Cali can be very rewarding, but newcomers should build smart habits early.

Useful habits:

Learn your neighborhoods carefully.
Ask locals about routes and timing.
Use trusted transport at night.
Keep your phone secure in public.
Avoid flashing valuables.
Plan around heat.
Do errands earlier in the day.
Choose housing based on daily routes, not only rent.
Take salsa classes if you want to connect socially.
Do not judge the whole city from one area.

Cali’s MIO public transport can be useful depending on route and location, but many newcomers also rely on taxis/apps for convenience. For 2026, Metro Cali announced the MIO fare at COP $3,500.

Cali has soul, but it is not a city to approach passively. Learn it with respect.