Discover La Topa Tolondra + 2 Salsa Museums Tour
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Cali, known as the Salsa Capital of the World. This engaging 5-hour tour takes you through key salsa landmarks, including the Jairo Varela Museum and the Barrio Obrero Salsa Museum. Browse a vinyl shop for classic salsa records. Conclude with a fun group salsa dance class suitable for all levels, led by expert instructors. Experience the rhythm of Cali as you learn about the city's rich salsa history.
- Duration: 5 hours of cultural exploration and dance
- Includes transportation, museum entries and a 2-hour salsa class
- Small-group experience with a bilingual guide
- Suitable for all dance levels, perfect for music and culture enthusiasts
Available options
Kids-friendly
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes: For the kid-friendly version, we only do the museums and skip the salsa class because it's in a bar and kids are not allowed.
Cali Salsa Tour: Dance, Food & Culture in Salsa Capital
What's included
To all places visited.
We will take Uber in between places (included).
Detailed itinerary
1
We will enter the Jairo Varela Museum to explore and learn about the musical career of the most important salsa band for Cali: Grupo Niche. Original items, instruments, musical sheets, Grammy awards, and more.
2
In this corner full of music, you will see how alive vynil disc culture is in Cali. Developed around a train station where sailors arrived to sell their overseas findings, a place where salsa found fertile soil to lay roots in Cali. Authentic salsa musical instruments as well as vynil discs and more.
3
Enter a temple for salsa lovers all around the world. With +1500 public printed pictures, +4000 private printed pictures and +300.000 undeveloped negatives this is the largest salsa photographic collection of humankind. Accompanied by your bilingual guide, you will understand Salsa's original, development, arrival to Cali and how the city grew to be the Salsa capital of the planet. A very different museum.
4
A must visit place for anyone who wants to learn how to dance in the Salsa capital of the planet. Big place, A/C, frequented by international travellers, and with public salsa classes everyday. Healthy, safe and fun. The class is usually structured around 2 hours of Cali style salsa, or just 1 hour + 1 hour for another rythm like mambo, chachacha or boogaloo.
What's not included
Snacks
Bottled water
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
At the Jairo Varela Plaza (the one with the big metal trumpet) walk upstairs (next to the elevator) to the 2nd floor. From the outside, you will see a big vertical JAIRO VARELA museo white letters on a black sign.
About Cali
Cali, known as the salsa capital of the world, is a vibrant city in southwestern Colombia. It offers a mix of cultural experiences, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Plaza de toros La Macarena
A historic bullring that hosts bullfighting events and concerts. It's a significant cultural landmark in Cali.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (event tickets vary)
Cristo Rey
A large statue of Jesus Christ overlooking the city, similar to Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer. It offers panoramic views of Cali.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Parque de la Bota
A beautiful park with walking paths, gardens, and a lake. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Nature
1-3 hours
Free
Museo de Arte Moderno La Tertulia
A contemporary art museum showcasing works by Colombian and international artists. It's a must-visit for art lovers.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate ($2-5 USD)
Zoológico de Cali
A zoo with a variety of animals, including native Colombian species. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate ($5-10 USD)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sancocho
A hearty chicken soup with vegetables, corn, and plantains. It's a comforting and flavorful dish.
Dinner
Contains gluten (if served with bread)
Bandeja Paisa
A large platter with rice, beans, ground beef, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, and arepa. It's a hearty and satisfying meal.
Lunch
Contains gluten (if served with arepa)
Arepas
Corn cakes that can be stuffed with various fillings like cheese, meat, or vegetables. They are a staple in Colombian cuisine.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Lulo Juice
A refreshing juice made from lulo, a tropical fruit native to Colombia. It's sweet and tangy with a unique flavor.
Drink
Vegan, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking in San Cipriano
White-water rafting in Río Pance
Swimming in Pance
Picnicking in Parque de la Bota
Visiting Museo de Arte Moderno La Tertulia
Exploring Plaza de San Francisco
Swimming in Río Pance
Boating in Parque de la Bota
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the dry season, with plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
24-32°C
75-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cali has a reputation for high crime rates, but many visitors enjoy the city safely by taking precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and use common sense.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use official taxis or app-based services
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport • 20 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transporte de Cali
Getting around
Public transport
The MIO system is the primary mode of public transport in Cali, with articulated buses and feeder routes. It's affordable and efficient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
San Antonio
Granadina
Juanchito
Day trips
San Cipriano
50 km from Cali • Full day
A small town surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Pance
30 km from Cali • Half day to full day
A scenic area with a river and natural pools. It's a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing.
Popayán
100 km from Cali • Full day to overnight
A colonial city known for its whitewashed buildings, historic churches, and cultural festivals. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Festivals
Feria de Cali • December (around the 25th)
Carnaval de Cali • November (around the 30th)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Try local street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Visit during the Feria de Cali for a unique and vibrant celebration of salsa music and dance
- Explore the surrounding nature areas, such as San Cipriano and Pance, for a break from the city
- Use the MIO public transportation system to get around the city affordably and efficiently
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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