Cali in March spans a 13F range from 66F lows to 79F highs, with showers risking soggy detours back to your hotel for outfit changes. Avoid temperature ambushes and cultural mismatches.
Skip blisters from all-day urban walking or hard museum floors with grip-soled walking shoes offering cushioned support, ensuring you maximize spontaneous adventures without weather worries. This guide delivers targeted, lightweight solutions for seamless exploration at key sites.
Weather right now
Temperature Trend (°F)
Daily Temperature Swing Trend (°F)
Relative Humidity (%)
UV Index Trend
Currency
Average High and Low Temperature in March in Cali
Places to Visit
Destination Carousel
Is March Good for Cali?
Mixed
Mild 66-79F temps suit outdoor activity, but 279mm rain brings frequent showers and humidity. Fewer crowds post-festival season make it manageable.
Best For:
- Walkers in mild temps
- Budget travelers
- Rain-prepared visitors
Why Visit in March
March offers consistent mild temperatures of 66-79F, ideal for extended walks without excessive heat. Humidity is present but tempered by cooler evenings. Post-December Feria de Cali, crowds thin out, providing easier access to sites and lower accommodation rates. Occasional dry spells allow full-day exploration. Local events like smaller cultural festivals emerge, adding distinct flavor without peak-season chaos. Practical for those packing light rain gear, as showers often pass quickly.
Drawbacks in March
Heavy rainfall at 279mm leads to frequent downpours, disrupting outdoor plans and creating slippery conditions. High humidity amplifies discomfort during wet spells. Mornings may start clear but turn showery by afternoon. Urban areas can flood briefly, complicating transport. Fewer sunny hours limit photography opportunities. Visitors must carry umbrellas or ponchos constantly, and some paths become muddy.
Best Weeks in March
- Early: March 1-10: 66-79F. Lower crowds early in month as rains ramp up slowly.
- Mid: March 11-20: 66-79F. Moderate showers typical; busier mid-weekends.
- Late: March 21-31: 66-79F. Heaviest rains possible; avoid if rain-averse.
Recommendation:
Target early March 1-10 for mild 66-79F weather and minimal crowds before rains intensify. Mid-month balances temps with manageable showers. Skip late if prioritizing dry days, as precipitation peaks. Pack rain protection regardless.
Key Sights in Cali for March
Cali's landmarks, museums, and viewpoints shine in March's mild 66-79F temps, though rain requires ponchos. Urban sites stay accessible despite showers, offering scenic views when clouds part.
Highlights:
Cristo Rey
LandmarkTerrain: Towering white concrete statue with outstretched arms overlooks city sprawl. March rains can cloud distant views but enhance foreground greenery vibrancy.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Early morning
Why you should visit:
Towering white concrete statue with outstretched arms overlooks city sprawl. March rains can cloud distant views but enhance foreground greenery vibrancy.
Museo La Tertulia
MuseumTerrain: Modern building displays colorful contemporary art on white walls amid natural light. Mild March temps keep indoor visits pleasant without AC overuse.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Afternoon
Why you should visit:
Modern building displays colorful contemporary art on white walls amid natural light. Mild March temps keep indoor visits pleasant without AC overuse.
Mercado Alameda
LandmarkTerrain: Bustling market halls filled with fresh produce stalls and vendor chatter. March humidity heightens produce scents but lighter crowds ease navigation.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Morning
Why you should visit:
Bustling market halls filled with fresh produce stalls and vendor chatter. March humidity heightens produce scents but lighter crowds ease navigation.
Cerro de las Tres Cruces
ViewpointTerrain: Three white crosses crown hilltop with panoramic city and river vistas. Post-rain March clarity sharpens horizons on clearing days.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Late afternoon
Why you should visit:
Three white crosses crown hilltop with panoramic city and river vistas. Post-rain March clarity sharpens horizons on clearing days.
Barrio San Antonio
LandmarkTerrain: Colorful colonial houses line steep streets with flower baskets on balconies. March mildness supports uphill strolls despite occasional drizzle.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Morning
Why you should visit:
Colorful colonial houses line steep streets with flower baskets on balconies. March mildness supports uphill strolls despite occasional drizzle.
Zoológico de Cali
LandmarkTerrain: Enclosures house monkeys, big cats amid tropical plantings and water features. Cooler March evenings reduce animal lethargy from heat.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Afternoon
Why you should visit:
Enclosures house monkeys, big cats amid tropical plantings and water features. Cooler March evenings reduce animal lethargy from heat.
Iglesia La Ermita
Religious SiteTerrain: Yellow facade with twin towers frames ornate wooden doors and stained glass. March lighting softens stone details during overcast spells.
Dress code: Shoulders/knees covered
Best time of day: Early morning
Why you should visit:
Yellow facade with twin towers frames ornate wooden doors and stained glass. March lighting softens stone details during overcast spells.
Parque del Gato
NatureTerrain: Giant whimsical cat sculpture anchors green space with paths and benches. Rain-slicked March paths demand caution but refresh foliage.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Late morning
Why you should visit:
Giant whimsical cat sculpture anchors green space with paths and benches. Rain-slicked March paths demand caution but refresh foliage.
Cali March Weather by Time of Day
Afternoon highs reach 79°F alongside dawn lows of 66°F, spanning a 13°F monthly temperature range. Humidity averages 73%, with 279mm total rainfall over 20 rainy days and scattered showers patterns. Consistent warmth prevails from early to late month under 8.6 sunshine hours.
Early Morning (5-9 AM)
- Temperature: from 66°F in early March to 70°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 68°F to 72°F
- Humidity: elevated levels near 75%
- Wind: calm averaging 2 mph, gusts to 14 mph
- UV Index: low around 2
- Rainfall Chance: 30% chance of light showers
- Best Activities: gentle strolls, outdoor yoga, sipping coffee al fresco
Conditions:
Daylight emerges with temperatures lifting off the monthly low of 66°F amid persistent tropical humidity. Skies often partly cloudy from overnight moisture. Gentle breezes stir minimally while scattered showers linger as common March feature in the warm valley climate.
Late Morning (9 AM-12 PM)
- Temperature: from 70°F in early March to 74°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 72°F to 76°F
- Humidity: high persisting at 73%
- Wind: light and variable up to 14 mph gusts
- UV Index: moderate nearing 5
- Rainfall Chance: 35% possibility of passing showers
- Best Activities: cycling tours, market browsing, light gardening
Conditions:
Sun strengthens, warming air steadily with rising heat index from humidity. Partial cloud cover builds, hinting at afternoon showers. Winds stay subdued, allowing muggy feel to dominate. UV exposure increases, suited for shaded pursuits in the steadily balmy atmosphere.
Early Afternoon (12-3 PM)
- Temperature: from 74°F in early March to 77°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 76°F to 79°F
- Humidity: dense around 72%
- Wind: soft breezes averaging 2 mph
- UV Index: high at 7
- Rainfall Chance: 40% risk of scattered downpours
- Best Activities: pool lounging, shaded picnics, indoor workouts
Conditions:
Peak solar intensity drives temperatures toward highs, intensified by saturated air. Convective clouds gather, sparking brief heavy showers typical of wet season. Gusts occasionally freshen to 14 mph. Strong UV demands protection during these sultry, intermittently wet hours.
Late Afternoon (3-6 PM)
- Temperature: from 77°F in early March to 79°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 79°F to 81°F
- Humidity: oppressive nearing 74%
- Wind: mild with intermittent gusts to 14 mph
- UV Index: very high around 8
- Rainfall Chance: 45% chance for tropical showers
- Best Activities: siesta breaks, covered patios, evening prep walks
Conditions:
Thermometer crests at monthly peak of 79°F under intensifying sun before easing. Thunderheads form rapidly, delivering scattered deluges with 279mm seasonal total. Humidity clings heavily, while light winds offer scant relief. Elevated UV persists into golden hour transitions.
Evening (6-9 PM)
- Temperature: from 75°F in early March to 73°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 77°F to 75°F
- Humidity: sustained high at 73%
- Wind: settling to calm 2 mph average
- UV Index: dropping to 3
- Rainfall Chance: 30% lingering shower odds
- Best Activities: al fresco dining, live music listening, relaxed promenades
Conditions:
Cooling commences post-peak as sun dips, retaining warmth in humid envelope. Residual clouds from daytime activity may yield evening drizzles. Breezes hush, fostering steamy dusk. Lower UV eases outdoor transitions in the persistently balmy, moisture-laden tropical nightfall.
Night (9 PM-5 AM)
- Temperature: from 70°F in early March to 66°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 72°F to 68°F
- Humidity: peak nocturnal moisture around 75%
- Wind: near-still with rare 14 mph gusts
- UV Index: negligible at 0
- Rainfall Chance: 25% chance of overnight showers
- Best Activities: stargazing when clear, nightcap gatherings, restful reading
Conditions:
Temperatures descend to dawn lows of 66°F under clearing or cloudy skies. High humidity sustains muggy repose, with occasional patters from scattered precipitation. Minimal winds promote stable, warm nights aligned with the month's consistent tropical profile and rainfall patterns.
6 Mistakes to Avoid
Packing Non-Packable or Heavy Outerwear
Many travelers include structured blazers, leather jackets, or thick denim jackets that rarely get used.This leads to: Wasted luggage space and weight, Overheating once temperatures rise, No room for souvenirs
Solution: Choose ultralight, truly packable layers that compress to nothing.
Pack instead: Women's packable down or synthetic puffer, Ultra-lightweight nylon trench, Thin merino or cashmere cardigan
Choosing the Wrong Footwear for Cobblestones
Bringing only one or two pairs, or selecting shoes that look good but lack real support.This leads to: Blisters after 10-15 km days, Ankle rolls on uneven surfaces, Ruined shoes from sudden showers
Solution: Experienced travelers select 2-3 versatile pairs that cover every situation.
Pack instead: Cute white sneakers with arch support, Water-resistant low ankle boots, Foldable ballet flats with cushioning
Overlooking Church and Venue Dress Codes
Wearing sleeveless tops or cropped leggings without easy cover-ups.This leads to: Denied entry at cathedrals and major sites, Expensive last-minute scarf purchases, Disrupted plans
Solution: Pack one multi-use cover piece that works with every outfit.
Pack instead: Large lightweight scarf (shoulder + knee cover, Long tunic that layers over leggings, Packable kimono or wrap
Underestimating Rain Protection
Relying on a tiny travel umbrella instead of proper clothing.This leads to: Soaked leggings and ruined makeup, Cold wet feet for hours, Forced to skip outdoor sights
Solution: Add stylish, truly water-resistant pieces that still look polished.
Pack instead: Women's packable rain shell or trench, Quick-dry high-waisted leggings, Water-resistant cute walking shoes
Overpacking Accessories and Bags
Bringing multiple handbags, statement necklaces, and heavy earrings.This leads to: Security hold-ups, Neck and shoulder pain, Higher pickpocket target
Solution: One bag + two scarves + minimal jewelry cover every look.
Pack instead: Small crossbody bag with RFID, One large scarf (doubles as cover-up), Simple stud earrings
Wearing Brand-New Items Without Testing
Buying new leggings, bras, or shoes days before departure.This leads to: Chafing from stiff seams, Blisters on day one, Wardrobe malfunctions mid-trip
Solution: Every new item must survive several 10 km+ test walks at home.
Pack instead: Pre-worn travel leggings, Broken-in supportive sneakers, Already-tested packable jacket
What to Pack: Category by Category
A detailed breakdown of every clothing and gear category you need, with specific recommendations tailored to the exact weather and activities you'll encounter.
Base Layers & Thermals
Breathable high-waisted leggings and tops wick sweat in humid air, suiting cool mornings to warm afternoons and sudden AC chills. My tip: pack quick-dry sets for rain luck.
Key features: Moisture-wicking fabrics, Seamless for no chafing, High-waisted support
Recommended:
- High-waisted travel leggings - moisture-wicking with pockets
- Breathable tank tops - quick-dry for humidity
- Lightweight long-sleeve tee - UPF protection
Avoid: Don't pack heavy cottons that cling when damp from frequent showers or humidity spikes.
Mid Layers
Cardigans and wraps bridge mild mornings to warm afternoons plus indoor AC dips. Opt for packable ones that double as scarves for cathedrals or museums.
Key features: Lightweight and packable, Versatile for layering, Drape-friendly for modesty
Recommended:
- Oversized cotton cardigan - breathable for swings
- Pashmina wrap - sun shield or chill cover
- Thin fleece pullover - quick layer option
Avoid: Skip bulky sweaters that overheat during warm afternoons or take up luggage space.
Outerwear
Waterproof jackets handle frequent rain while packable designs fit daybags for AC transitions. Pair with breathable layers to manage humidity without bulk.
Key features: Waterproof and seam-sealed, Packable into pouch, Hooded for showers
Recommended:
- Packable rain shell - lightweight waterproof
- Windbreaker jacket - breathable with pit zips
- Poncho cover - quick rain defense
Avoid: Avoid non-waterproof options that fail against daily downpours on cobblestone streets.
Footwear
Supportive walkers grip wet cobblestones; add versatile flats for dinners and sandals for warm afternoons. Water-resistant picks manage rain without socks sogginess.
Key features: Cushioned arch support, Water-resistant uppers, Grip outsoles
Recommended:
- Waterproof walking sneakers - cobblestone stable
- Cushioned leather flats - dressy versatile
- Strappy sandals - breathable option
Avoid: Don't rely on flimsy sandals alone for slick stones after rain hits.
Bottoms
High-waisted leggings pair with tunics for dress codes at cathedrals, while quick-dry pants suit humid walks. Versatile for mild to warm shifts.
Key features: Stretch for mobility, Quick-dry materials, Modesty-length options
Recommended:
- High-waisted leggings - supportive under dresses
- Convertible travel pants - zip-off for warmth
- Midi skirt - flowy with scarf layering
Avoid: Steer clear of stiff jeans that restrict movement on uneven streets or trap heat.
Accessories
Scarves solve dress codes and cover swings; pack sun hats and sleeves for high UV during warm afternoons. I'd add a buff for versatility.
Key features: Multi-use fabrics, UV-protective weaves, Compact packing
Recommended:
- Large silk scarf - modesty or sun layer
- Wide-brim hat - high UV block
- Sunglasses case - secure clip-on
Avoid: Overlook rain covers for hats, leaving them useless in sudden showers.
Bags & Luggage
Crossbody bags secure essentials on busy streets; packable daypacks haul rain gear for outings. Durable for cobblestones without weighing you down.
Key features: RFID-blocking pockets, Water-resistant nylon, Adjustable straps
Recommended:
- Crossbody sling bag - anti-theft for cities
- Packable daypack - rain gear carrier
- Rolling carry-on - compact organization
Avoid: Big totes invite pickpockets and struggle on wet, crowded paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I pack for Cali in march?
Bring breathable cotton clothes, sturdy sandals for walking, high-factor sunscreen, bug spray, and a compact umbrella. Add a hat and reusable water bottle too.
2. Is march a good time to visit Cali?
Yes, the city sees lighter tourist traffic, making it easier to enjoy local scenes without long waits at venues or events.
3. What kind of clothing is appropriate for Cali in march?
Opt for loose-fitting tops, shorts or skirts, and light pants. I've always packed quick-dry fabrics that handle humidity well during my trips here.
4. Do I need to worry about rain in Cali in march?
Occasional brief showers happen, so keep a foldable poncho handy. Most days stay dry enough for outdoor plans.
5. Are there any festivals in Cali in march?
Local celebrations pop up around religious holidays. Check calendars for street parties featuring music and dances unique to the region.
6. What are the best activities in Cali in march?
Join dance workshops, explore vibrant markets, and take scenic walks. The milder pace lets you dive into cultural experiences fully.
7. Is it safe to walk around Cali in march?
Stick to busy areas during daylight, avoid flashing valuables, and use registered taxis at night. Locals are welcoming if you stay alert.
8. How do I get around in Cali?
Public buses are cheap and frequent; flag down moto-taxis for short hops. I prefer apps for reliable rides in unfamiliar spots.
9. What food should I try in Cali?
Sample fresh fruit smoothies, grilled meats with plantains, and corn-based snacks from street vendors. Always choose busy stalls for freshness.
10. Do I need vaccinations for Cali?
Update routine shots and consider yellow fever plus hepatitis. Consult a travel clinic weeks ahead for personalized advice.
11. What's the currency in Cali?
Colombian pesos are standard. Carry small bills for markets and exchange at banks for better rates than airports.
12. Can I drink the tap water in Cali?
No, stick to bottled or purified water. I've used a filter bottle successfully to refill on the go without issues.
13. Is English widely spoken in Cali?
In tourist zones yes, but learn basic Spanish phrases for markets and taxis. Apps translate menus quickly when needed.
14. How far in advance should I book accommodations in Cali for march?
Reserve two to four weeks ahead for central spots. Shoulder season offers flexibility, but popular areas fill up.
15. What is the voltage in Cali?
Standard outlets take 110 volts with type A/B plugs. Bring a universal adapter if your devices need different fittings.
16. Do I need a visa for Cali in march?
Most visitors get visa-free entry for short stays. Verify based on your nationality via official embassy sites beforehand.
17. What's the best way to avoid pickpockets in Cali?
Use a money belt, keep bags zipped and front-facing, and spread cash around pockets. I never carry all valuables in one place.
18. Are there salsa classes in Cali?
Yes, drop-in sessions abound at dance studios. Beginners welcome; wear comfy clothes and book a private lesson for faster progress.
19. Is march peak season in Cali?
No, it falls in a quieter period post-holidays. You'll find shorter lines and more authentic local interactions.
20. What shoes to wear in Cali in march?
Choose supportive sneakers or leather sandals with good grip. Avoid heels on uneven sidewalks during extended outings.
21. Should I rent a car in Cali?
Skip it due to traffic and parking hassles. Rideshares and buses handle most needs efficiently for visitors.
22. How is public transport in Cali?
Reliable and affordable, with buses covering the city well. Get a transit card for seamless fares on multiple rides.
23. Are there day trips from Cali?
Yes, organized tours reach nearby rural areas. Pack snacks and confirm pickup times to maximize your excursion.
24. What's the nightlife like in Cali?
Energetic with live music and dancing till late. Start early at bars, pace drinks, and go in groups for safety.
25. Is Cali family-friendly?
Mostly, with parks and markets kids enjoy. Choose accommodations with pools and avoid late-night outings with little ones.
26. What to do if I get sick in Cali?
Visit farmacias for minor issues or clinics for more. Carry prescriptions and travel insurance covering medical evacuations.
27. Can I use Uber in Cali?
Yes, it's widely available and safer than street hails. I rate drivers post-ride and share locations with contacts.
28. Are ATMs common in Cali?
Plenty in commercial areas, fewer elsewhere. Withdraw during day from bank-linked machines and decline dynamic currency conversion.
29. How to bargain in markets in Cali?
Smile, start at half the asking price, and walk away if needed. Vendors often call you back with better offers.