Zuchos del Barrio and Ruido Negro have played here. Events start late, around 9 or 10 at night, and go on until the neighbor next door calls the police. Bring cash, because they don't accept cards.
La Bodega del Centro
In the heart of downtown Cali, near Plaza de Cayzedo, there is a warehouse that functions as an urban art gallery and screen-printing workshop. On weekends, they organize markets for vinyl records, fanzines, and second-hand clothing. There are also DJ sets of experimental electronic music. It is a good place to meet local artists and buy souvenirs that are not the typical Feria keychains.
Indie and experimental music events
Alternative music in Cali has several festivals and cycles worth knowing.
Cali Experimental Music Festival
It takes place every year in November, although in 2026 it was moved forward to October. It brings together artists from all over Colombia who work with unconventional sounds: from soundscapes recorded in the Pacific to live electronic pieces. The venues change each year, but they are usually non-conventional spaces like abandoned factories or parks. Admission is free or has a symbolic cost of $5,000 COP.
White Noise Nights
A monthly concert cycle held in different bars in the south of the city. It focuses on shoegaze, post-punk, and experimental rock bands. Attendees are young people between 20 and 35, many wearing t-shirts of bands you've never heard of. The atmosphere is intense but friendly. Beers cost around $6,000 COP.
Hip Hop from the Corner
Cali's hip hop has a strong tradition, especially in neighborhoods like Comuna 20 and Comuna 14. There is an event called Batalla de Gallos de la 14 that takes place every two months on a basketball court in the neighborhood. It is not a show organized by a company; it is the community itself. The freestylers take turns improvising, and the audience chants, boos, and celebrates. It is raw, real, and completely free.
Urban art and visual expressions
Graffiti in Cali is not just decoration. It is a form of protest, memory, and identity. The murals tell stories of resistance, of murdered social leaders, of Afro-Colombian culture.
The Urban Art Corridor
On Avenida 3 Norte, between streets 66 and 70, there is a stretch of walls that have been intervened by local and international artists. It is an open-air museum that constantly changes. If you walk carefully, you can find signatures of artists like Dex, Mona, or Kronik. Bring your camera, but respect the space: some murals are on private property.
Screen Printing and Stencil Workshops
Several collectives offer open workshops on Saturday mornings. For about $30,000 COP you can learn to make your own poster or t-shirt using printing techniques. It is a way to take home a unique souvenir and also support the local economy. The collective La Estampa Rebelde usually announces its workshops on Instagram.
How to join the alternative scene
Getting to this Cali is not difficult, but it requires a bit of initiative. Here are some practical tips:
- Follow the right accounts: On Instagram, look for collectives like Cali Subterránea, Ruido Local, and Arte Callejero Cali. They post events with a few days' notice.
- Talk to people: People from Cali are open and curious. If you arrive at a concert and don't know anyone, go to the beer stand and ask what else there is to do. They will give you recommendations you won't find online.
- Bring cash: Many events don't have a card machine or payment gateway. Prices are low, but you need small bills.
- Respect the code: Don't take photos without permission, especially at small events. The scene values intimacy and trust.
- Don't expect luxuries: Bathrooms can be makeshift, chairs scarce, and the sound not always perfect. The experience is about the music and the people, not about comfort.
Local tips
- The weather: Cali is hot all year round, but underground spaces tend to have poor ventilation. Wear light clothing and bring a hand fan.
- Transportation: Use Uber or Didi to get to nighttime events. Public transportation stops running early in some areas. If you take a taxi, agree on the price before getting in.
- Food: Before an event, eat at a stall selling empanadas or pandebono. They cost between $2,000 and $4,000 COP and fill you up quickly. I don't recommend eating at the events themselves because the options are limited.
- Language: Although many young people speak some English, communication will be smoother if you use basic Spanish phrases. "¿Dónde es el toque?" and "¿A qué hora empieza?" are essential.
- Safety: As in any city, watch your belongings. Underground events are generally safe, but don't leave your cell phone on the table while you dance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to know Spanish to enjoy these events?
It is not mandatory, but it helps. Most events have no translation or signage in English. However, music and art are universal languages, and attendees are usually welcoming to foreigners. Learning phrases like "¿Qué banda toca?" or "¿Dónde puedo comprar la entrada?" will make the experience smoother.
Are these events safe for a woman going alone?
Generally, yes. The alternative scene tends to be more aware of gender and safety issues than traditional party spaces. Many collectives have zero-tolerance policies for harassment. That said, it is always advisable to arrive with a charged cell phone, share your location with someone you trust, and trust your intuition. If something doesn't feel right, you can leave.
How much money should I bring for an underground night?
With $50,000 COP you have enough for the entrance fee (if there is one), two beers, and an empanada. If the event is free, $30,000 COP is enough. The reference prices are from May 2026 and may change, but the scene is still cheap compared to bars in the north of the city.
Are there underground events during the Feria de Cali?
Yes, and it is one of the best times to get to know the scene. Many collectives organize parallel events to the Feria, with proposals that contrast with commercial salsa. Look for the Festival Off de la Feria or events tagged as "alternative" on social media. However, prices usually go up a bit during those dates.
What to do
La Casa de la Música
This space is a meeting point for lovers of alternative music. They offer a varied program that includes rock, indie, and experimental music events. Additionally, its welcoming atmosphere invites you to spend hours chatting and enjoying good company.
Insider Tip: Check their event calendar on social media, as they often organize jam sessions where you can enjoy live music and, if you dare, participate.
La Tertulia
A cultural center that goes beyond art exhibitions. Workshops, talks, and independent film screenings are held here. It is an ideal place to connect with local artists and learn more about Cali's cultural scene.
Insider Tip: Don't miss the outdoor cinema nights. Bring a blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, surrounded by the city's vibrant cultural community.
El Parque del Perro
This park is famous for its cultural activities and community events. On weekends, you can find entrepreneur fairs and live musical performances. It is a space where the community gathers to celebrate Cali's cultural diversity.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before exploring the park's activities. Don't forget to try the "tamal de puerco", a local classic sold nearby.
El Teatro Municipal
An icon of Cali's culture, this theater offers a varied program including plays, ballet, and concerts. The architecture of the place is impressive, and its history is intertwined with the city's cultural evolution.
Insider Tip: Check the schedule in advance and consider attending an open rehearsal. It is a unique opportunity to see the artists in action and enjoy a more intimate experience.
How to get there and transportation
Cali has a fairly accessible transportation network that makes it easy to get to underground events. Here are some options and tips for getting around the city without complications.
Public Transportation
The mass transit system, MIO, is the most efficient option for getting around Cali. You can purchase an MIO card at any station or authorized point. Remember that the system has specific hours, so check the routes that will take you to your desired destination.
Insider Tip: Check the MIO mobile app to plan your route in real-time and avoid setbacks. Also, if you have to travel during peak hours, plan ahead to avoid crowds.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps
Taxis are a safe and convenient option. It is recommended to use apps like Beat or Didi, which are very popular among locals. The rates are competitive and allow you to know the cost of your trip before accepting.
Insider Tip: Always verify that the taxi has a working meter or agree on the price before starting the trip. This will help you avoid surprises in the fare.
Bicycles
If you prefer a more ecological and healthy option, Cali has a public bicycle system called BiciCali. You can rent a bicycle at different points in the city and enjoy its bike lane routes.
Insider Tip: Take advantage of the bike lanes that operate on Sundays and holidays, where you can pedal peacefully and enjoy Cali's cultural atmosphere.
Walking
For those who are in the city center or in areas close to underground events, walking is an excellent option. Many of the cultural activities are a short distance from each other.
Insider Tip: Always carry a map or use your phone to orient yourself. Also, don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on events or activities that might be happening in the area.