Cerro de las Tres Cruces
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Cerro de las Tres Cruces

4.6
·847 reviews·, Colombia

Iconic Cali landmark offering a challenging hike, breathtaking city views, and a free outdoor gym.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Cerro de las Tres Cruces

Cerro de las Tres Cruces

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Cali landmark offering a challenging hike, breathtaking city views, and a free outdoor gym.

4.6
(847 reviews)

"Nice hike with an amazing view over Cali."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Closed-toe shoes with good grip are a must for the steep, sometimes rocky path .

💧 Hydrate & Protect

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for the climb .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three Crosses

The Three Crosses

Summit

Iconic religious monument offering panoramic city views and a sense of accomplishment.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Summit

Breathtaking vistas of Cali, especially captivating during sunrise and sunset.

Outdoor Fitness Zone

Outdoor Fitness Zone

Summit

A free open-air gym where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a workout with a view.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While Cerro de las Tres Cruces is popular year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and stunning city views. Some TikToks suggest Tuesday and Thursday evenings are prime times for group hikes.TikTok

Gear Up for the Climb

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential for the steep ascent.Reddit Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Many visitors recommend having your hands free for the climb, so a backpack is ideal.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Tuesday & Thursday evenings
Why
Popular group hike times
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🙏🏿🌤…#fit #fitnes #gym #niche #workout #muscle #training #bodybuilding #motivation #fitfam #cali @cerrotrescrucescali #cerro #jerusalema
@erickv_corito
64.4K likes • 1.3M views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Closed-toe shoes with good grip are a must for the steep, sometimes rocky path.Reddit

💧 Hydrate & Protect

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for the climb.Reddit

ESTE ES UN LUGAR TURÍSTICO DE CALI, pero pocos conocen su historia. #paranormal #mitologia #demonio #misterio #cali
@paopinedaoficial
62K likes • 1.3M views
👉🏻Un poquito de mi rutina de abdomen en el #cerrodelastrescruces 🔥🥵 - #ejercicio #barras #fitnessmotivation #fitnessgirl #style #martes #martes #medellin #paisa #nature #morning #deportivo
danitabares06
5.4K likes • 110.1K views

💰 Bring Cash

Vendors at the top sell drinks and snacks; cash is preferred.Reddit

🤝 Go with a Buddy

It's recommended not to go alone, especially for safety and companionship.Reddit

Subiendo el cerro de las tres cruces #cerrodelastrescruces #quehacerenmedellin #medellin #medellincolombia #unagochaenmedellin #quehacerenmedellin #medellín #unagochaenmedellin #medellinenvideos #reelviral #reelvideo
alejandra_araque.1
777 likes • 27.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Closed-toe shoes with good grip are a must for the steep, sometimes rocky path.Reddit

💧 Hydrate & Protect

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for the climb.Reddit

💰 Bring Cash

Vendors at the top sell drinks and snacks; cash is preferred.Reddit

🤝 Go with a Buddy

It's recommended not to go alone, especially for safety and companionship.Reddit

⏰ Beat the Heat

Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures for your hike.TikTok

📸 Capture the View

The summit offers incredible panoramic views of Cali, perfect for photos.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(847 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the challenging yet rewarding hike up Cerro de las Tres Cruces, praising the stunning panoramic views of Cali and the free outdoor gym at the summit. It's a popular spot for exercise and a great way to start the day, with friendly locals and convenient vendors along the way.

"You can take an Uber by choosing the Cerro de las Tres Cruces option. It will leave you a few meters from the staircase that is divided into two parts and finally you will find the basic climbing part. I recommend sunscreen, insect repellent, good hydration, shoes with secure soles, a cap and having your hands free. At the top you will find fruits and drinks so bring cash. We have gone in the morning and in the afternoon, any day there is always a lot of people, but it is better not to go alone, always go with a companion."

Shatta Gyal

"This was such a fun way to start our day! We wanted some exercise on our vacation and this was perfect. Pretty steep hike up to the top and then a free gym to do some extra working out, if you’re up for it :) lots of friendly locals on our way up and down the hike. Beautiful view of the city. I’d recommend this for anyone looking to sweat it out!"

Erin Gorup

"Nice hike with an amazing view over Cali. It takes 1 hour to get there. Take water and suncream with you :-) But there are many little shops along the path as well. On the top there is an outdoor gym where you can working out or pretending :-)"

Robert Karg

What People Like

Amazing city views
Challenging hike
Free outdoor gym

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Steep ascent

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take an Uber and select 'Cerro de las Tres Cruces' as your destination.Reddit It will drop you near the start of the staircase. Some TikToks mention getting to the North American Colombia in the Granada neighborhood as a starting point.TikTok

While specific bus routes aren't widely detailed, Ubers are a popular and convenient option. Some locals meet at specific points like outside the Spiwak hotel on Tuesdays at 6:30 PM for group climbs.TikTok

The hike typically begins with a staircase, which is divided into sections. The initial part can be quite steep.Reddit

While Ubers can get you close, driving directly to the summit is not typically feasible for visitors. The final ascent is on foot.

It's generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours and with a companion.Reddit There's also a police presence at the top.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Cerro de las Tres Cruces is free. It's a public space for recreation and exercise.

The Cerro is accessible at all hours, but it's best to visit during daylight or early evening for safety and visibility. Many people hike in the early morning or late afternoon.TikTok

There is no entrance fee to access the Cerro de las Tres Cruces.

While not strictly necessary, some local groups organize guided hikes, especially on specific days.TikTok

No specific entry restrictions are mentioned, but it's advisable to be respectful of the natural environment and the local community.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The round trip typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your fitness level and how long you spend at the top.Reddit

At the summit, you'll find the iconic three crosses, a free outdoor gym, and vendors selling refreshments. The main draw is the stunning panoramic view of Cali.Reddit

The hike is considered moderately difficult, with steep sections and a significant number of steps. Good footwear is recommended.Reddit

Yes, there are vendors along the path and at the top selling water, juices, and snacks.Reddit

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and city views. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for a more peaceful experience.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The summit with the three crosses offers an iconic shot. The panoramic views of Cali are also spectacular, especially during golden hour.Instagram

Sunrise and sunset provide the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.

While some drone footage exists,Instagram always check local regulations regarding drone usage in public spaces.

Expect stunning landscape shots of Cali, portraits with the crosses in the background, and action shots of people hiking and working out.

The climb itself offers interesting perspectives, and the outdoor gym at the top provides unique photo opportunities with a city backdrop.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cerro de las Tres Cruces can be a fun, albeit challenging, outing for families with older children. The hike offers a great opportunity for kids to get active and enjoy nature. The outdoor gym at the top can be an exciting feature for them to explore. Remember to pack extra snacks and water, and consider the age and stamina of your children before embarking on the climb. Going in the morning might be best to avoid the midday sun and potential fatigue.

👟 Fitness Enthusiasts

This is your paradise! Cerro de las Tres Cruces is renowned for its steep climb, offering a serious cardiovascular workout. The outdoor gym at the summit provides a fantastic spot for a post-hike strength training session with an unparalleled view. Many fitness groups organize regular climbs, so look for local meetups or join a guided session for a more social fitness experience.TikTok

📸 Photographers & View Seekers

For those looking to capture the essence of Cali, the summit of Cerro de las Tres Cruces is a must-visit. The panoramic views are spectacular, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.Instagram The iconic three crosses also make for a striking foreground element in your photos. Be prepared for a hike to reach these vantage points.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Legend of the Three Crosses

The three crosses at the summit of Cerro de las Tres Cruces are more than just a landmark; they are steeped in local lore. Erected in 1937, the crosses were intended to 'protect' Cali from perceived spiritual evils.Instagram The central cross stands impressively tall at 26 meters.Instagram Some local legends even speak of a demon named Busiraco, also known as Changó, residing on the hill, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to the site.TikTok This blend of religious symbolism and folklore makes the Cerro a place of both physical and cultural significance.

These stories contribute to the unique atmosphere of the Cerro. While many visitors come for the fitness and views, the historical context adds depth to the experience. The presence of these crosses has made the Cerro a spiritual and symbolic point for the city of Cali, drawing people for various reasons beyond just exercise.Instagram

Fitness and Recreation Hub

Cerro de las Tres Cruces is a beloved spot for fitness enthusiasts in Cali. The steep climb itself is a challenging workout, often described as a 'hard and exciting climbing exercise'.Reddit Many visitors use the ascent as their primary workout for the day, appreciating the physical exertion and the rewarding views.Reddit The presence of an outdoor gym at the summit further enhances its appeal as a fitness destination.Reddit

This open-air gym is equipped for various exercises, allowing visitors to combine their hike with a full-body workout. It's common to see locals and tourists alike utilizing the equipment, making it a vibrant hub for active recreation. The combination of a strenuous hike and a free gym makes Cerro de las Tres Cruces a unique and accessible fitness destination for everyone.Instagram

Navigating the Climb: Tips for a Smooth Ascent

The climb up Cerro de las Tres Cruces involves a significant ascent, often starting with a long set of stairs followed by some scrambling.Reddit While regular trainers are usually sufficient, shoes with secure soles are highly recommended for better grip.Reddit Many visitors emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, so carrying ample water is crucial.Reddit

Along the path, you'll find numerous small shops selling water, juices, and snacks, providing opportunities to refuel and rest. However, it's always a good idea to bring some cash, as these vendors may not accept cards.Reddit For those who prefer not to go alone, joining a group hike, especially on popular evenings, can be a great option.TikTok

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