Description of Cerro de las Tres Cruces, Cali, Colombia
Cerro de las Tres Cruces is an iconic mountain located in the Montebello corregimiento, in the rural area northwest of Cali, Valle del Cauca. Situated at 1,465-1,480 meters above sea level, this guardian hill offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, known as the “Branch of Heaven.” At the summit stands a monument of three concrete crosses: the central cross is 26 meters tall and 11 meters wide, while the lateral crosses are 22 meters tall and 8 meters wide. The site blends nature, physical exercise, spirituality, and culture, making it a landmark for locals and tourists.
Attractions
The main attraction is its blend of physical activity and stunning views. The ascent, which takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on pace, is a cardiovascular challenge that draws athletes, hikers, and trekking enthusiasts. The rocky and steep trails, like “La Pared,” demand effort, but the reward is a 360° view of Cali. At the top, visitors find a rest area with bleachers, vendors selling natural juices (like borojó or orange), fruits, and desserts like banana or carrot cakes. There’s also a rustic gym and a lively atmosphere with music, especially on Sundays. For the faithful, the monument is a pilgrimage site, particularly during Holy Week, due to its religious history.
History
The history of Cerro de las Tres Cruces is steeped in legend. According to tradition, in 1837, Cali faced a wave of calamities (diseases, fires, plagues) attributed to the demon “Buziraco,” supposedly expelled from Cerro de La Popa in Cartagena. Two Franciscan friars, Fray Juan and Fray Vicente Cuesta, climbed the hill on May 3, 1837, with three decorated guadua crosses to exorcise the demon, as ordered by the Archdiocese of Cali. These crosses were renewed annually until a 6.8-magnitude earthquake in 1925 toppled them, an event blamed on Buziraco’s return. In 1937, Father Marco Tulio Collazos led the construction of the current ferroconcrete crosses, completed in 1938, to “trap” the demon for good. Since then, the site has been a symbol of protection and faith for Caleños, as well as a recreational spot.
Number of Visitors
There are no recent exact figures on annual visitors, but the hill is highly popular, especially on weekends. On Sunday mornings, hundreds of people, both locals and tourists, climb the hill, creating a bustling and vibrant atmosphere. During Holy Week, pilgrimages attract additional visitors. In 2021, Cali’s Tourism Secretariat reported over 100 participants in guided walks during a tourism reactivation event, indicating a steady flow of visitors. Night walks, organized on Tuesdays and Thursdays, have also gained traction, as noted in social media posts.
How to Get There
Cerro de las Tres Cruces is accessible by foot, bicycle, or vehicle, though hiking is the most popular option. There are three main routes to climb:
- Via Normandía (Altos de Normandía): The busiest route, starting near the Gato del Río statue (Calle 2 with Calle 2 Oeste). It has private parking (approx. 4,000 COP, ~1 USD) open from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The distance is 1.8 km from the parking lot to the summit, with a trail passing through rocky areas.
- Public transport: Take the MIO to San Bosco station, then the A02 feeder bus to the Gato park.
- Via Granada (Bataclán): Starts at Avenida 9A Norte with Calle 12. It’s the most demanding route, with wooden steps and a 14.8% average incline. The distance is 4.3 km.
- Via Chipichape: Begins behind the Chipichape Shopping Center (Spiwak Hotel). It’s the longest route at 4.3 km but offers the best views. Ideal for cyclists, it follows the unpaved road toward Golondrinas.
Night walks: On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 p.m., groups meet behind Chipichape for nighttime climbs, using flashlights.
For safety, police patrol the area from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and climbing in groups is recommended outside these hours. Wear comfortable clothing, grippy shoes, sunscreen, and bring hydration.
