Cali: Street Food Tour

Imagine strolling through the lively streets of Cali, Colombia, sampling an array of local snacks and street foods while soaking in the city’s vibrant culture and stunning landmarks. For just $29 per person, this 2-hour walking tour offers a taste of Cali’s authentic flavors, guided by Juan, a local who shares both culinary secrets and stories about his city.

What we love most is how this tour combines delicious food with cultural insights—from murals that reflect Cali’s history to lively salsa spots. Plus, the variety of snacks offered means you’ll get a broad picture of local tastes, from fried treats to refreshing fruit drinks. The only thing to consider is that it’s a snack-focused tour, so if you’re after a full meal, you might want to plan for later.

This experience suits travelers eager to explore Cali beyond the usual tourist spots, especially those who enjoy authentic local eats and want a sense of the city’s history and culture woven into their tasting journey. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about Cali’s soul, this tour offers a genuine and flavorful introduction.

Key Points

• Authentic Flavors: Taste local snacks and street foods selected for their taste, authenticity, and value.
• Cultural Context: Learn about Cali’s history, murals, and local figures while exploring landmarks.
• Inclusive Options: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and meat-lovers all find tasty options.
• Expert Guide: Juan brings a wealth of knowledge, sharing stories and making the experience engaging.
• Flexible & Convenient: 2-hour tour with multiple stops, walkable route, starting and ending at Bulevar del Río.
• Great Value: All food included for $29, with a good mix of snacks and drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Insightful Dive into the Cali Street Food Tour

Walking into Cali’s streets with Juan as our guide, we immediately sense that this tour is more than just a chance to nibble. It’s an invitation to understand Cali’s soul through its food, murals, and landmarks. Over two hours, we visit several carefully chosen spots, each offering a taste of Cali’s culinary and cultural identity.

Starting Point: The Subway and the Murals

We begin outside the Subway Sandwich Store at the River Boulevard, a lively spot that sets the tone for the tour’s relaxed, friendly vibe. Juan, wearing his signature pink Cali Cultural Tours cap, greets us warmly. His knowledge of the city’s murals is impressive—each artwork tells a story about Cali’s history, its events, or its heroes, including its first black vice-president and prominent figures.

This opening sets the tone: this isn’t just about food but about understanding the city’s soul. We appreciate how Juan’s storytelling makes the experience richer and helps us connect more deeply with what we’re about to taste.

Stop 1: Bakery & Colombian Bread

Our first stop is a local bakery, showcasing pan galleta, buñuelos, roscón, and pandebono, all staples of Colombian bread culture. Juan guides us through the differences: the crispy outside of pan galleta, the soft, cheesy pandebono, and the sweet surprises like guava or coconut fillings.

This is a perfect introduction because it highlights how simple ingredients—flour, cheese, sugar—are crafted into comfort foods that locals love. Reviewers describe this as a “delicious start” with “options with guava sweet or milk caramel,” giving both sweet and savory lovers a reason to smile.

Bonus stop: During weekdays, we add fried plantains, potato chips, and salchipapa—an indulgence we happily indulge in, knowing it’s part of Cali’s street food scene.

Stop 2: Salsa Plaza & Cultural Vibe

Next, we visit the lively Salsa Plaza, where local music fills the air. Juan encourages us to try some salsa steps—an engaging way to get a feel for Cali’s famous dance culture. Listening to music and watching dancers, we get a sense that food here isn’t just about taste but also about rhythm and community.

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Stop 3: Salty Fried Goods & Juices

The tour moves to a stand serving fried empanadas, Papa Aborrajada (a fried loaf of potato with cheese or sweet plantain with pork), and other savory snacks. These treats are crafted with care, with crispy exteriors and flavorful fillings. The beverages include champús, a spicy, fruity drink, and lulada, a refreshing lulo juice with condensed milk.

The reviews highlight how the snacks are generous, making you feel full—and with options for vegans and vegetarians, everyone leaves satisfied. One reviewer noted, “great for vegans and vegetarians because it has a lot of protein,” which makes this tour welcoming for all dietary preferences.

Bonus stop: During weekdays, a regional fruit called chontaduro is sampled, believed to be an aphrodisiac, adding a local flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Stop 4: Ice & Fruit Creations

Nothing beats ending with something cold. The tour’s fruit ice treats—raspado and cholado—are visually stunning and irresistibly refreshing. Topped with fresh fruits and sometimes ice cream, these snacks are perfect for Cali’s warm climate. Several reviews mention how the fruit drinks and shaved ice were personal favorites, with one praising, “coconut ice cream, sugar cane juice, and fruits.”

Walking & Landmark Visits

Between tastings, we stroll along Bulevar del Río, taking in Cali’s lively atmosphere, and stop at landmarks like the Monumento a Simón Bolívar and Iglesia Ermita. These quick visits provide context and visual interest, making the tour a well-rounded experience—part food, part city tour.

The Experience: What Makes It Stand Out?

Guided by Juan’s enthusiasm and local knowledge, this tour feels authentic and personal. Multiple reviews mention how engaging the guides are—sharing stories beyond just the food. For example, one reviewer said, “Juan was extremely knowledgeable and great overall,” emphasizing the value of having a guide who cares about the city and its cuisine.

The variety of food—from bakery treats and fried snacks to sweet fruit drinks—ensures there’s something for all. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or a meat lover, the options seem plentiful and thoughtfully selected.

Food quality and authenticity are notable highlights. Unlike tours that merely sample processed or touristy fare, this one focuses on local family-run businesses and street vendors. That means we’re supporting small businesses and getting a real taste of Cali.

Value for money is another big plus. At $29, all food is included, and the portion sizes, according to reviews, are more than enough to leave you satisfied. Several travelers mentioned they felt full and happy after just two hours.

The cultural aspect—from murals to salsa dancing—adds depth, making this tour more than just a eating trip. It’s a way to understand Cali’s identity and community through its food and art.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• The tour lasts about two hours, so wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• Check availability for various start times—this tour is flexible.
• Arrive hungry; the snacks are generous and meant to be tastings, not full meals.
• The route is walkable, and stops are mainly at street vendors and small stores.
• Juan’s ability to communicate in English and Spanish makes the tour accessible to a broad audience.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.
• If you want to extend your experience, consider asking about other tours offered by Cali Cultural Tours, such as salsa or historical walks.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This street food tour is perfect for food lovers eager to explore Cali’s culinary scene with authenticity and insight. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate storytelling—Juan’s narratives add richness to the tasting experience. It’s also a good pick for those who want a balance of culture, history, and cuisine without spending hours or breaking the bank.

If you’re visiting Cali for the first time and want an engaging, fun way to see the city and taste its best snacks, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially welcoming for those with dietary restrictions, as many options cater to vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the tour offers options for vegetarians and vegans, and many snacks are plant-based or contain regional proteins like chontaduro, making it accessible to different diets.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, during which you’ll walk around and sample various foods and visit landmarks.

What is included in the price?
All tastings and drinks are included in the $29 price, giving you the freedom to try everything without extra costs.

Are there any stops with cultural or historical significance?
Yes, in addition to food, you’ll visit murals, landmarks like the Monumento a Simón Bolívar, and learn about Cali’s culture from Juan’s commentary.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I join this tour if I am traveling alone?
Absolutely. The tour can be private or in a small group, making it a cozy experience even if you’re solo.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress for the weather—Cali can be warm, especially during the day.

How do I find the tour guide?
Look for Juan wearing a pink Cali Cultural Tours cap outside the Subway Sandwich Store at Calle 8 and River Boulevard.

Final Thoughts

This Cali street food tour offers a delicious, culturally rich, and affordable introduction to one of Colombia’s most vibrant cities. The combination of authentic snacks, engaging storytelling, and city landmarks makes it a well-rounded experience that suits first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

You’ll leave with more than just a full belly—you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Cali’s identity, community, and flavors. The tour’s focus on local family businesses and street vendors ensures an authentic taste of Caleno life, making your visit both tasty and meaningful.

If you’re looking for a fun, flexible way to explore Cali’s street food scene while learning about its culture, this tour is hard to beat. Just bring your appetite—and perhaps a small notebook to remember all those tasty names!

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