The Rio Pance is a gorgeous river running through the hills near to Cali. It's especially great to visit on a Sunday, when hundreds of calenos flock here to enjoy a cool swim, refreshing beer (or rum!) and some delicious food. People will make you feel really welcome here, and it's got a lovely atmosphere. Apparently a few years ago it was considered unsafe, but this is absolutely not the case now. We were dropped off at the second entrance, which was free on Sunday. The banks of the river are lovely, and full of local birds and butterflies. Cross the footbridge and turn left or right, your call. We turned left, but it doesn't seem to matter too much. The water is impressively clean for such a popular spot. Take sun-screen and a bathing suit. The sun is strong, but you don't want to miss out on the cool, refreshing water. The current is quite strong though, so, those with kids keep a clear eye on them (although there are plenty of people around to help with that). It's got a real family atmosphere, which is nice, and it's a real 'local' spot i.e. not just full of tourists.A great way to experience a proper Cali Sunday (or any day to be fair!)
liked the place where you can swim and the eateries on the way down disliked the dust from the track going along
Definitely worth seeing! Go on a hot day (the water is COLD), bring food and comfortable walking shoes that you don't mind getting wet (it's easier/less painful to walk in the river w/ shoes on), and go with cool people. Easiest and cheapest way to get there is by the recreational minibuses from from the terminal ($1,600 cop one way). You can also catch the MIO or a cab. There are public access points along the river, the further up the river the less crowded but fewer access points; also there are "clubs" you can pay to get into which also have access to the river and pools, food, floaties etc. The buses to get back to Cali are CROWDED so leave well before dusk to avoid the chaos...
This lovely site in Cali offer everything you want from exercise, entertaining and local food. Great for running or jogging or having a picnic. We spent half a day swimming, eating and just sunbathing. Better if you go during the week for avoiding crowds. The park has police surveillance so looks secure.
A very cultural part of Cali is "El rio Pance". People from around the region come to this river specially on Sundays to have fun. It is a place to enjoy the nature and its beauty. I wish some people would understand what the river is to Cali and the region, therefore do not throw or leave behind trash or personal items.
I could take a trip the river everyday. I would just sit there and think; enjoy a nice local meal; and bath in fresh river water. It is such a refreshing place to relax and get away from the city smog, noise, and crowds. However, on Sundays it is said to be crowded by the river also because that is the day most people are off and have free. I went on a Saturday early before 11 am. There are beverages and food at the Eco-park Pance River along with bathroom and changing facilities. Lunch is normally served around 12pm. For travelers and tourist visiting Cali looking for a nice place to relax, Rio Pance is the dream spot you will find. A taxi from the city ran me about 25,000 pesos (U$12.50) and there are buses going to river from the Cali Bus terminal, just inquire at the information desk. Happy Travels!!!!
We went up on a Sunday, and there were so many locals there! I was mislead by the travel book (Lonely Planet) on what to expect. It is just a river with big restaurants set up next to it every 500m or so. However, if you want a chance to swim in a river and mingle with the locals, have a barbecue and go for a hike to some waterfalls, this is the place to do it. Just don't bring any valuables.
Families escape to this fresh water natural retreat. A long stretch of commercial enterprises include full service water parks which would be safe for the kids. The more adventurous and those who can't afford the entrance fees swim in the river. US safety standards are non-existant, so you are at your peril. However, many hundreds of people enjoy the spectacular bathing river. There are quiet spots and more popular areas where the young show off and have fun.
it is a neat area south of the city, and the further you head up the canyon in which it flows the best... you can reach the village with the same name, where the road ends, and there are hiking paths to go even further into the colosal mountains... very safe indeed these days, contrary to some beliefs that arose decades ago, when there were stories nobody would have liked to experience.
very nice to those who admire and enjoy nature. this area is down a path of dirt and rock roads,alongside the river overlooking the mountains near ciudad jardin. the wealthiest area of cali colombia. the river is crowded on saturday and overpopulated on sundays. they do have cabins for rent with 24/7 pools and river pools etc.. complete with resturants ,disco, slides, and more. also smaller mom and pops hotels on site and you should try the chicha pronounced chiiichhaaa . made of pineapple and cured for days sometimes weeks and to get a stronger buzz months. tastes great!i would only come here in a group of 5 or more. so many people can feel intimidating. police station down the road.