Cannabis in Stellenbosch and the Winelands: Visitor Rules

Cannabis in Stellenbosch and the Winelands: the short answer

Looking for weed in Stellenbosch and the Winelands? 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: A Relaxed Cannabis Weekend in Cape Town, The Best Time of Year to Visit Cape Town's Clubs, South Africa Cannabis Law for Tourists in 2026.

The rules for visitors in Stellenbosch and the Winelands

• 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.

Private clubs and venues in Stellenbosch and the Winelands

Some venues operate as private clubs or member venues, and each one sets its own membership and admission rules and may refuse a visitor. Zazapass currently lists no venue in Stellenbosch and the Winelands. The venues Zazapass lists are in Cape Town, roughly an hour away by car. The Zazapass Invite Pass covers only the entry fee at participating venues, if the venue accepts you, and does not guarantee admission. See the passes page for current Invite Passes.

Getting to and around Stellenbosch and the Winelands

Stellenbosch lies roughly 50 kilometres east of Cape Town. Most visitors arrive by car, with a tour or by ride-hailing app. Plan your wine tastings with a driver, because driving under the influence is an offence.

Stellenbosch and the Winelands in practice

Stellenbosch is a university town with oak-lined streets, and the nearby towns of Franschhoek and Paarl are known for their wine estates and mountain scenery. See also our Cape Town guide.

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 Stellenbosch and the Winelands

Can I buy weed in Stellenbosch and the Winelands?

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.