Cali nestles in the green and tropical Cauca Valley. Once a small mountain village, the profits of coffee and sugar production exploded it into life, and Cali is now Colombia’s third largest city. Exuding a languid Caribbean vibe and a cheerful passion for life, the city runs almost exclusively on salsa. The irresistible beats drift from many a car, window and doorway, including the plentiful salsa clubs and schools – swishing your hips as you wander the streets is unavoidable!

A centre of Afro-Colombian heritage, Cali is also home to a number of excellent museums and quirky parks.