Country guide
Colombia
Visa
Visa required
Vaccinations
Required
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP). USD may also be accepted.
Time zones
UTC / GMT -5 (7 hours behind South Africa)
Dialing code
+ 57
Best time to go
Year-round along the Caribbean Coast. Dry season is December – March and July – August.
Drinking water
Bottled water recommended.
Travel tips
The local language is Spanish, however 80 local languages and dialects are also spoken.
Visa guide
Visa requirements
South African Passport Holders require a visa for entry into Colombia
All applications for Colombian visas must be completed and submitted online: tramitesmre.cancilleria.gov.co
- 1 photo (3x4cm, in color, with white background, no accessories to be worn). This must be in JPG with max file size of 300KB.
- All other documents to be provided in PDF with a total max file size of 5MB
- Passport must have 6 months validity at time of application with 2 blank pages. A scanned copy of bio page must be uploaded during application.
- Proof of accommodation in the form of a booking or invitation letter
- Return / onward flight details
- Additional documents may be requested.
Once completed, you will receive a confirmation email which must be sent to cpretoria@cancilleria.gov.co. The consular section will then send you further information and details on payment. Payment must be made within 10 working days of application.
Issuing authorities
Embassy of Colombia
177 Dyer Road, Hillcrest Office Park, 2nd Floor Woodpecker Place, Hillcrest, Pretoria, 0083
Tel: +27 (12) 362 3106
E-mail: cpretoria@cancilleria.gov.co
Web: pretoria.consulado.gov.co/
Hours: Mon - Fri 09h00 - 13h00
Visa processing time
The processing time for a visa application is 10-15 working days (upon receipt of payment).
SA representative
Representation accredited from Caracas, Venezuela
Health / vaccinations
Compulsory: Yellow Fever
Recommended Travel Vaccines: Hepatitis A & B, Rabies, Tetanus, Polio
Malaria Risk
Public holidays
Holidays 2026: Jan 1, 12; Mar 23; Apr 2-3; May 1, 18; Jun 8, 15, 29; Jul 20; Aug 7, 17; Oct 12 Nov 2, 16; Dec 8, 25