The United States has been a leading figure in the psychedelic renaissance that’s brought about novel therapies and increased knowledge about mind-altering compounds. While the US has played a large role in the furthering of psychedelic research and destigmatization, there are other countries that must be noted for their contributions. 

In some countries, psychedelics are legal and widely accepted. In others, psychedelics are taboo and research is extremely limited if it exists at all. Let’s discuss some specific countries and their current standing in the resurgence of psychedelics.

This list is not comprehensive, but rather a collection of countries that stand out by our criteria. There are other countries that have or are expected to have an impact on the current psychedelic movement that are not listed.

The Netherlands is known for its drug scene, so it’s no surprise that psychedelics are popular in this country. When it comes to the legal use of psychedelics locally, psilocybin truffles are by far the most popular option. They’re widely sold and can be found throughout many stores, but that’s not where it stops.

The use of psilocybin in the Netherlands is quickly becoming a popular option for tourists. Psychedelic retreats provide a legal option for travelers to flock to in the hopes of improving their mental health and getting the many benefits that psilocybin truffles can provide.

Psilocybin is a popular psychedelic option across the globe, but it’s actually not the most prevalent one in Brazil. In fact, ayahuasca has a long history in this country and continues to be used for therapeutic purposes.

Ayahuasca was first made legal in Brazil in 1992. Many individuals that were part of the campaign for legalization in this country noted ayahuasca’s religious applications, arguing its use in rituals is essential and fundamental to many ancient practices. 

Research is currently being conducted in Brazil to understand the many different benefits ayahuasca can provide.

While ayahuasca may be one of the main psychedelics that Brazil is known for, ibogaine (or iboga) must be noted when discussing this country. A much lesser-known psychedelic, ibogaine is found in plants and is currently illegal in the US. There has not been much research done to understand this compound, but it’s believed that it could have enormous potential for the treatment of addiction. We’ll dive into this compound more when discussing Gabon.

Hallucinogens have historical roots in Australia, but it wasn’t until recently that this country began joining the community of others interested in learning more about the benefits and capabilities of psychedelics. In fact, it wasn’t until 2019 that Australia’s first clinical trial for psychedelics was approved.

While Australia’s research may have a shorter timeline than other countries, it’s quickly establishing itself as a prominent figure in the race to learn about psychedelics. It’s estimated that by the end of 2023, there will be at least fifteen clinical trials focused on psychedelics in Australia. This rapid increase in research is one of the reasons why this country is quickly becoming a notable player in the psychedelic community worldwide. 

Psychedelic retreats are quickly becoming popular in Jamaica. Tourists have the opportunity to use psilocybin in retreat settings under the supervision of experienced professionals. Through offering these retreats, Jamaica is carving out a place for itself in the continual expansion of psychedelic use around the world.

While Jamaica is a popular place for psychedelic tourism, the country has yet to place a large emphasis on research.

Gabon may not be at the top of many travel lists, but it could possibly become a popular psychedelic tourist hub due to its monopoly on iboga. 

Iboga is similar to peyote and ayahuasca, except those substances only include one mind-altering compound. Iboga has twelve, with the possibility of more yet to be recognized. Iboga has roots deep in Gabon culture and locals have been using it for centuries. Gabon is a destination that could quickly become a hub for those looking to explore mind-altering compounds, especially those looking for an experience unlike any other.

With the likely increase in tourist iboga use, experts on this plant have a few concerns. One concern is that tourists won’t understand the potency and power of this drug and will combine it with other substances. This could be very dangerous, as iboga should be used solely on its own. 

Another concern being raised is centered around the fact tourists may not respect the cultural and sacred history of this plant. There are many benefits to increasing Gabon’s tourism through psychedelic offerings, but a flood of people may take away from the individuality and honor given to this plant.

If you’re interested in iboga, you may not have to travel all the way to Gabon. There are some select treatment centers in Canada, Costa Rica, and Mexico that are using this option to help with substance dependency.

From cultural roots to research advancements, it’s important to acknowledge the role that other countries are playing in the furthering of widespread psychedelic adoption.

As psychedelics continue to rise in popularity, it’s essential to remember the cultural significance that many of them have in places around the globe. Psychedelic tourism presents exciting possibilities for both the traveler and the destination, but those going to consume mind-altering substances should take time to acknowledge any historical significance and customs that should be honored.

The hope is that psychedelics will continue to spread to more places around the globe so that individuals have access to unique and revolutionary compounds for their mental and physical health. In order for this to happen, more research must be done and more conversations need to be had about the importance and power of psychedelics. 

One of the most dangerous things to the advancement of psychedelics is misinformation. If you’re ready to get involved and be part of the movement towards incorporating psychedelics widely, consider starting by educating yourself and sharing that knowledge with those around you.