THE UNLIMITED POTENTIAL OF POT

As the availability of cannabis continues to expand, new opportunities arise for South Africa to capitalise on consumer demand as a tourist destination. Recent research has found that 29% of leisure travellers express interest in engaging in cannabis-related experiences or activities on vacation.

In a survey of cannabis consumers, New Frontier Data found that 19% of US cannabis consumers indicated that they acquire cannabis at their destination each time they travel; an additional 22% acquire cannabis on most trips. Nearly half (47%) of those consumers express interest in consuming cannabis as a means of socialising with other travellers.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Amsterdam was receiving in excess of 1-million visitors each month. As such, there is demonstrable appetite,

at least among current cannabis consumers, for incorporating cannabis-oriented experiences into their travel activity.

Blazing Trails African 420 Tours wants to tap into this growing global market of cannabis consumers and travellers to help leverage the potential of cannabis tourism to create healthy and sustainable rural economies that uplift and empower local communities in the process.

This is why our tours include destinations that we know share our ethos and commitment to sustainable tourism and understand the potential that cannabis tourism holds for South Africa. We tailor our tours to ensure that everyone involved in putting them together and providing the services they include benefit directly from them in a sustainable and positive way.

This way, our guests can relax in the knowledge that their holiday spend is making a lasting difference and leaving an impactful legacy.

In general, the demographic for cannabis-based tourism tends to be younger adults who are open to new experiences and have a positive attitude towards cannabis use and older cannabis "connoisseurs" who are experienced users looking for travel experiences that include the opportunity to sample local product.

Research has shown that where cannabis use is legal, tourists are primarily between the ages of 25-44 and tend to be evenly split between men and women. The survey also found that these tourists tend to have higher levels of education and income than non-cannabis tourists.

In addition, cannabis tourism appeals to individuals who are interested in alternative therapies, natural health and wellness, and eco-friendly practices. These travellers may be more likely to seek out cannabis-based tourism experiences that focus on sustainability, social responsibility, and community engagement.