Pance Trail Hike Near Cali – Waterfalls, Wildlife & Views
Start your adventure with a 9km hike through the scenic Farallones de Cali, offering breathtaking views and rich biodiversity. Afterward, cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Río Pance, a tranquil oasis just outside Cali.
Explore the El Calvito – Pato Pance route, an intermediate-level 9 km hike located in the Farallones de Cali National Park, starting in the town of Pance, just 40 minutes from Cali. The trail ranges between approximately 1,900 and 2,600 meters (6,230–8,530 ft) above sea level, offering cooler mountain temperatures, fresh air, and impressive views of the Western Andes.
This hike takes you through cloud-forest ecosystems rich in biodiversity. Along the trail, you’ll encounter towering native trees such as cedar, yarumo, oak, laurel, and guava, along with wild orchids, bromeliads, heliconias, mosses, and ancient ferns. The area supports over 200 bird species, including toucans, tanagers, motmots, and hummingbirds.
The forest is also home to a wide variety of amphibians and reptiles, including glass frogs, tree frogs, salamanders, and lizards, as well as mammals such as howler monkeys and agoutis. Several species found in this area are endemic or threatened, underscoring the ecological importance of the Farallones region.
As the trail ascends, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Farallones de Cali, and on clear days, iconic peaks like Pico Pance and Pico de Loro. The experience ends with time to relax and cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Río Pance, a favorite natural retreat for locals.
This hike is ideal for moderately experienced hikers, nature lovers, and birdwatchers looking for a scenic, biodiversity-rich adventure close to Cali.
What to bring for a comfortable and enjoyable tour:
Close-toe shoes with good traction (will get wet)
Towel, hat, and sunblock, (biodegradable, also consider clothes to aid with wind and sun protection).
Bug Spray
A pair of changing clothes
Bathing suit, Towel
Reusable water bottle, Gatorade
Snacks (Peanuts, Banana, Granola Bar, Crackers )
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
Distance: 9 km
Duration: The total tour time is 9 hours from start to finish with 1-2 hours of swimming in the river
Meeting point and end point : Hotel Intercontinental Cali, Av. Colombia #2-72, Normandia Sebastian de Belalcazar, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
We offer pick-up service if you're staying in the San Antonio, Granada, or Peñon neighborhoods. If you're outside these areas, please arrive at the meeting point 15 to 20 minutes before the tour begins.
Availability: Year-round, We ask, however, that you email us or WhatsApp us to verify availability before making your purchase.
The guides appreciate tips for great service, and you are sure to leave with many great memories!
Book our Rio Pance Private Tour with us today!
From $79.99 us
Highlights
Crystal-Clear Waters: Swim in the refreshing, clear waters of Río Pance, perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Rich Flora and Fauna: Discover the area's amazing biodiversity, with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and unique wildlife that add to the beauty of the surroundings.
Serene Natural Environment: Enjoy the peace and tranquility of this natural paradise, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, where the only sounds you'll hear are the flowing river and the calls of local birds.
Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore scenic trails along the river, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and opportunities to connect with nature.
Exotic Birdwatching: Spot iconic Andean species like the Andean Motmot, Toucan Barbet, Quetzals, and even the elusive Gallito de Roca if you're lucky.
Includes
✓ Roundtrip transportation
✓ Hiking Poles and Snack Kit (Banana, Granola, Peanuts, Gatorade)
✓ Colombian Breakfast – Eggs, arepa, fresh bread, seasonal fruit, and your choice of coffee or hot chocolate.
✓ Bilingual Professional guidance
✓ Opportunity to swim in the Pance River or tributaries
✓ Medical Insurance and Assistance
✓ Environmental Education
❌ Tips
Program
Duration: 9 Hours
Minimum group size: 2 people
Maximum group size: 10 people
6:30–6:45 AM – Pick-up from your hotel, Airbnb, hostel, or chosen lodging location.
2:00–3:00 PM – Estimated return to Cali (arrival time may vary depending on the group’s pace).
You may also like
Peñas Blancas Cali Hiking Tour – Hike through Andean forest trails to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Farallones de Cali. Enjoy fresh mountain air, rich biodiversity, and one of the best scenic hikes near the city.
El Topacio Nature & Wildlife Hike – Walk peaceful forest trails in a private nature reserve known for birdlife, butterflies, and lush vegetation. A relaxed hike ideal for wildlife lovers seeking serenity close to Cali.
San Cipriano Natural Reserve Day Tour – Travel by traditional rail cart into a pristine rainforest reserve, swim in crystal-clear rivers, and explore jungle trails surrounded by waterfalls and wildlife. A classic Valle del Cauca nature escape.
Important Information!
Minimum participants :
Most of our group tours require a minimum of 2 people to run the tour. If we do not hit this minimum, we reserve the right to cancel the tour, in which case we will contact you to offer an alternative tour or send a refund.
Want a private tour? No problem! Let us know, and we’ll arrange a personalized experience just for you.
Cancellation:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted. Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Not Suitable for:
Pregnant women, People with back problems
People with Respiratory Issues
People with mobility impairments
People with heart problems, Wheelchair users