Today Knysna is one of the most popular holiday locations for locals and tourists alike. This is partly due to the large variety of activities and attractions on offer. That is why we decided to write this list of the 5 best things to do in Knysna. Allowing you to plan the perfect fun-filled holiday for you and your family or friends.
If you feel the need to get away and enjoy a holiday you may be wondering where to go. Well, look no further than the beautiful lagoon side town of Knysna. Located just a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Cape Town on the Garden Route. Knysna is known for being the site of one of South Africa’s first gold rushes when a nugget was found in 1880.
There comes a point where we all feel we need to get away from our daily lives. Where we need a change of scenery and leisure time to enjoy it with the ones we love. In short a time when we need a holiday to relax and recharge ourselves.
The Knysna Heads
Unique to Knysna is the Knysna heads, a pair of iconic sandstone cliffs at the mouth of the lagoon. These majestic cliffs offer breathtaking views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean. No trip to Knysna would be complete without visiting these iconic landmarks.
The Eastern cliff is the most accessible of the two, as the Western cliff is on a private nature reserve. To reach the Eastern cliff you will take a leisurely drive through suburbia. Once at the top, there are many paths around the cliff with beautiful viewpoints. It also offers access to beaches and rock pools to enjoy your coastal holiday. The Western Cliff can only be accessed by ferry through organised tours. However, it is worth a visit as the Featherbed Nature Reserve is known for its rich wildlife, tranquil nature trails and breathtaking viewpoints. This is easily one of the best things to do in Knysna.
Elephant park
If you are an animal lover and want to see the symbol of Africa up close and personal. Then a trip to the Knysna elephant park is a must. This park is a 23-minute drive outside of Knysna along the N2. Established in 1994 it is the oldest facility in South Africa to house and care for orphaned African elephants.
The park offers guided elephant encounters that will get you up close to these magnificent animals. During these encounters, your guide will provide educational information about the animals. Their herd currently consists of 8 elephants and it is the largest domesticated matriarchal herd in South Africa. This is a wonderful experience that will give you a newfound respect and appreciation for these gentle giants. The park also has a restaurant and accommodations overlooking the elephant’s resting area. This is one of the best ways to feel the spirit of Africa amongst the things to do in Knysna.
Cruise
With its beautiful lagoon, and stunning marine wildlife one of the most popular things to do in Knysna is to take a cruise. There are a large variety of cruises available in Knysna each offering an experience you won’t forget.
The lagoon cruises will take you on a peaceful and scenic journey through the lagoon. Many of them take you to the Knysna Heads for a view of the iconic cliff faces. There are also many marine wildlife cruises that will take you out to see the rich ecosystem of the area. These cruises can include whale watching and sightings of dolphins, penguins, seals and more. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely yacht or catamaran cruise and enjoy a meal on the waves. With so much variety there is sure to be a cruise to suit your preferences allowing you to enjoy the ocean scenery the way you want to.
Hiking
There are a wide variety of hiking options in Knysna that are sure to keep even the most avid backpacker satisfied. This is a popular activity as the area is rich in natural beauty and biodiversity, and hiking is one of the best ways to experience this beauty.
One of the best places to hike in Knysna is the Garden Route National Park. This park stretches across a wide area and has many trails available. There are beautiful coastal trails or further inland trails that run through the Knysna forest. The indigenous forest will make you feel as though you have stepped into another world with its natural beauty. There are also hikes in the Steenbok Nature reserve on Leisure island on the lagoon. This nature reserve has many leisurely paths that allow you to see the rich plant life of the area surrounded by the lagoon’s aquatic beauty. Hiking is easily one of the best things to do in Knysna, especially for any nature lovers.
Waterfront
Last on our list of things to do in Knysna but certainly not least is to visit the bustling waterfront. This area allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience everything it has to offer.
There are a host of different restaurants along the waterfront that will satisfy any foodie. Here you can find authentic African cuisine and many restaurants serving fresh seafood, allowing you to try the oysters that Knysna is famous for. There are also many stores along the waterfront for those that enjoy a bit of retail therapy during their holidays. They are also perfect to pick up a souvenir to remember your trip. There are also art galleries and a bit of history with a life-size bronze statue of Bandi the English Bulldog who visited Knysna often. No matter your preference there is something on the Knysna waterfront for you to enjoy a memorable day.
These are our picks for the 5 best things to do in Knysna. It is often debated whether it is better to stay in Knysna or Plettenberg Bay when touring the Garden Route. However, with so many exciting and unique attractions we honestly believe it is better to stay in Knysna. So the next time you feel the need for a holiday, be sure to book a stay in Knysna. To enjoy all of these wonderful things to do in Knysna and a holiday that you won’t forget.