Welcome to Cali, Colombia, where the banks of the Cali River showcase one of the city's most charming landmarks: El Gato del Río (The River Cat). Donated to the city by Colombian artist Hernando Tejada to help beautify the northern riverbanks, this massive bronze sculpture was crafted in Bogotá in the studio of Rafael Franco—a project so large that the studio's roof had to be removed just to transport it.
Officially inaugurated on July 3, 1996, during Cali's independence day celebrations, the famous monument stands proudly along Avenida del Río in a high-foot-traffic area. Today, visiting this iconic sculpture allows you to explore the surrounding space, which has evolved into the vibrant Parque El Gato De Tejada, or "Cat Park." As part of a 2006 revitalization project, the park introduced "las novias del gato" ("the cat's girlfriends")—a collection of cat sculptures sharing the same shape and size as the original, but individually painted by renowned Colombian artists such as Maripaz Jaramillo, Roberto Molano, Diego Pombo, Cecilia Coronel, Pedro Alcántara, and Omar Rayo.
Alongside famous monuments like Cristo Rey and Sebastián de Belalcázar, it is a must-see public art destination.
What to see at El Gato del Rio
- Marvel at the original bronze El Gato del Río sculpture donated by artist Hernando Tejada.
- Explore Parque El Gato De Tejada along the scenic banks of the Cali River on Avenida del Río.
- Discover "las novias del gato," a series of over 15 cat sculptures painted by famous Colombian artists.
- See unique feline artworks painted by celebrated artists including Omar Rayo and Maripaz Jaramillo.
Visiting tips
Take time to read the plaque positioned directly below the main El Gato del Río sculpture while walking along Avenida del Río.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
El Gato del Rio is easy to reach on Cali’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Cali Zoo and Metropolitan Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Cali travel guide.
See the full Cali travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.