Cali: Cali River Waterfall and Great River Pools Tour

Cali: Cali River Waterfall and Great River Pools Tour offers an immersive, nature-centered escape just outside the bustling city. For around $50 per person, you’ll spend roughly 3 hours exploring the main river in Cali, walking past lush botanical gardens and the zoo, then relaxing in natural pools and marveling at a beautiful waterfall. Led by knowledgeable guides like Mateo, this tour combines light hiking, swimming, and the chance to connect with some of the most appealing parts of Colombia’s Valle del Cauca.

What we love most about this experience is how close it gets you to pristine water spots that feel worlds away from the urban noise—without needing to travel far or spend a ton. The walk along the river is flat and easy, making it accessible to most travelers, and the natural pools are a perfect refreshment on a hot day. Plus, the personalized small-group format ensures a relaxed, intimate outing—plus, guides like Mateo bring a wealth of local knowledge that enriches every moment.

One thing to consider: since some water crossings involve getting your feet wet, you’ll want to bring suitable footwear or be prepared to remove your shoes for a quick splash. Also, the tour doesn’t include entry fees to the botanical gardens or zoo, so budget an extra $10 if you wish to explore those.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy light outdoor activities, appreciate authentic natural settings, and want a flexible, guided experience that feels both safe and fun. Families, solo travelers, and nature lovers will particularly enjoy the approachable pace and the chance to swim and relax in fresh water pools.

Key Points

• Accessible Walk: The flat, 1.5 km walk along the Cali River is easy and scenic.
• Authentic Water Spots: Multiple pools and a waterfall provide refreshing swimming opportunities.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Mateo are praised for their friendliness and expertise.
• Flexible Experience: You can choose to stay longer at the pools or just enjoy a quick visit.
• Authentic Nature: The tour highlights Cali’s natural beauty, away from city noise.
• Cost-Effective: At $50, the tour offers excellent value for a small-group guided adventure.

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Explore the Best of Cali’s Natural Beauty in a Compact, Relaxed Format

If you’re after a chance to experience Cali’s natural side, this tour hits the sweet spot. We loved how it combines a relaxed scenic walk with refreshing water stops, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy nature without strenuous hiking or complicated logistics. The tour’s focus on the Cali River, especially the waterfalls and pools, offers a glimpse of Colombia’s lush landscapes right in the city’s backyard.

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, including transport in a small, comfortable vehicle. From there, your guide—often Mateo, who is praised for his knowledgeable and friendly approach—leads you on a gentle walk past the Cali Zoo and Cali Botanical Garden. The walk itself is a highlight, offering views of local flora, birdlife, and the calming sounds of flowing water. At about 1.5 km from the botanical gardens, you reach the river’s most beautiful spots.

What’s Special About the Itinerary?

The real magic happens when you arrive at the river pools, particularly Charco Azul and Charco Recodo. The reviews describe these as beautiful, natural swimming holes with small waterfalls—perfect for cooling off, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a book. Many reviewers mention how stunning the pools are, with Alexandria noting she saw “as many birds in Cali as in the Amazon,” which speaks to the richness of wildlife you might encounter.

The waterfall itself is a highlight—probably the nicest in Cali, especially considering how close it is to the city. You get to climb into the waterfall or stand under it, which many find both exhilarating and refreshing. The water crossing points are manageable, with guidance on how to do so safely—just remember to wear water shoes or be ready to remove your footwear for a quick splash.

The tour lasts about 3 hours, but the flexible pace means you can linger in the pools or explore other spots along the river if you wish. This unstructured element is appreciated by travelers who love spontaneous moments or want to snap photos without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

We found that the small group size makes the experience feel personal and relaxed. Plus, the local guides’ enthusiasm makes a difference—like Mateo, who is praised for sharing insights into local flora, fauna, and Cali’s cultural life. Esther mentions how Mateo’s prioritization of safety and thoughtfulness made the hike even more enjoyable, especially as weather shifted unexpectedly.

The tour also offers a cost-effective way to access some of Cali’s best natural spots, especially considering that entrance fees to the botanical garden or zoo are around $10, which you can choose to visit afterward.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous families, solo travelers, or couples who like light outdoor activities. It’s especially suited for those wanting a half-day escape into nature, with the chance to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy Colombia’s fresh water. If you’re looking for a guided, small-group experience that balances adventure with comfort, this tour fits perfectly.

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Deep Dive: What To Expect at Each Stop

Pickup and Introduction

The adventure begins with pickup from your hotel, usually in a small vehicle. The guide, often Mateo, greets you warmly and provides a brief overview of the day. We appreciated the flexibility—if you have specific interests or needs, guides are willing to accommodate. The ride from Cali to the starting point takes about 30 minutes, giving you a scenic preview of the valley.

First Stop: Charco El Recodo

This is a main highlight—a natural river pool framed by lush vegetation and a gentle waterfall. As one review mentions, “The hike was beautiful and the rain made it more magical,” highlighting how weather can add to the atmosphere. You’ll have around 45 minutes here to swim, relax, or explore the surroundings.

Second Stop: Jardín Botánico de Cali

While primarily a botanical garden, this stop offers a short walk through impressive plant collections and a peaceful setting. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs after the initial swim and learn a bit about local flora. You can stay here longer if you like, or head straight to the next river spot.

Final Stop: Cali Waterfall

The crown jewel of the trip: a beautiful waterfall just a short walk from the pools. You can climb into the waterfall or stand under it—an experience that many reviews call “refreshing” and “exhilarating.” The water here is cold and clear, perfect for a quick dip after the walk.

Return to Cali

After enjoying the pools and waterfall, the group heads back to the starting point, passing familiar sites like the zoo and botanical gardens. If you wish, you can stay longer at any spot or explore neighborhood cafes and eateries.

Authenticity, Value, and Practicalities

We found this tour offers authentic natural experiences with a local touch. Guides like Mateo make the journey informative and fun, explaining local wildlife and the importance of the river to Cali’s ecosystem. The cost of $50 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which saves you time and hassle—especially valuable in a city where parking and navigation might be tricky.

Since the tour is limited to about 10 participants, it maintains an intimate vibe. This allows for better interaction with guides and more personalized attention. The walk is flat and manageable, ideal for most fitness levels, but be prepared to get your feet wet crossing the river—water shoes are recommended.

What to Bring

• Water shoes or sandals that can get wet
• Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
• Towel for swimming
• Extra cash for entrance fees if you want to visit the botanical garden or zoo
• Light snacks if you wish to extend your time at the pools

Important Notes

• The tour operates in both English and Spanish, so language isn’t a barrier.
• It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or for travelers over 95, due to walking and water crossings.
• Cancellation is flexible: cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The duration is approximately 3 hours, but this can vary slightly depending on group pace and weather conditions.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re craving a refreshing outdoor experience close to Cali, this tour delivers a beautifully manageable way to enjoy Colombia’s natural pools and waterfalls. It’s perfect for those who enjoy light hiking, swimming, and scenic outdoor environments, especially if you want a guide who’s knowledgeable and personable.

Families with kids who can handle light walking and water crossings will appreciate the family-friendly nature of the pools and the easy pace. Solo travelers and couples will find it a relaxing, authentic way to connect with the local landscape, with plenty of opportunities for photos and peaceful reflection.

Those seeking a deeper understanding of Cali’s flora, fauna, and water systems will enjoy the guide’s insights, as many reviewers have raved about guides like Mateo. If you value small-group sizes, personalized attention, and a good mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour is well worth the modest price.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, including transportation, walking, swimming, and exploring the water spots.

Is the walk difficult?
No, the walk is very flat and easy, about 1.5 km from the botanical garden to the river pools, suitable for most fitness levels.

Do I need special clothing?
Bring water shoes or sandals that can get wet, along with a towel, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

Are the pools safe for swimming?
Yes, the pools are natural and clean, and guides are attentive to safety, especially when crossing the river.

Can I stay longer at the pools?
The tour is approximately 3 hours, but you’re free to linger in the pools or explore around if time permits.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance to the botanical garden or zoo costs around $10 each and are optional additions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable with light hiking and water crossings; very young children should be supervised closely.

Is food or drink included?
No, but you should bring water and a snack if desired. The tour doesn’t include meals.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to small groups of about 10 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

To sum it up, this Cali River Waterfall and Pools tour offers an affordable, relaxed way to see some of Colombia’s most beautiful natural spots close to the city. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic scenery, friendly guides, and a gentle outdoor adventure, making it a memorable highlight in your Cali visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby