Knysna

Explore Knysna – the place to be.

Use the tag #ExploreKnysna to share your adventures with us and the world!

Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s world famous Garden Route, Knysna is an adventurer’s paradise, as well as a fantastically fun family holiday destination.

A short, scenic drive of just over 60km takes you to the nearest airport at George, which provides flights to and from most of South Africa’s major cities. This means that the adventure centre of the Garden Route is, at most, a leisurely flight and an easy drive from wherever you are.

And once you arrive, the adventure can begin …

The greater Knysna area offers adrenaline junkies a host of activities, but the town itself is a hub of adventures with more than enough for every member of the family to enjoy.

Explore three nature reserves within the town. The entrance to Pledge Nature Reserve is just off of Knysna’s Main Road, but the park offers an incredible variety of indigenous plants and a number of smaller animals ready to be discovered in between enjoying a cappuccino and indulging in some retail therapy. The Featherbed Nature Reserve rests on Knysna’s western Head, and the Featherbed Company offers cruises and meals at the reserve, aboard ship or at their mainland restaurant. The Steenbok Nature Reserve is a 17-hectare area of salt marsh, coastal dune and coastal thicket vegetation, located off the leafy suburban streets of Leisure Isle.

Of course the Knysna estuary offers nearly every kind of water sport you can think of, from water skiing and canoe water polo to scuba diving the famous Paquita wreck at the Knysna Heads or luxurious champagne sunset cruises.

If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, adventure awaits along Knysna’s rocky shoreline and within the indigenous forests that surround the town. A trail runner and mountain biker’s paradise, a number of routes may be taken on with your friends, or with a guided adventure tour. And while athletes will be challenged, families will enjoy relaxing outings in their own groups, or along with specialised operators.

But you can also explore Knysna itself – award winning restaurants, a host of trendy coffee shops and boutiques, the exclusive island village of Thesen Harbour Town and myriads of interesting nooks are waiting to be discovered. From local craft beers and oysters au naturel enjoyed at the Knysna Waterfront to umqombothi (traditional beer) and roosterkoek (bread traditionally baked over an open fire) tastings on a friendly township tour,  even your taste buds will have an adventure in Knysna!

In fact, every one of your senses are bound to have an unforgettable adventure as you explore Knysna – the place to be.