Driving, Flying and Cannabis in South Africa: What Visitors Must Know

Cannabis in South Africa: the short answer

Looking for weed in South Africa? The 2018 Constitutional Court ruling protects private use and possession by adults, but it does not create a legal market: selling is still illegal. Here is what visitors should know about the law, private clubs and etiquette.

More on South Africa: Cannabis and Driving in South Africa, Travelling With Cannabis To and From South Africa, Public Smoking Rules in South Africa Explained.

The rules for visitors in South Africa

• Private use: Adults may use and possess cannabis in private and grow it for personal use. The 2018 ruling does not cover selling.
• No legal shops for visitors: Buying from street dealers is illegal, and the quality is unknown.
• Public places: Use in public places is not allowed.
• Driving: Driving under the influence is an offence.
• Travel: Never take cannabis to the airport, onto a plane or across a border.
• Age: You must be 18 or older, and venues usually check your ID or passport.

Getting around South Africa

Driving under the influence of cannabis is an offence in South Africa, just like drink driving. If you have consumed, do not drive: use a ride-hailing app, a taxi or a driver. Car rental companies and insurers can apply their own rules on top of the law.

Flying and borders

Do not take cannabis through airport security or onto any flight, domestic or international, and never across a border. Airlines, airports and border authorities apply their own rules in addition to national law, and the consequences of getting this wrong can be serious.

Etiquette: how not to be that tourist

• Bring your passport or ID. Venues check age and identity.
• Consume only in private, in places where it is allowed. Ask your host or accommodation first.
• Do not consume in public, in vehicles or at the beach.
• Never drive after consuming. Use a ride-hailing app or a taxi.
• Follow the house rules of every venue, lodge or guest house.
• Do not buy from street sellers.

FAQ: Cannabis in South Africa

Can I buy weed in South Africa?

There is no legal retail sale for visitors. Private use and possession by adults are covered by the 2018 ruling, but selling remains illegal. Private clubs and venues set their own admission rules.

Does an Invite Pass guarantee entry to a venue?

No. The Zazapass Invite Pass covers only the entry fee at participating venues, if the venue accepts you. Each venue decides about admission and may refuse a visitor.

Can I take cannabis on a flight in South Africa?

No. Do not take cannabis through airport security or onto any flight, and never across a border.

Cannabis laws vary by jurisdiction and can change. You must be 18 or older. This guide is for information only and is not legal advice.