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Knysna is a very popular destination on the Garden Route and is located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is situated right in the middle of the Garden Route, which stretches from Mossel Bay to Storm River. So if you don’t feel like driving from one destination to the next, and would rather have a home base to travel from, then Knysna would be the perfect destination.
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Knysna Attractions
Here is a list of the best things to do in Knysna:
Visit Knysna Waterfront
Knysna’s Waterfront is the perfect spot to do some shopping, book a boat ride or grab something to eat. With restaurants located right on the water, you’ll have the most relaxed atmosphere.
Knysna Elephant Park
The Knysna Elephant Park was the first facility in South Africa to care for orphaned elephants. You can either just enjoy a meal at the restaurant, overlooking the wandering elephants or you can book a walking tour with the elephants, just a nature walk, or meet these beautiful creatures.
If you do decide to go on an elephant walk, it is important to wear comfortable shoes and you need to be reasonably fit. There are only two walks a day (morning and afternoon), and pre-booking is essential. The morning walk departs at 07h30 and the afternoon walk departs at 15h30. The tour will take about 45 minutes. I would recommend taking the morning walk, as this includes breakfast at their restaurant.
Cost:
SA resident (5+ years): R750 pp
International Guest: R900 pp
Children under 5 years are free.
Knysna Heads
One of the biggest attractions in Knysna is the Knysna Heads, and if you see the breathtaking views, you’ll understand why. Known for being the resting place for fishermen who endured the stormy weather, the rugged shoreline below the viewpoint and the crashing sound of the waves will make this stop worthwhile!
The Knysna Heads are a pair of sandstone cliffs that separate the sea from the Knysna Lagoon. You can access these spectacular views from the eastern head. You can also access rock pools and beaches from the eastern head. The western side of Knysna Heads is only accessible by ferry and this forms part of the Featherbed Nature Reserve, also a great option if you want to spend time in nature and do some hiking trips.
Visit Coney Glen Beach
I was amazed by this secluded beach when we got there. It was surprisingly quiet for a sunny day and had the most beautiful limestones as a backdrop. You can also see the boats passing by, making their way to the ocean.
Garden of Eden
Wander around the forest of Knysna. Garden of Eden is located just on the outskirts of Knysna, with a short and easy walkway that’ll take you through the lush and greenery forest. You’ll also see some tall standing trees and a beautiful stream running through the forest.
Definitely worth the stop! And you’ll also get a permit for the Harkervill hiking trails.
Cost: R40pp (2022)
Visit Thesen Island
There are some great activities to do at Thesen Island. With multiple restaurants to choose from, some shops, and more adventurous activities like paddle boarding, water bikes, and boat rides. The best way is to explore on foot.
Take a day trip to Plettenberg Bay
With only a half an hour’s drive to Plettenberg Bay, also known as Plett, there are so many great things to keep you busy for the day.
Robberg Nature Reserve
Robberg Nature Reserve definitely doesn’t need any introduction. There are three hiking trails to choose from to suit your fitness level. The long outstretched beach and white sand dunes are definitely my absolute favourite.
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Arch Rock
Arch Rock (also known as Cathedral Rock) is located at Keurboomstrand and is a short 2km walk along the beach. There is also a great restaurant located right on the beach, called Ristorante Enrico. Make sure to pop by.
Go bungee jumping
Jump off from the largest concrete bridge in Africa. The Bloukrans bungee jumping is perfect for the adrenaline junkie.
Visit Face Adrenaline’s website for more information.
Take a day trip to Wilderness
Wilderness has to be one of my ultimate favourite places on the Garden Route. There is so much to do, from beautiful hiking trails to spectacular beaches. Known as the location for the Map of Africa, a great paragliding spot and with George just around the corner.
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Where to stay
Here are my recommendations on where to stay:
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