Step inside, wander beneath its towering structures, and immerse yourself in history. We won’t spoil all the secrets hidden within — that’s for you to discover on one of the city’s most essential tours.
The monument is an integral part of the Jairo Varela Museum, curated by Cristina Varela, Jairo’s daughter, an artist and cultural ambassador in her own right. It’s open for local and international visitors, ready to experience the soul of Cali through SalsaMap’s official tours.
If you’re captivated by this artistic masterpiece and want to know more about its creation, architect Freddy Pantoja, the visionary behind the monument, can share its story:
Cali, where every corner pulses with salsa history.
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If Barrio Obrero is known as the ‘Salsa Neighborhood,’ this street is one of the most authentic displays that salsa is still alive in its rawest form. On nights when the stage lights up, local artists flock to perform in front of an eager crowd. And when there’s no scheduled event? No worries — spontaneous dance battles and old-school salseros jamming out with their instruments are a common sight.
Pro tip: bring earplugs if you’re not used to high-decibel music, because the energy here is LOUD. And if there’s a stage event, arrive early — trust us, it fills up fast, and there won’t be room for another soul.
Recently, a local brand stepped in to add a touch of magic, illuminating the nights with vibrant decorations that pay homage to Cali’s iconic ‘casetas.’ This has drawn even more people strolling from the Boulevard, curious to witness the buzz of La Calle del Sabor.
This street rarely sleeps, serving as both an intersection and a landmark of Cali’s nightlife. We recommend going with friends or joining one of SalsaMap’s curated routes to make the most of your visit — and, of course, to keep your experience safe and unforgettable.
Let’s dance!
]]>It’s the perfect spot to end your day after exploring iconic places like the Jairo Varela Plaza nearby. And if you’re craving that “apretao” dance experience, you’ll find it here, surrounded by locals and travelers moving to the rhythm of Cali’s streets.
Prices? Unbeatable, thanks to being an official vendor spot. And the vibe? Pure magic. With a rotating lineup of live music, DJs, and spontaneous jam sessions, the open-air stage regularly lights up the night, bringing old-school dancers, musicians, and salsa lovers together in one epic celebration.
La Calle del Sabor, Cali — Come for the experience, stay for the salsa!
The magic comes from Chef Lucas’s experimental creations, a vibrant fusion of colors and flavors. And, of course, there’s a dish honoring Cali’s salsa culture: “El Chonto”, inspired by the super-typical fruit brought in from Buenaventura. This star dish, along with other delights, reflects Lucas’s culinary journey, blending local roots with his New York kitchen experience.
Cali, where every dish tells a story — and every bite sings salsa!
Looking to teach instead of learn? No problem! The academy also rents out its space, making it a perfect spot for instructors to run their own classes.
Here, it’s all about one-on-one training—tailored, focused, and designed to get you dancing like a pro.
Miraflores, Cali – Where salsa never stops!
Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, it’s easy to miss at first glance. But behind its doors lies an academic and historical treasure, built over the years by the Cardozo family, who have received memorabilia directly from the artists themselves.
It’s almost a clandestine sanctuary, known only to a lucky few. Yet, with international recognition and a concept that keeps things exclusive, it’s a must-visit for true salsa lovers looking to uncover Cali’s best-kept secrets.
A hidden salsa universe, waiting to be discovered.
It’s more than just music—Melassa is a full-on experience. Sip on a cold beer or a local favorite like lulada, and on weekends, fire up your taste buds with their delicious asados.
Check out their event schedule! Melassa isn’t just playing records—it’s making history. Through their cultural foundation, they’re leading a kids’ salsa orchestra and staying active in top national events.
Salsatown, Cali – A neighborhood in transformation.
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La Linterna Cali: Where Printmaking Becomes Art
In the heart of San Antonio, La Linterna Cali keeps the magic of traditional printmaking alive! Since 1934, this legendary workshop has crafted stunning hand-printed posters using linoleum engraving and movable type. Their work isn’t just ink on paper—it’s pure art, lighting up cultural events, social movements, and the walls of collectors.
This place breathes history. With century-old presses and time-honored techniques, La Linterna has stood strong. In 2016, it faced a crisis that almost turned off the lights, but in 2017, a new generation of artists, designers, and cultural leaders reignited the fire—blending classic craftsmanship with modern graphic design.
As master printer Olmedo Franco puts it:
“La Linterna is magic. Just when it seems like it’s about to go dark, it lights up again.”
Today, La Linterna shines brighter than ever, sharing the beauty of traditional printing with the world. A must-visit spot for lovers of design, history, and handmade art.
San Antonio, Cali, Colombia.