Cali Weather in December

December weather

December in Cali is warm, sticky and often cloudy. Afternoons reach around 29°C, but rain falls on many days, so expect showers to interrupt plans. It's less wet than November, though January is drier. Sunshine is limited, and the weather can feel uncomfortable for long walks.

You can still enjoy salsa clubs, museums and meals in the San Antonio neighbourhood. Keep outdoor sightseeing flexible, and don't count on a clear day for a long hike up to Cristo Rey. If you hate crowds, the rainy weather won't be the main thing to plan around.

Feria de Cali

Cali's big December event is the Feria de Cali, held around Christmas. It's famous for salsa, with the Salsódromo parade among its best-known events. The city also puts up Christmas lights, often enjoyed around the Bulevar del Río.

The Feria brings lively nights, packed streets and more visitors than you'll find in quieter months. Prices for rooms and flights can rise around the holiday period, especially during the festival. The city's July-to-September stretch is generally a better choice for weather, but it doesn't have December's festival atmosphere.

Making the most of it

Travelling with kids? The Christmas lights along the Bulevar del Río make an easy evening outing, though showers can make it a short one. Bring a small umbrella for walks between Cali's central sights, and leave room in your plans for rain.

For the Feria, check where the Salsódromo is taking place before setting out; parade routes can make nearby streets busy. If you want a quieter meal away from the festival crowds, head to Alameda for a bowl of cholado, a local shaved-ice treat topped with fruit and sweet sauces.