Is 3 Million Pesos Enough to Eat Well in Cali, Colombia for 2 Weeks?

Cali, Colombia is renowned for its diverse and affordable culinary scene. Whether you're looking for street food or fine dining, there's an option for every budget and taste experience. In this article, we'll explore if 3 million pesos is enough to enjoy a comfortable meal experience for two weeks in this vibrant city.

Breakdown of the Daily Budget

The cost of meals in Cali can vary widely depending on your choice of dining establishments. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

Street Food and Casual Dining

For a truly authentic experience, street food and casual dining offer an array of delicious and filling meals for around 10,000 to 20,000 pesos. These options are perfect for a casual, budget-friendly meal that won't break the bank.

Mid-range Restaurants

Mid-range restaurants provide a more substantial meal, with costs ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 pesos per person. This includes not just the main course but also drinks and desserts.

Grocery Shopping

If you prefer to cook, 3 million pesos should allow for ample grocery shopping. This budget covers fresh produce, meats, and staples, ensuring you have a variety of ingredients to create your own meals.

Overall Costs

A reasonable daily budget for meals in Cali can range from 30,000 to 100,000 pesos, averaging around 70,000 pesos a day. Over two weeks, this totals approximately 980,000 pesos. This amount should be sufficient to cover not only meals but also occasional treats, snacks, or drinks, making it a comfortable budget for an extended stay.

Recommended Neighborhoods for Dining

Cali is known for its diverse dining options, but some neighborhoods stand out for their abundance of restaurants catering to different budgets. Here are a few neighborhoods to explore:

Granada El Peón and San Antonio

Granada El Peón and San Antonio are particularly noted for their variety of restaurants suitable for all budgets. You can find everything from budget-friendly street food to more upscale dining options. This mix of culinary experiences makes these areas an ideal choice for anyone visiting Cali.

Sample Daily Meal Costs

To give you a clearer idea of how you can spend your budget, here are some sample daily meal costs:

Breakfast: A standard breakfast can cost around 20,000 pesos, offering a light and filling meal to start your day.

Lunch: A visit to Azul in San Antonio, an upscale gourmet restaurant, can cost approximately 60,000 pesos. This upscale experience offers a gourmet meal in a comfortable setting.

Dinner: Dinner at Platillos Voladores in El Penjón can cost around 80,000 pesos. This restaurant offers a mix of traditional and modern Colombian cuisine, providing a delightful end to your day.

Additional Expenses: The remaining budget can be allocated for taxis, tips, and other occasional expenses.

Conclusion

With careful budgeting, 3 million pesos should be more than enough to enjoy a variety of meals and dining experiences in Cali. Whether you opt for street food or fine dining, you can savor the rich flavors of Colombian cuisine without breaking the bank.

Explore the diverse culinary landscape of Cali and make the most of your visit with a budget that allows for both local flavors and international dining experiences.