You may be surprised to learn that cannabis dispensaries are flourishing in Cape Town. Since South Africa decriminalized cannabis cultivation, use, and possession for adults in 2018, the country has adopted the Cannabis Social Club (CSC) model from Spain, which requires membership for access to their services.
In Barcelona’s tourist hotspots, the clubs tend to be very private and discreet, but in Cape Town, CSCs are lighting up the urban landscape with fan leaves on full display. This gives tourists the impression that they’ve stumbled upon a scene similar to tourist-friendly Amsterdam’s Red-Light District.
However, upon entry, they find these clubs cater primarily to a local and mature market. Though there are no explicit restrictions against tourists, the intricate membership process is like a locked door that leaves them feeling boxed out, lost, and reluctant to sign up for membership.
In response, a cottage industry of guided cannabis tours has emerged, offering travelers the key to unlock the best of Cape Town’s flourishing cannabis culture. Here are some reasons to choose a guided tour to better enjoy Cape Town’s local cannabis culture..
1. Local Expertise: Tour guides offer specialized insights, navigating the membership process while facilitating interaction with budtenders who may not always be familiar with international visitors. This ensures tourists receive accurate information from club staff.
2. Curated Experiences: Tours provide carefully curated itineraries, guiding travelers through hidden gems and the best licensed cannabis clubs and related experiences. This allows visitors to explore the local vibe and best strains without guesswork.
3. Cultural Education: Guides provide travelers with historical, botanical, and legal perspectives, enhancing their understanding of cannabis’s role in South Africa’s broader cultural shift.
4. Safe Exploration and Harm Reduction: Guides emphasize responsible use and harm reduction strategies. They also help visitors understand local regulations and provide valuable insights into navigating the intricacies of South Africa’s cannabis scene responsibly, ensuring travelers can enjoy the experience safely and without legal concerns.
5. Different View of Cape Town: Cannabis tours reveal a different side of Cape Town by allowing travelers to actively participate in local life and see that the Western Cape has much more to offer than just picturesque views.
Still have questions? We’re just a message away. Reach out now and let us smooth out your experience into the world of Cape Town cannabis scene!