The Versalles You Don't See: Private Garden Routes

The Versalles You Don't See: Private Garden Routes

If you walk through Versalles, Cali, the first thing you notice is the silence. It's not the silence of an empty neighborhood, but that of a place where people care for their corner. The California colonial-style houses, with their tile roofs and exposed brick facades, hide something few tourists and new residents discover: a network of private gardens that turn this neighborhood into a living museum of urban botany. In May 2026, when the sun beats down relentlessly, these inner courtyards are a green respite worth telling about.

Versalles is not Parque del Perro or Avenida Sexta. There are no noisy bars or lines to get into a trendy restaurant. What there are are wooden gates, wrought iron railings, and behind them, a world of bougainvillea, palms, and ferns competing for light. This article is for you, botany lover, urban photographer, or new neighbor who wants to understand how this neighborhood became a secret garden.

Mental Map of the Neighborhood as a Secret Garden

Versalles stretches between Avenida 3 Norte and Avenida 6 Norte, with Calle 23 as its backbone. But to understand its gardens, you must forget the traditional map and think in blocks. Each block has a microclimate: the houses on Calle 24 receive more shade from the mango trees lining the street, while those on Carrera 5 are relentlessly sunbaked. The gardens are not the same: those in the north of the neighborhood, near Parque de Versalles, tend to be more humid and lush; those in the south are drier, with cacti and succulents that defy the heat.

The key lies in the inner courtyards. Many houses have a small front garden, but the real treasure is in the back: a roughly 10x10 meter patio where owners display their passion. Some are visible from the street if you look carefully, others are only revealed when the gate is ajar to let the air in. It's not a neighborhood of green exhibitionism, but of gardens that show themselves without fuss, like a secret shared with those who know how to look.

To orient yourself, think of three imaginary routes: the Bougainvillea Route (Carrera 4 between Calles 23 and 24), where purple and fuchsia dominate the facades; the Palm Route (Avenida 5 Norte with Calle 25), with specimens of Washingtonia palm reaching 15 meters; and the Fern Route (Calle 23 between Carreras 5 and 6), where the humidity of the backyards creates a miniature jungle microclimate.

3 Iconic Private Gardens (and How to Appreciate Them Without Intruding)

The Triple Bougainvillea Garden (Carrera 4 #24-12, approximate)

At a white-fronted house, a three-colored bougainvillea — fuchsia, orange, and white — climbs the railing up to the second floor. The owner, a retired engineer who has lived in the neighborhood for 30 years, prunes it every February so it blooms in April. From the street, the effect is a cascade of petals that looks painted. The best photos are taken at 4:30 p.m., when the setting sun illuminates the flowers from the side. Don't touch the gate; the neighbors are friendly but reserved. If you walk by and he is watering, a cordial greeting is enough. Sometimes he'll tell you the white bougainvillea is the hardest to maintain because it needs more calcium in the soil.

The Palm Courtyard (Avenida 5 Norte #25-08, approximate)

This house has a front garden that is a rarity in Versalles: an open 6-meter-wide courtyard where three Washingtonia palms, an areca palm, and a bottle palm specimen grow. The owner, a landscape architect, designed the space so the tall palms provide shade for ferns and calatheas on the ground. From the sidewalk, you see a play of heights that looks like a living model. The best time to come is in the morning, between 7 and 9 a.m., when the dew still glistens on the leaves and there are no parked cars blocking the view. Don't linger too long: the neighbors on this block are discreet and prefer no large groups. If you bring a camera, use a 50mm lens to capture the textures without invading the space.

The Secret Garden of Calle 23 (Calle 23 #5-45, approximate)

This is the hidden gem. Behind an always-closed wooden gate, there is a 12x12 meter courtyard that the owner — a retired biologist — has turned into a miniature cloud forest. It has tree ferns, hanging bromeliads, Cattleya orchids, and a pond with koi fish. It's not visible from the street, but if you're lucky, the owner comes out at 6 p.m. to water and leaves the door ajar. Do not enter without permission. If you see him, you can ask about the orchids; he'll tell you that Cattleya trianae, the national flower of Colombia, grows here without issue because Versalles' microclimate mimics the slopes of the Cordillera Occidental. It is a garden that only reveals itself to those who show genuine interest.

How to Observe Without Intruding: Best Times and Angles for Photos

In Versalles, the golden rule is: look, don't touch. Private gardens are not public parks, and owners have a right to their privacy. But there are ways to enjoy them without being invasive.

• 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.: The light is soft, the dew is fresh, and neighbors often open gates to air out the house. It's the best time for detail photos (leaves, flowers, textures).
• 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.: The oblique sun creates long shadows and highlights the colors of the bougainvillea and palms. Plus, many owners come out to water, giving a chance for a cordial greeting.
• Avoid midday (12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.): The light is flat, the heat dulls the colors, and neighbors are resting. It's not a time for walks.

Angles for Photos Without Intruding:

• Use the railing or gate as a natural frame. A photo taken from the sidewalk, with the railing in the foreground and the garden behind, gives a sense of depth without crossing boundaries.
• If the garden has a tree that stands out, shoot from the opposite corner of the street to capture its silhouette against the sky.
• For climbing bougainvillea, look for a low-angle shot (from below upwards) so the flowers are seen against the blue sky of Cali.
• Never use flash. Natural light is sufficient, and flash can bother neighbors or animals if there are any.
• Don't lean on the railings or touch the plants. Some have thorns or are fragile.

Social Protocol:

• If a neighbor sees you taking photos, smile and say something like: "What a beautiful garden, right?" Most will respond with pride and might even tell you something about their plants.
• Don't stop for more than 5 minutes in front of the same house. If there is a group of people, move along to avoid raising suspicion.
• If the gate is open, do not enter. Ask from the sidewalk: "May I come in for a moment?" If they say no, respect it.

Advice from a Local Landscape Architect: Which Plants Thrive in Versalles' Microclimate

We spoke with María del Pilar Restrepo, a landscape architect from Cali who has worked in Versalles gardens for 15 years. She gave us her list of plants that thrive in this neighborhood without dying in the attempt.

"Versalles has a particular microclimate," says María del Pilar. "It's at 1,000 meters above sea level, but the humidity from the Cali River and the shade from the trees create a cooler environment than downtown. The plants that work here are those that can handle strong sun but also tolerate some shade."

• Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea glabra): The queen of Versalles. Needs direct sun for at least 6 hours a day and annual pruning. The most common colors are fuchsia, purple, and orange. The white one is more delicate and requires calcium in the soil.
• Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens): Ideal for patios with partial shade. Grows up to 6 meters and adds a tropical touch without being invasive. Needs watering every two days in summer.
• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Perfect for the shaded facades in the north of the neighborhood. It hangs in pots or is planted in the ground. Requires constant humidity, so if you live in southern Versalles, it's best to avoid it.
• Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata): A rarity that works in the drier patios of the south. Blooms in December with pink or red flowers. Needs little water and indirect sun.
• Cattleya trianae Orchid: The national flower. Grows well on tree trunks or in clay pots with good drainage. In Versalles, it does best in patios with filtered shade and high humidity, like those on Calle 23.
• Calathea (Calathea spp.): For the shadiest corners. Its striped green and purple leaves are a spectacle. Needs frequent watering and does not tolerate direct sun.

Common Mistakes:

• Planting palms too close to the facade. The roots can damage the foundations. María del Pilar recommends leaving them at least 2 meters from the house.
• Overwatering. Versalles' soil is clayey and retains water. If you see yellow leaves, it's a sign you are drowning the plant.
• Ignoring pruning. Bougainvillea and palms need annual pruning to maintain shape and stimulate flowering. Do it in February, before the rainy season.

Fun Fact: María del Pilar told us that in a house on Carrera 5, an owner planted a guava tree that now bears fruit every year. The neighbors take turns picking them to make guava paste. "That's Versalles," she says. "A neighborhood where gardens are not only beautiful but also productive."

Contrast with Parque del Perro or Avenida Sexta

If you've been to Parque del Perro or Avenida Sexta, you know they are the noisy heart of Cali. Parque del Perro is noise, lines to buy empanadas, stray dogs, and young people drinking beer on corners. Avenida Sexta is traffic, chain restaurants, and neon lights. Both are places to see and be seen, for noise and movement.

Versalles is the opposite. There are no bars, no lines, no loud music. What there is is a tranquility that sometimes scares tourists used to chaos. But that tranquility is precisely what allows the gardens to exist. In Parque del Perro, a private garden would be trampled or stolen. In Versalles, neighbors trust that no one will touch their plants.

The contrast is also in the vegetation. In Parque del Perro, the trees are old and lush, but they are in a public space anyone can use. In Versalles, the trees are in private patios, carefully tended. A mango in Parque del Perro belongs to everyone; a mango in Versalles belongs to the homeowner, who waters and prunes it with care.

For a photographer, the difference is key. In Parque del Perro, photos are of people, movement, artificial light. In Versalles, photos are of textures, natural colors, silences. If you are looking for an image of Cali that isn't the typical one of the Feria or the river, the gardens of Versalles will give you something more intimate.

And for a new resident, Versalles offers a community built around caring for green spaces. In Parque del Perro, social life is noisy and fleeting. In Versalles, social life is slow, based on sidewalk greetings and conversations about how to keep an orchid alive.

Local Tips

• Bring water and a hat: The Cali sun is relentless, and walking through Versalles can take an hour if you stop to look at every garden. Hydrate every 20 minutes.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The sidewalks are uneven and some streets have cobblestones. It's not a neighborhood for heels.
• Don't come in a large group: More than 4 people attract attention and neighbors may feel uncomfortable. Better to come alone or as a couple.
• Ask at Panadería Versalles (Calle 23 #4-12): The owners know all the neighbors and can give you tips on which gardens are at their best. Order a pandebono while you talk.
• If you see a garden open to the public (rare but possible), don't assume you can enter: Ask first. Some houses open their patios for private events, but they are not public spaces.
• Save photos for social media with the hashtag #JardinesDeVersallesCali: Neighbors sometimes search for that hashtag and are happy to see their gardens respectfully portrayed.
• Don't pick flowers or leaves: It's obvious, but in a neighborhood where every plant is hand-tended, picking a flower is almost a crime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I enter the private gardens in Versalles?

No, unless you have an express invitation from the owner. The gardens are private property and most neighbors prefer them to be admired from the street. If you see an open gate, do not enter without asking. A cordial greeting and a polite question ("May I take a look for a moment?") can open doors, but don't expect to always be let in.

What is the best time of year to see the gardens in bloom?

Most bougainvillea bloom between April and June, after the rainy season. Cattleya orchids usually bloom between January and March. Palms are green all year, but their best moment is after the rains from October to December, when the leaves are shiniest. In May 2026, the bougainvillea are at their peak.

Is there any public garden or one open to tourism in Versalles?

There are no botanical gardens or theme parks in the neighborhood. Parque de Versalles, located at Calle 24 with Carrera 4, is a public space with trees and benches, but it doesn't have the variety of species you see in the private patios. If you want a public garden, the Cali Botanical Garden is a 15-minute drive away, but it's not the same as the intimate experience of Versalles.

Is it safe to walk alone in Versalles to take photos?

Yes, Versalles is one of the safest neighborhoods in Cali. Private security is common and neighbors know each other. That said, keep your belongings in sight and don't use your phone distractedly, as in any place in the city. The safest hours are between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. After that, the streets empty out and there isn't much to photograph.

What should I do if I want to meet a garden owner to learn more?

If you see someone watering or pruning, approach respectfully. Introduce yourself, say you are a plant lover, and ask them about their garden. Most owners in Versalles are older people who enjoy sharing their knowledge. Don't insist if you see they are busy or don't want to talk. A good tactic is to bring a photo of your own garden (if you have one) to break the ice.

Share a photo of your favorite Versalles garden with the hashtag #JardinesDeVersallesCali and help build a visual map of this secret neighborhood.

Historical or Contextual Introduction

The Versalles neighborhood in Cali is an example of how history and community intertwine in an urban space. Founded in the 1920s, this sector was designed as an upper-class residential area, inspired by European style, where gardens and houses of French architectural style predominate. Over time, Versalles has maintained its essence, preserving the architecture and tranquil atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors.

In the context of Cali's urbanization and growth, Versalles stands out for its commitment to preserving green spaces. Residents actively engage in maintaining their gardens, creating a landscape that not only beautifies the neighborhood but also promotes a sense of community and belonging. The culture of caring for public space here is palpable, and every corner tells a story of tradition and dedication.

For those wishing to explore the private gardens of Versalles, there are some details and tips that can enrich the experience:

• Visit during spring: This is the best time to appreciate the gardens in bloom. The vibrant colors and aromas are particularly intense during this season.
• Chat with the neighbors: Many residents are delighted to share the history of their home and gardens. Don't hesitate to ask about the plants and gardening techniques they use.
• Participate in community events: Throughout the year, fairs and gatherings are organized that celebrate local culture and horticulture. These events are an excellent opportunity to meet the community and enjoy the area's gastronomic and cultural offerings.

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Things to Do

Parque del Perro

This space is ideal for enjoying a picnic day or simply relaxing with a good book. The park's architecture, with its sculptures and green areas, makes it an emblematic place in Versalles.

Insider Tip: Visit the park in the afternoon to enjoy the coolness and tranquil atmosphere. Don't forget to bring something to eat and share with friends or family; the ambiance is perfect for that.

Jardín del Pacífico

This garden is a true refuge for nature lovers. With its diversity of plants and flowers, it is a space that invites contemplation and photography.

Insider Tip: Bring your camera and capture the beauty of the flowers in different seasons. Also, try to visit in the morning, when natural light highlights the vibrant colors of the garden.

Casa de la Cultura

A place where cultural events and art exhibitions are held. Casa de la Cultura also has a small garden that complements the artistic atmosphere.

Insider Tip: Check their monthly schedule; they often have free workshops and activities that can enrich your experience in Versalles.

Where to Eat or Drink

Restaurante El Jardín

This place not only offers a delicious menu with typical regional dishes, but its nature-surrounded ambiance makes it perfect for enjoying a good meal after exploring the gardens.

Insider Tip: Ask about the daily special, which usually includes fresh local ingredients. Also, if you can, sit on the terrace to enjoy the sound of the birds that inhabit the area.

Cafetería Versalles

A cozy space ideal for enjoying a well-prepared Colombian coffee. The décor pays homage to the neighborhood's history, making each sip feel like a journey to the past.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the arepas de huevo they prepare in the morning; they are a classic that perfectly complements the coffee. Also, on weekends they often have live music, so plan your visit to enjoy the atmosphere.