What's on in and around Knysna
Activities
What to do in Knysna and the surrounding area: a list of activities by category, including website, distance and brief description.
Information is currently being updated to include any contact details, websites, Facebook pages, YouTube videos and TripAdvisor reviews.
Note: History / Museums / Memorials, Markets, Mountain Passes and Restaurants will each open in a new window.
Adventure Companies » (8)
Although many adventure activities are listed under their own categories, the following companies can provide various options for the adrenalin junkie.
Adventure CX
076 393 0197
WWW
Adventure CX is the go to place for all things fun and adventure related in Knysna and the Garden Route area.
TripOut Adventures
083 306 3587
WWW
TripOut is a locally owned and operated adventure company based in Knysna, one of South Africa’s most sought after holiday and beach destinations. TripOut offers surfing, stand up paddle-boarding, snorkelling and adventure kloofing instruction and lessons to locals and visitors of all ages. Being fanatical surfers ourselves means that our passion for surfing reaches all those that we teach and ensures that we put everything into getting you up, riding waves and discovering the joy of harnessing nature’s energy.
Turbine Water Club
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2km)
Don’t miss a fantastic day out with Turbine Water Club exploring the Garden Route, Knysna Lagoon and Knysna Heads. Choose from a wide variety of water sports and activities both on land and on the Knysna lagoon. Make your Knysna holiday a memorable one, and let our team treat you to an experience you won’t forget. Informative, educational, and most of all FUN. A leisurely and magical Knysna experience for people of all ages.
WildX Adventures
Wilderness (c. 36km)
WildX Adventures offers a wide range of fun family activities and a full range of options for the adrenaline-junkies. We have various sites in the Garden Route including: Wilderness, George and The Crags in Plettenberg Bay.
Eden Adventures
Wilderness (c. 47km)
Eden Adventures, now located at Fairy Knowe Hotel, specialises in outdoor adventure tours, as well as teambuilding activities and tailormade tours of the Garden Route. We have been running a professional tour operation since early 1997 and with over 10 years of experience we can show you the best that the area has to offer. Our main tours include canoeing, kloofing and abseiling, but for those who would like to explore the area in their own time, Eden Adventures has an affordable range of canoes for hire.
Fearless Adventures
Wilderness (c. 47km)
061 141 1300
Fearless Adventures is owned by extreme endurance adventurer, Roche Schoeman. Roche has been involved in the adventure industry for more than a decade and has worked internationally in places like Iceland and the USA. If you are looking for a valued experience, you can trust that Fearless Adventures has your best interest at heart, when it comes to a fun and safe adventure experience. All activities are run by highly experienced and industry qualified guides. You will also get lunch, refreshments and free Go Pro footage.
Kaaimans Adventures
Kaaimans River (c. 50km)
063 561 0509
WWW
Kaaimans Adventures is set in a privately owned Nature Reserve in Wilderness Garden Route South Africa. We offer kayak rentals, guided birding/nature walks, historic ox wagon trail walks, romantic picnics in our private cave & exclusive function venue.
Untouched Adventures
Storms River Mouth
Find us on South Africa’s enchanting Garden Route at the magnificent Storms River Mouth in the Tsitsikamma National Park. We will treat you to an unforgettable experience in this untouched playground. Kayaking up Rivers, Floating down gorges, diving under the sea - Untouched Adventures explores it all.
Abseiling / Rock Climbing » (4)
Adventure Zone
Robberg, Plttenberg Bay (c. 37 km)
066 321 5701
Face your fear - this 12 storey high abseil is not for the faint hearted - this is an absolute must do activity to tick off your bucket list. Get you adrenaline pumping and join us for the time of your life at this insanely beautiful site.
Fearless Adventures
Wilderness (c. 47 km)
061 141 1300
Abseiling is all about using a rope and other specialised equipment to descend a cliff. The serene Kaaimans Gorge holds one of the most beautiful abseil sights you will find. You have a chance to do two 45m abseils right next to a magnificent waterfall. The first abseil is an easy one to get you used to the idea of trusting the ropes and the second one is slightly more technical, however just as exhilarating. What also makes this sight special is that you land in a canoe at the bottom. You need not have abseiled before, however it is not for the faint-hearted!
Eden Adventures
Fairy Knowle Hotel, Wilderness (c. 48 km)
This afternoon tour involves a couple of 45m abseils next to a magnificent waterfall in the serene Kaaimans Gorge. Landing in an inflatable boat at the bottom allows you to really enjoy the beauty of the stunning location.
Afri-Abseil
The Crags, Plettenberg Bay (c. 53 km)
044 534 8055
2017
2017
Afri-Abseil is the result of our passion for the area, climbing and being outdoors. With the benefits of 30+ years of climbing and adventuring, this exposed route has been created to share the challenge, build confidence, empower and inspire. The single pitch abseil gives you the chance to experience the spirit of exploration and adventure. The double system of clipping in and un-clipping provides safety and ease of access. All equipment is rated and your guide will assist and take you through the route as you make your way out to the abseil point. Take your time to look around and take in the panoramic views. Outdoor play! Explore your spirit of adventure, build confidence, challenge your comfort zone - Abseiling - Lets Go!
Airsoft » (1)
See also Paintball
Jesters of War
George (c. 66 km)
064 721 2981
WWW
The one thing we pride ourselves in is that all of our players become family. Everyone is welcome at all games, whether you are a new player or a veteran in airsoft. We look out for each other on and off the field. Outside in the fresh air, running around with friends/family. It is sure to be a day filled with adrenaline and lots of fun.
Animals (incl. Birds, Reptiles, Fish, etc.) » (26)
Knysna Seahorse
SANParks Thesen Island Office (c. 2 km)
This peculiar fish occurs only in the Knysna, Keurbooms and Swartvlei estuaries and nowhere else in the world. Because of its limited distribution the Knysna Seahorse is listed as endangered on the IUCN's Red List - the first seahorse in the world to be listed as endangered. Visit the SANParks Thesen Island Office in Knysna to view the Knysna Seahorse up close!
Garden Route Wolf Sanctuary
Harkerville (c. 22 km)
An unparalleled experience with wolves. Our sanctuary is home to two packs of Timber Wolves, namely the Sparrowhawk and the Rambo Packs. You'll not only see beautiful wolves, wolfdogs and huskies up close, but you can also see and feed our friendly farm animals! It's a perfect day trip for the whole family.
Knysna Elephant Park
Harkerville (c. 24 km)
Our daily tours leave every 30 minutes, requires no prior reservation, and operates under all weather conditions. Our guests are transported to the field, and given the unique opportunity to interact, feed and walk amongst our elephant herd under the leadership of our vastly experienced elephant guides. A responsible and educational experience ensues, allowing guests to appreciate the awe inspiring presence and magnitude of these gentle giants up close, while learning about their behaviour and physiology.
Raptor Rescue Plett
Harkerville (c. 25 km)
Join us on a 1 hour guided tour of the centre, where you will learn about our resident birds. We have a variety of birds, from our smallest Southern White-faced owls to our largest, the African fish eagle. You may enjoy watching our trained birds demonstrating their skills in our open-air flying area.
Goshen Organic Snail Farm
Wiilderness (c. 39 km)
The leading snail farm in South Africa. A family based snail farm passionate about producing organic escargot snails. Visits by appointment only. Goshen Organic Snail Farm is the only Heliculture Research and Development Centre in South Africa, for the reproduction of snails.
Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve
Wittedrift (c. 44 km)
Experience the magic of the African bush with a two-hour game drive on our 2,200 hectare reserve at the foothills of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Our knowledgeable game rangers will enthrall you with interesting facts about the wildlife you will view on your safari. Plett Game Reserve is home to three of Africa’s famous Big 5, with the arrival of elephants to complement the rhinos and leopards. You will also encounter many species of antelope, giraffe, zebra, hippo and crocodiles. Birdlife at the game reserve is also abundant, as are the smaller buck and other wild animals that inhabit this protected area of the Garden Route.
Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary
The Crags (c. 45 km)
The first sanctuary of its kind with enclosures built especially for the animal’s needs and personality, hosting Apex Cats and other Predator and wildlife Animals. Go on a 1 - 1.5 hour walk through our sanctuary. You walk past the enclosures where you can see the apex predators living a relaxed life in the comfort of their large enclosures. We have specially build photography ramps from where you can take amazing photos.
Karoo Donkey Sanctuary
The Crags (c. 49 km)
082 900 6103
WWW
Our primary mission is to provide a permanent refuge and a safe haven for previously abused, neglected and elderly donkeys and horses. Our guided tour of the farm and our facilities lasts approximately an hour and includes a bucket list walk amongst our mega herd of over 100 donkeys.
Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary
The Crags (c. 50 km)
All visitors to the park are given a fully guided tour of the snakes by expert and knowledgeable guides. We begin the tour with snakes indigenous to the Garden Route, South Africa. Moving Northwards, we showcase some of the most famous snake species home to Africa. The park specialises in educating our visitors on common snakes encountered and the myths surrounding them. Other residents to the park include Nile crocodiles, Monitor Lizards and Tortoises. Lawnwood is an animal and child friendly place, besides the variety of reptiles, there are also farm animals and a moody pot bellied pig.
Elephant Sanctuary
The Crags (c. 54 km)
Guests are guided on foot through The Elephant Sanctuary. Guides will provide in-depth information and insight into African elephants. You will be introduced to our elephants in the forest area, and here you will be able to touch and interact with the elephants. You will see the special relationship that the elephant handlers share with their elephants and become a part of it. Walk trunk-in-hand with the elephants. Guests learn about elephant anatomy and are able to feed them. On some hot or rainy days you may see the elephants swimming.
Birds of Eden
The Crags (c. 54 km)
Birds of Eden's unique two hectare dome (the world’s largest) spans over a gorge of indigenous forest. Currently it is home to over 3,500 birds from over 220 species, with the main focus being African birds. Visits to Birds of Eden are usually self-guided, however guided walks are offered on request.
Monkeyland
The Crags (c. 54 km)
Monkeyland is the world’s first free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary. Over the course of our tours - which we call “monkey safaris” - you’ll be able to see over 550 primates of various species - Capuchin Monkeys, Ring-tailed and Black-and-white Ruffed Lemurs, Gibbons and Howler Monkeys, to name a few. The 128-metre suspension bridge, which runs through the forest canopy, gives you the chance to see these primates from another perspective - and not only literally.
Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre
The Crags (c. 55 km)
Tenikwa offers a selection of conservation-based wildlife related tours. Join us on a 1 hour tour to learn about the indigenous wild cats of South Africa and how human-wildlife conflict is impacting their survival in the wild. Enjoy the Wild Cat Experience with one of our qualified guides. Safety walkways through the habitats of the various wild cats will allow you to see and photograph the cats whilst your guide explains interesting information about the species and their role in promoting biodiversity. See African Wild Cats, Servals, Caracals, Cheetahs, Lions and our Leopard as well as other local wildlife such as meerkats, marabous and much more.
Victoria Heights Bird & Reptile Park
Victoria Heights, George (c. 53 km)
044 889 0028
Here you can eyeball some of the most fearsome & venemous snakes in SA, including the biggest snake of Africa. If you are brave enough you can interact & take a photo holding one of the non-venemous snakes.
George Wildlife & Animal Park
Victoria Heights, George (c. 53 km)
084 249 0442
WWW
The George Wildlife Park is home to a number of happy and healthy animals. This includes our predator park with Bengal Tigers, Cheetahs, Lions, Leopards and other predators. Our farm animals include ducks and geese, bunnies, chickens and meerkatte.
Garden Route Birds of Prey Rehab Centre
Victoria Heights, George (c. 53 km)
At the Garden Route Bird of Prey Rehab Centre we rehab injured, sick and orphaned birds of prey, with our main goal being to release them again. We invite you to come join us on the exhibition side of our centre where we will take you on a guided tour, and teach you about all the different birds of prey.
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Little Brak River (c. 100 km)
A real Garden Route Safari experience! Enjoy close encounters with Rhinoceros, Lions, Elephants, Buffalo, Cheetah, Giraffe, the rare Black Impala, Golden Wildebeest, Mountain Zebra, Hippos and more! Our Game Reserve is 4200ha and comprises of over 26 different species of animals and over 200 resident bird species.
The Shark Lab
Mossel Bay (c. 108 km)
063 408 1724
A warm and intimate privately run quaint aquarium. We Offer the unique experience of swimming freely with our relaxed Smooth Hound Sharks. Come and view our tropical coral fish- from various coral reefs around the world. Our local cold water marine life may also be seen.
Tsitsikamma Wolf Sanctuary
Witelsbos (c. 108 km)
The Tsitsikamma Wolf Sanctuary provides a home and safe haven for unwanted and abused wolves and wolf dogs. The first to open in the country, our sanctuary aims to create awareness by informing and educating visitors through a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Escape to the great outdoors, spend the day soaking up the impressive surroundings and, guided by our knowledgeable and passionate staff, get to meet these magnificent animals in surroundings as close to their natural environment as possible.
Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre
Mossdustria, Mossel Bay (c. 113 km)
Here at SAPREC Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre, we are driven by a single goal; to help our seabirds. We help all seabirds that are brought into the centre, rehabilitate them and then release them. Birds include the endangered African Penguin, endangered Cape Gannet, Cape Cormorant and Petrels. Come Visit. Everyday 9h00 and 14h00. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.
Cango Wildlife Ranch
Oudtshoorn (c. 123 km)
Explore an Ancient Temple - home to giant Flying Foxes, dazzling birdlife, diminutive antelope and thousands of sparkling Cichlids! Creep past designer hogs, malevolent vultures and playful Lemurs. Then crossover a swing-bridge precariously dangling inches above giant four meter crocodiles who leap for their dinner… Walk above the most magnificent of the world's big cats: white lions, African leopards, white snow tigers and of course our prized cheetah. You can then enter our Snake Park where you are met by a host of venomous creatures including the mighty King Cobra, the largest venomous snake in the world and the only one in Africa!
Safari Ostrich Farm
Oudtshoorn (c. 123 km)
Safari Ostrich Farm is a working farm. Established in 1956 as a tourist activity, it remains a must-see attraction when visiting Oudtshoon. Enjoy a fun filled, interactive ostrich farm experience.Take a ride on the only Ostrich Tractor Safari in South Africa to view the Kenyan (Massai) ostrich, Zimbabwean Blue and South African Ostriches. Safari Ostrich Farm also is home to the beautiful & rare White Ostrich. Come feed our beautiful birds and get amazing close-up pictures. Go into the chick rearing compartment and view chicks in various stages of development.
Western Cape Butterfly Sanctuary
Ruiterbos (c. 124 km)
The sanctuary is a first of its kind in the Western Cape and only the second in South Africa. Ultimately the sanctuary will house 4000 butterflies, representing over 50 different local species, among them the rarest of butterflies in the world. Once completed, the sanctuary which will include a second phase housing a breeding centre, it is envisaged to be the largest butterfly sanctuary in the Southern Hemisphere and possibly the world.
Highgate Ostrich Show Farm
Oudtshoorn (c. 125 km)
Experience the world’s largest bird, the ostrich, which lays the largest egg, has the most beautiful feathers and eyes that make you want to fall in love and hug them. We offer a variety of ostrich tours. Each tour has 2 parts - the main yard and the farmlands. In the main yard, you will be shown different ostrich feathers, the incubators and how they work, gizzard stones, and you can feed the ostriches yourself! The farmlands are where you will be shown the anatomy of an ostrich and visit the breeding pairs nest.
Buffelsdrift Game Lodge
Oudtshoorn (c. 128 km)
During our bush safaris (game drives), you can expect to experience true Karoo vegetation from our open game viewing vehicles. Our wide range of animals includes Hippo, Giraffe, Eland, Zebra, Buffalo, Springbok, and much more. The two-hour night drive offers guest an opportunity to spot the elusive “Shy five” of Buffelsdrift Game Lodge - caracal, genet, porcupine, aardvark and aardwolf.
Garden Route Game Lodge
Albertinia (c. 147 km)
Enjoy a thrilling game drive in an open Landrover with your experienced game ranger who will bring you sightings of lion, elephant, white rhino, buffalo and cheetah. Garden Route Game Lodge is also home to giraffes, zebra and numerous antelope species such as bontebok, red hartebeest, kudu, eland, impala, springbuck and many more. Game drives will take between 2 and 3 hours depending on how much time is spent at each sighting. There will be a refreshment stop during your game drive at the selected lookout points on the reserve.
Archery » (2)
Primal Shot
Scarab Village, Sedgefield (c. 28 km)
Experience the thrill of traditional archery. Archery, the art of using a bow to shoot arrows at a target, is one of the oldest precision sports still practiced today. From the battlefield to the dinner table, the bow and arrow has been an intrinsic part of civilization for thousands of years. Come experience a fun, exciting and unique experience. With your eyes locked on target, bow in hand and string pulled back to full draw, feel the energy, excitement and majestic sensation as you release the string and watch your arrow fly towards your target. Think you can do it? Come have a go and find out. A fantastic activity for competitive friends or individuals, family fun, kids and anyone who would like to try a unique shooting experience.
Archery Adventures
Howberry Hills, Wittedrift (c. 36 km)
The ancient art of Archery is truly a magnificent art-form that anyone can learn. After introduction and basic instruction (20-30 minutes),our instructor and guide will set off with you into our natural ravine and guide you through our 3D ARCHERY TRAIL in the magnificent indigenous forest. Your archery adventure will transport you into another world.
Arts & Crafts » (14)
Knysna Art Route
Knysna
082 657 4122
WWW
The Knysna Art Route is part of a worldwide initiative to make art accessible to the public. The Art Route highlights top galleries and artist studios in Knysna, giving visitors the opportunity to engage with artists while experiencing the best the Knysna art community has to offer. Facilitated by the Knysna Art Society, to give maximum exposure to Knysna Art Society Members, the Knysna Art Route is an opportunity to discover hidden gems while celebrating the creativity of Knysna artists.
Kringe in 'n Bos Mural
Queen Street (c. 1 km)
2022
The Kringe in 'n Bos mural was created by 60 artists over 10 days in July 2022. Eighty-one circles ("kringe") capture the essence of Knysna and the magic of the Knysna forest which continues to inspire all who live, work and visit here.
Wall of Wings
Brenton on Sea (c. 16 km)2021
Brenton on Sea is home to the rare Brenton Blue Butterfly. The giant Wall of Wings at the beachfront is a celebration of this tiny butterfly that is found nowhere else on earth but here.
Rasta on the Mount
Judah Square, Knysna (c. 8 km)2022
Judah Square is home to the largest community of Rastafarian people in South Africa. The towering 2.2m tall Rasta on the Mount was created by local ceramicist Eugene Lewis under the mentorship of sculptor Suzanne du Toit. Standing at the entrance to Judah Square, welcoming visitors with hands posed in the traditional Rastafari diamond gesture - a symbol of the Seal of Solomon - the sculpture is a tribute to Haile Selassi.
The Potter
N2 (near Harkerville) (c. 23 km)
This exciting studio shop has a distinct Mediterranean flavour and also sells olives, olive paste and olive oil together with olive serving dishes and amazing olive spoons. It is certainly a delight to visit this creative hive, always adding new items to their quality ware. This is a working studio where the visitor can view the decorating and making of the clayware.
Sedgefield Mosaic Route
Sedgefield (c. 26 km)2022
The Sedgefield Mosaic Route is the result of one organisation's initiative to transform Sedgefield into Africa's most impressive mosaic town. The Mosaic Route is mapped to offer a self-guided local's view od Sedgefield and its attractions while exploring more than 65 mosaic pieces - from the town's library, post office and community hall through the relaxed residential areas, along the Swartvlei estuary with its breath-taking scenery, and beyond.
Sedgefield1 Love Bug
Kingfisher Drive, Sedgefield (c. 26 km)2021
The Sedgefield1 LoveBug is the latest addition to Masithandane’s skills development project and their most impressive feat to date. Visitors can “park off” on the side of the Sedgefield estuary in an impressive full size VW beetle, mosaiced in entirety in colourful contemporary fynbos imagery.
Knysna Seahorse
Myoli Beach, Sedgefield (c. 26 km)2023
The towering 3m-high installation comprises a giant sparkling mosaic statue of the Knysna seahorse mounted on one of the original fishing boats used at Gericke's Point. The shimmering sculpture is Masithandane's second contribution to the Knysna Art Project.
The Heath Complex
N2 (Harkerville) (c. 26 km)
083 518 1452
WWW
The Heath Complex consists of six businesses inspired by Art, Design, and Nature. Visit this well loved Garden Route Destination conveniently situated off the N2 between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna. Indulge, be Inspired and Enjoy, there’s something for everyone!
Scarab Art & Craft Village
Scarab Village, Sedgefield (c. 28 km)
044 343 2455
WWW
For more than a decade Scarb Village has been a hub for local creativity and ingenuity - from food fare to arts to a unique range of crafts. The village has several permanent businesses that trade throughout the week, offering a range of distinctively unique items, including natural, bespoke furniture pieces, handmade jewellery and decorative light fittings, hand crafted paper, beads, wood and stone decor and so much more. It houses a lovely nursery that sells a host of indigenous plant species, including a wide selection of succulents. The village also boasts Sedgefield’s very first boutique craft brewery.
Old Nick Village
Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
Old Nick Village boasts a carefully selected complementary mix of merchants all of whom are creative manufacturers show casing a combination of locally inspired design. Shops, workshops and various events in a rambling 19th century Cape Farm complex surrounded by tall trees and over grown indigenous gardens. Expect the unexpected - a musical afternoon on the lawns, a special exhibition, an encounter with birds or the occasional Vervet monkey - gardens exploding with seasonal colour. Children can run free on broad lawns and in the magical gardens where resident master crafters may be on hand to show how it’s done.
Calling the Herd
Prince Alfred's Pass (c. 37 km)
WWW
2013
2013
Calling the Herd is an interactive piece comprising trumpet-like funnels grouped together in the form of a tree. It is possible to blow these trumpets by means of mouthpieces installed in the trunks. The resemblance of the sound generated by this art installation to the call of elephants is uncanny. The blowing of the trumpets signifies a call of hope to restore freedom of movement from one protected area to another across conservation corridors, not only for the elephants, but for all species and in so doing to safeguard biodiversity and eco-systems.
Timberlake Farm Village & Organic Food
N2 (near Wilderness) (c. 37 km)
Specialist Food, Art & Craft village of small independent businesses. Timberlake supports Local and the Slow Food principles of Good, Clean and Fair. Your salads are picked fresh from our onsite organic gardens. Extensive kids facilities.
Khoisan Village
Tsitsikamma (c. 70 km)
Come marvel at the Traditional Arts & Crafts of the KhoiSan in the one of a kind Khoisan Art & Craft Boutique. We have a variety of Khoisan Arts & Crafts on display such as: Authentic Rock Art, Authentically Decorated Ostrich eggs, KhoiSan Waterbottles, KhoiSan cosmetics bags, Bone pipes, Quiver, Bow and arrows to mention just a few. e also have on display, original oil paintings of Khoisan people in everyday situations by famous artist, Stanley Grootboom. This exhibition is not to be missed.
Hot Air Ballooning » (1)
Nova Hot Air Balloons
Garden Route
021 813 9438
WWW
A flight in a Hot Air Balloon is like nothing else you’ve ever experienced. No other form of flying comes anywhere close to its calm, serene nature. Experience the quiet stillness of the morning sunrise whilst soaring among bird and cloud alike. This truly is what dreams are made of. Our Sunrise Champagne Breakfast hot air balloon flights are like nothing you’ve ever experienced. Labelled as the ‹ultimate bucket list item’, Hot Air Ballooning in itself is something that every person should experience at least once, although it can be said that once is never enough as you’ll be clamoring for more once it’s all over.
Beaches » (14)
Green Hole
Leisure Isle (c. 7 km)
This is an absolute haven for the little ones and offers a safe and fun setting to spend the day. The water is usually warmer than on Bollards Bay and is oftentimes protected from the wind on a windy day. At low tide, you will be able to cross over the Lagoon and walk to the Heads. This is a fun activity for the whole family- you may even be able to spot the illusive Pansy Shell; a rare and beautiful emblem of the Knysna Lagoon.
Bollard Bay Beach
Leisure Isle (c. 7 km)
Bollard Bay is Leisure Isle’s secret treasure. It is set on the Knysna Lagoon which is a safe-haven for young swimmers. In the off-peak season the beach is frequented by mostly the local residents and avid dog walkers. During the summer it becomes a vibrant, kid-friendly venue. While gazing through the Heads to the Indian Ocean and looking over at Featherbed, you will hear the constant babble and laughter of children who can safely play at the water’s edge. During high-tide, this little beach is great for swimming and is perfect for the kids as there are few currents and no waves.
Coney Glen Beach
The Heads (c. 8 km)
Coney Glen offers a small and intimate beach on the other side of the Heads. It’s nestled away in a small cove and offers great opportunities for fishing and climbing over rocks. The waters here can be quite dangerous, so take care and do not go deep into the water. It’s perfect for a quick dip to relieve yourself from a hot summer’s day.
Noetzie Beach
Noetzie (c. 12 km)
Noetzie is a pristine, secluded beach which lies in a hidden bay bordered by the lush forest of the Sinclair Nature Reserve on one side and the fynbos landscapes of Pezula Resort Estate on the other. It owes its seclusion to the fact that it is accessed along a gravel road from Knysna’s N2 and a steep climb from the parking area down a narrow path and a flight of stairs hewn into the cliff.
Cove Beach
Sparrebosch (c. 12 km)
Brenton-on-Sea Beach
Brenton-on-Sea (c. 16 km)
Locals claim that one of the most wonderful beaches on the globe lies right on the other side of the Knysna Western Heads, at Brenton-on-Sea.
There are rocks to clamber on, little pools to cool off in and a long bay for beach walks and shell seeking. Walk to Buffalo Bay from Brenton-on-Sea, have lunch or an ice-cream and stroll back.
Wild Side Beach
Buffalo Bay (c. 20 km)
Buffalo Bay Beach
Buffalo Bay (c. 21 km)
Buffalo Bay beach is about half way between Knysna and sedgefield. Offers unspoiled seaside scenery, safe swimming and conditions. Dolphins are frequently spotted and Southern Right whales visit this section of the Cape coast annually around November. Here you will see some of the highest vegetated sand dunes in the world.
This is a stunning beach in a small bay. Safe for swimming and there are life guards in season.
Goukamma Beach
Sedgefield (c. 25 km)
This beach is one long (14km) stretch of unadulterated beauty. It lies within the Goukamma Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area and is frequented only by fishermen and a handful of hikers, making it the perfect beach to soothe the soul. Dolphins feed along the rocky reefs here almost daily. The entire length of the beach is inaccessible during a spring high tide, so make sure you check the tide tables if you plan to hike its stretch. Strong rip currents prevail here.
Platbank Beach
Sedgefield (c. 25 km)
This is Sedgefield’s most secluded beach and it is characterised by rocky outcrops and lofty fossilised dunes of incredible beauty. It is easily accessible by foot from Myoli but can also be accessed by car if one takes the turn off towards Lake Pleasant Hotel off the N2, and follows the winding dirt road until it ends. Tides and currents can be very strong and it isn't advisable to swim here.
Myoli Beach
Sedgefield (c. 26 km)
This is one of Sedgefield’s most popular beaches, particularly in season, but even then it is not unpleasantly crowded. As with other similar stretches of our dynamic coastline, very strong rip currents are common here and caution needs to be taken at all times. The beach spills into the Pili Pili Beach Bar, making it by far the most vibey beach desination in the area.
Sedgefield Beach (Kingfisher Creek)
Sedgefield (c. 26 km)
This is where the Swartvlei River meets the Indian Ocean, and it is popular with locals and tourists, but the conditions here are dynamic and unpredictable, depending on both the tides and the nature of the channel. It provides a welcome shelter from the wind on some days when the other beaches are too blustery.
Cola Beach
Sedgefield (c. 28 km)
Cola Beach is one of Sedgefield’s most loved beaches. It offers visitors a beautiful and tranquil setting. It is a quiet beach and even during peak seasons the beach is never over crowded or noisy. It’s a perfect place to catch up on much needed rest, settle into a deckchair with some holiday reading and catch a tan.
Swartvlei Beach
Sedgefield (c. 33 km)
This beach is situated on the western end of Sedgefield and is popular both in and out of season. The beach extends left towards the iconic Gericke’s Point landmark, which is an exceptionally beautiful place to visit at low tide. It boasts several sublime tidal pools rich in intertidal life, some of which are perfect for snorkelling. Please note the sea here is known for its strong rip currents, so swimmers must be cautious at all times and it is advisable not to swim alone.
Craft Beer / Breweries » (12)
Knysna Brewery
Knysna Industria (c. 4 km)
081 722 2715
WWW
The Knysna Brewery is part of the Knysna Distillery, well known for its gins. With just 90 litres brewed at a time. Like our mascot, the Knysna Dwarf Chameleon, we are small and always changing our beers. From light lager and delicious pilsner to Belgian pale ale and California common, you never know what you will find on our taps.
Red Bridge Brewing Co.
Knysna Industria (c. 4 km)
Red Bridge Brewing Co is a Knysna based micro-brewery specialising in hand crafted small batch beer. We are a family owned business and pride ourselves on crafting beers using our South African built equipment such as our brew kit, malt mill and fermentation tank. We do everything in-house from recipe development, brewing and packaging with pride and a whole lot of draughts. Taproom, tastings & sales. Live music & events venue.
Fisanthoek Brewing Company
Harkerville (c. 22 km)
073 442 3464
Built and managed by Derek Saul, Fisanthoek Brewing is a small brewery based in the garden route. All the grain used are non gmo grains, ethically farmed and imported due to local grains being sprayed heavily. The beer made at Fisanthoek Brewing is made from rainwater and this imparts a beautiful softness to the range. The beer produced is called Cloud7 Rainwater beer and can be found at select outlets in Plettenburg Bay.
Sedgefield Craft Brewery
Scarab Village, Sedgefield (c. 28 km)
The Sedgefield Craft Brewery is a boutique style craft brewery in Sedgefield nestled in the heart of the Garden Route. A family owned and run establishment that specialises in high quality handcrafted beer. We produce a list of custom ales ranging from a simple refreshing summer-style blonde to a deep copper well-hopped complex IPA. We are in the process of setting up our "Hop Garden" where our beer will be served. Currently we offer beer tastings directly from the tasting room inside the brewery. We also have a collection of bottled beer to take away.
Barrington's
Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
044 050 3767
WWW
Barrington’s is the first craft brewery to be situated within the town of Plettenberg Bay itself. The 500 lt brewery is headed up by Knysna local, Marcus Meunier who has crafted four superbly individual beers to start - a Lager, a Weiss, an English Ale and an American Rye Ale.
Bootlegger Brewery
Palms Garden Square, Wilderness (c. 47 km)
082 336 8209
If you're ever in Wilderness, pull in for some of the very best craft beers South Africa has to offer! Brewery opening soon....
Cape Mead
George Industria (c. 62 km)
071 331 6799
WWW
The home of fine Mead and honey beer. Cape Mead was started back in 2011, the process of making Mead good enough to sell has taken 2 years and many hours of experimenting and tasting the results, to get to where we are today. We are situated in the heart of the beautiful Garden Route town of George.
Misty Meadows Microbrewery
Sinksabrug, George (c. 79 km)
Misty Meadows Country Estate is the perfect opportunity for any beer enthusiast to come and relax at the serene foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains, catch a bit of fresh country air and enjoy participating in brewing our local country ale. Any beer lover, micro-brewer and would-like-to-be-brewer would greatly benefit from the experience of the Master Brewer.
Tsitsikamma Micro Brewery
Storms River Village (c. 93 km)
The latest addition to the Tsitsikamma Village Inn is our micro-brewery, brewing up uniquely local brews available on tap. Our one of kind brewery tap room can be found between our Hotel and Marilyn’s 60’s Diner. We are constantly trying new recipes and methods to create unique Tsitsikamma craft beer flavours. From grain to glass, only the purest intentions go into making our beer. The beer is brewed according to the 1487 German Reinheitsgebot (Purity Law): using only barley, hops and water. The ingredients are carefully selected and the water is from our very own well – giving you that original Tsitsikamma brewery taste.
South Cape Breweries
Mossel Bay (c. 113 km)
083 215 2827
WWW
Glenhoff is a natural beer brewed by South Cape Breweries according to the Reinheitsgebot method to ensure purity, clarity and excellence. The law originated in the city of Ingolstadt in the duchy of Bavaria on 23 April 1516, although first put forward in 1487, concerning standards for the sale and composition of beer.
Thorny Creek Brewery
Oudtshoorn (c. 117 km)
072 273 1926
Glenhoff is a natural beer brewed by South Cape Breweries according to the Reinheitsgebot method to ensure purity, clarity and excellence. The law originated in the city of Ingolstadt in the duchy of Bavaria on 23 April 1516, although first put forward in 1487, concerning standards for the sale and composition of beer.
Karusa Winery & Craft Brewery
Oudtshoorn (c. 134 km)
044 272 8717
WWW
Made by man, nurtured by nature. Karusa not only produces fine wine, but is also credited by pioneering the first full grain microbrewery in the Klein Karoo. With the seasonality of the winemaking process, it gave way for time and space to produce craft beer for the big volume of European tourists that flock to Oudtshoorn. The soft fresh and unpolluted water from the Swartberg catchment area proved to be perfect for clean, clinical, fruit driven and refreshing styles of Ale produced at Karusa.
Birding » (2)
Garden Route Birding
The scope of environmental variation in the Garden Route offers visitors to the region the option of forest, wetland, dune, Fynbos, estuary, riverine, montane and coastal experiences without having to travel vast distances. It is on this foundation of diversity that we have developed our range of guided birding, in the region. We can create any tour in the Western Cape and Southern Africa to meet all your birding requirements.
Birdwatcher
Sedgefield
082 555 8122
WWW
Guided birding tours for general and more advanced birding. We prefer small groups (1 to 4) but also cater for larger groups. We offer full day, morning and afternoon GUIDED BIRD WALKS and BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY COURSES or a combination of these. Birdwatcher can also provide specialist 1 and 2 day birdwatching trips in the garden route and other areas.
Blokart Sailing » (1)
Garden Route Blokart
Buffalo Bay (c. 21 km)
082 900 6721
2014
2014
On a windy day there is nothing like the freedom of blasting up and down the beach powered by mother nature. Now hiring on Buffelsbaai Beach in Knysna - conditions permitting.
Boats / Cruises / Sailing / Hire » (20)
See also Whale Watching
(Featherbed Co.) Paddle Cruiser
Featherbed Ferry Terminus (c. 1 km)
The Paddle Cruiser is South Africa's only paddle-driven vessel, offering a unique and unforgettable experience on the Knysna Lagoon.
(Featherbed Co.) John Benn
Featherbed Ferry Terminus (c. 1 km)
The John Benn is a double-decker floating restaurant offering daily Lagoon cruises to the Knysna Heads. Cruise to the Knysna Heads, on a boat steeped in history, named after a legendary pilot of a bygone era.
(Featherbed Co.) Three Legs Rivercat
Featherbed Ferry Terminus (c. 1 km)
If time is limited, join Three Legs for a 75-minute cruise with a difference! This is a fun and adventurous cruise to and INTO the Knysna Heads between the cliffs (ocean conditions permitting), visiting Otter Cove, Island Rock and passing the beachcomber caves.
Springtide Charters
The Waterfront (c. 1 km)
Against a backdrop of exceptional beauty, sailing across Knysna’s expansive liquid landscape on Springtide Charter’s sleek 50ft mono hull yacht is a truly memorable experience. Departing daily from the popular Knysna Waterfront, Springtide Charters offers a variety of different sailing charter options. Our highly experienced crew will take to the helm so you can relax and take in the splendour of our rugged coastline; sailing, salt air and scenery all an exhilarating combination. Once back into the calmer waters of our lagoon, guests have the option to feast on platters of Mediterranean delicacies and sip on delicious South African bubbly.
Knysna Pirate Ship
The Waterfront (c. 1 km)
Enjoy an unforgettable day on the lagoon with friends, family, clients or colleagues. Join us for a 90 min Lagoon Cruise to the Knysna Heads on this authentic Pirate Ship. Sit back relax and breath in the fresh ocean air while our pirate crew Captain Fish and Crew Mad-Matt entertain you. It’s great adventure with beautiful scenery as you sail across the glistening water. Periodically we do come across Seals playing or dolphins close to the Knysna Heads.
Heads Explorer
The Waterfront (c. 1 km)
082 574 6541
WWW
The Luxurious "HEADS EXPLORER" is a 44 ft CATAMARAN and can accommodate up to 36 passengers, perfect for those seeking adventure, romance, sharing sunsets & creating another unforgettable sailing experience with loved ones. We operate daily from the Knysna Waterfront Harbour cruising on the calm waters of the Knysna Lagoon to the fascinating scenery of the Headlands before sailing out to the Ocean & Beyond (weather permitting) with a maximum of 12 passengers. Open 365 days per year, we offer guests a swashbuckling time. Laze on our trampolines, deck or beanbags while taking in views of the pristine coastline listening to music, you will take something very special back home with you...
Southern Yachting Academy
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
We traverse the Knysna Lagoon and sail through the Knysna Heads to Buffalo Bay, Noetzie or Plettenberg Bay for day sailing adventures and offshore sailing to Mossel Bay, St Francis Bay or Port Elizabeth for logging coastal passages. Coaching by professional skippers we facilitate unforgettable outdoor sailing adventure experiences. Either just test the waters or become a qualified skipper through our SA Sailing accredited courses in Knysna. SAMSA accredited for Marine Radio Telephony Courses and Examinations (i.e. Short Range Certificate (SRC) for DSC/VHF Radio Licenses). Or purchase a Knysna 500 Catamaran from the Knysna Yacht Company and then get qualified through Southern Yachting Academy to set sail across the ocean and fulfil your dream of circumventing the planet
Knysna Rib Adventures
The Knysna Experience, Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Hold on tight for a safe, fast and thrilling ride on the unique Knysna RIB adventure power boat. Remember to keep breathing and your eyes open to experience the full wonder of this beautiful unspoiled environment. Apart from the pristine estuary, an adventure through the infamous Knysna Heads will be the ultimate boating experience. Once out to sea the world is your oyster, where one can experience a vast array of bird and marine life as well as breath-taking scenery, from Buffalo Bay to Noetzie Castles and more. We enter sea caves and go close to rocky outcroppings to give you a first-hand experience of the magnificent coast line and you can witness the power and majesty of the ocean waves Be sure that this is no ordinary boat cruise!!! Safety is our priority but out main focus is fun fun fun...
Bay Chartes
The Knysna Experience, Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
079 733 9352
WWW
Bay charters is a family owned charter company, run by a passionate team that brings together our love for travel, boating and the renowned garden route. We offer cruises on a 10 seater European Sloep boat "Serendipity" and a 10 seater luxury motor yacht "Olympic Flame" on the legendary Knysna lagoon. We invite you to enjoy a whimsical and magical cruise on board Serendipity to explore the wonders of nature and to be part of the rich maritime history here in Knysna. Serendipity is a champagne cruiser that offers a unique lounge type seating arrangement for a truly special charter experience
All 4 One Lagoon Charters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
082 695 3140
WWW
With All 4 One Lagoon Charters Experience a different side of Knysna with a captain that has a passion for this town. We offer the perfect combination of style, extraordinary performance technology and comfort on the water. Our boat tours are action-packed and entertaining from start to finish. We specialize in small-group personal boat tours to ensure you have a more intimate experience than any other Knysna boat tours can offer. Perfect for family or group of friends on vacation.
Ocean Odyssey
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Permitted close encounter Whale Watching and Blue Flag accredited operators. Our area of operation stretches from Robberg Penninsula to Gericke’s Point which runs parallel with the migratory route of the Southern Right and Humpback Whales during their annual migration between the months of May/June to December.
In Summer Months, Ocean Odyssey offer our Marine Eco-Tour highlighting both the geological characteristics and the biodiversity of Knysna’s estuarine and marine environment. This spectacular cruise takes you across the Knysna Lagoon and out to sea through the Knysna Heads to explore the coves, caves and bays of our rugged and beautiful coastline.
The Knysna Heads Adventure is a fun & exciting boat trip across the Knysna Estuary to the iconic, sentinel cliffs known as the Knysna Heads, one of the most dynamic estuary openings in the world. This exhilarating 45 minute tour serves to showcase this environment, with interesting facts about the host of species that can be found here, notable geological features and cultural and historical anecdotes.
Knysna Charters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Choose your adventure with Knysna Charters and cruise one of the most famous lagoons and river mouths in southern Africa. The Knysna Lagoon, in the Garden Route of South Africa, is beautiful, pristine and home to much marine and bird life. We guarantee you a fun and relaxed time on the water.... Book the Knysna Lagoon Boat Cruise for a leisurely cruise to the Knysna Heads and back. Watch the sunset set on the Knysna Sunset Cruise and enjoy the view from our Oyster Boat, whilst taking in the beautiful surrounds of the picturesque town of Knysna. We also offer a honeymoon option on our Honeymoon Sunet Cruise Knysna.
Ocean Sailing Charters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
We invite you to a magical escape on the Knysna lagoon with the Ocean Sailing Family, an unrivaled experience in nature. Our luxury catamarans navigate the iconic Knysna Heads and sail into the Indian Ocean. The Knysna lagoon and coastline has an abundance of interesting bird and marine life, breath-taking views and exhilarating adventure. Being joined by a pod of dolphins, or a friendly seal is an experience which you’ll remember long after the journey has ended.
Magic Lagoon Charters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
The Magic Lagoon Boat Cruise experience provides you with the most enriching and luxurious journey on the Knysna lagoon. Join us as we travel though the channels in search of the best life has to offer, with every luxury included, and discover a truly unrivaled experience. Delight your palate with items from our platters, or enjoy a light lunch or oysters, all available on pre-order.
Knysna Houseboats
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
A fully equipped self-drive houseboat to spend your holiday gently cruising along in Knysna's beautiful and scenic tidal estuary. Sunbathing on the deck, diving in the water or finding all the great local fishing spots is just a few of the many great activities our clients enjoy. Our newly refurbished Houseboats exceed all South African Maritime Safety Authority operational and safety requirements and we have outfitted them to a high specification, so it is truly a comfortable experience.
Turbine Water Club
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
The perfect way to explore our Knysna estuary is by taking a cruise on our pontoon. We offer Lagoon Cruises (Day and Sunset Lagoon Cruises) departing from the Turbine Water Club on Thesen Islands at various time slots.
Coastal Boat Rentals
Knysna Industria (c. 4 km)
072 207 7175
WWW
We are a hassle free boat rental company. We rent out a variety of luxury boats to our clients for an unforgettable boating experience. The Garden Route has many beautifull rivers and estuaries to explore and the best way to experience it is by boat. Whether it be skiing on Knysna Lagoon, fishing in Plettenberg bay or a sunsent cruise on Swartvlei, we have the right boat for you.
Adrenaline Sailing
Swartvlei (c. 32 km)
083 701 8473
Adrenaline sailing trips is extreme, exciting, wet and wild experience. We give you a short brief on how to sail and then we dress you up for your adrenaline sailing trip. Most of our adrenaline Hobie Cat trips are either on a Hobie 16 or Hobie 18 catamaran. This is not a booze cruise, this is adrenaline at its best. Harnesses are positioned on your body for a thrill called "flying the hull". Booking is essential and obviously we are bound by the weather conditions. We are the only Adrenaline Sailing experience company on the Garden Route. We launch off the shores of the Swarvlei Lake, the largest lake in the Garden Route area of South Africa.
Plett Boat Hire
Plettenberg Bay Angling Club (c. 38 km)
044 535 9740
WWW
You'd have to go a long way to find a setting more breathtaking than the Keurbooms River. Hire one of our motor boats and explore its upper reaches in your own time. Our SAMSA safety approved boats carry up to 5 people, are fully equipped with all the safety gear and are powered by hassle-free 4-stroke outboards.
Keurbooms River Ferries
Plettenberg Bay (c. 39 km)
083 254 3551
Experience the Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, sit back and relax with an ice cold beverage and let your eyes and mind be, titillated with majestic scenery as you slip along shimmering waters cascading with dense pristine forest lining your meandering journey. Let your ears be alighted to the mighty sounds of our natural orchestra of bird calls amplified by our amp theatre of gorges. This is a reality for Keurbooms River Ferries and our guests who take this journey with us.
Wilderness River Safaris
Wilderness (c. 45 km)
Enjoy the natural beauty of Wilderness by cruising on the Touw River or Island Lake in a safari style aluminium boat. Encounter magnificent bird life and breath-taking scenery. A leisurely and magical experience for people of all ages. A great way to experience and explore the Wilderness Section of Garden Route National Park.
Botanical Gardens » (1)
Garden Route Botanical Garden
George (c. 62 km)
The Garden focuses on plants endemic to the Southern Cape region. It also houses the Southern Cape Herbarium, an Indigenous Nursery, the Getafix Garden Cafe, and the Garden Route Environmental Education Centre. With more than 18 hectares to explore, ensure you see the best of the exceptionally unique Garden Route Botanical Garden by joining a guided tour with one of our local tour-guides. If you are out for a gentle stroll or serious hike - the Garden Route Botanical Garden offers both scenic strolls around the dam (check out our Bird Hide) or a short nature trail (20 min) along a stream to the more serious full-day hiking trails that can be accessed from the Gardens.
Bungy Jump » (1)
Face Adrenalin
Bloukrans River Bridge (c. 70 km)
WELCOME TO THE WORLD’S HIGHEST BUNGY BRIDGE. The view from Africa’s highest bridge captures all the majesty and tranquility of the Bloukrans River valley. But there is nothing tranquil about throwing yourself more than 200 metres down towards the river below. Recognised as the ‘highest bungee from a bridge’ in the world, Bloukrans Bungy uses pendulum bungee technology to ensure the smoothest, most comfortable bungee jump possible. Jumpers are secured in a full-body harness combined with an ankle connection.
Canoeing / Kayaking / Hire » (12)
Knysna Kayak Adventures
Waterfront (c. 1 km)
082 524 3529
WWW
The calm waters of the beautiful Knysna River awaits you; ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. This is a fantastic way to explore the interesting town of knysna from a different perspective. Join us for a fully guided Kayak Adventure. This is a nature's lover trip and it's a truly awesome way to explore the knysna estuary with a qualified guide.
Knysna Charters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Hire a kayak and explore the Knysna Lagoon from a unique perspective.'Take your time, stop at the beach,and catch some sunshine along the way!' Hire a kayak in Knysna and head off to explore our pristine lagoon on your own schedule. Kayaking is great fun for the whole family, provided you can swim! Kayak rental rates are based on a per kayak, per hour basis. No previous kayaking experience is necessary. Life jackets and paddles are provided.
Turbine Water Club
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Kayak Hire - Enjoy the charm and uniqueness of the Knysna lagoon
Blackwaters River Lodge
Goukamma (c. 12 km)
The lodge has single and double canoes available. The Goukamma River flows all the way to Buffels Bay - some 11 kms, +\- two and a half hours paddling time. For the “super-fit” a row “there and back” and for the less energetic collection at a nominal fee from the Goukamma Nature Reserve can be arranged. So as to ensure energy levels are kept up, picnic baskets can be ordered.
RiverDeck Activities
Goukamma (c. 12 km)
A large collection of one man, two man canoes, hydro-bikes and paddle boats for hire awaits you including life jackets for your safety. A total of 50 canoes available.
Dune Adventures
Brenton-on-Sea (c. 16 km)
We start the adventure trip on the banks of the Knysna river and head upstream into the protected river gorge. The river is off the beaten path with very few visitors except the occasional vervet monkeys, baboons, mongoose or a possible shy bushbuck.
Goukamma Nature Reserve
Goukamma (c. 18 km)
044 383 0042
WWW
Take a relaxing tour of the reserve on a kayak or pedal boat. Visitors can slowly drift down the river or across the lake, taking in the scenery and keeping a sharp eye out for wildlife and birds. Kayaks and pedal boats can be reserved at the main office. Paddles and lifejackets are provided.
Buffels Bay Ocean Adventures
Buffalo Bay (c. 21 km)
082 264 4165
Welcome to Buffels Bay Ocean Adventures situated on the banks of the Buffels Bay Beach in the Goukamma Nature Reserve just a few kilometers drive from Knysna. We at Buffels Bay Ocean Adventures offers Kayak & SUP Rentals, Team Building Events to locals and visitors alike.
Keurbooms River Nature Reserve
Keurboomstrand (c. 38 km)
044 533 2125
WWW
Double canoes and kayaks can be hired per day at the entrance gate. Canoe and kayaks cannot be booked (first come first use).
Eden Adventures
Fairy Knowe Hotel, Wilderness (c. 48 km)
Eden Adventures have single, double and triple canoes for hire. These come equipped with paddles, buoyancy aids and waterproof containers for picnics, cameras etc, and a map to assist you in your decision making. There are various waterways to explore in the area. The most popular are the Touw River and the Kaaimans River. For those wanting to paddle to the beach, the river mouth is about 30 to 40 mins paddle from Eden Adventures. The river gets wider towards the mouth and banks become more developed, however it is still a lovely alternative.
Kaaimans Adventures
Kaaimans River (c. 50km)
083 654 6030
WWW
Come and rent a kayak with family or friends, discover the natural beauty of Kaaimans, visit the waterfall.
Kayak & Lilo Adventure
Storms River Mouth (c. 98 km)
The 2-3 hour Storms River kayak & lilo adventure is our most popular adventure activity where you can experience the best that Tsitsikamma has to offer! If you are keen to explore deeper into the Storms River Gorge, and experience the long, deep, quiet pools with deep caves and ancient forests then the kayak and lilo trip is for you! Discover a new adventure activity in Storms River and experience nature and adventure at its best!
Canyoning / Kloofing » (5)
Trip Out Adventure
Knysna
083 306 3587
WWW
This fun and adventurous tour takes you right into the heart of the Knysna forest with its majestic yellowwood trees, eery calls and fleeting glimpses of the Knysna Loerie and abundance of wild forest game. Our Hike swim Hike tour is a lovely adventure for the entire family and is roughly 3 to 4 hours long consisting of a 7km hike down the drupkelders hiking trail to a beautiful gorge where you will swim hike swim through a series of steep rocky passages. Snatch the chance to stand behind the scenic curtains of a waterfall and bathe in the tanin colored rock pools that are littered along the river in this beautiful unspoilt forest setting before returning home.
Eden Adventures
Fairy Knowe Hotel, Wilderness (c. 48 km)
Kloofing, also known canyoneering, is a popular summer activity. The fun starts as one negotiates one's body into a wetsuit. After kitting-up we go boulder hopping and swimming down narrow canyons with lush indigenous forest on either side. For the brave there are always the optional jumps off the cliffs into the cola coloured water below. The Half day Cappuccino Canyon (Kaaimans Kloof) is the most popular kloofing trip as it is a fantastic kloof for beginners, yet there are many jumping possibilities for the brave. The deep pools with towering cliffs offer spectacular scenery and an amazing introduction to kloofing.
Canyon Adventures
Widerness (c. 47 km)
Canyoning is a refreshing and exhilirating adventure experience. It involves descending a river canyon on foot by means of scrambling, swimming, jumping, sliding and rope work. We are based in Wilderness, on South Africa's Garden Route. There are now two trip options available! Our new trip features rappelling a.k.a. abseiling and there is opportunity for jumps between 1m and 12m. The original trip features optional jumps and slides without the rappelling/abseilng. It's suitable for all abilities as the challenges are optional, ranging from 1,5 m to 12m in height.
AfriCanyon
The Mill, The Crags (c. 53 km)
Explore the river with AfriCanyon, navigate through the river shallows, jump, zip-line, swim through fresh-water mountain pools, slide down natural water slides and abseil in and around waterfalls as you dip down into the river gorge. First timer, novice or seasoned at canyoning we've got your back. Under our professional guidance, using the high spec adventure equipment your qualified guide ensures a kloofing adventure you simply can’t get enough of.
Paradise Adventures
George (c. 56 km)
Kloofing is the South African term for ‘Canyoning’ where one descends down a river within a canyon or ravine. This may entail scrambling/climbing over rocks/boulders,big jumps, abseiling down waterfalls and waiding/swimming! You are provided with a wetsuit, helmet and a life-jacket for this activity, and a harness when needed. All trips include refreshments on route! Various route options exist from an easy 3hour trip to more extreme options including multi day trips. Custom trips are done to other areas on request. All trips are a personal guided experience, guaranteed to be very different from anything else out there.
Classic Cars / Motorcycles / Rentals / Tours » (6)
Knysna Classic, Sports & Vintage Car Museum
Main Road (c. 1 km)
081 325 1507
WWW
A Museum devoted to Classic, Sports & Vintage Cars and Pick-ups... but with a difference!!! Not only will enthusiasts be able to buy and sell a vehicle, they will be able to view approx. 80 vehicles during their visit to the Knysna Classic, Sports & Vintage Car Museum. Cars dating from the 1920's to the present day will be on display with a further 30 vehicles available to buy. Browse, ask questions... and enjoy going down Memory Lane!
The Motorcycle Room
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
The Motorcycle Room is all about great memories about the bikes we had and rode growing up, bikes we've not seen in years and the bikes we miss. The largest bike museum in South Africa! With over 110+ motorcycles in the collection, which expands almost daily, the Motorcycle Room offers a truly unique and special experience. Everything from old classics to vintage enduro bikes, motocross to superbikes, and a wide variety of customs too, be sure to visit for a trip down memeory lane.
Knysna Sidecar Tours
The Knysna Experience, Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km
079 733 9352
WWW
The Garden Route can be discovered in many ways, but none as fun and adventurous as on a classic Sidecar motorcycle. Experience open air traveling with our chauffeur driven tours that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the warm Indian Ocean breeze and foresty sights and smells of the beautiful Garden Route. As we venture off the beaten track and stumble upon Eden’s heritage, secret treasures and local hangouts, you can be sure memories created will fill all your senses.
Ride Out Africa
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Ride Out Africa is an adventure motorcycle touring company offering the ultimate riding experience through Southern Africa. We've scoured the lesser-known, often unexplored dirt roads to create travel itineraries that promise to deliver exceptional quality and unforgettable experiences for our clients.
Join us for a circular adventure day ride through Knysna forest, Prince Alfreds Pass, The Kammanassie, Montague Pass and the old 7 Passes Route. Our Garden Route passes day trip winds it's way through the famous Knysna forest and over no less than 9 of the magnificent mountain passes in the area, offering spectacular scenery and a rare glimpse of the road less travelled.
Join us for a circular adventure day ride through Knysna forest, Prince Alfreds Pass, The Kammanassie, Montague Pass and the old 7 Passes Route. Our Garden Route passes day trip winds it's way through the famous Knysna forest and over no less than 9 of the magnificent mountain passes in the area, offering spectacular scenery and a rare glimpse of the road less travelled.
Sidecar Touring
Belvidere Estate (c. 10 km)
082 377 3924
WWW
Are you up for ... the best African adventure on three wheels. Join us at Sidecar Touring, half or full day, visit local and interesting places on a classic Ural sidecar. Experience the thrill of side-car touring through rock, sand, dirt as well as mud. Sitting in the open and not very far from the ground from where you can observe nature passing by from a very unusual angle. Feeling the wind and sun (and rain!), as well as the occasional flying insect hitting your helmet. Smelling the fynbos and dust and hearing the noise of the bike and the wheels on the road. No amount of words can come even close to fully describe the sense of freedom and joy of a motorbike ride out in nature.
Outeniqua Transport Museum
George (c. 59 km)
044 801 8289
Inside the museum a variety of 13 steam locomotives, including a narrow gauge, the Emil Kessler- Johannesburg’s first steam locomotive, the impressive GL Garrett together with carriages from a bygone era, such as a coach from the Royal Train of 1947, Paul Kruger’s coach and private saloons, just to name a few, are on display. A photo gallery depicting some of the most breathtaking photos of South African steam can be seen, poetry relating to train travel, crockery and cutlery previously used on main line trains and in station restaurants are on display. Various models of steam locomotives, a brilliant collection of steam locomotive number plates, makers plates, a model train room, road motor vehicles and a private vintage car selection complete the exhibition.
Casino » (1)
Garden Route Casino
Mossel Bay (c. 111 km)
Nestled within the splendorous beauty of Mossel Bay and the Garden Route, our Casino has become renowned for not only its picturesque backdrop, but also countless hours of gaming pleasure and the friendliest staff you'll ever meet. Come and enjoy our brand new SMART CASINO providing 412 slot machines and 16 gaming tables, including all new Texas Hold'em Poker, all for your gaming pleasure!
Cinema / Films » (4)
The Old Wood Factory Cinema
34 Waenhout Avenue, Knysna Industria (c. 4 km)
044 514 0002
WWW
MOVIES on the BIG CINEMA SCREEN from FRIDAY AFTERNOON with LIVE RUGBY on the BIG TV on SATURDAY as well as CINEMA all Weekend.
Dinner & Movie Nights
The Mount Knysna Boutique Hotel (c. 8 km)
044 384 1217
WWW
Enjoy our private luxury 12-seater movie theatre. Choose from a choice of the latest box office movies, and relax in one of our reclining chairs while we serve snacks and drinks of your choice and enjoy watching a movie on our big screen.
Open Plan Pictures
Various locations
064 536 7890
WWW
Open Plan Pictures is dedicated to a vision of sharing the joy of movie entertainment with as many people as possible. One of our core values is service, and the value of creating unbelievable cinematic experiences for all our customers, clients, and fellow collaborators. We deliver cinema through niche indoor service offerings, outdoor picnics in the most breathtaking locations, and drive-in experiences when the weather or surface can be challenging. We try and use film to bring people together and love working it as a platform; our commitment to service is a goal for specific causes. We bring the use of live sporting events to all communities as part of this service.
Unfortunately both the Knysna Movie House (January 2012) and the Plett Movie House (October 2014) have closed. The nearest cinema is now in George.
Ster-Kinekor
Garden Route Mall, George (c. 56 km)
086 166 8437
WWW
To most South Africans, the word ‘movies’ is synonymous with the name ‘Ster-Kinekor’; the biggest movie exhibitor by far (more than double the size of it's nearest competitor), Ster-Kinekor owns some 60-65% of the market, boasting some 54 movie complexes in South Africa (more than 400 screens and 63 000 seats) with 58 state-of-the-art 3D cinemas, giving Ster-Kinekor the largest 3D footprint in this territory, as well as 4 complexes in neighbouring territories.
Cycling / Bicycle Hire / Electric Bikes » (4)
See also Mounting Biking
Knysna Ebikes Rental and Tours
082 454 1011
WWW
Cycling can be fun, Mountain biking can be more fun, eBiking on a MTB is the ultimate fun on a bicycle. eBikes are essentially electronic bicycles with integrated motors that are used to assist your pedalling. These ebikes use rechargeable batteries that have varying durability depending on the level of assist required. Mostly, it is a combination of a conventional bike with an electric motor, but still requires pedalling. The Garden Route with its splendour of nature’s wonders offers some of the most iconic and scenic mountain bike trails and routes in the world. A real paradise for a mountain biker, but sometimes out of reach of the lessor fit. Enters ebike! Now these adventures are accessible to more enthusiasts. eBiking on the Garden Route’s trails is an unmatched experience.
Knysna Cycle Works
Waterfront Park, Waterfront Drive (c. 2 km)
044 382 5153
WWW
We offer hire bikes for a trip around town or going on an adventurous MTB ride! Take a tour of our village and visit the famous Knysna Heads. Various MTBs to rent or go on a ride with us. Let us show you the trails. Childrens bikes also available. So please book your experience with us today. Hire bikes, helmets, bike shuttle and accompanied rides available.
Electric Bike Hire
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
044 382 1414
See Knysna in island style. Fun has never been this easy. Cruise to the heads and leisure isle or tour around the lagoon to Belvidere. Just like riding a bicycle but with extra va-voom.
Sedgefield Mosaic Cycle Route
Cycleworx, Sedgefield (c. 26 km)
The planned route will include markers for some of the more prominent mosaic features. Eugene himself plans to sponsor a mosaic at a very picturesque vantage point on The Island. The plan is to have three different routes of varying distances and levels of difficulty, including a gentle 6km cycle around The Island; a route around The Island and skirting the estuary towards the river mouth, and a longer 17km route which will incorporate much of Sedgefield, along with a Township Tour. Those that do not have their own bike, will be able to rent bikes from Cycleworx Sedgefield.
Disc Golf » (1)
Disc Golf George
Rooirivierrif Golf Club, George (c. 66 km)
082 330 3966
Disc Golf is booming! With over 15000 courses worlwide and a conservative estimate of at least 4 million players, it is one of the fastest growing sports worldwide. Professional sponsorships and tournament payouts have more than tripled in the past 3 years. Join us for a round and see if this is the sport or career change you have been looking for!
Fishing » (9)
To legally go fishing one must be in possession of a valid recreational angling permit. This entitles you to catch fish for your own use only and does not allow you to sell or trade your catch. Should you wish to collect your own bait you will also need a bait collecting permit. It is illegal to sell your bait and as such it is also illegal to buy your bait from informal sellers. Furthermore, should you wish to fish from a boat the skipper must be in possession of a recreational fishing permit endorsed for recreational fishing from a vessel.
There are strict limits on sizes, quantities and species which apply to both fishing and bait-collecting.
Details can be found in the the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries document "Marine Recreational Activity Information Brochure 2014/2015"
Permits, annual (anglers must have a South African ID) and short term (4 weeks), can be purchased from the Knysna Post Office on Main Road.
Collecting Mud Prawns
Knysna Lagoon (c. 1 km)
2013
A SANParks survey conducted on the Knysna fishery found that twenty seven different bait types (including artificial lures) were used by anglers with the most frequently collected bait organism being the mud prawn.
Tidal Loops
079 943 0291
Fly-Fishing Guiding Instruction Service. Book a day with your local fishing guide, fly or lure fishing local estuaries or freshwater lakes. Whether you're targeting esturay species or freshwater Black-Bass, Tidal Loops Guiding and Instruction will increase your chance of success. Spend a half or full day chasing Grunter, Garrick, Elf, Kabbeljou or Mullet on fly on one of the many estuaries on the Garden Route, or tackle Lake Pleasant's (Groenvlei) Black-Bass on fly or lure.
Knysna Fishing Charters
Knysna Angling and Diving Club (c. 1 km)
082 378 5255
WWW
An exciting deep sea fishing experience for all ages based in Knysna South Africa. Join us on a day trip out into the Indian Ocean through the Knysna Heads, whether you are a serious fisherman or just want to enjoy some sight-seeing. All the fish that you catch is yours to keep (according to bag limits)
Garden Route Fishing Adventures
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Garden Route Fishing Adventures offers deep sea and lagoon fishing adventures from Knysna, South Africa. For the past 30 years, these activities remain highly recommended as fun family outings or for angling enthusiasts visiting the Garden Route in South Africa. The catch of the day could be yours; nothing beats fresh ocean fish on the braai! Our deep sea reef fishing trips are certainly a must do when visiting Knysna. We supply all fishing equipment and bait, you bring food and drinks and you also get to keep your catch!
Blixsem Fishing Charters
The Knysna Experience, Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
084 302 4946
WWW
Blixsem is a 21 foot Butt Cat fishing boat, based out of Knysna and offers Deep Sea Fishing Charters along the scenic Garden Route Coastline. Experienced anglers and beginners are welcome. Children from 5 years old are welcome on our fishing charters. Booking with us ensures that you have a fantastic Knysna Deep Sea Fishing Adventure!
JJ's Fishing Charters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
084 560 7254
WWW
Enjoy some of the best light tackle saltwater fishing along this renowned stretch of coastline. The Knysna Lagoon continues to produce extraordinary large number of Garrick, Shad, Spotted Grunter, Cob, White Steenbras, Mussel Cracker, Stumpnose, Blacktail, Rock Cod, Rays and Sharks. We are big supporters of catch and release.
Turbine Water Club
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Come and enjoy a fishing trip on the Knysna Lagoon. We catch a wide variety of fish. We supply bait, tackle and experienced guide who knows all the best spots for catching your trophy.
Enrico's Fishing Safaris
Central Beach, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
082 534 2029
WWW
For Plettenberg Bay Deep Sea Fishing, choose Enrico’s Fishing Safaris. A day out in the deep will long be remembered as it brings you into contact not only with tough fighting fish but also into a diverse ecosystem. Whales, dolphins, seals and marine birds are often sighted on our trips making it a worthwhile experience for the whole family.
Aerobatic Flights » (1)
Garden Route Gliding
Plettenberg Bay Airport (c. 34 km)
083 454 3464
WWW
This is an experience you'll never forget. We invite you to take the ride of your life. Your fun meter will ping from the moment you leap into the air and will continue long after your flight. Push the limits in an action packed introductory training flight that will have you doing loops, barrel rolls, straight rolls and stall turns as you experience high 'G' manoeuvres. Be exhilarated to the extreme! All flights and aerobatic manoeuvres are tailored to your nerves, tolerance and comfort levels. View the world from a truly amazing perspective; your appetite for adventure will never be the same again.
Scenic Flights / Air Safaris » (1)
Plett Air Safaris
Plettenberg Bay Airport (c. 34 km)
078 911 9583
Plett Air Safaris offers you a reliable Flight Shuttle service from Plettenberg Bay Airport to the stunning Big 5 Shamwari Private Game Reserve and Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in the Easter Cape. Only 45 minutes away by air, why drive if you can fly? Plett Air Safaris has various aircraft available for private charters, anywhere you want to go, we can arrange! Plett Air Safaris are also the leaders in adrenalin filled scenic flights around the Plettenberg Bay area. For a thrilling experience in the air and breath taking views of the entire Plettenberg Bay coastline. Swoop low over the ocean and watch whales and dolphins frolic in the breakers below. Marvel at the exquisite natural beauty of the landscape from your unique vantage point in our open cockpit aircraft.
Craft Gin » (5)
Knysna Distillery
Knysna Industria (c. 4 km)
Knysna Gin is distilled the traditional way with a flame & copper pot still. It is made with nine natural botanicals, including the Num Num berry which is the Knysna Lourie’s favourite treat. In addition to our daily tastings and distillery tours, we are fast becoming Knysna’s favourite Friday night gin and cocktail bar for locals as well as tourists visiting the area.
10 Oxes Craft Distillery
Waboomskraal, George (c. 85 km)
082 821 4329
WWW
We’re based at OppiePlaas venue, just outside of George where you can join us for a tasting. As fruit farmers, we have access to fresh, delicious fruits and as craft gin enthusiasts, we know better than to add fake flavours to our gin. Each bottle of 10 Oxes Gin takes 3 months to make - from fruit to bottle - and you can definitely taste the difference.
Harmony Distillery
Salt & Copper Restaurant, Hartenbos (c. 98 km)
083 291 7890
WWW
Situated in The HART & BOSCH village in Hartenbos. This Restaurant is the home of our Copper Lounge and the Harmony Distillery. Complete with our very own play area, fresh food and gin tasting experience, it’s the perfect place to spend a day with family. The Copper Lounge is available for gin tastings and smaller events. It boasts a wide range of craft gin, expertly served. Here in The Copper Lounge you can also see Nona, our copper still, and experience the distilling process first-hand.
Cape Saint Blaize Artisanal Distillery
Mossel Bay (c. 107 km)
We offer gin tastings, distillery tours, gin sales and a Cape Saint Blaize Gin Masterclass experience. Create your own bottle of Cape Saint Blaize Gin. The gin masterclass class consists of one and a half hours of experimenting with flavour profiles, rich history and lots of fun.
Lions Creek Valley Boutique Distillery
Leeukloof, Mossel Bay (c. 113 km)
087 808 5624
WWW
Lions Creek Valley Boutique Distillery is a boutique-style distillery that produces small quantities of beverage-grade spirit alcohol. All our gin and rum ingredients and botanicals are natural ingredients and are locally sourced, to form part of the Proudly South African culture. To provide you with the best experience possible, we need to ensure we have all the required ingredients and because of this, we do tastings strictly by appointment.
Gliding » (1)
Garden Route Gliding
Plettenberg Bay Airport (c. 34 km)
083 454 3464
WWW
Soar like a bird and experience the pure joy of flight in our motorised glider. Take to the skies above Plettenberg Bay to see things from a whole new perspective. For those wishing to treat themselves to the absolute highlights of Plett's magnificent coastline, this 30 minute introductory training flight is a must! the flight encompasses Plett's natural diversity from the oceans and waterways to dense forests and stunning hinterland. During whale season you might even get a rare glimpse of these giants of the deep.
Go Karts » (1)
Elevate Trampoline Park
George (c. 62 km)
Elevate is a 1700 m2 building housing a 600m2 Trampoline Park and an indoor Go-Kart Track. State of the art SODI Go-Karts. No booking is required and access to the Go-Kart Race Base is on a first come first served basis. The track can accommodate races of 5 drivers per race for normal races. The Le-Mans option gives you exclusive use of the track and you may swop the driver out as many times as you like. You book the track, you bring the drivers (MAX 10).
Golf / Mashie » (24)
Knysna Driving Range
Fisher Haven (c. 4 km)
044 384 0853
WWW
Knysna Golf Course
Hunters Home (c. 5 km)
Nestled on the shores of the Knysna Lagoon on the Garden Route and close to The Heads, the Knysna Golf Club’s 18-hole course meanders through tidal pools and between magnificent indigenous trees. A testing links/parkland layout which has been enhanced over the past ten years, it has some of the best greens in the Southern Cape. Although flat and easy to walk, the course still provides players of all levels with a good challenge and is an affordable golfing experience not to be missed while touring the area.
Simola Golf & Country Estate
Simola (c. 7 km)
Keeping your head down at Simola can be a challenge; simply because the views around the course are awe-enspiring, and with this, it is clear to see why Simola takes its place as one of South Africa's premier golfing destinations. It's also the first Jack Nicklaus Signature course on the Garden Route, reflecting the maestro's philosophy of attuning the layout and design to the natural lie of the land. The course offers challenging and rewarding golf amidst spectacular scenery. Set below the high ridges, it’s free from the wind that so often plagues coastal courses. Fairways flow with the natural undulating contours of the terrain and the unusual configuration of five par 5's and five par 3's adds a new dimension to the game. It's par for the course that every hole boasts exceptional views; either out across the Knysna Lagoon all the way to The Heads or over the picturesque Knysna River as it twists and turns through the valley below.
Pezula Championship Golf Course
Pezula (c. 9 km)
The breathtaking, award-winning 18-hole golf course, designed by David Dale and Ronald Fream of GolfPlan USA, offers visitors who wish to play the ultimate golf course in Knysna, an unsurpassed golf experience, and rates amongst the best and the most scenic golf courses in the world. In 2001, just a few months after it opened, the course was awarded Best New Golf Course in South Africa. Compleat Golfer has rated Pezula Championship Course a Five Star Golf Experience every year since February 2005.
Blackwaters River Lodge
Goukamma (c. 12 km)
The Golf Course is a very challenging 9-hole / 18 Tees par 3 Mashie (pitch & putt). The longest hole is 152m, and the shortest is 52m. The Course has been designed so as not to detract from the natural beauty of this most fertile valley. Equipment hire is available to players.
Sedge Links Golf Club
Swartvlei (c. 30 km)
044 349 2200
The Sedgefield golf club is a relatively new Short course, and offers a good challenge to both lower and higher level handicap golfers. With 4 water hazards and numerous bunkers the course was designed to challenge all. The golf course is situated on the N2 directly outside Sedgefield. Enjoy a game of golf with the amazing mountain range and Swartlvlei Lake in the background.
Plettenberg Bay Country Club
Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
044 533 2132
WWW
Plettenberg Bay Country Club has an 18 hole golf course set in a private nature reserve. The highly rated course is a very popular tourist destination. The course is easy to walk, and the 2 main inclines can be observed from the veranda. Visitors welcome. Lush Kikuyu grass fairways and bayview greens recently over seeded to bent grass provides golfers with an excellent playing surface on this park like golf course. This is no 'little seaside golf course', all greens and bunkers are to USGA specifications. The Parkland Course has no intrusive houses or traffic noise and is populated mainly with indigenous flora and fauna. Monkeys, birdlife like the Knysna Loerie and woodpeckers as well as the occasional deer are more likely to put you off your game.
Goose Valley Golf Club
Plettenberg Bay (c. 35 km)
This superb golf club offers a splendid Gary Player designed 72-par, 18-hole signature golf course in the heart of the Garden Route. Golfers will experience breathtaking views of the Keurbooms lagoon, the Indian ocean, the spectacular Tsitsikamma mountains, and the famous Robberg peninsula. The beauty of the natural fynbos, indigenous trees and an abundance of animal and bird life add a special dimension to your golfing. The golfing experience is further enhanced by a state-of-the-art driving range with practice chipping, putting and bunker play facilities.
Goose Valley Golf Club PAR 3
Plettenberg Bay (c. 35 km)
The Goose Valley Golf Course is proud to announce the launch of their new ALL PAR 3 18-hole golf course layout. Come with your family, on your own, as a couple, with friends, with the kids, seniors, as a beginner or just to sharpen your short game. Squeeze in 9-holes after work, or 18-holes in approx. 2hrs! Choose either 9 or 18 holes. All holes have been altered to par 3’s and the longest hole is just 189m (167m women). The shortest hole is 75m. It’s affordable, quick, great fun, less daunting and everybody is welcome! The course is available every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon from 2pm.
Glenwood Golf Club
George (c. 57 km)
044 871 3656
WWW
Swing by for a round of golf at this nine-hole, 18-tee-box golf course situated in Knysna Road. It’s short, but definitely sweet with high quality bent grass greens and a quaint, fully licenced club house with beautiful views of the omnipresent Outeniqua Mountains. It has been described as the best short course in South Africa. Clubs and carts are available to rent and distances covered range between 92m and 292m. Visitors are always welcome.
George Golf Club
George (c. 62 km)
Our course is set at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains, the heart of the Garden Route, and offers spectacular landscapes of the mountains and surrounding plateau. George Golf Course is the ideal golfing experience, perfect for any type of golfer. One of the oldest courses in South Africa, the Clubhouse is a unique experience and is sure to be enjoyed by all.
Kingswood Golf Estate
George (c. 65 km)
086 172 7170
WWW
From its perfect blend of design and scenery, to its temperate weather, you're certain to find Kingswood's Championship Golf Course a unique challenge, and one you'll want to take up again and again. The design is inspired by the Home of Golf, St Andrews (The Old Course) in Scotland with its Links style open fairways, undulating greens and traditional pot bunkers. There is no other course in South Africa like it, which makes it a ‘must play’ if you are travelling in the area. Kingswood offers a 250m driving range which can be used as a warm-up or practice range up to 5-iron only. We also have putting, bunker and chipping practice facilities available.
Montagu (Fancourt)
George (c. 67 km)
Fancourt’s Montagu Golf Course, originally designed by Gary Player, has earned a world class reputation as one of the finest 18-hole parkland layouts. It holds the prestigious 8th position on South Africa's Top 100 Courses' list of top golf courses in the country. Golfers can expect a challenging, yet highly enjoyable golfing experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Fancourt estate. This tree-lined course covers large tracts of varying terrain across an undulating indigenous landscape.
Outeniqua (Fancourt)
George (c. 67 km)
Ranked 18th by South Africa's Top 100 Courses' experts, Fancourt’s Outeniqua golf course offers a leisurely and entertaining golfing experience. It provides a more forgiving terrain than its counterpart, the Montagu, but offers its fair share of challenges to keep golfers interested. Also designed by Gary Player and named after the Outeniqua Mountains, the course can comfortably accommodate a large field of golfers.
The Links (Fancourt)
George (c. 67 km)
Fancourt Estate’s The Links private club is South Africa’s number one golf course. The Links is the iconic golfing hallmark of the Fancourt estate. Golfing legend Gary Player described it as his greatest ever feat as a course designer. Featuring an undulating, windswept terrain and dune-style landscape, the course is the collaborative handiwork of Gary Player, course designer, Phil Jacobs and Fancourt owner, Dr. Hasso Plattner. Once an airfield, today it is a living piece of environmental and golfing heritage. Inspired by the famous links courses of the British Isles, The Links is considered a masterpiece.
Three Chameleons Short Golf Course
George (c. 73 km)
044 110 0280
Three Chameleons Short Golf Course is in the heart of the Garden Route and built underneath the splendid Outeniqua Mountains. Many believe it to be the best maintained and conditioned short golf course in South Africa. Each individually designed 9 holes, offers a variety of water features and hazards to make it an interesting and challenging layout. It has three par 4's and the total length of the course is 2400m. It is also an ideal starter course for youngsters and beginners who are often intimidated by a big course.
Oubaai Golf Club
George (c. 74 km)
044 851 1263
WWW
Oubaai Golf Course is proud to be the first Ernie Els Signature course in South Africa. The course is a traditional Links layout ideally situated between the Indian Ocean and the Outeniqua Mountains.
Dolphin's Creek Golf Estate
Groot Brakrivier (c. 80 km)
044 620 3278
WWW
It's a short course (you'll probably only need your driver on one 300 meter par 4 hole), but challenging. There are just 9 holes but 18 tee boxes, so yes, there is a bit of ducking and diving during peak season! That said, it's perfect for honing your short game followed by a well-deserved beer or snack in the clubhouse afterwards. Visitors are welcomed with open arms - and if you need them, they've got rental clubs, trolleys and carts.
Uniondale Golf Club
Uniondale (c. 86 km)
082 774 0004
WWW
Stoneleigh Country Estate is home to the Uniondale Golf Course, located on a farm on the outskirts of Uniondale. This beautiful, 600ha farm has been transformed into a 9 hole country golf course. The golf course is a truly unique experience with the natural elements of the Klein Karoo blending in with the course itself. Every green and tee box is planted grass, but what you find in between, is what truly excites and you'll have to see for yourself.
Mossel Bay Golf Club
Mossel Bay (c. 106 km)
044 691 2379
WWW
Famed for having a view of the Indian Ocean from every tee, this 18-hole links-style course, with its large undulating greens, makes for an idyllic yet challenging round of golf. The course is an easy walk and very playable from tee to green for all golfers, even if you have just taken up the game. The beautiful views of the Indian Ocean or the Springbuck roaming on the course might distract you, but they will most definitely leave you with lasting memories.
Pinnacle Point Golf Course
Mossel Bay (c. 110 km)
Darren Clarke, who was also involved with many aspects of the Pinnacle Point course design, has said that Pinnacle Point is "... the best golf course on the planet." This Clifftop Fynbos Golf Course inspires the golfer to play this challenging layout with a level of respect due to its dramatic views and breathtaking terrain. The 72 par layout is characterised by 7 majestic holes that line the Indian Ocean rock cliffs, four of which are played over ocean and cliff.
Oudtshoorn Golf Club
Oudtshoorn (c. 121 km)
044 272 4201
Set in the heart of the Klein (small) Karoo this course is a paradise amongst the dry backdrop of the Karoo`s ostrich capital of the world. A splendid layout makes this course an enjoyable round of golf. It`s a well-established 18-hole layout that is surprisingly lush and in great condition. Although Oudtshoorn is only sixty-odd kilometers from George it is drier and warmer and makes an attractive and different stop for touring golfers - especially in a wet coastal winter!
Boggoms Bay Golf Club
Boggoms Bay, Mossel Bay (c. 130 km)
076 345 3652
WWW
Situated 30 Km from Mosselbay is Boggomsbaai golf course, is 9 hole 18 tee golf course. In our area there are some of South Africa’s best golf courses, we proud our self that this course is one of the most environment friendly and sustainable courses in the country. We don’t have caddies or golf carts, but you are welcome to bring your own golf cart or contact the club for arrangements. he tee’s is the only part of the course that gets water. Fairways is closely mowed veld. Our greens is sand and oil mix and has a cross on it which is a smoothed putting surface. The course slope rating is 133.
Fynbos Golf & Country Estate
Eersterivierstrand, Tsitsikamma (c. 133 km)
042 285 0321
WWW
The existing golf course is destined to become one of the top 9-hole golf courses in South Africa. Mark Muller, the well-renowned golf course architect, has transformed the course into a spectacular layout that has a links-feel to it. John Bland and Mark Wiltshire have combined their vast golfing knowledge to ensure that the playability of the course is fair and enjoyable to all golfers, yet testing when nature’s elements prevail.
Guided Tours » (9)
See also Township Tours and Vineyards / Tours / Tasting
Forest Guided Tours
073 363 6522
Forest Guided Tours offers unique and specially fashioned Guided Walks and Tours into Knysna's lush, emerald Forests - bringing to light the wonders of the Forest's Flora,Fauna,Legend and Lore. We offer a variety of routes to select from, according to your preferred pace (mild to moderate) and special interests, ranging from The Histories and Mysteries of the Forest (from Khoisan to Early Explorers to Woodcutters and Goldmines of Millwood, Rheenendal) and The Wonders of the Forests Flora and Fauna (Tree Orchids and Towering Yellowwoods, Ferns and Fungi, the Forest's elusive Elephants, spectacular bird life and the amazing interplay of Forest life).
Garden Route Trail
A collection of unforgettable ecological experiences are offered to nature enthusiasts to show case the splendor of this region. Between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean in the heart of the Garden Route, we are blessed with landscapes of Afromontane Forest, river, wetland, dune and beach. Walking and paddling through this paradise, you will be revitalized by the natural beauty. Here you can savor remote solitude as you are informally accompanied along unfrequented routes between Wilderness and Knysna. For those with less time available Garden Route Trail also offers some wonderful accompanied Day walks and guided Birding outings in a variety of environments. Come for the experience and depart enriched with an appreciation of Nature.
Hashtag Tours
Old Gaol Museum, Queen Street (c. 1 km)
063 064 6552
Nature Tour: Guided walk through Pledge Nature Reserve with Knysna Heads views. Heritage Tour: A guide through the Town's Heritage like the Old Gaol Museum and many more. My Community Tour: Introduces you to the hidden gems of Knysna's township, Storytelling....
Knysna On Foot
076 111 7997
Helen Persello specialises in forest walking tours based on the novels by Dalene Matthee. She includes the Knysna Museum in her itineraries since it houses displays about gold mining in the forests, and about the history of the woodcutters.
The Secret Elephants Forest Experience
Gareth Patterson, award-winning wildlife expert, and author of the acclaimed books My Lion's Heart and The Secret Elephants (which tells of Gareth's rediscovery of the Knysna elephants) will be hosting once again a unique experience in the Knysna forest. Each forest experience is limited to a maximum of 6 people, and explores the magical and mystical world of the Knysna elephants, the world's most southerly elephants. Limited availability.
Walk on the Wild Side with Howard Butcher
044 388 4671
Book an exhilarating nature walk with me today and experience the Garden Route with a knowledgeable and informative Nature Field Guide. A world of natural treasures awaits; the magnificent forests, expansive beaches, fynbos mountain trails and so much more. I am a passionate South African Tour Guide, FGASA registered Nature Site Guide and experienced Bush Pilot. I'm best known for my Garden Route Birding Experiences, Baviaanskloof Nature Adventures and Swartberg aerial photography missions. I have a comprehensive knowledge of our natural environment and how nature works within it. I live in the Rheenendal area of Knysna (Garden Route) and have spent many years researching the few remaining elephants of the forests here. I am one of few people to have encounters.
Moonlight Meander / Starlight Stroll
Sedgefield
072 390 6667
WWW
2015
2015
The Moonlight Meander (full moon), or Starlight Stroll (new moon), is an extremely popular guided walk. You go in the evening during the full or new moon when the tide is at its lowest and you explore the amazing creature nightlife on the beaches. The walk takes you along the beach from Swartvlei to Gerickes Point (Sedgefield) and along the way you will discover the rock pools by torch light. You will come across some fascinating and incredible creatures that the guide will tell you all about. This walk is exciting, informative and a lot of fun for the whole family.
Mosaic Art Tour
Sedgefield
082 414 2133
WWW
2020
2020
A tour of South Africa's most impressive mosaic town takes approximately 90 minutes (if pushed for time) or, in keeping with Sedgefield's values, can be enjoyed a bit s-l-o-w-e-r over approximately 2.5 hours.
Tsitsikamma Woodcutters Journey
Storms River Village (c. 93 km)
042 281 1836
WWW
Join us on a journey down the old Storms River pass, and experience the indigenous forest from the comfort of a specially designed vehicle. Follow the elephant trail down to the water, passing tree ferns, stinkwoods, yellow woods and many other tree species, whilst hearing about the history of the area and the local flora and fauna. Watch out for a glimpse of the elusive Narina Trogan and the inquisitive Knysna Loeire who enjoys the tranquil shade of the leafy canopy. Stop and relax where wagons, since the last century, have and enjoy a light lunch or tea next to the Storms River.
Outdoor Gym » (2)
Knysna Outdoor Gym
George Rex Drive (c. 3 km)
Sedgefield Outdoor Gym
Village Green, Sedgefield (c. 26 km)
Hang Gliding » (1)
Wild2Fly
Wilderness (c. 41 km)
Introductory Tandem Flights and Training in Paragliding and hang gliding since 1986. Sharing the joys of free flight is our passion and nothing gives us greater pleasure that to introduce you to this wonderful world of ours up in the sky. Join Johan Anderson, 6 times National HG Champion, National Senior Instructor as he and his team of experienced Instructors guide you on this wonderful journey in discovering the beauty of flight in the Wilderness and Sedgefield areas.
Helicopter Flights » (2)
Blue Sky Aviation
George Airport (c. 70 km)
044 876 0007
WWW
Blue Sky Aviation is the premier helicopter tour company in the Garden Route and pilots who are very experienced in their field. Our attention to detail will ensure you an experience of a lifetime! Based in the George, South Africa, heart of the Garden Route, Blue Sky Aviation offers luxury and affordable helicopter flights in and around South Africa. Packages include helicopter charter flights / helicopter tours to private game reserves as well as remote destinations at one of our affiliated estates.
Mossel Bay Helicopters
R102, Hartenbos (c. 98 km)
044 695 1660
WWW
At Mossel Bay Helicopters, we have flights and services to suit any budget. We offer services such as scenic tours, shark & whale viewing, mountain flying, game capturing & counting, cargo slinging, VIP charters, search & rescue, firefighting, filming & photography, as well as tailor made flights, and flights for special occasions.
History / Museums / Memorials »
Horse Riding » (10)
Rhythms Riding
Sedgefield (c. 15 km)
065 578 2570
Rhythms Riding is an established horse riding facility in Sedgefield, the Garden Route of South Africa. The instructors of Rhythms Riding are educated and qualified through SANEF/EQASA (South African National Equestrian Federation/Equestrian Qualifications Authority of Southern Africa) and have up to 16 years of experience in the equine field. Rhythms Riding offers a variety of horse activities such as Outrides, Riding lessons for all levels from 8 years of age to adults, as well as riding for the Disabled, Scheduled Pony Camps in school holidays and much more.
Braveheart Equestrian Riding School
Rheenendal (c. 21 km)
073 667 7659
WWW
Our family run horse-riding school offers lessons for all ages and beautiful farm outrides. We provide beautiful outrides along the contours of Spurwing farm! Enjoy a beautiful outride along our trails and a beautiful picnic with a picnic basket of your choice.
Boschrivier Farm & Stables
Wittedrift (c. 31 km)
Boschrivier Farm & Stables bring you horse outrides and Equitrailing of different durations. Enjoy beautiful views of the scenic Titsikamma mountains and fantastic bird viewing. Traverse open fields, forest, cross a river and you can trot & canter if you are confident and competent. Our well-schooled trail horses are suitable for beginners, intermediate and experienced riders from age 12 and up. Please book in advance and advise any special needs; our Plett horse trails can be custom-tailored, e.g. to include picnics or cheeseboards, etc.
Black Horse Trails
Hoekwil (c. 40 km)
Experience the vast Outeniqua mountains and sprawling green cattle farmlands on horseback. With thousands of hectares on which to ride, Black horse trails is unique in the variety of trails of which we have to offer. Our trails are professionally guided and you will clearly experience the passion with which we care for our horses and clients. We cater for all types of riders from the first timers on bombproof horses to the experienced enthusiasts. We tailor-make the rides to suite your level of comfort, level of riding experience and excitement.
Coast 2 Karoo Horse Adventures
Hoekwil (c. 44 km)
Experience the vast Outeniqua mountains and sprawling green cattle farmlands on horseback. With thousands of hectares on which to ride, Black horse trails is unique in the variety of trails of which we have to offer. Our trails are professionally guided and you will clearly experience the passion with which we care for our horses and clients. We cater for all types of riders from the first timers on bombproof horses to the experienced enthusiasts. We tailor-make the rides to suite your level of comfort, level of riding experience and excitement.
Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve
Wittedrift (c. 44 km)
Experience the magic of the African bush with a two-hour horse safari on our 2,200 hectare reserve at the foothills of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Our knowledgeable game rangers will enthrall you with interesting facts about the wildlife you will view on your safari.
Kurland Park Horse & Carriage Trails
The Crags (c. 49 km)
Our trails offer a combination of hidden forest paths, water crossings, long cantering stretches and breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy a stroll along the Hol river, through the ever-changing landscape of indigenous forest, farmlands and diverse ecosystems of unspoilt fauna and flora complimented by the aromatic smell of fynbos and calls from the many different bird species. dd passionate guides, a stable of exceptional horses and you have the makings of an unforgettable riding experience that will leave you wanting more. From bombproof to energetic, we have horses and trails to suit beginners to advanced riders, to kids and adults.
Garden Route Horse Trails
Map of Africa, WIlderness (c. 50 km)
Riders can look forward to brand new, never seen before trails; breathtaking mountain, ocean and farm views and an adventure your group will never forget. Our trusty steeds are safe for riders of all ages and experience levels and guarantee a ride that’ll make any rider beg for more. With grasslands as far as the eye can see, the wind howling through the plantation trees and birds chirping between the forest canopy, this venue is the spitting image of why this area is called the Garden Route... But don’t take our word for it. Come see for yourself!
Perdepoort Horse Trails
Wilderness (c. 51 km)
Come and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the forest in Wilderness on horseback with Perdepoort Horse Trails.... We ride on a private farm in Wilderness, 6km from the village. Regular sightings of bushbuck and baboons make for an exciting experience. The indigenous forest is home to the Knysna Loerie, a beautifull bird, bushpigs, porcupines and even leopard. The horses are suitable for novice and experienced riders. All rides accompanied by the owner.
Garden Route Horse Trails
Louvain Farm, Herold (c. 116 km)
This venue guarantees beautiful Karoo farm scenery and fresh mountain air as a perfect breakaway from city life. Our trails at this venue are safe for riders of all ages and experience levels. On the wide open roads our steeds can enjoy a lovely trot, canter or even a gallop for the more adventurous rider, while still providing a safe relaxed ride for the novice beginner.
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Little Brak River (c. 100 km)
Enjoy an exciting horseback safari and escape to the majestic mountain valleys and beautiful fynbos for a 1, 2 or 3 hour horse ride and experience nature like never before. Explore our diverse plant life including woodlands, coastal and mountain fynbos and spot free roaming wildlife (cannot be guaranteed). All experience levels welcome (child 7+).
Jetovator » (1)
Mossel Bay Jetovator
Mossel Bay Waterfront (c. 34 km)
Ride the waves through the air with Mossel Bay Jetovator. A water propelled flying bike which suspends you up to 10 meters in the air above the water. This activity is for the adventurers, adrenaline junkees and thrill seekers. With this water bike you can go flying, diving, dropping or jump out of the water. Escape gravity and experiment on your moves.
Jetski » (1)
Offshore Adventures
Central Beach, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
082 829 0809
WWW
Rent a Jet-Ski for 30 minutes on the beachfront central beach Plettenberg Bay. Guided tours with qualified skipper or ride ski by yourself if you have a valid skippers license. Alternatively we can issue you with a temporary skippers licence if required.
Kite Surfing » (1)
Life Kite Surfing
060 757 4414
WWW
There are few feelings in life that compare to kitesurfing along a stretch of flat water or over waves on the sea. It is a blissful feeling of freedom. Our location on the beach means that we have direct contact with the elements and have the best available local knowledge. This allows us to schedule lessons to coincide with the great conditions or reschedule or slightly delay lessons to ensure the optimal environment to safely develop students target skills.
Markets »
Maze » (1)
See also Puzzle Park
Redberry Farm Maze
George (c. 75 km)
Nestled in the town of George in the Garden Route is one of the most remarkable attractions in South Africa. The Redberry Farm maze is the largest permanent hedge maze in the Southern Hemisphere! The maze consists of seven strawberry stations, a 25m underground tunnel and a look-out point to be found within 10,000m of pathways. The hedges are grown from over 30,000 Syzygium Paniculatum plants. The objective of the maze is not to find the exit, like in a traditional maze, but rather to find all seven stations hidden inside. If you find all of the stations, there will be a reward at the end...
Microlight Flights » (2)
Micro Flights
Plettenberg Bay Airport (c. 34 km)
074 465 5696
WWW
Experience the thrill of open cockpit flying. The excitement of possibly seeing whales and dolphins from the air. The breathtaking views over mountains and forests. Whichever route you choose you will experience it all from the best seat in the house!!
The Flying Club
Leppan Airfield, Hoekwil (c. 45 km)
Experiencing the beauty of the majestic mountains and coastal scenery in a microlight flight, is most definitely one of the top 10 things to do in the Garden Route. Flying with us, you will be able to swoop down low along un-spoilt beaches, glide along lift creating coastal cliffs that make this area the free flying mecca of South Africa, and climb up high enough to have unspoilt views of the many lagoons and estuaries that proliferate the area.
Miscellaneous / Other » (6)
Ericaville Tea Tours
Kranshoek (c. 31 km)
074 918 8922
The only region in the world where Honeybush grows naturally the farm is ideally situated for the growing and harvesting of both Honeybush and Rooibos teas. The farm now offers this experience to tourists and citizens alike with a tea tour that will entail: a brief history, plant classification, medicinal properties and instruction on how to cultivate and harvest Honeybush and Rooibos tea, an opportunity to harvest by hand and the chop of the tea by hand. The aim is to give customers the full harvesting experience from growing to having a beautiful cup of tea, so patrons will gain the experience and have something to show for it. The tour will be supported by two tea gardens where the product can be tasted and purchased.
Mungo Mill
Old Nick Village, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
A large central, double-volume room houses our collection of 16 restored looms from different weaving eras, which can be seen from an elevated viewing deck that weaves from the walkway into the mill. The Mill is open to the public, 7 days a week from 9am – 5pm.
We have launched guided tours every Saturday and Sunday morning. You can wander between the looms with a knowledgeable guide and engage with the weaving process to experience the age-old art of weaving from pre-industrial revolution to present day. An insightful and interesting experience for all.
Timberlake Organic Village
Timberlake Organic Village (c. 37 km)
Timberlake is a village of small independent businesses: Thomas Boy chocolates, Josephine's clothing, Wine Shop, Mohair Shop, Faerie Gem, Down to Earth, Collaborations, and eating venues: Rustic Windmill coffee shop for award winning cheesecake, Zucchini restaurant for hearty country style meals, Country Snax for quick takeaways, and Oyster Shack for fresh wild coastal oysters. Timberlake supports Local and the Slow Food principles of Good, Clean and Fair. Extensive kids facilities: race track, jungle gym with giant slide, friendly goats, Fantasy Garden walk and much more...
Kaaiman's Grotto
Wilderness (c. 49 km)2015
2015
The Kaaimans Grotto is a natural cave situated between Wilderness and Victoria Bay that was transformed into a restaurant a few years ago by Fancourt. Since the demise of the George to Knysna railway, it fell into disuse for a while until an unusual man, 'Cliffie', took up residence there. Of late the grotto has become an unofficial tourist attraction, which backpackers and hikers find out by word of mouth. The cave can be reached on foot by hiking along the railway line.
Redberry Farm
George (c. 75 km)
Redberry Farm is a commercial strawberry grower and popular family entertainment venue. We offer family friendly activities such as pick your own strawberries, the largest hedge maze in the Southern Hemisphere, a tea garden and farm stall, mini train rides, a large outdoor playground, bumper boats and bubble ball on the dam as well as pony rides.
Marilyn's 60's Diner
Storms River Village (c. 93 km)
042 281 1711 Ext 267
2015
2015
The Marilyn’s 60’s Diner is a cozy, relaxed Diner where husband and wife team, Jan and Ann du Rand created an eatery in retro-surroundings with its Cadillac’s and Chevy’s. With neon rimmed signage, 50 and 60’s décor and Elvis and Marilyn memorabilia, the place looks the part to create a quirky and nostalgic feel. The Diner itself forgoes no detail from the checked floors to the red & white color scheme, Juke Box and sugar shakers. Get a blast from the past as you wander through the Cadillac Shack to view our Classic Cars or check out the Rock 'n Roll store for memorabilia of your favourite icons.
Mountain Biking - MTB » (24)
Garden Route MTB Trail Pass
Garden Route Trail Pass is a partnership between Club 100 Plettenberg Bay, MTO, other landowners, local bike shops and sponsors to develop a system of MTB trails on the Garden Route that: showcase the Garden Route; support the co-existence of recreation and commercial interests; promote the growth of MTB-ing on the Garden Route; are self sustaining.
CX Trails
A guide to the best Mountain Bike and Trail Running routes in and around the greater Knysna area. CX Trails is an initiative to highlight some of the amazing trails available to our locals and visitors in the Knysna area. The trails highlighted are a mixture of official trails as well as routes that are frequently used by the local cycling community.
Concordia Contours Trails
Simola (c. 7km)
Mountain bike and trail running trails in the MTO Concordia Plantation. Trailhead at top of Simola.
Buffalo Bay to Brenton Hiking/Biking Trail
Wild Side Beach, Buffalo Bay to Lake Brenton
The trail can be done from either end, and can be broken into three sections. It can be done as a whole or per section. The trail is well marked.
Buffalo Bay to Brenton Hiking/Biking Trail
Wild Side Beach, Buffalo Bay (c. 20 km)
Buffalo Bay to Goukamma Station (6Km)
This section is along the Buffalo Bay Bay Road but the road verges have been cut, and the sandy patches covered with wood chips. This part is 6 km long and mostly flat except for a few hills close to the entrance to the Goukamma Nature Reserve on the Goukamma River.
This section is along the Buffalo Bay Bay Road but the road verges have been cut, and the sandy patches covered with wood chips. This part is 6 km long and mostly flat except for a few hills close to the entrance to the Goukamma Nature Reserve on the Goukamma River.
Buffalo Bay to Brenton Hiking/Biking Trail
Goukamma Station (c. 13 km)
Goukamma Station to Belvidere (10km)
This trail is 10 km long and is completely off road. Starting from Goukamma Station it follows the old railway track for about 3 km, giving it a gentle uphill gradient and meandering along the contours of the surrounding hills. Beautiful views of the green Goukamma Valley and tranquil Goukamma River abound.
Buffalo Bay to Brenton Hiking/Biking Trail
Belvidere (c. 9 km)
Belvidere to Lake Brenton (4km)
This route follows the railway line from the Brenton Road railway crossing at Belvidere to the old Brenton Station near Brenton on Lake.
This route follows the railway line from the Brenton Road railway crossing at Belvidere to the old Brenton Station near Brenton on Lake.
Fynbos on Sea Activity Centre
Sedgefield (c. 30 km)
069 300 8987
WWW
The mountain bike trails give riders the full experience of the natural beauty of Fynbos on Sea. There’s a choice of 5km, 12km, and 15km trails that’s take you over undulating hills and valleys and through indigenous fynbos.
Cairnbrogie MTB Trails
Plettenberg Bay (c. 25 km)
044 533 9192
WWW
Cairnbrogie is blessed with a large area in which to develop MTB trails. Our aim is to provide intermediate skill riding for young riders. The learning of basic bike control skills will be a focus of the trails. Older more experienced riders can enjoy remarkable scenery on their way to the well know SANPARKS and Cape Pine MTB trails.
Cycles in the Forest
Plettenberg Bay
078 415 3762
WWW
Cycles In The Forest offers professionally guided and supported MTB tours and outrides through our local forests and vineyards. We supply bikes, helmets, mechanical backup. Riders of all ages catered for. All things MTB.
Garden Route Trail Park
Barrington (c. 40 km)
The Garden Route Trail Park is nestled at the very foot of the Outeniqua Mountains and the Karatara River Gorge, midway between George and Knysna, in the heart of the Garden Route. Bring the whole family to experience the magic. Our carefully designed routes have been laid out to provide riders of all levels with an over supply of adrenalin, excitement, scenery and amazing views. Over 20km of hand built singletrack in the infamous farmer tradition, with flowing turns, burms, rollers and river crossings.
Cape Cycle Routes - Karoo Crossing
Knysna to Calitzdorp
Difficulty: 8 / 10 - Distance: 358 km - Duration: 4 - 6 days
The Karoo Crossing takes you on a 358km journey as you start - or end - your ride through Knysna, the iconic coastal town located on the edge of a vast estuary, which flows into the Indian Ocean through two giant sandstone heads. The Karoo Crossing has its own unique charm, and every road sign that leads you to a town, whether it be by gravel or tarred road, will fill you with a deep sense of wanderlust. Journey through the Central and Klein Karoo, passing through historic towns boasting beautiful Victorian, Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture, and along winding mountain passes boasting fascinating legends. Appreciate the heritage of the Karoo told through historic rock art and engravings dating back thousands of years.
The Karoo Crossing takes you on a 358km journey as you start - or end - your ride through Knysna, the iconic coastal town located on the edge of a vast estuary, which flows into the Indian Ocean through two giant sandstone heads. The Karoo Crossing has its own unique charm, and every road sign that leads you to a town, whether it be by gravel or tarred road, will fill you with a deep sense of wanderlust. Journey through the Central and Klein Karoo, passing through historic towns boasting beautiful Victorian, Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture, and along winding mountain passes boasting fascinating legends. Appreciate the heritage of the Karoo told through historic rock art and engravings dating back thousands of years.
Cape Cycle Routes - Cross Cape
Plettenberg Bay to Stellenbosch
Difficulty: 8 / 10 - Distance: 742 km - Duration: 5 - 20 days
When you embark on the Cross Cape cycle route, you’re opening yourself up to a multitude of invigorating and unique experiences. The smell of fynbos, the feel of cool ocean breezes, the sights of wide open spaces, the sounds of wildlife and the tastes of local culture will move you like no other journey can. That’s why the Cross Cape cycle route is no ordinary journey. It’s a journey through the senses. Being immersed in your surroundings means you can see, touch, taste, hear and feel all that this captivating landscape has to offer. Our mission is to grow cycle tourism in the Western Cape and with each turn of the pedal, you’ll find yourself closer and closer to the authentic heart of the Cape. This route is open 24/7/365, free of charge. Simply download the map, pick your pace, plan accordingly, and go for a ride.
When you embark on the Cross Cape cycle route, you’re opening yourself up to a multitude of invigorating and unique experiences. The smell of fynbos, the feel of cool ocean breezes, the sights of wide open spaces, the sounds of wildlife and the tastes of local culture will move you like no other journey can. That’s why the Cross Cape cycle route is no ordinary journey. It’s a journey through the senses. Being immersed in your surroundings means you can see, touch, taste, hear and feel all that this captivating landscape has to offer. Our mission is to grow cycle tourism in the Western Cape and with each turn of the pedal, you’ll find yourself closer and closer to the authentic heart of the Cape. This route is open 24/7/365, free of charge. Simply download the map, pick your pace, plan accordingly, and go for a ride.
Garden Route National Park MTB Routes
044 302 5600
WWW
On the southernmost reaches of the African continent lies a region of exceptional beauty. It is a land of imposing mountain ranges, shimmering lakes and a rugged coastline alternated with golden beaches. This is the setting of the largest complex of indigenous forest in southern Africa, a relic of the tropical forests that once carpeted the eastern parts of the continent from Central AFrica to the Cape peninsula. There is probably no better way to experience these forests than on a mountain bike. Some of the most excitng cycle routes are situated in the forests and the routes can cater for every need, from family fun to testing the most experienced riders.
Harkerville Yellow Route
Harkerville (c. 17 km)
044 302 5600
WWW
Difficulty: 2 / 10 - Distance: 13 km - Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours
Easy basic ride through jeep track and plantation roads. Smooth to rough gravel with some dirt and tree roots. Indigenous forest and beautiful views.
Easy basic ride through jeep track and plantation roads. Smooth to rough gravel with some dirt and tree roots. Indigenous forest and beautiful views.
Harkerville Blue Route
Harkerville (c. 17 km)
044 532 7793
WWW
Difficulty: 4 / 10 - Distance: 11 km - Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours
Easy to moderate ride through jeep track, single track and forest roads. Smooth to rough gravel with some dirt and tree roots. Indigenous forest and beautiful views.
Easy to moderate ride through jeep track, single track and forest roads. Smooth to rough gravel with some dirt and tree roots. Indigenous forest and beautiful views.
Harkerville Green Route
Harkerville (c. 17 km)
044 532 7793
WWW
Difficulty: 6 / 10 - Distance: 14 km - Duration: 2 - 2.5 hours
Moderate (high when wet) ride through jeep track, single track and forest roads. Smooth to rough gravel with some dirt and tree roots. Indigenous forest and beautiful views.
Moderate (high when wet) ride through jeep track, single track and forest roads. Smooth to rough gravel with some dirt and tree roots. Indigenous forest and beautiful views.
Harkerville Red Route
Harkerville (c. 17 km)
044 532 7793
WWW
Difficulty: 8 / 10 - Distance: 22 km - Duration: 3 - 5 hours
Tough technical ride includes long stretches of exhilerating single track, obstacles and fairly steep inclines and declines. Spectacular forest and views of the Harkerville coastline.
Tough technical ride includes long stretches of exhilerating single track, obstacles and fairly steep inclines and declines. Spectacular forest and views of the Harkerville coastline.
Harkerville Black Route (Graspad)
Kranshoek (c. 31 km)
044 532 7793
WWW
The new Graspad Trail is just 12 km in length and boasts a backdrop of, not only species-rich indigenous Knysna Forest, but sweeping views of the ocean as well – literally eye candy all around! The new route is suitable for the whole family and is an easy ride through jeep tracks. If you are keen to ride longer distances this trail joins other popular Harkerville routes, several of which offer some seriously challenging single track riding.
Petrus se Brand Route
Diepwalle (c. 23 km)
044 382 9762
WWW
Difficulty: 7 / 10 - Distance: 22.4 km - Duration: 2 - 3 hours
Beautiful long ride through deep pristine indigenous forest. Low water bridge crossings and moderate to challenging single track. Bumpy surfaces.
Beautiful long ride through deep pristine indigenous forest. Low water bridge crossings and moderate to challenging single track. Bumpy surfaces.
Gold Nugget Route
Goudveld (c. 22 km)
Launch date: Sunday 11th September 2016
Route details to follow
Route details to follow
Homtini Route
Krisjan-se-Nek, Goudveld Forest (c. 25 km)
044 356 9021
WWW
Difficulty: 2 / 10 - Distance: 19 km - Duration: 1.5 - 2.5 hours
This is the ideal route for intermediate riders without advanced technical skills who want the challenge of distance and some physical exertion. A quality ride with spectacular forests and views.
Farleigh Green Route
Farleigh (c. 40 km)
044 356 9021
WWW
Difficulty: 2 / 10 - Distance: 7.5 km - Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
This is the ideal route for beginners or families who want a taste of the MTB experience. An easy introductory route for novice riders and families through Pine plantations and pockets of indigenous forest as well as some open fynbos offering views of the farming area below with glimpses of the sea in the distance.
Farleigh Yellow Route
Farleigh (c. 40 km)
044 356 9021
WWW
Difficulty: 6 / 10 - Distance: 20.1 km - Duration: 2 - 3 hours
A route offering some moderate climbs and awesome views for those improving their mileage and technical ability. Beautiful views of the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains in the distance as well the historic Millwood Goldfields. The Knysna heads are clearly visible on clear days . Ride through pockets of indigenous forest, plantations and large sections of mountain fynbos.
Farleigh Blue Route
Farleigh (c. 40 km)
044 356 9021
WWW
Difficulty: 7 / 10 - Distance: 25.3 km - Duration: 3.5 - 5 hours
A challenging route for intermediate riders wanting to test their endurance abilities and/or training for longer endurance events. Beautiful views of the Outeniqua and Tsitskamma Mountains in the distance as well the historic Millwood Goldfields. The Knysna heads are clearly visible on clear days. Ride through pockets of indigenous forest, plantations and large sections of mountain fynbos.
Mountain Passes »
Live Music » (13)
The following venues are known to have live music on more than just the odd occassion.
It is not practible for us to keep track of who is performing when, so please check with the venues for latest information.
Also, check the Knysna Live Facebook group for any upcoming events ...
The Node
Oaks on Main, Main Road (c. 1 km)
079 016 7900
Bloo Bistro
Memorial Square (c. 1 km)
082 923 1185
AD's Pub & Dancefloor
Melville Centre, Main Road (c. 1 km)
061 441 4405
The Drydock Food Company
Waterfront (c. 2 km)
044 382 7310
The Knysna Experience
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Sirocco
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
044 382 4874
Tapas & Oysters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
044 382 7196
Gastro Pub
Turbine Hotel & Spa, Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
044 302 5746
The Friday Market
Montessori School, Welbedacht (c. 4 km)
044 382 5316
Blend Country Restaurant and Pub
George Rex Drive, Knysna (c. 5 km)
044 384 0493
Red Bridge Brewery / Whitewashed
Noble Street, Knysna Industria (c. 5 km)
084 076 6269
Tottie's Farm Kitchen
Rheenendal (c. 21 km)
044 389 0092
Sedgefield's Markets
Sedgefield (c. 28 km)National Parks » (1)
Garden Route National Park
Along the South Coast of South Africa lies one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world, home to the Garden Route National Park. A mosaic of ecosystems, it encompasses the world renowned Tsitsikamma and Wilderness sections, the Knysna Lake section, a variety of mountain catchment, Southern Cape indigenous forest and associated Fynbos areas. These areas resemble a montage of landscapes and seascapes, from ocean to mountain areas, and are renowned for its diverse natural and cultural heritage resources. Managed by South African National Parks, it hosts a variety of accommodation options, activities and places of interest. A jewel in South Africa’s crown, the Park is a prime example of the country’s unique fauna and flora and will offer unforgettable views and life-long memories.
Knysna Lakes
044 302 5600
WWW
The Knysna Forest is world famous for its magical beauty, dark and mystical recesses and giant Outeniqua Yellowwoods, some of which are almost a thousand years old. It has achieved a mythical and permanent place in South African literature through the works of writer Dalene Matthee who has found inspiration for numerous novels in the heart of the forest.
Wilderness
044 877 0046
WWW
In the heart of South Africa's famous Garden Route, a captivating world of lakes, rivers, estuaries and beaches gently unfolds against a backdrop of lush forest and lofty mountains – all elements that characterise the Wilderness Section of the Garden Route National Park. The Wilderness Section of the Garden Route National Park stretches from the Touw River mouth to the Swartvlei estuary and beyond, where it links with the Goukamma Nature Reserve, giving welcome protection to five lakes and the Serpentine, which is the winding strip of water joining Island Lake to the Touw River at the Ebb & Flow Rest Camp.
Natures Valley
044 531 6700
WWW
The Nature's Valley Rest Camp in the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park is situated in the De Vasselot on the banks of the Groot River, about 30km from the town of Plettenberg Bay and about 40km from Storms River Rest Camp (Tsitsikamma Section). This camp is a bird watchers' and hikers' paradise with a variety of trails to choose from.
Tsitsikamma
042 281 1607
WWW
Where the booming breakers of the Indian Ocean relentlessly pound rocky shores, where temperate high forest and fynbos roll down to the sea in an unspoilt verdant carpet, where ancient rivers carve their paths to the ocean down rocky ravines. This, "the place of much water", is the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park. The heartland of the park stretches some 5km to sea, protecting a wonderland of inter-tidal life, reef and deep-sea fish. Dolphins frolic in the breakers, surfing and playing for the sheer joy of life, and the gentle giant of the ocean, the southern right whale visits here, coming inshore to breed.
Nature Reserves » (9)
Pledge™ Nature Reserve
Upper Central (c. 1 km)
Pledge Nature Reserve was declared in terms of a Provincial Government Gazette Notice of 11 October 1991 a Local Nature Reserve and covers approximately 10ha and is administered by the Pledge Nature Reserve Trust. Without doubt for those who can, it is well worth following the meandering trails along the streams to the Reserve’s highest point, where the view over the town and across the water to the distant Knysna Heads is the ultimate reward. Our very popular full-moon walks to this viewpoint, adds an unusual dimension to this experience.
Featherbed Nature Reserve
Featherbed Ferry Terminus (c. 1 km)
Featherbed is a privately-owned, registered Nature Reserve and a South African Heritage Site, No.59. It is a pristine piece of paradise situated on the Western Head of Knysna and is accessible by ferry only. In order to protect the splendour of the natural beauty, access to the Reserve is controlled. Numbers are limited and visits are only permitted in the company of the Reserve's specialist guides. This 4hour excursion departs daily and reservations are essential. It is a wonderful outing for all ages and fitness levels.
Steenbok Nature Reserve
Leisure Island (c. 7 km)
083 754 5390
WWW
Steenbok Nature Park and Kingfisher Creek lie on the northern shores of Leisure Isle in the beautiful town of Knysna. These small but precious areas of water-edged nature have a wealth of flora and fauna, and an abundance of tranquility. In a joint initiative by the Leisure Island Residents Association and the Knysna Municipality, these two areas have been combined to form one stretch of natural parkland, called Steenbok Nature Reserve. Whilst SNR is correctly described as a nature reserve (i.e. land managed so as to preserve its flora, fauna, physical features, etc) it is not solely representative of local historical indigenous flora.
Westford Nature Reserve
Phantom Pass (c. 11 km)
Brenton Blue Butterfly Reserve
Brenton-on-Sea (c. 15 km)
The Brenton Blue Butterfly Reserve is home to one of the rarest butterfiles in the world. The Reserve effectively came into being in early 1998, and was proclaimed as South Africa's only Special Nature Reserve on 4th July 2003. The site extends over approximately 2ha and contains a mixture of coastal fynbos and coastal forest. The Brenton Blue shares its home with a wide variety of other insects, as well as mammal and bird species.
Goukamma Nature Reserve
Buffalo Bay (c. 18 km)
044 383 0042
WWW
Goukamma Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area is situated on the Cape south coast’s scenic Garden Route, lying approximately 40km east of George and 25km west of Knysna. The Reserve covers an area of about 2500ha, while the Marine Protected Area extends along approximately 18km of coastline from Buffalo Bay towards Sedgefield, and one nautical mile (1,85 km) out to sea. Goukamma highlights include an extensive dune field with some of the highest vegetated dunes in South Africa and the unique Groenvlei lake which has no inflowing rivers and only an underground link to the sea.
Robberg Nature Reserve
Plettenberg Bay (c. 37 km)
087 087 3937
WWW
Robberg, situated 8km south of Plettenberg Bay on the Garden Route, is not only a nature reserve, but also a national monument. Rocks from this region date back 120 million years to the break-up of Gondwanaland and evidence of middle and later Stone Age inhabitation has been found in a few of the caves along the peninsula. The reserve also extends 1.8km offshore, providing protection to a range of vulnerable fish species. Visitors can expect inspiring landscapes, exciting dolphin and whale sightings in season, and to be accompanied on their walks or hikes by a variety of bird species and the occasional seal.
Keurbooms River Nature Reserve
Keurboomstrand (c. 38 km)
044 533 2125
WWW
Keurbooms River Nature Reserve is an exquisite, small reserve of just 740 hectares located in the lush Garden Route region just outside Plettenberg Bay. The Keurbooms River passes through the reserve bringing an abundance of water from further up in the Tsitsikamma Mountains to enter the ocean through the stunning estuary. Promising an undiluted nature experience of indigenous forests, unspoilt river gorge, and protected kloofs, this reserve is a favourite destination for both local and international travellers.
Outeniqua Nature Reserve
George (c. 66 km)
087 087 4151
WWW
Spanning 38 000 hectares, the reserve encompasses the mountain ranges that fall between the coast and the semi-arid Klein Karoo. The primary attraction here is the opportunity to traverse the five mountain passes that fall within the reserve and explore the area’s rich diversity on the walking and hiking trails. The name Outeniqua is believed to mean “those who bear honey” and is ascribed to the San and Khoi people who once inhabited the mountains. Their rock paintings are found throughout the reserve, depicting animals, hunters and honeycombs.
Oyster Tours / Experiences » (1)
Knysna Charters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
If you're more than a little intrigued by oysters, then join us for the ultimate oyster experience on the spectacular Knysna Lagoon. Learn all there is to know about one of the world's most loved delicacy, taste the difference between wild and cultivated oysters, all whilst cruising the lagoon to the Heads and surrounds. Ask questions, take photo's, excite your taste buds - all on board our "Oyster Boat" with a small group of guests. Cruise includes an oyster educational experience, complimentary white wine, soft drinks or water, and half a dozen fresh oysters per person.
Padel » (1)
LivPadel
Knysna Hollow Country Estate (c. 3 km)
082 446 0795
WWW
Are you ready for some racquet-wielding fun in the sun? Padel, a fast-paced and exciting racquet sport, has been taking South Africa by storm in recent years, and Knysna Hollow Country Estate is the venue of the first Padel Sports Facility in and around Knysna. The property boasts two state-of-the-art Padel courts on the grounds which can be booked by hotel guests and members of the public alike. This is a full-service offering including equipment hire, a pro-shop and a grab 'n go refreshment station. Floodlights allow play to take place after dark and a full-back-up power system ensures the lights never go out at a crucial point in the game!
Paintball » (2)
See also Airsoft
Paintball Adventures
Harkerville (c. 21 km)
072 943 3616
Plett Paintball
Plett Farming Inn, Plettenberg Bay (c. 25 km)
083 523 5042
Paragliding » (7)
FlyTime Paragliding
Sedgefield (c. 31 km)
FlyTime offers tandem flights, introduction and full license courses, motorized trike flights, tours, accommodation, equipment sales and rentals. Based in the coastal town Sedgefield, located between Wilderness and Knysna, the heart of the Garden Route, at one of the top spots in the World for Paragliding. FlyTime has the most experienced instructors and pilots in South Africa available. With our passionate team of 4 professional full time instructors, we are able to cater for single individuals, families and big groups. Find out why birds sing!
Fly Plett Paragliding
Plettenberg Bay
066 209 0029
2020
2020
Fly Plett offer Paragliding and Paramotoring Tandem flights most days within Plettenberg bay or the Garden Route. To date we have more than 20 years of paragliding and paramotoring experience! We offer Paragliding adventure experiences from 3 main sites in the Plettenberg bay area. Two of these sites are coastal flying sites with one being based inland.
Dolphin Paragliding
Wilderness (c. 41 km)
Looking for Quality paragliding in South Africa including courses and breath-taking tandem flights ? Join us for limitless adventure in the skies of South Africa’s Garden Route and experience the majestic views from our sites in Wilderness, Sedgefield, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Mossel Bay and George. Based in the heart of the Garden Route South Africa , Dolphin Paragliding is, in a nut shell, the bee's knees in paragliding, with an excellent safety record we offer tandem flights, courses, gear sales, tours, accommodation, as well as guiding and equipment rental to ensure only the best flights.
Cloudbase Paragliding
Wilderness (c. 41 km)
Cloudbase Paragliding offers tandem flights, paragliding tuition, license courses, powered paragliding tuition, accommodation, tours, and equipment sales and rental. There are 24 flying sites within an hour’s drive. These range from easy coastal soaring to cross country thermals. Jan Minnaar and Khobi Bowden apply their extensive local and international knowledge to enable you to fulfill your dreams in this on-going skill development sport.
Wild2Fly
Wilderness (c. 41 km)
Introductory Tandem Flights and Training in Paragliding and hang gliding since 1986. Sharing the joys of free flight is our passion and nothing gives us greater pleasure that to introduce you to this wonderful world of ours up in the sky. Join Johan Anderson, 6 times National HG Champion, National Senior Instructor as he and his team of experienced Instructors guide you on this wonderful journey in discovering the beauty of flight in the Wilderness and Sedgefield areas.
Paraglide Africa
Wilderness (c. 41 km)
We offer tandem paragliding experiences, paragliding training courses, and host paragliding tours and holiday packages - Cape Town and the Garden Route.
Airfer Africa
Wilderness (c. 41 km)
065 138 3210
Lets fly! Tandem flights. Paragliding training. Paramotor training. Paratrike training.
Photowalking / Photography Tours / Courses » (4)
Photowalking is the act of walking with a camera for the main purpose of taking pictures of things that the photographer may find interesting. It is often a communal activity organised by camera clubs or commercial organisations, Often the aim is to practice and improve one's own photography skills. While the camera need not be a digital camera, it may be film or even a cell phone. While related to street photography, photowalking is differentiated by its impetus to photograph things of interest rather than people specifically. As with any walking that may go a few miles or kilometers, photowalking can also promote physical fitness.
Travel Roam Wander
Knysna
071 557 6400
WWW
Let me (a pro photographer, registered tour-guide, Knysna local and landscape lover) introduce you to some of the best spots for shooting amazing landscape images in and around Knysna. Shoot rocky outcrops after twilight with long exposures, sunset ocean views from cliff tops or spectacular lagoon views. Be in the right spot at the right time, with a pro on hand to advise, or help carry kit.
Knysna Photography Tours
Knysna
073 802 0128
WWW
Photo tours in Knysna. Photography tours for photographers - We want you to feel Knysna in your bones. Experience it. Taste it. Capture it.
Local View Photography Tours
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
076 840 7730
WWW
Local View photography tours was born from a love of our area's beauty, and the intent to share this with as many people as possible. We would love to take you on a journey to some of the most picturesque spots, often slightly off the beaten path, and hidden away. During this journey you can learn more about the area's history, and charming personalities - both past and present.
Knysna Experiences
Capture priceless memories of one of the most incredible towns along the Garden Route and in fact, in all of South Africa. With a great variety of options to choose from, step out and see Knysna and surrounds through a lens. This all with the expert guidance of qualified Tour Guides, Knysna Tourism Ambassador and Registered Photographic Professional. We cater for all levels of photographers.
Picnic Spots / Braai Areas » (12)
Kathy Park
George Rex Drive (c. 3 km)
Green Hole
Leisure Isle (c. 7 km)
This is the only public park on Leisure Island, with proper facilities in place. Swimming in the river and sea. No camping, alcohol or loud music allowed. Fires only in designated areas. Hours : 08H00 - 21H00. Public toilets and 2 outside showers. 10 built braai facilities, with shelters.
Coney Glen
The Heads (c. 8 km)
Gouna
Gouna (c. 15 km)
Grootdraai
Gouna (c. 16 km)
Ysterhoutrug
Diepwalle Forest (c. 21 km)
Park at Ysterhoutrug Picnic site and take a short, magical walk along the old “Coffee Pot” railway line. As you walk, discover remnants of this famous forest train which have been preserved by the green fingers of the forest.
King Edward VII
Diepwalle Forest (c. 22 km)
This handful of secluded picnic spots with benches, tables and braai (fire) facilities in the heart of the forest are worth a visit. In the midst of this area you can see one of the biggest and oldest trees in the forest, an Outeniqua Yellowood, over 650 years old, standing 40m high and with a bole circumference of 7m this is a giant! There is also a short 450m circular forest walk here. Following a wooden boardwalk, this walk is wheelchair and baby push car friendly.
Velbroeksdraai
Diepwalle Forest (c. 25 km)
This stop serves as a perfect spot to cool down and freshen up. This stop also offers a short circular trail (± 1km) with the opportunity to view a few forest giants in their prime.
Krisjan-se-Nek
Goudveld Forest (c. 25 km)
Start a 3 or 9 km walk from the famous Daleen Matthee Big Tree at Krisjan-se-Nek Picnic Site. It follows small tracks and an old mining path along the bank of Forest Creek.
Jubilee Creek
Goudveld Forest (c. 28 km)
A lovely picnic spot on the banks of a creek in the Lush Knysna indigenous Forest. A day walk through the Old Mining Trails to an ice cold swimming hole. Enjoy the Secrets of the Forest, mineshafts, tunnels and other hidden wonders.
Fish Eagle Green
Sedgefield (c. 29 km)
Situated on the banks of the beautiful Swartvlei estuary in Sedgefield, Fish Eagle Green is one of the town's most popular swimming and picnicking spots. This large grassy common is great for kids and there are several braai facilities available.
Valley of Ferns
Diepwalle Forest (c. 31 km)
Simply translated as The Valley of the Ferns, this magical stop speaks all for itself. This is a good place for sunny picnic or a refreshing walk under the cool green ferns on a small walkway which leads past an even smaller stream on a miniature 400m route.
Children's Playgrounds » (5)
Treasure Island Play Area
Woodmill Lane (c. 1 km)Thesen Park
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
At Thesen Harbour Town, many of the restaurants face another play area. This is equipped with swings, an obstacle course-style jungle gym, roundabout, see-saw, and more. It has the added benefit of providing a great place for children to play and meet one another while parents look on, sipping on a cold Chardonnay or a hot coffee and enjoying fabulous food.
Kathy Park
George Rex Drive (c. 3 km)The Farm
Old Cape Road (c. 6 km)
060 528 9232
Where children play while parent's relax.
Totties Country Market
Rheenendal (c. 21 km)
Puzzle Parks » (1)
Plett Puzzle Park
The Crags (c. 45 km)
Plettenberg Bay now has a fabulous new and unique attraction, the Plett Puzzle Park. It features the first amazing life size 3-D Maze in South Africa, as well as an exciting Forest Puzzle Walk which meanders through the natural forest, and a fun Rope Maze for the kids. This is a place for visitors of all ages to exercise their bodies and minds in an entertaining, educational and affordable way – no more boring days when not on the beach! Light refreshments are available in a lovely garden setting, and the Puzzle Gift Shop has games and puzzles for all ages.
Quad Bikes » (5)
Quadbike Adventures
Harkerville (c. 21 km)
072 943 3616
Rev up your engines and join us for an adrenaline-fueled quad bike adventure!
Southern Comfort Quads
Harkerville (c. 21 km)
Quads bike rides are on a guided trail and can be quite challenging with ups and downs, as well as sharp turns. The quads supplied by us are Honda 250cc semi automatic quads and Rustler 260cc.
WildX Adventures
Wilderness (c. 46 km)
082 066 1197
WWW
Our unique Guided Quad Bike Bush ride twists and winds through sand and bush and travel up and down hills. Quad Bikes are fully automatic and easy to ride, so even if it’s your first time it will not be a problem as our friendly and efficient staff will show you how it’s done in inly a few minutes. Kiddies are very welcome and may ride pillon with adults. The older kids can ride their own Bikes under the watchful supervision of our trained Guides. Rides are available every hour on the hour. It does not matter whether you are young or old, a novice or an expert driver, we’ve got the ideal tour for you.
WildX Adventures
The Crags (c. 53 km)
082 066 1197
WWW
Get ready for Adventure, Fun and Adrenaline pumping rides with WildX Quad Bike Rides. Our unique guided nature ride twists and winds through sand and bush and travel up and down hills. The Bikes are easy to ride and fully automatic so even if it’s your first time on a Quad it will not be a problem as our friendly and efficient staff will show you how it’s done in only a few minutes. Kiddies are very welcome and may ride pillon with Adults. The older kids ride their own Bikes under the watchful supervision of our trained guides.
Tsitsikamma Adventure Land
Tsitsikamma (c. 105 km)
079 532 3383
2017
2017
Tsitsikamma Adventure Land offers what we believe are the most exciting adventurous activities and the only quadbike tours in Tsitsikamma, we give our guests an experience well worth coming back for, we do this by treating our guests as friends, making them feel safe and at home while enjoying the best views of the Tsitsikamma on quad bike guided by our amazing guides. We guarantee a true Adventure that will never be forgotten.
Restaurants & other places to eat »
Sandboarding » (2)
Dune Adventures
Brenton-on-Sea (c. 16 km)
The tour begins at Brenton-On-Sea Carpark, where you will meet the guide at the benches over looking the sea in front of Brenton Haven hotel. We then take an easy walk along the beach to the sand dunes. Once there, our trained guide will instruct you how to safely experience Sandboarding as a beginner. It is a beautiful sanddune in the bay which will entertain sandboarders and spectators alike.
Dragon Dune
Mossel Bay (c. 101 km)
Welcome to the world-famous 'Dragon Dune' - the biggest and longest sandboard ride in South Africa. Situated on private land, this 'beast' provides the ultimate ride on sand, similar to snowboarding. We cater for everyone, corporates, oil sheikhs, beach-bums, school groups, skiers, teambuilding, tour operators and everyone in between. Although it’s the biggest dune in South Africa, the focus is on having FUN! We cater for all age groups, beginners and Pro’s. If you don’t feel confident enough to stand up on your board, you can also sit down or enjoy a belly board ride.
Scooters, E-scooters, Mountain Scooters » (2)
Scootours Knysna
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
A unique and true forest experience. Enjoy an exhilarating downhill on the Monster Mountain Scooter, descent through indigenous forest, sweepy bends and single track. A scenic minibus ride takes you into the heart of the forest to the best hills to start your descent in the Garden Route National Park. All of this while on the lookout for the our local wild life, the majestic Knysna loerie, the shy bushbuck and wild boar. Scooters are non motorized making this eco friendly. These Swiss designed scooters are used in the Alps during the summer season on the ski slopes when the snow is gone. All trips are guided by professional qualified guides. All scooters can handle one adult with a child passenger.
E-scooter hire
The Knysna Experience, Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
044 518 0603
WWW
Scuba Diving » (2)
DiGO
Knysna
064 650 0184
DiGO is a family run underwater adventure center based in Knysna offering snorkel and SCUBA trips. We now offer PADI Open Water training.
Pro Dive Plettenberg Bay
Beacon Isle Resort, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
044 533 1158
WWW
We teach people how to scuba dive, help people train for a diving career, and take people on diving and seal swimming adventures in Plettenberg Bay. There are a variety of shallow house reefs which are only a short swim from the shore directly in front of the dive centre. Alive with marine life this is a photographer’s paradise.
Swimming / Diving with Seals » (3)
Offshore Adventures
Central Beach, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34km)
We depart from central beach, where you step aboard “Robberg Express” for an exciting beach launch. From there we make our way towards Robberg Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area, home to approximately 6000 Cape Fur Seals. Here you hop into the water, accompanied by a qualified divemaster, to enjoy 30 minutes of amazing animal interaction among bundles of playful inquisitive fur seals. The ultimate wild animal encounter in their natural environment, without having to alter their behaviour.
Pro Dive Plettenberg Bay
Beacon Isle Resort, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
044 533 1158
WWW
We teach people how to scuba dive, help people train for a diving career, and take people on diving and seal swimming adventures in Plettenberg Bay. Get up close and personal to the Plett’s colony of Brown Fur Seals in their natural environment. The seals are inquisitive and gentle natured and our seal swim adventure is bound to be one of your most exciting experiences ever!
Plett Seal Adventures
Hobie Beach, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34km)
079 992 5432
WWW
Plett Seal Adventures offers you a once in a life time encounter with wild marine mammals in Plettenberg Bay. Come and live a unique interaction with the highly social and curious Cape fur seals. We’ll take you on a 1.5-hour journey in which we’ll share the beauty of the ocean, the environment, the history of Plettenberg Bay and the Robberg and a memorable immersion with these fantastic playful creatures.
Segway Tours » (1)
Tsitsikamma Segway Tours
Storms River Village (c. 93 km)
Included in the 1 hour Segway tour is a 15-20 minute training session on our training course as part of your 1 hour Segway experience. After the training we take a journey through the quaint Stormsriver Village and follow one of a selection of routes among cool pine forest, indigenous forest, or even explore the historical Witteklip bridge or the local township. If you are up for more, join us on the 2 hour tour we take a journey through the quaint Stormsriver Village, and into the cool pine forests. We enter the ancient indigenous Tsitsikamma Forests along the paths to the famous and majestic 1000 year old Tsitsikamma BIG Tree and back to the village.
Diving with Sharks / Shark Cage Diving » (1)
White Shark Africa
Mossel Bay (c. 107 km)
Great White Sharks have always fascinated humans for various reasons. If you are one of those ... who would like to come just that little bit closer, to experience the Great White Shark in its natural environment above or under water or perhaps just learn a bit more about them and us. You have come to the right place. White Shark Africa staff have a proud history in white shark research, conservation and education so you can be sure that we have a passion and love for these animals and their environment. Our Diving and Viewing trips are wonderfully educational, enriching both mind and soul. Mossel Bay is without a doubt one of the best White Shark sites in the World, albeit one of the lesser known.
Skateboarding » (1)
Boardroom Skatepark
Knysna Industria (c. 4 km)
A new space that will to help create the future of skateboarding in the Garden Route. The Skatepark connects you and your friends to enjoy skateboarding in a secure, supervised clubhouse environment. It's easy for anyone to use, regardless of age, gender or skateboarding experience. Two mini-ramps (a 16 foot wide, 3 foot high with a 3.5ft foot high extension and a 16 foot wide, 5 foot high ramp is ready for all skaters to enjoy.
Skydiving » (2)
Skydive Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay Airport (c. 34 km)
Live life to the full! Experience free-fall over one of the most scenic drop zones in the world. Start the experience with a short briefing. Then enjoy a 20 minute plane flight to 10,000 feet, over the Knysna forests and Plettenberg Bay coastline. Now the leisurely, scenic plane flight stops and the adrenaline starts to pump as you exit the plane with your Tandem Master and experience the rush of a 35 second free fall at 200KPH! Once the canopy opens, your instructor will glide you down for a safe landing.
Skydive Mossel Bay
Mossel Bay Aerodrome (c. 107 km)
A Tandem Skydive at Skydive Mossel Bay is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime! Not only will you enjoy all of the thrill and excitement of freefalling on your very first jump, but you’ll also be taking an exhilarating scenic flight over the Mossel Bay area with an eagles view of the Indian Ocean, Outeniqua mountains and beautiful beaches!
Snorkelling » (4)
DiGO
Knysna
064 650 0184
DiGO is a family run underwater adventure center based in Knysna offering snorkel and SCUBA trips. A whole new world awaits to be discovered beneath the surface of Knysna's estuary. Be sure to book a guided snorkel trip with us to explore this facinating underwater mystery.
Trip Out Adventures
Knysna
083 306 3587
WWW
The protected reserves along the Garden Route are havens for aquatic life and depending on the season many juvenile tropical fish follow the warm Mozambique current all the way down to our little piece of paradise. Our beautiful snorkeling tour is a memorable way to explore this fishy playground with breathtaking views of the Knysna Heads as you drift peacefully over the sunken frame of the Paquita, a German vessel that sank on the East side of the Knysna Heads in 1903. When conditions allow we are also able to explore the beautiful tidal pools at Buffalo Bay. Both are ideal snorkeling locations for both beginner and experienced divers.
Pro Dive Plettenberg Bay
Beacon Isle Resort, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
044 533 1158
WWW
This fun and easy experience is accessible to anyone, young or old and who is able to swim, making this a great activity for the whole family. The shallow, sheltered areas close to the beach have small outcrops that attracts a variety of marine life including fish, octopus and rays.
Untouched Adventures
Storms River Mouth (c. 98 km)
073 130 0689
WWW
Experience what lies beneath at ocean around the Storms River Mouth. Snorkel across the ocean’s surface, marvelling at the spectacular marine life from above, chasing fish over the reefs and spotting sun rays on the ocean bed. The coastline along the Tsitsikamma National Park is a conservation area and remains untouched. All the marine life is protected and means that you will not only see more but get much closer too. This splendid sea safari is enjoyed all year round and is an ideal adventure for the whole family.
Spas » (6)
Zen-Sense Day Spa
1 Oaklands at the Knoll, Knysna (c. 2 km)
044 382 0807
WWW
Whether you live in Knysna, or if you are simply visiting the region, Zen-Sense Day Spa is an affordable, high-quality option for your skincare and body treatments, manicures, pedicure, facials and bridal packages. The owner of Zen-Sense Day Spa, trained at the International Academy of Health and Skincare, has over 18 years of experience in the beauty industry. We believe in providing the most professional yet friendly service possible, and pride ourselves on using the highest quality products while striving to deliver the best service possible. We go to just about any lengths to earn and keep your trust.
Le Spa Tranqille
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Restore your well being by indulging in treatments on offer from vichy shower scrubs, massage, hot stone therapy, reflexology, body wraps, specialised Clarins and Guinot facials and bridal treats to OPI manicures and pedicures or surrender yourself to one of our Half day or Full day Packages on offer that will pamper you from head to toe. Relax on a lounger on the pool deck and soak up the view before and after a pampering treatment or unwind in a soothing Hydrotherapy Jet Bath or even an eucalyptus infused Sauna cabin before beginning treatments.
The Turbine Spa
Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa, Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Situated in the heart of the hotel, this well-known spa in Knysna features single and double treatment rooms, and an impressive range of body, facial and beauty treatments for both him and her. Other distinctive features of The Turbine Spa are an exotically mosaic-tiled Rasul Steam Room – perfect for loved-up couples, and an exclusive Spa Massage Pedi Chair, in which you can enjoy a back massage and a pedicure simultaneously.
Bamboo Thai Spa and Massage
Hunters Home (c. 6 km)
084 334 7464
WWW
Relaxing Thai treatments in a stunning Thai garden setting. Come and enjoy, allowing us to pamper and spoil you as only the Thai can.
Simola Spa & Gym
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa, Knysna (c. 7 km)
044 302 9670
WWW
The Simola Spa invites you to come enjoy peace, tranquility and relaxation. Our goal is to provide you with the finest treatments available in a beautiful Zen environment and to help you develop a healthy lifestyle and well being. We’ve hand-picked some of the best estheticians and massage therapists, not only for their unique and superior skills, but also for their genuine desire to take good care of our guests. Placing a true value in customer service, the staff at the Simola Spa will make your spa experience the ultimate retreat, where you will feel right at home, assuring complete confidentiality and privacy.
Pezula Spa & Gym
Sparrebosch, Knysna (c. 9 km)
044 302 3335
WWW
Transport yourself to another world ... Pezula Spa & Gym is a calm sanctuary that reflects the soul of Africa in the natural elements and textures of its exquisite décor. Allow yourself to be taken up by the magic with each sublime treatment, orchestrated to take you through a sensory experience that creates a feeling of total relaxation and serenity. Our superb facilities include a gym, 12m heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room, rain forest shower, juice bar, nail bar, hair salon, nine therapy rooms and post-treatment room. Our aim is to create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility in a relaxed environment.
Stand Up Paddling - SUP » (5)
TripOut Adventures
083 306 3587
WWW
Knysna’s coastline is littered with adventure and extreme beauty and there is no better way to explore the scenic corners of the Knysna aquatic surrounds than from the deck of an SUP. Our excursions are packed full of adventure and sensory reward all while affording clients one of the most comprehensive low impact body workout around. We offer a number of guided tours ranging from a scenic paddle within and around Knysna’s famous Heads, tranquil flat water tours along either the Knysna or Goukamma Rivers or for the more adventurous an open ocean paddle in the surf at the beautiful seaside village of Buffalo Bay.
Ocean Odyssey
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
044 382 0321
WWW
Explore the waterways of Thesen Island and the Knysna Estuary with the world’s fastest growing watersport, Stand-Up Paddling. Stand-Up Paddling, or SUP for short, is easy, fun and guaranteed to keep you fit whilst enjoying the spectacular scenery of our waterways & lagoon. The calm waters of Thesen Island are ideal for beginners and the many inlets and coves are perfect for the more adventurous or experience paddlers. Eight top quality boards and paddles are available for rent by the hour.
Knysna Charters
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
082 892 0469
WWW
Buffels Bay Ocean Adventures
Buffalo Bay (c. 21 km)
082 264 4165
Welcome to Buffels Bay Ocean Adventures situated on the banks of the Buffels Bay Beach in the Goukamma Nature Reserve just a few kilometers drive from Knysna. We at Buffels Bay Ocean Adventures offers Kayak & SUP Rentals, Team Building Events to locals and visitors alike.
Learn to Surf Plett
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) has become one of the fastest growing and most popular forms of water sport or surfing. With very little equipment SUP allows you to paddle anywhere from the ocean to lakes or rivers. Aside from being an excellent full body workout SUP involves standing at your full height on the board you can enjoy views of everything from sea life below you to what’s on the horizon.
Surfing » (5)
TripOut Adventures
083 306 3587
WWW
Buffalo Bay is a picturesque seaside village that is home to a variety of user-friendly surf breaks, ranging from gentle beach breaks and rolling reef breaks to easily accessible point breaks which offer the perfect platform for beginner to advance surfing lessons. Our experienced instructors will teach you the art of safely riding waves and lessons can be tailor made to suit your level. We aim to give students a solid surfing foundation through descriptive safety briefs, condition analysis, introduction to surf etiquette, equipment overview, ocean awareness and surf techniques based on level of experience all while ensuring plenty of fun is had by all. Our instructors are very experienced, passionate and ISA and SSA accredited.
Buffs Surf School
Buffalo Bay (c. 21 km)
065 872 8979
Surfing Lessons at the Blue Flag beach in Buffalo Bay. This is the best place to learn to surf in South Africa as it has safe, consistent gentle waves. Our experienced instructors will fit you out with all the gear you need, wetsuits, boards etc. Bring your swim-suit, hat and sun lotion. You will be guided from the most basic steps to being able to stand up and surf. You will spend the day having surfing lessons, relaxing on the beach and practicing your newly learned skills, all under the guidance of our friendly instructors. We provide you with a surfboard, wetsuit, beach umbrella and a deck chair at NO EXTRA COST.
Life Kite Surfing
060 757 4414
WWW
Surfing is one of the great feelings in life. It is pure, raw, natural and gives a wonderful sense of freedom. With or without a kite, it’s magical! My expert coaching with video analysis will increase your enjoyment and take your wave riding to new levels.
Learn to Surf Plett
Here at Learn to Surf Plett we are an enthusiastic, passionate and often fanatical group of instructors. We take great pleasure in succeeding in our efforts to get you, the student, up riding and discovering the joys of harnessing some of the ocean’s energy. We guarantee that once you glide down the open face of your first wave you will experience that beautiful natural high that only surfers know and ensure you will keep coming back for more.
Vibe Surf School
073 092 9494
WWW
Vibe Surf School, based in the heart of the Garden Route, is where you will fall in love with the spirit of surfing. Feel on top of the world through riding waves and sharing adventures! It is our privilege to operate from the beautiful beaches of Victoria Bay, Herold’s Bay, and Wilderness. Since we believe you’re never too old (or young) to experience the thrill of riding a wave, we offer surf lessons for all ages. Don’t have the equipment? No sweat, we offer rentals as well! All our friendly instructors have years of surfing experience and are qualified lifeguards with first aid level 3 certificates. And they’re pretty awesome, too! We love the ocean, people and surfing; and we can’t wait to share these passions with you. Let’s get you stoked!
10 Pin Bowling » (1)
Let's Go Bowling
Hartenbos (c. 100 km)
044 020 0404
Ten Pin Bowling is making a comeback in family entertainment. It's fun for the whole family at affordable prices. Come check out the brand new lanes!
Theatre » (2)
Studio 42
Uil Street, Sedgefield (c. 26 km)
084 567 9809
Hosting travelling performers in our little 42 seater venue. Award winning artists from all over the world, after a 2 year hiatus due to the global pandemic, the business that is show business is reviving and Studio 42 is ready for it.
George Arts Theatre
York Street, George (c. 61 km)
044 873 3938
WWW
A number of full length productions are held throughout the year and every December the Society’s pantomime is one of the town’s most popular holiday attractions. Backstage Lounge Café is open before each show and during intervals.The theatre is available for hire including our brand new Amphitheatre outside for your enjoyment. We are open to the public for visits.
Township Tours » (7)
Emzini Tours
A township tour with a personal touch! We welcome people from all countries of the world, and will give you an interesting, informative, personal, safe, township tour in Knysna, Western Cape, South Africa. On the face of it, townships seem merely to be sprawling, chaotic zones overflowing with South Africa’s most disadvantaged citizens. This is to some extent true, but make a point to delve deeper and you will recognise that they are also places of great strength, courage, song and dance, survival, love and yes, happiness. Here, there are no high walls dividing neighbours, and people gather in the streets to live a life in communion. We at Emzini Tours will provide you with a glimpse of this reality, offering insight into the areas that people often shy away from.
Discover township life with a local (MADaboutART)
We’ll be exploring Dam-se-Bos township. Our itinerary begins at MADaboutART, a social enterprise using art and creative expression to support children to make positive life choices. You'll see our gallery of amazing narrative artwork telling stories of the lives of children in the township. In the streets around MADaboutART you’ll experience the culture and ways of the township. You'll learn about Xhosa traditions and the role of the Sangoma (traditional healer). Finally, we'll return to MADaboutART where in afternoons and school holidays you’ll meet the children as they sing, paint, bead, whatever the activity of the day is (curriculum dependent).
Thole Tours
Hop on tour guide. Gerald Sigcu joins you in your vehicle from town center and takes you on a tour of Knysna's townships. He is a qualified tour guide and is registered with THETA (WC 6554) and the Knysna Tourism board. He has been offering township tours for the last 5 years and is fluent in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa, and can also speak some Zulu and Dutch. The tour helps to build up a relationship with tourists and the people of the community.
Wandu Tours and Stays
Your tour guide, Mawande Kondlo (Reg No. WC 4852) was born and grew up in the township. He has created Wandu, a collection of experiences through which he will share intimate knowledge of township life. Wandu Tours put your convenience first, and will pick you up on your doorstep. Highlights include: a look into Township life; meet local residents & entrepreneurs; Township ‘Big 5' (not what you think!); local stories and legends; South African history; a visit to the kids at a ‘kasi school; great photographic opportunities; meet a traditional Xhosa Healer; optional lunch at Wandu; and much, much more..!
Rastafarian Cultural Tour
Judah Square (c. 8 km)
Experience the Rastafarian vibe, and learn more about there unique life philosophy. This community hosts the annual Rastafarian Earth Festival in July. The Judah Squae Rastafarian village was founded in 1993, and is the latgest Rastafarian community in South Africa. You can do a walking tour of the community and overnight in the Rastafarian community. The Rastafarian Cultural Tour celebrates the life of South Africa's largest Rasta community. Situated in a township just outside Knysna, there are more than 30 families of all nationalities living together quite happily and practising the traditions.
Vuka Ukhanye Cultural Tours
063 288 5322
Gloria Rozani : registered tour guide. Informative, interactive, inspiring.
Konga's Township Tours
073 093 1408
Trails / Walks » (39)
Rutherford Walk
Belvedere (c. 9 km)
Rutherford Walk is a 4km trail from the jetty, in and out of mostly indigenous trees and shrubs, with intermittent snatches of views of Knysna across the lagoon
Sparrebosch Trail (Fisherman's Path)
Sparrebosch (c. 10 km)
Distance: 5km, there-and-back - Difficulty: Moderate to hard
This is a beautiful short walk mere minutes from town, ideal for a afternoon stroll through the forest and fynbos down to the beach. This is a wonderful scenic route to walk. However, there are steep hills and descents and it is not recommended for the elderly. The path leads to a secluded bay with sea pebbles in the most beautiful hues. Two fresh water streams empty their contents into the sea here. Lookout for the 'boiling point' of the first one under a huge rock during low tide. Fishing and picnics are not permitted. Although the waterfall can be dry, it is spectacular in the rainy season. If you don't make too much noise you are bound to see bushbuck and numerous birds. The trail is well established and sign posted.
Fisherman's Walk
Brenton-on-Sea (c. 15 km)
Fisherman's Walk is a romantic and scenic cliff top path where schools of dolphins and whales are often spotted. Whilst the majority of the pathway is fairly open with views of the sea, there are several sections that are cloaked in beautiful coastal thicket. A total of 18 benches have been strategically placed along the trail, which give an excuse to stop, sit, and soak in the scenery. There are also larger viewing decks, which serve as popular whale viewing platforms.
Terblans Nature Walk
Gouna (c. 16 km)
Distance: 6.5km; circular (Moderate: 3-4 hours)
The Terblans Walk in the Gouna Forest is a relatively short walk which was heavily exploited by woodcutters in the past. It starts and ends at the Grootdraai picnic site, ideal for a picnic before or after the hike. From the Grootdraai picnic site the trail heads into the forest sharing the path with the Outeniqua overnight trail - be sure to keep right at the fork and follow the bush pig signs. The picnic site at the end of the trail has beautiful picnic tables under the trees and there are toilets as well. On departing, hikers can drive back the same way, or continue with Kom-se-pad which joins the R339 between Uniondale and Knysna - a beautiful round trip of about 60km from Knysna. Excellent route for bird watching and has a beautiful rock pool to swim in.
Garden of Eden
Harkerville (c. 16 km)
The Garden of Eden is situated right on the N2 between Knysna and Plett and serves as a great place to stretch your legs and freshen up in the cool, green forest. This is one of the most lush and beautiful parts of the Knysna forest and definitely a must-see when visiting the Garden Route. The major attraction is the forest itself; absolutely beautiful yellowwood trees, thick green foliage and fresh, trickling streams. A short walk follows over 1km of wooden boardwalks and bridges and is entirely wheelchair friendly. There are a number of wooden benches and tables along the trail, great for a picnic.
Perdekop Nature Walk
Harkerville (c. 17 km)
This 9.5km circular walk starts and ends at the SANParks Harkerville Forest Office. The walk is relatively easy and can be completed at a leisurely pace in 3-4 hours. A majestic stand of Hard Pear trees (Olinia ventosa) can be found between the 2 and 3 km markers. These trees are known to be one of the fastest-growing trees under forest conditions, characterized by their reddish brown flaky bark and the strong smell of almonds in newly cut wood or crushed leaves. A wonderful natural swimming pool, below a waterfall and surrounded by a lush growth of ferns is situated along the route between the 5 and 6 km markers. This is a great place to stop, rest, and snack.
Bushpig Trail
Goukamma (c. 18 km)
The Bushpig Trail is 6.5km circular route that takes two to three hours. Hikers walk along a fynbos ridge with views of the coast, river and estuary, returning via a milkwood forest.
Porcupine Trail
Goukamma (c. 18 km)
The Porcupine Trail is 13.5km and takes four to five hours. This route stretches over vegetated dunes. Hikers should arrange return transport from Groenvlei.
Buffalo Bay to Brenton Hiking/Biking Trail
Wild Side Beach, Buffalo Bay to Lake Brenton
The trail can be done from either end, and can be broken into three sections. It can be done as a whole or per section. The trail is well marked.
Buffalo Bay to Brenton Hiking/Biking Trail
Wild Side Beach, Buffalo Bay (c. 20 km)
Buffalo Bay to Goukamma Station (6Km)
This section is along the Buffalo Bay Bay Road but the road verges have been cut, and the sandy patches covered with wood chips. This part is 6 km long and mostly flat except for a few hills close to the entrance to the Goukamma Nature Reserve on the Goukamma River.
This section is along the Buffalo Bay Bay Road but the road verges have been cut, and the sandy patches covered with wood chips. This part is 6 km long and mostly flat except for a few hills close to the entrance to the Goukamma Nature Reserve on the Goukamma River.
Buffalo Bay to Brenton Hiking/Biking Trail
Goukamma Station (c. 13 km)
Goukamma Station to Belvidere (10km)
This trail is 10 km long and is completely off road. Starting from Goukamma Station it follows the old railway track for about 3 km, giving it a gentle uphill gradient and meandering along the contours of the surrounding hills. Beautiful views of the green Goukamma Valley and tranquil Goukamma River abound.
Buffalo Bay to Brenton Hiking/Biking Trail
Belvidere (c. 9 km)
Belvidere to Lake Brenton (4km)
This route follows the railway line from the Brenton Road railway crossing at Belvidere to the old Brenton Station near Brenton on Lake.
This route follows the railway line from the Brenton Road railway crossing at Belvidere to the old Brenton Station near Brenton on Lake.
Galjoen Trail
Buffalo Bay (c. 20 km)
044 383 0042
WWW
The Galjoen Trail is a 12km beach walk and takes about four hours. Hikers can arrange return transport from Platbank, or walk back. The walk is inaccessible during spring high tide.
Buffalo Bay Trail
Buffalo Bay (c. 21 km)
Explore the holiday town of Buffalo Bay via the 4.2 km Buffalo Bay Trail, a circular route through forest and coastal vegetation with sea views along the way.
Elephant Trails
Diepwalle Forest (c. 23 km)
Distance: Black Route: 9km; circular (Easy: 3-4 hours)
Distance: White Route: 8km; circular (Moderate: 3-4 hours)
Distance: Red Route: 7km; circular (Moderate – difficult: 3-4 hours)
The three trails are a scenic delight with clear streams and mysterious green beauty. They follow old woodcutter trails in some parts, taking the hiker past some stately old Outeniqua yellowwood trees. The White Elephant Trail has the most enticing rock pool where hikers can stop for a picnic or have a dip in summer. The Black Elephant Trail passes through both the Ysterhoutrug and King Edward VII picnic sites and the Red Elephant Trail crosses a little stream exactly halfway ideal for a lunch stop. Hikers can link the routes into one route of 18.2km which takes approximately 6 - 7 hours.
Distance: White Route: 8km; circular (Moderate: 3-4 hours)
Distance: Red Route: 7km; circular (Moderate – difficult: 3-4 hours)
The three trails are a scenic delight with clear streams and mysterious green beauty. They follow old woodcutter trails in some parts, taking the hiker past some stately old Outeniqua yellowwood trees. The White Elephant Trail has the most enticing rock pool where hikers can stop for a picnic or have a dip in summer. The Black Elephant Trail passes through both the Ysterhoutrug and King Edward VII picnic sites and the Red Elephant Trail crosses a little stream exactly halfway ideal for a lunch stop. Hikers can link the routes into one route of 18.2km which takes approximately 6 - 7 hours.
Drupkelders Trail
Rheenendal (c. 24 km)
Distance: 3.6km, there-and-back - Difficulty: Moderate to hard
This is certainly one of Knysna's hidden gems. Although it is a relatively short walk, only 3.6km, the hills and descents are very steep. It is advised that you wear proper shoes, keep your flip-flops for the beach. Be sure to take your camera and eats because when you reach the Homtini River the rewards are satisfying and you will want to spend some time there. The waters of the river are very refreshing and is a great idea to take your swim wear for a dip in the summer. The depth of the big pool hasn't been established and diving is not recommended. Don't be so engrossed with the river and entertaining rock pools that you miss seeing the stalactites and stalagmites in the 'cellar'. Take your time to check out all the different shapes and colours of fungi on dead trees and listen to the birds.
Cape Clawless Otter Trail
Groenvlei (c. 25 km)
The Cape Clawless Otter Trail is a 6.5 km flat out-and-back route along Groenvlei’s southern shoreline, through indigenous forest and vegetation on the fringe of the lake.
Blombos Route
Groenvlei (c. 25 km)
Long route: 15km
Medium route: 13km
Short route: 6.5km
The Blombos Trail on the Groenvlei side is popular for bird viewing and offers 3 options.
Medium route: 13km
Short route: 6.5km
The Blombos Trail on the Groenvlei side is popular for bird viewing and offers 3 options.
Forest Flora Trail
Harkerville (c. 25 km)
Distance: 1km; circular (Very easy: 20 - 30min)
This very easy 1km walk is situated in the Harkerville Indigenous Forest between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, easily accessible from the N2 and starts and ends at the Kranshoek Picnic Site. This walk is ideal for young and old so take the kids and introduce them to the wonderful forest environment.
This very easy 1km walk is situated in the Harkerville Indigenous Forest between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, easily accessible from the N2 and starts and ends at the Kranshoek Picnic Site. This walk is ideal for young and old so take the kids and introduce them to the wonderful forest environment.
Kranshoek Fynbos Trail
Harkerville (c. 25 km)
Distance: 1km; one way (Very Easy: 20 - 30 min)
This walk is ideal for young and old so take the kids and introduce them to this wonderful fynbos environment. A breath taking fynbos trail which runs along the very edge of the deep valley.
This walk is ideal for young and old so take the kids and introduce them to this wonderful fynbos environment. A breath taking fynbos trail which runs along the very edge of the deep valley.
Kranshoek Day Walk
Harkerville (c. 25 km)
Distance: 9km; circular (Moderate – difficult: 4-5 hours)
The trail starts at the Kranshoek picnic site at the top of a tall waterfall and winds its way through the lush forest down into the gorge through which the waterfall's stream flows. It follows this stream towards the coast and then heads along the coast before veering up the slopes toward the Kranshoek View Point. From the viewpoint hikers can either walk back to the picnic site via the 1km fynbos trail or along the dirt road which links the viewpoint and picnic site. The full walk is fairly tough and demands a descent and ascent of 200 metres. Good walking shoes are essential. Highlights include natural rock pools, pebble beaches and a coastal cave.
Circles In A Forest (Woodcutter Trail)
Goudveld Forest (c. 25 km)
Distance: 9km; circular (Easy - Moderate: 3 hours)
Distance: 3km; circular (Easy - Moderate: 1.5 hours)
A nine kilometre (three hour) walk starting and ending at the Krisjan-se-Nek Picnic Site. A section of this track follows an old mining path along the bank of Forest Creek. Some delightful swimming holes make the walk perfect for a summer's day.
Distance: 3km; circular (Easy - Moderate: 1.5 hours)
A nine kilometre (three hour) walk starting and ending at the Krisjan-se-Nek Picnic Site. A section of this track follows an old mining path along the bank of Forest Creek. Some delightful swimming holes make the walk perfect for a summer's day.
Jubilee Creek Walk
Goudveld Forest (c. 28 km)
Distance: 3.6km out and back (Easy)
A short section of the Outeniqua Hiking Trail doubles as an interesting walk along a path that the miners used over one hundred years ago. The path follows the creek for approximately one kilometre passing numerous reminders of the mining activities of the 1880's .
Millwood Mining Walk
Goudveld Forest (c. 30 km)
Distance: 5.6km circular (Moderate: 2 hours)
Starting and ending at the Millwood Picnic Site, the route-marked walk covers a distance of 5.6 kilometres and can be comfortably walked within two hours. Wonderful views of the Millwood Nature Reserue can be had and the trail passes by a number of abandoned mining tunnels and shafts. Regrettably, virtually nothing remains of the village itself.
Fynbos on Sea Activity Centre
Sedgefield (c. 30 km)
069 300 8987
WWW
Our guided or self-guided walks take you on trails through the beautiful indigenous fynbos flora. On the one side of our 600ha property we have awesome views of the Indian Ocean that can surprise you with whales, dolphins or seals. Its pristine golden sandy beaches stretch out to the distance.
Gap Circuit
Robberg Nature Reserve (c. 37 km)
Trail distance: 2.1km - Estimated time: 30 minutes
The shortest and easiest route that heads straight into a mudstone cleft, which has evidence of the prehistoric break-up of Gondwanaland 120 million years ago. Do not stand near cliffs, particularly if the wind is very strong.
Witsand Circuit
Robberg Nature Reserve (c. 37 km)
Trail distance: 5.5km - Estimated time: 2 hours
The trail leads along the northern ridge of the peninsula and onto the wind-shadow of the climbing-falling dune, before heading down to the tombolo and boardwalk. Hikers will pass above the resident seal colony along the way and encounter a colony of kelp gulls at the end of the trail. Do not stand near cliffs, particularly if the wind is very strong.
Point Circuit
Robberg Nature Reserve (c. 37 km)
Trail distance: 9.2km - Estimated time: 4 hours
This is a fairly strenuous walk and not recommended for young children. The trail heads up the north ridge to the Point and then back along the southern rocky shoreline. A highlight is encountering the hundreds of gannets, cormorants and terns at the Point. Do not stand near cliffs, particularly if the wind is very strong.
Cape Dune Mole Rat Trail
Rondevlei (c. 35 km)
Distance: 6km; circular (2-3 hours)
Be sure to take liquid refreshments along on this trail, there are several options on this trail e.g. there is a 6km loop and a 3km loop which overlaps. A beautiful, scenic trail traversing through a few different vegetation types. The sandy trail is soft under foot in some places. Portions of the trail overlook Rondevlei and Swartvlei lake. It is a circular route with no shade.
Be sure to take liquid refreshments along on this trail, there are several options on this trail e.g. there is a 6km loop and a 3km loop which overlaps. A beautiful, scenic trail traversing through a few different vegetation types. The sandy trail is soft under foot in some places. Portions of the trail overlook Rondevlei and Swartvlei lake. It is a circular route with no shade.
Brown Hooded Kingfisher Trail
Wilderness (c. 42 km)
Trail Distance: 5km - Trail Time: 3 hours
Greeted by lush dense overhangs of thicket this trail is a jewel for bird watchers and aspiring botanists alike. A 2.5km walk, ends at a waterfall, a walk which playfully snakes through the Duiwe River valley and crosses the Duiwe River five times along its length. The trail lends itself to picnickers, at various points sheer-faced cliffs can be viewed or in the shade of the forest trees whilst you enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Greeted by lush dense overhangs of thicket this trail is a jewel for bird watchers and aspiring botanists alike. A 2.5km walk, ends at a waterfall, a walk which playfully snakes through the Duiwe River valley and crosses the Duiwe River five times along its length. The trail lends itself to picnickers, at various points sheer-faced cliffs can be viewed or in the shade of the forest trees whilst you enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Pied Kingfisher Trail
Wilderness (c. 42 km)
Trail Distance: 10km - Trail Time: 3-4 hours
This trail is mainly used for bird watching. It is a flat circular route which takes you through the Serpentine which mainly consists of Fynbos. It is an open trail with no shade. There is a section of the trail which combines with the beach.
This trail is mainly used for bird watching. It is a flat circular route which takes you through the Serpentine which mainly consists of Fynbos. It is an open trail with no shade. There is a section of the trail which combines with the beach.
Half Collared Kingfisher Trail
Wilderness (c. 47 km)
Trail Distance: 7.2km - Trail Time: 3-4 hours
An immense wall of green punctured only by a human sized opening welcomes walkers into this cathedral of mature forest. The most popular trail in the Wilderness region it has many picnic points and lays nestled not more than 15 meters from the riverbank and may be accessed by canoe or foot, both promising a unique experience of this exquisite ecosystem. The Half-collared crosses the Touw River by means of a pontoon to join the Giant Kingfisher trail. Trees are appropriately numbered to facilitate tree spotters in finding their favourite trees. Mostly shaded by ancient giant trees, walkers can relax as they walk comfortably on the trail to its heart boasting a magnificent waterfall where, again, picnics may be had.
An immense wall of green punctured only by a human sized opening welcomes walkers into this cathedral of mature forest. The most popular trail in the Wilderness region it has many picnic points and lays nestled not more than 15 meters from the riverbank and may be accessed by canoe or foot, both promising a unique experience of this exquisite ecosystem. The Half-collared crosses the Touw River by means of a pontoon to join the Giant Kingfisher trail. Trees are appropriately numbered to facilitate tree spotters in finding their favourite trees. Mostly shaded by ancient giant trees, walkers can relax as they walk comfortably on the trail to its heart boasting a magnificent waterfall where, again, picnics may be had.
Giant Kingfisher Trail
Wilderness (c. 47 km)
It is a little strenuous in the beginning of the trail but it does get easier. This trail is on the opposite side of the Half Collared.
Bosduif Loop
Wilderness (c. 47 km)
Duration: 1 hour
The Bosduif loop is a short challenging trail, it is an elevated artery branching from the Half-collared Kingfisher trail. This trail climbs sharply along the hillside into the forest where the vegetation changes slightly into ghostly drapes of lichens and mosses. In total the Bosduif is unique for the short hour it takes to complete and hikers will be breathless due to its astounding beauty and steep trajectory.
The Bosduif loop is a short challenging trail, it is an elevated artery branching from the Half-collared Kingfisher trail. This trail climbs sharply along the hillside into the forest where the vegetation changes slightly into ghostly drapes of lichens and mosses. In total the Bosduif is unique for the short hour it takes to complete and hikers will be breathless due to its astounding beauty and steep trajectory.
Woodville Big Tree Circular Walk
Hoekwil (c. 47 km)
Experience an easy 45 minute walk through lush indigenous forest which starts and finishes at an 810 year old Yellowwood Tree.
Trains / Rides » (4)
Miniature Train Set
Waterfront Junction, Waterfront (c. 1 km)
2021
Landmarks such as Tsitsikamma Forest (replete with elephants), Pezula Championship Golf Course, Kaaimans River Bridge, an old Knysna train station, lumber mill, countryside farms, and more can be seen between the two miniature tracks that go round the 4.5m x 1.6m landscape. The structures are exactly to scale at 1:87 but, obviously, the landscape had to be compressed because the region is large.
Miniature Train Rides
Totties Country Market, Rheenendal (c. 21 km)
044 389 0092
Operated by the Knysna Society of Model Engineers. We have different miniature locomotives, and the public is welcome to go for a ride. The trains run the first and third Sunday of the month.
Outeniqua Transport Museum
George (c. 59 km)
044 801 8289
2022
2022
Inside the museum a variety of 13 steam locomotives, including a narrow gauge, the Emil Kessler- Johannesburg’s first steam locomotive, the impressive GL Garrett together with carriages from a bygone era, such as a coach from the Royal Train of 1947, Paul Kruger’s coach and private saloons, just to name a few, are on display. A photo gallery depicting some of the most breathtaking photos of South African steam can be seen, poetry relating to train travel, crockery and cutlery previously used on main line trains and in station restaurants are on display. Various models of steam locomotives, a brilliant collection of steam locomotive number plates, makers plates, a model train room, road motor vehicles and a private vintage car selection complete the exhibition.
Outeniqua Power Van
George (c. 59 km)
082 490 5627
2020
2020
2021
2020
2020
2021
A unique experience awaits you when you travel on the Outeniqua Power Van’s railbus from George on the Oudtshoorn railway-pass. Panoramic views over the Outeniqua Mountain Nature Reserve can be enjoyed whilst listening to the commentary of an experienced tour guide. The stunning beauty of the Outeniqua Mountains unfolds as you travel one of South Africa’s most scenic routes. Experience the forest, four passes, water falls, seven tunnels, fynbos, proteas, bird, animal life and the panoramic picnic site. Take a picnic basket.
Trampoline Park » (1)
Elevate Trampoline Park
George (c. 62 km)
Elevate is a 1700 m2 building housing a 600m2 Trampoline Park and an indoor Go-Kart Track. With more than 60 Trampolines and SODI Go-Karts, the fun never stops! Facilities include: good music, a foam pit, mini wall mountain climb, pay area for small kids (trampolines will only be for four years and older -this is NOT a kiddies' play park - the whole family should join in on the fun.), slam dunk hoops to show off your sleek trampoline basket ball routines, gladiator beam (beam fight over the foam pit).
Big Trees » (5)
King Edward VII Big Tree
Diepwalle Forest (c. 23 km)
The Big Tree is a famous landmark and visitor attraction near the Diepwalle Forest Station. It was named after King Edward VII after a delegation of the British Parliamentary was treated to a traditional South African lunch at this location back in 1924. This giant Outeniqua yellowwood (Podocarpus falcatus) tree is more than 800 years old and is one of the few giant trees left after the unsustainable method of tree harvesting was stopped in 1939. It stands more than 40m tall with a bole circumference of 7m.
Velbroeksdraai Big Tree
Velbroeksdraai, Diepwalle Forest (c. 25 km)
Estimated Age: 600+ years Total Height: 46m
Crown Spread: 27m
Circumference of Bole: 7m
Dalene Mathee Big Tree
Krisjan-se-Nek, Goudveld Forest (c. 25 km)
"Like a mighty king it stood towering above the white alder and mountain saffron, stinkwood, assegai and hard pear. As if god had planted it long before the others. Its giant root anchored it to the ground like giant arms." Dalene Matthee - Circles in a Forest - 1984.
The giant Outeniqua Yellowwood Tree at Krisjan-se-Nek was named after Dalene Matthee at the unveiling of the memorial. This tree is some 880 years old and 40 meters tall.
Woodville Big Tree
Woodville (c. 47 km)2015
Situated within the Wilderness National Park, this 31 m tall Outeniqua Yellowwood (Podocarpus falcatus) is one of several Yellowwoods in the Knysna and Tsitsikamma forests that qualifies for the title of 'Big Tree'. It is thought to be more than 800 years old and has a circumference of 9 m, providing a nice shady picnic spot.
Tsitsikamma Big Tree
N2 (Storms River Village) (c. 92 km)
2016
Age: 1000 years Height: 36.6 metres
Crown spread: 33 metres
Circumference: 8.5 metres
Tubing » (2)
Dune Adventures Paddle Tubing
Charlesford Farm, Phantom Pass (c. 11 km)
Experience South Africa's first ever Paddle Tubing adventure! Paddle tubing is a mini rafting expedition up the Knysna river, where few people have had the opportunity to explore. Unleash your inner adventurer,as you hike, paddle, navigate, swim and rock jump(optional). A great way to take in the south African sunshine!
Tsitsikamma Blackwater Tubing
N2 (Storms River Village) (c. 93 km)
Tsitsikamma Black water Tubing, A.K.A. “Storms river Tubing” is a unique, five hour fun filled adventure, including tubi paddling nad balancing,swimming, tube tipping, nature walking, birding, rock jumping, Although similar to 'kloofing' it is dis-similar in that stormsriver tubing caters for the wild and the mild adventurer as all rock jumps are optioanl as are rapids on high water.. Blackwater Tubing is a unique adventure into an untouched presine rocky gorge in the heart of the Garden Route - The indigenous forest section of Tsitsikamma National Park.
Viewpoints » (11)
The Heads Viewpoint
Coney Glen Road (c. 8 km)
The eastern head is easily accessible by car and has many spectacular viewpoints overlooking the channel, Indian Ocean, the Knysna Lagoon and estuary, and the Outeniqua Mountains. In fact, it was because of its excellent lookout that the National Sea Rescue Institute (Station 12, Knysna) chose to build its observation room here.
Margaret's Viewpoint
Brenton Road (c. 10 km)
On the road to Brenton on Sea, Margaret's Viewpoint provides a majestic view of the Knysna Lagoon, Lake Brenton and Belvidere Estate. Named after well known Knysna conservationist, Margaret Addinal, who persistently campaigned for the view point installation.
Brenton on Sea Viewpoint
Brenton Road (c. 11 km)
Views from Brenton on Sea to Buffalo Bay, and maybe even some whales.
Fisherman's Walk
Brenton on Sea (c. 15 km)
A total of 18 benches have been strategically placed along the trail, which give an excuse to stop, sit, and soak in the scenery. There are also larger viewing decks, which serve as popular whale viewing platforms.
The Cliff Top
Brenton-on-Sea (c. 15 km)
Kranshoek Viewpoint
Harkerville (c. 26 km)
One of the most beautiful spots on the southern Cape coast. Kranshoek offers the visitor dramatic cliff-top views of the coast at the edge of this majestic forest. From the Kranshoek viewpoint, numerous lovely rocky bays along the coastline can be seen. Enjoy the picnic area which has braai facilities plus a little stream where the kids can get their feet wet while searching for frogs and other interesting creatures. Enjoy the peaceful sound of the waterfall just a stone’s throw away and take a short refreshing walk in the forest close by.
Sedge View
Sedgefield (c. 27 km)
Pack a picnic basket and head for Sedge View (also known as Cloud 9) near Sedgefield. The high vantage point offers spectacular views from Myoli Beach in the east all the way to Gericke's Point in the west. From here there is a lovely circular drive that follows the shoreline of Swartvlei.
Gericke's Point
Sedgefield (c. 33 km)
At Gericke’s Point you can also see some of the highest fossil dunes in South Africa and there is a great 4km hike to the point and back. The point itself offers an amazing vantage point to gaze out at the endless horizon; find out when the whales have their new born calves, as this is a playground for new calves. The point is home to a resident school of Humpback dolphins so best keep your eyes open for this treat! During low tide the ocean sinks back to reveal the oceans creature hidden in the tidal pools and it is a great adventure for all to see what sea creatures are revealed when this blanket of water is removed. You will also find a number of larger pools which provide a bit of depth and are perfect for taking a dip or snorkelling, so don’t forget your goggles.
Spitskop
R339 (towards Uniondale) (c. 38 km)
At 918 metres (3,011 ft.), Spitskop is the highest accessible peak in the district. An amazing vista in an awesome setting, this view point is a wonderful place to gain some perspective on things. On a sunny day, the three marvels of the Garden Route: Mossel Bay, The Knysna Heads and the Robberg Peninsula in Plett can be seen from the view point, an experience you will never forget. A very steep climb on gravel road leads up to the viewpoint bay so driving can be technical. Not for the faint of heart!
Dolphin Point Lookout
N2 / Kaaimans Pass (c. 49 km)
Dolphin Point gives a magnificent view of the Wilderness coastline and ocean. It was named after the number of dolphins which can be spotted from here on a regular basis, as well as whales during the winter months in their breeding season. It also overlooks the famous Kaaimans River Railway Bridge.
Map of Africa Viewpoint
Wilderness Heights (c. 52 km)
The famous "Map of Africa" viewpoint at Wilderness Heights gives a breath-taking vista of the Kaaimans River valley. As the river winds and wends its way through the countryside, it makes the unmistakable outline of the African continent around the foot of the hill. One can only really appreciate this quirky feature when one views the river from above. The Map of Africa viewpoint allows visitors to get a bird’s eye perspective of this natural wonder.
Vineyards / Wine Tasting / Tours » (19)
Plett Winelands
Harkerville / Plettenberg Bay / The Crags
The Plett Wine & Bubbly Route took a huge step forward in late November 2013 when wine estate owners endorsed a Plett Tourism plan to develop a unique, wine and bubbly centred experience stretching from Harkerville to the Crags. The Plett Winelands already includes 18 wine estates. Bramon Estates produces some 80 000 bottles per annum and assists other estates with producing 100 000 bottles per annum. Most are producing Sauvignon Blanc and Bubbly. You can book to taste wine at most of the estates.
Plett WINE Tours
Plettenberg Bay
064 521 4833
WWW
Plett WINE Tours provides experiences tailored to meet the needs of both wine connoisseurs and the occasional wine drinker. Our tours include an overview of the South African wine industry, viticulture, the step-by-step process of creating wine, giving you an overview of the winelands in Plett, a little history of the various wine farms, terrior, and more. You do the drinking, we do the driving!
Only You Wine Estates Tour
044 382 4718
Chauffeur-driven Mercedes S500 to and from your Hotel. Daily 4 Hour Coastal Wine Estate Tour escorted by our Sommelier for Tastings & Cellar visits. Have you ever drank IN THE CELLAR from the wine cask or had Lunch or light bites sitting in the vines overlooking the Outeniqua Mountains? Flexible Anytime Departures-maximum 4 pax. Why risk driving drunk?
Luka Wines
Harkerville (c. 23 km)
083 767 6218
WWW
A slice of paradise nestled between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, along the famous Garden Route. We can assure you that a visit to Luka Vineyards is a promise of new adventures, delightful experiences and lingering memories. Relax and enjoy the wonderful view over the Vineyard, to the Elephant Park and the mountains beyond while you sip on a chilled glass of award winning Luka wine. Picnics can be enjoyed on our green space in front of the restaurant or breakfast and delicious sourced local baked goods and pastries, platter lunches and picnics inside or outside.
Packwood Vineyard & Country Estate
Harkerville (c. 24 km)
Packwood is an award winning vineyard & country estate on the Garden Route between Plettenberg Bay & Knysna surrounded by indigenous forests, amazing views and nature in abundance. Enjoy wines and bubbly from the vineyard and homemade cheese platters using produce from the estate dairy and gardens. With a keen interest in fine wine, owners Peter and Vicky Gent introduced cool climate cultivars in 2006 - Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay all growing in harmony and cared for with a passion. Their handcrafted, award-winning MCC bubbly and wines are available to sip, savour and purchase from their tasting room.
Plettenvale Boutique Vineyard & Winery
Roodefontein, Plettenberg Bay (c. 32 km)
Our hand-crafted wines are produced with great care and precision. The Brut Rose MCC is fashioned in the French tradition from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes and we were thrilled to receive the award of best Brut Rose MCC in South Africa 2015 for the Rose Rocks competition. The Dry Rose is produced from the same grapes that are used for the MCC, with the blending in of wine made from some riper fruit. rom the nurturing of the vines to the hand picking of the grapes and the vinification of the wine, it is a true labour of love. Wine tasting and sales every Saturday from 10:00am to 13:00pm. All other times by appointment. Cheese and wine pairing as well as chocolate and wine pairing also available by appointment.
Bitou Vineyards
The Crags (c. 37 km)
082 927 6179
WWW
Elegance and sophistication meets simplicity at Bitou Vineyards. The estate extends along the banks of the Bitou River and holds the gateway to Plettenberg Bay. Formerly Bitou Polo, the property was host to many events and tournaments. The unique estate has been transformed under the skilful and experienced eye of manager, Derek Harvey, and his hardworking and dedicated team. The vineyard`s first plantings were established in 2008 with an offering of Chardonnay, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. With this came a successful yield and a demand for expansion. With land preparation for 2017 complete, varietals Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Petit Verdot, Durif and Chenin Blanc are being added to an already established harvest.
That Wine Demense
The Crags (c. 50 km)
082 578 1939
WWW
That Wine comes from one of the smaller estates in the country. On a little plot of land in The Crags just outside Plettenberg Bay, a total of 5708 vines have been planted on 1.5 hectares. Pinot Noir is the hardest grape to grow but also the most rewarding. Close to the sea and with cooler temperatures than those in the Western Cape, The Crags is an area that can produce superb Pinot Noir. Tasting available at Bramon's Tasting Room.
Bramon Wine Estate
The Crags (c. 50 km)
Family-owned and run, Bramon, the first wine estate this far east of the Western Cape has broken new ground by pioneering vineyards in the Plett area. The success of their award winning Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines and still wines has bought a plethora of new vineyards to the area, paving the way for the new Plett Winelands! Bramon's exciting range of wines can be tasted and purchased at the Estate's ever-popular restaurant or tasting centre on the N2. Langorous lunches set in the vineyard make an afternoon a pleasure and treat!
Newstead - Lund Family Vineyards
The Crags (c. 53 km)
The Plettenberg Bay Wine of Origin region geography and climate is especially favourable to the varieties we grow - Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. We believe that small is special. We know and nurture each vine. We use organic fertilisers and recycled grey water. We pay meticulous attention to detail. And because we prioritise quality over quantity, we don’t cut costs, even taking the unusual step of using netting over our vines, which results in unusually good grapes: they’re some of the most unblemished any farmer is ever likely to see. We don’t have restaurant-like formalities, but our foods are guided by the season, inspired by the moment, and made from scratch using ingredients that are locally-sourced (often as local as our own vegetable, herb and flower garden) and always fresh, simple and delicious.
Donegal Wine Estate
Victoria Bay (c. 54 km)
083 448 8869
WWW
The start of 2019 we built our own ageing cellar, 7m underground, 20m long. A 30m long tunnel ... a recipe for good delicious wine ageing. Our special vineyard lives on the Basson Farm, which is located on the slopes of the Paardeberg Mountains. However, our cellar and tasting room is located in Victoria Bay.
Kay + Monty Vineyards
The Crags (c. 56 km)
Kay and Monty Vineyards is a boutique wine farm with just 5 hectares of land under grape. Boutique is something the estate certainly would like to put special emphasis on. At Kay and Monty Vineyards the intention is to keep the production small in order to deliver unique, hand crafted and appealing new flavours. The vineyards currently produce three varieties namely Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Join us in this beautiful setting for a languid lunch or pop in for coffee and something sweet. We offer delicious platters of cheeses and meats paired with locally sourced artisanal breads and our wines of course!
Lodestone Wine & Olives
The Crags (c. 56 km)
Lodestone’s product range includes a sauvignon blanc, a chardonnay, a dry rosé and a red blend to which have been added a brut rosé MCC bubbly and a white Bordeaux blend made from sauvignon blanc and semillon. Good news from Lodestone is that our tasting facility is now officially open and ready to welcome visitors to taste our range of wines and our acclaimed olive oil.
Houtbosch
Redberry Farm, George (c. 75 km)
Houtbosch is located in the heart of the Garden Route, at the foot of the majestic Outeniqua Mountains. An enthralling tasting room showcasing our visionary range of wine and craft beer. We aim to stimulate your senses by constantly experimenting with new and interesting food and drink combinations. The majority of our wines are grown at vineyards, situated on the foot heels and peaks of the breathtaking Outeniqua Mountains overlooking George. These vineyards are approximately 9 km from the ocean, with a variety of sand stone soils and a cold climate.
Herold Wines
Montagu Pass, George (c. 99 km)
Bounded on three sides by nature reserve, it is a remote and idyllic setting, the vineyards embraced by lofty mountains covered with dramatic stands of fynbos. Wine tasting is in an unpretentious tasting area set among tanks and barrels in the working cellar, with winemaking in view at harvest and the farm ladies hand labelling bottles during the quiet times. It is an experience of homely hospitality and sharing of folk, farm and wine lore with the owners who are usually on hand to join visitors around the cosy cellar fireplace or at the vine shaded tables. Light lunches and teas are available and picnic facilities. Wheelchair friendly.
ReedValley
Mossel Bay (c. 112 km)
Steeped in history, ReedValley was established on one of the oldest farms in the Mossel Bay district, not too far from Africa’s southernmost tip. Similar to the way that the Portuguese seafarers brought the best that the world had to offer to the most southern tip of Africa, ReedValley also source only the best vine fruit from the most suitable terroirs, and it’s this fine product that we offer to you exclusively at our venue. ReedValley offers a unique wine tasting experience in the heart of the world-famous Garden Route. At our venue, you can sample exclusive export wines that we expertly pair with traditional Portuguese cuisine. Cosy up in front of our oversized fireplace on cold days or soak up the sun on our expansive lawn during the summer months.
The Goose Wines
Sheepwalk (R62) (c. 118 km)
082 610 2276
WWW
Goose Wines is owned by Retief Goosen, who is not only a world-renowned professional golfer, but also a passionate wine lover. The Goose wine estate is situated in the Upper-Langkloof appellation, arguably the coldest wine growing region in South Africa. These extreme climatic conditions ensure unique grapes with a complexity of fruit that are handcrafted into world-class wines.On the farm you’ll also find the “Altitude T-Box”. With its panoramic views over the farm, mountains and the valley, visitors to the farm can practice their golf swing while sipping on some Goose Wines produces from the surrounding vineyards.
Karusa Vineyard & Wines
Schoemanshoek (c. 134 km)
044 272 8717
WWW
Karusa is nestled in the tranquil village of Schoemanshoek, en-route to the world famous Cango Caves from the Little Karoo town of Oudtshoorn. Well known for its Cap Classique and Mediterranean-styled wines & Craft Brewery. Karusa is the first and only Premium Private winery in Oudtshoorn. Enjoy a chilled glass of Karusa wine overlooking the vineyards and magnificent surrounding landscape, whilst sampling Karoo-style tapas made from only the freshest ingredients found in the Little Karoo area.
Grundheim Wines
Near Oudtshoorn (c. 135 km)
063 345 7400
WWW
Just outside Oudtshoorn lie the vineyards of Sandkoppies, home of Grundheim Wines, established in 1858. Six generations have been farming here for more than a century. The farm uses a historic wine cellar, more than 100 years old. Grundheim is famous for it’s fermentation process in open tanks. Everything still gets personal attention – from bottling to labeling.
Water Parks » (3)
Plettenberg Bay Adventure Land
Harkerville (c. 20 km)
At Adventure Land we offer good clean fun in the sun. The daring can enjoy really exciting slides, while gentler folk can elect to move a little slower. From mild to wild, the water park offers a 75m Super-tube, a 25m Mini-tube, the Raging Rapid tube ride, an aptly named Kamakaze slide and a 12m Free Fall slide and a 2 lane racer. For youngsters, there is a mini version of the Free Fall slide and Kamakaze slides, which for added safety lead into a separate baby pool. For those who prefer to stay dry, there are trampolines, jungle gyms and swings. A single entrance fee gives you access to the water park for the entire day.
Wild Waters Plett
Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
Fun for the whole family, water slides, mini golf, kiddie play area, swimming pool, grass for tanning, trampolines
Diaz Water Park
Mossel Bay (c. 102 km)
044 692 8429
WWW
Diaz Water Park is a fantastic family attraction located at the Diaz Hotel. The water park has various super tubes as well as a heated pool, offering fun for all ages. Bring the whole family along for a day of fun in the sun. There are braai and picnic areas available for leisurely lunches.
Whale Watching » (3)
Ocean Odyssey
Thesen Harbour Town (c. 2 km)
Knysna is one of South Africa’s best whale watching destinations, and the ocean adjacent to its sweeping coastline is abounding with whale activity during winter and spring. Many other extraordinary marine species are seen here throughout the year. Ocean Odyssey, Knysna’s only permitted close encounter whale watching operation, skilfully showcases these sentient animals during their whale watching tours. Their highly competent skippers possess in-depth knowledge of this dynamic marine environment, ensuring an enlightening and memorable experience for all!
Ocean Blue
Central Beach, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
Situated in the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay (20 minutes from Knysna), Ocean Blue Adventure offers a rare and powerful experience through permitted boat based whale watching & dolphin encounters. Ocean Blue is a licensed SABBWWA permit holder, which enables us to approach whales from 50 metres instead of 300 metres. Should the whales approach our vessel we do not have to move away. The guests therefore get an up close experience with these majestic mammals in the bay.
Ocean Safaris
Central Beach, Plettenberg Bay (c. 34 km)
We provide a unique opportunity to see some of the ocean’s largest and most mysterious inhabitants in their natural environment. Ocean Safaris offers a variety of whale watching, dolphin watching and other various marine activities in Plettenberg Bay on the Garden Route of South Africa. We are a legally permitted boat based whale, dolphin and seal watching company in Plettenberg Bay. Close encounter marine tours and a variety of Dolphin discovery tours are on offer. Private charters, specialised tours, group tours & school groups also available on request.
Zipline / Adventure Park » (7)
Knysna Ziplines
Harkerville (c. 25 km)
Our Knysna Ziplines have especially been designed and installed to enhance the natural beauty of the Kranshoek Sanparks picnic site. The ziplines are some of the longest you will experience and certainly not for someone with a fear of heights. Extremely long cables crisscross the gorge at the picnic site and with heights of over 200 meters, ensuring it will be a memorable experience.
Ziplines-In-Plett
Harkerville (c. 30 km)
073 723 8033
WWW
We have constructed 6 different zip lines, at varying heights and distances, to ensure our courses has a variety of fun and adrenaline! We also have one of the longest and fastest zip lines in the Garden Route and some of the heights are up to 40 meters above the forest ground. The course is up to 2 hours, during which you will enjoy not only an exhilarating zip adventure but also an adventure walk, where you will cross a bridge, passing over a natural river, after the landing platform of line 2. In the process you will learn and experience more of our beautiful indigenous plants, trees and wild life.
Acrobranch Wildwoods Tree Adventures
Timberlake Organic Village (c. 45 km)
Active outdoor fun on the Garden Route. The WildWoods Tree Adventure Park consists of 2 Kids courses and 3 Adult courses with 74 aerial platforms connected by zip lines, bridges, tarzan swings and obstacles. A new giant zipline of 220m is now also in action and can be added to the courses or experienced on its own. The Tree Adventure courses are a first for the Garden Route with over 4km of cabling used to create this unique outdoor adventure park. The different courses and a perfect balance between activity and fun make it suitable for families, school outings, team building, corporate eventing as well as the adrenaline enthusiast.
Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour®
Storms River Village (c. 93 km)
The first of its kind in Africa, the canopy tour involves traversing from one platform to another along a steel cable suspended up to 30 meters above the forest floor. Many of the platforms are built around giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees that are up to 700 years old! Standing within the crown of these giants and looking down at the lush forest floor thirty metres below is an experience of a lifetime. The scenery and birdlife is spectacular and professional guides ensure your safety while keeping you informed about interesting features of the forest ecology. If you are fortunate enough, you will spot a pair of Knysna Loeries or the brilliant red plumage of the elusive Narina Trogon. Whatever happens, we’re quite sure you’ll be back again!
Tsitsikamma Falls Adventures
Kruisrivier, Tsitsikamma (c. 104 km)
Situated 8km east of the Storms River Bridge on the N2, Tsitsikamma Falls Adventure Park offers spectacular Zipline adventure slides across the Kruis River. The eight slides, of which the longest is 211m, zigzag along cables across the river gorge, as high as 50m above the water in some places. Each section presents its own surprises, adventure, wonders and beautiful views over indigenous Tsitsikamma fauna and flora. Users can control the speed of their descent, allowing them to stop mid cable to take in some of the awesome views over the waterfalls. The guides provide interesting commentary about the area as patrons traverse the gorge and waterfalls.
Mossel Bay Zipline
Mossel Bay (c. 108 km)
068 022 9183
WWW
Welcome to Mossel Bay Zipline - the longest over-the-ocean zip line in the world! Seriously. We checked. Spanning approximately 1100 meters in length (and reaching up to 90km/h), our zip line lets you glide over the bay for an adrenaline-fuelled experience. Get a bird’s eye view of the caves below, look out for the local sharks and seals below or simply take in the beauty of this incredible natural landscape from a unique viewpoint that tops any other! We’re ready for the adventure! Are you?
Cango Caves Zipline
Cango Valley, Oudtshoorn (c. 149 km)
A Zipline with a difference – a double line Zip over two stages (two people slide side by side.) Starting at the parking area of the Caves - the teaser Zip is some 155 meters over a deep Karoo ravine! And then the 465 meters down to the Cango Caves estate venue over a Game enclosure!
