Overview
Take a trip to Knysna on your South Africa Vacation
Located between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is a town in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Perennially green, Knysna is part of the famed Garden Route on a South African vacation.
Originally two hamlets, Melville and Newhaven, in 1882 Knysna town, an amalgamation of the two was established. The area was an important source of timber even before it became a town and continued to attract settlers. George Rex is credited with being the founder of the town and was rumoured to be the illegitimate son of King George III of Britain.
The port of Knysna was very dangerous to navigate, partly because of the Knysna Heads (monolithic sandstone cliffs) that flank the channel. Despite this danger, shipping remained the only economically viable connection with the outside world until a railway was completed in 1928.
Today Knysna lagoon is a haven for water sports including fishing, sailing, kayaking, swimming and diving. It is also home to the cultivated Knysna oyster, famous for its unique taste. The town is nicknamed “the pearl of the Garden Route” as its Mediterranean maritime climate keeps it green all year. This climate is perhaps one of the reasons the town is a popular spot for golfers, boasting several world-class courses on South Africa tours. Visits to Knysna Elephant Park or a hike through the world-renowned forests are recommended for tourists.
A laidback attitude coupled with exciting adventure ideas means Knysna is a destination that offers something for everyone.
Today Knysna lagoon is a haven for water sports including fishing, sailing, kayaking, swimming and diving. It is also home to the cultivated Knysna oyster, famous for its unique taste. The town is nicknamed “the pearl of the Garden Route” as its Mediterranean maritime climate keeps it green all year. This climate is perhaps one of the reasons the town is a popular spot for golfers, boasting several world-class courses on South Africa tours. Visits to Knysna Elephant Park or a hike through the world-renowned forests are recommended for tourists.
A laidback attitude coupled with exciting adventure ideas means Knysna is a destination that offers something for everyone.
At a Glance
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Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, EnglishCurrency
South African Rand (ZAR)What do the experts say?
Skip the more commercial wineries and visit artisanal producers—you’ll find sparkling wines and small-batch reds that are absolutely world-class
Djembe drumming at GOLD in Cape Town is an immersive African experience through their 14-dish food safari and unique live entertainment
The game viewing in Kruger and Eastern Cape always draws me back—it’s truly superb
South Africans are famously warm—when you’re new in town, you're often invited to a braai, our way of welcoming people through food
South Africa is a wonderful starting point for Africa. It's got some of the top cities in the world, stunning food and wine, and exceptional value for money
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Seagulls take flight on noetzie beach in Knysna
Boats at Knysna harbour
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