Cannabis in Baku: Navigating the Underground Scene

What’s the Deal with Cannabis Laws in Baku?

Let’s be real: Azerbaijan isn’t exactly a cannabis-friendly country. The laws are strict, and possession can lead to serious consequences. Here’s the breakdown:

• Possession: Even small amounts can result in hefty fines or imprisonment.
• Public Use: Smoking weed in public is a big no-no. You’ll risk getting arrested if caught.
• Trafficking: Selling or transporting cannabis comes with severe penalties, including long prison sentences.

While the laws might be intimidating, the underground cannabis scene is alive—just well-hidden. If you’re determined, there are ways to find it, but discretion is key.

Smoking Culture in Azerbaijan

Cannabis in Azerbaijan isn’t as common as in other parts of the world, but when people do smoke, it’s typically a social activity. Here’s how it usually goes down:

• Methods: Joints are the most common way to smoke, though some locals prefer pipes or homemade bongs.
• Social Aspect: Smoking sessions are often about bonding. Sharing a joint with friends is the norm.
• Mixing: Many people mix their weed with tobacco, making it stretch further and burn slower.

If you’re visiting, don’t expect to see people openly smoking on the streets or in parks. It’s all about keeping things on the down-low.

The Hunt for Weed in Baku

My search for cannabis in Baku started in the city’s bustling neighborhoods like Fountain Square and Nizami Street.



These areas are packed with cafes, tourists, and a vibrant nightlife, but finding weed? Not so easy.

I tried asking around subtly at a few bars, but the responses ranged from awkward silence to polite refusals. The city’s cannabis scene is deeply underground, so unless you know someone, it’s hard to break in.

The Street Deal: Disappointing but Educational

After hours of wandering, I finally met a street dealer near the Old City. He was hanging around one of the side streets, and after some hesitant small talk, he offered me a deal: 50 AZN for a small bag.

Back at my hotel, I checked it out. The weed was dry, brownish, and had a faint smell. Smoking it wasn’t much better—the high was weak, and the taste was harsh. Let’s just say it wasn’t worth the price.

Finding the Real Deal: A Game-Changer

Just when I thought my trip would be a bust, I met Intizam at a Central Baku not far from the Caspian Sea.



He was a chill local who seemed to know everything about the city. When I mentioned my weed woes, he grinned and said, “You’re doing it all wrong.”

Intizam explained how most dealers in Baku have moved to Telegram for privacy and convenience. Here’s how the process works:

• Contact: You need a trusted referral to find a legit dealer on Telegram.
• Payment: Deals are done via cryptocurrency, usually Bitcoin.
• Delivery: The dealer provides GPS coordinates and a photo of the hidden package. It’s often disguised in everyday items like cigarette packs.

With Intizam’s help, I found a reliable dealer. After making a payment, I got the location of my package—a cigarette pack hidden near a bench in Highland Park. The quality? Top-notch. Fresh, sticky buds with a smooth smoke and a great high. It was a complete turnaround from my earlier experience.

Pro Tips for Navigating Baku’s Cannabis Scene

If you’re planning to explore cannabis in Baku, keep these tips in mind:

• Be Discreet: Public use or overt asking can attract unwanted attention.
• Know the Risks: The laws are strict, so be cautious.
• Use Crypto: Most dealers only accept cryptocurrency, so set up a wallet beforehand.
• Avoid Street Dealers: Quality is often poor, and it’s easy to get ripped off.

With the right approach and some patience, you can enjoy the green side of Baku without too much hassle.