
Lake Calima (Embalse Calima)
An artificial paradise for wind sports and relaxation, Lake Calima offers stunning views, diverse activities, and a range of accommodations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dry season, best winds for sports

Lake Calima (Embalse Calima)
Best Time
Dry season, best winds for sports

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An artificial paradise for wind sports and relaxation, Lake Calima offers stunning views, diverse activities, and a range of accommodations.
"This place is a hidden gem, great peaceful place to visit with plenty small towns close by."

Pack for Cooler Temps
Evenings can get chilly due to the lake's elevation. Bring layers! :cloud:
Book Stays in Advance
Popular Fincas and hotels fill up fast, especially for holidays. :housewithgarden:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World-Class Kitesurfing & Windsurfing
Lake Calima
Experience exhilarating water sports thanks to the lake's consistent, strong winds. A paradise for thrill-seekers!

Scenic Lakeside Views
Various viewpoints around the lake
Capture breathtaking panoramas of the vast artificial lake, surrounded by lush landscapes. Perfect for photography.

Diverse Accommodation Choices
Lakeside and surrounding areas
Find your perfect stay, from luxury villas and cabins to glamping and camping sites. Options for every budget.

Water Activities Galore
Lake Calima
Beyond wind sports, enjoy jet skiing, pontoon boat rides, and fishing. Fun for the whole family!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wind: Best Time for Water Sports
Accommodation Options Galore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for Cooler Temps
Evenings can get chilly due to the lake's elevation. Bring layers! :cloud:
Book Stays in Advance
Popular Fincas and hotels fill up fast, especially for holidays. :housewithgarden:
Explore Local Cuisine
Don't miss out on local food and art in nearby towns. :forkandknife:
Rent Jet Skis
Enjoy the warm, clean water with affordable jet ski rentals. :motorcycle_scooter:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for Cooler Temps
Evenings can get chilly due to the lake's elevation. Bring layers! :cloud:
Book Stays in Advance
Popular Fincas and hotels fill up fast, especially for holidays. :housewithgarden:
Explore Local Cuisine
Don't miss out on local food and art in nearby towns. :forkandknife:
Rent Jet Skis
Enjoy the warm, clean water with affordable jet ski rentals. :motorcycle_scooter:
Drone Photography Fun
Capture stunning aerial shots of the lake and its surroundings. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lake Calima's stunning beauty, consistent winds ideal for kitesurfing, and the wide array of water activities. The diverse accommodation options, from luxury villas to glamping, and the friendly atmosphere make it a highly recommended destination for groups, families, and couples seeking both adventure and relaxation. Some note that it can be a bit cool in the evenings.
"We rented a farmhouse on the Lago Calima for New years. This place is beautiful. It always a little cold becuase of where it is located. The lake has world class Kite Surfing due to the constant wind here and they hold international events. They also have jetsking, pantoon boat rentals and fishing. There are places to Glamp if you like camping. This place is a hidden jem. Great peacful place to visit with plenty small towns close by to visit and shop for local foods and art. If coming to Cali Colombia, this place is a must visit. Cant wait to come back."
JF Trading Inc.
"Beautiful view, extreme sports, cheap, good parking, perfect for a group of friends, family or a romantic situation. Many places to take amazing photos and spend time looking the landscapes"
Karina Garcia
"Beautiful man made lake, with a lot water activities to do, plenty or restaurants and many options to stay. You can find hotels, Fincas, Glampling or camping. The near by town has a lot of options to buy food, groceries and drinks."
Luis Chica
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Calima is approximately a 2-hour drive from Cali, Valle del Cauca. You can rent a car or take a bus to the municipality of Darién, which is the gateway to the lake. Many visitors opt for private transport or organized tours for convenience.
Yes, buses run from Cali to Darién. From Darién, you can take a taxi or local transport to reach the lake's various access points and accommodations.
Having your own vehicle or renting one offers the most flexibility to explore different areas around the lake. Taxis are available, but for extensive exploration, a car is recommended.
Yes, many accommodations and recreational areas offer parking facilities. Some popular spots might have paid parking, especially on busy weekends.
The closest major airport is Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) near Cali. From there, you would need to arrange ground transportation to Lake Calima.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general lake area is typically free. However, specific parks, beaches, or private resorts around the lake may charge an entrance fee.
Lake Calima is an open natural area, so it doesn't have strict opening hours. However, businesses and attractions around the lake will have their own operating times, usually from morning to early evening.
Yes, renting equipment like jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, and kitesurfing gear will incur separate rental fees. Prices vary depending on the activity and rental provider.
Absolutely! Booking your hotel, cabin, or glamping site in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays, to ensure availability.
Some resorts and activity providers may offer group or family discounts. It's best to inquire directly with the specific establishment when booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Lake Calima is a prime spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to its consistent winds. You can also enjoy jet skiing, wakeboarding, and exploring the lake by boat.
Yes, families will find plenty to do. There are water parks like the one at Comfandi, calmer areas for swimming, and opportunities for boat rides.
You can find a wide range of options, including hotels, private cabins (fincas), glamping sites, and traditional camping areas.
The lake offers stunning scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Many viewpoints provide excellent opportunities for capturing beautiful landscape photos.
The weather is generally pleasant, but it can get cool, especially in the evenings, due to its elevation. It's advisable to pack layers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are numerous restaurants and eateries around the lake, offering a variety of local and international dishes. Many accommodations also have their own dining facilities.
The nearby town of Darién and smaller communities around the lake have options for buying food, groceries, and drinks.
While specific recommendations vary, look for regional Colombian specialties. Many places offer fresh fish from the lake or traditional Valle del Cauca cuisine.
Several restaurants offer scenic views of the lake, making them ideal for romantic dinners, especially during sunset.
Yes, many areas around the lake are suitable for picnics. You can purchase supplies from local markets and enjoy a meal with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Mid-day can be good for capturing the vibrant colors of water sports.
Many of the accommodations offer stunning lake views. Look for elevated spots or areas along the shore that provide unobstructed vistas of the water and surrounding hills.
Drone usage might be subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your accommodation provider before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Popular shots include wide-angle landscapes of the lake, action shots of kitesurfers and windsurfers, and candid photos of people enjoying the various activities.
The lake itself is an artificial creation with a history tied to hydroelectric projects. Capturing the scale of the dam or remnants of the old town (if accessible) can be unique.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking accommodation with family-friendly amenities, such as pools or direct lake access. The variety of activities ensures that kids of all ages will find something to enjoy, from gentle boat rides to more active water play. Pack plenty of sunscreen and hats for sunny days!
💸 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and picnic supplies from local markets in Darién can significantly cut down on food costs. Many of the most beautiful views and the exhilarating wind sports are accessible without hefty fees, making it a great destination for those watching their wallets.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
While known for adventure sports, the tranquil atmosphere during off-peak hours and the stunning natural scenery provide a perfect backdrop for couples seeking relaxation and connection. Consider booking a finca with a private balcony or a cozy lakeside hotel room.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Wind Sports: Kitesurfing & Windsurfing
Beginners can find schools offering lessons and equipment rentals, while experienced riders can test their skills against the challenging gusts. The vast expanse of the lake provides ample space for maneuvering, and the surrounding scenery adds to the breathtaking experience. Remember to check wind forecasts and safety guidelines before heading out on the water.
Beyond the adrenaline rush, watching the colorful kites and sails dance across the water is a spectacle in itself. It's a vibrant scene that draws visitors who simply want to enjoy the energetic atmosphere and the stunning natural beauty amplified by the wind-powered activities.
A History Forged by Water: The Creation of Lake Calima
This ambitious engineering feat transformed the landscape, creating a vast body of water that now serves both energy generation and tourism. The history of its creation is a fascinating aspect of the region, with some locals recalling the stories of the 'old Calima' that now lies beneath the surface.
Today, the lake is a testament to human ingenuity and its impact on the environment. It has become a vital hub for recreation and a significant contributor to the local economy, drawing visitors who are drawn to its watersports and scenic beauty, often unaware of its engineered origins.
Finding Your Perfect Stay: Accommodation Options
For a more rustic or adventurous experience, glamping sites offer a comfortable way to connect with nature, providing well-equipped tents or pods. Traditional camping grounds are also an option for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer a more immersive outdoor experience.
When choosing your stay, consider proximity to the activities you plan to enjoy, such as water sports centers or family-friendly parks. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during weekends and Colombian holidays, as popular spots tend to fill up quickly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit