Things To Do
in Knysna
Knysna is a picturesque town located along the Garden Route in South Africa, renowned for its stunning lagoon and surrounding forests. It serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of the area, with rich biodiversity and abundant outdoor activities. The town is famous for its oysters and has a vibrant arts scene, making it a perfect destination for food lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Visitors can explore the Knysna Heads, a pair of sandstone cliffs that guard the mouth of the lagoon, and enjoy the charming atmosphere created by its waterfront restaurants and boutiques.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Knysna Heads for breathtaking views of the lagoon and coastline. Follow this with a leisurely stroll through the Knysna Elephant Park to learn about and interact with rescued elephants.
After lunch at a local café, head to the Knysna Waterfront for some shopping and enjoying the local art galleries. You can also take a boat trip on the lagoon to explore the surrounding beauty.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh oysters and local seafood, followed by a relaxing walk along the waterfront to enjoy the sunset.
Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Featherbed Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy beautiful coastal views and diverse flora and fauna.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at the reserve before heading to the Knysna Forest for a canopy tour or a leisurely walk around the trails.
Wrap up your trip with dinner at a local steakhouse, followed by a visit to a nearby pub to experience the local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $1 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $80 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Rich culinary scene, especially for seafood lovers.
- Friendly locals and a vibrant arts culture.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Can get crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Public transport options are limited.
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Tsamaya sentle" - Goodbye
- "O tla ja eng?" - What will you eat?
Places to Visit in Knysna
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic landmark offering dramatic views of the Indian Ocean and the Knysna Lagoon, ideal for capturing stunning seascapes.
A charming island with beautiful waterfront views, perfect for capturing vibrant sunsets and the local lifestyle.
A natural reserve with breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, providing numerous opportunities for nature photography.
Food in Knysna
Knysna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly harvested from the lagoon, these oysters are a must-try delicacy, often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon or a dash of Tabasco.
Must-Try!
A traditional Cape Malay dish consisting of spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping, often served with yellow rice and chutney.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a variety of local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts, perfect for sampling local flavors and buying souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is the common form of greeting; it's polite to make eye contact.
Respect for personal space is important; maintain a comfortable distance when conversing.
Casual and comfortable attire is acceptable, but smart casual is preferred for dining out.
Safety
Tipping in Knysna
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.
Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and sunny days, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and exploring the forests.
Milder temperatures with occasional rain; a great time for indoor activities and enjoying cozy meals by the fire.
Mild weather with blooming flowers, excellent for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty.
Knysna at Night
Hiking in Knysna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal hike offering spectacular ocean views and diverse wildlife, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
One of South Africa's most famous hikes, this trail follows the Tsitsikamma coastline, providing breathtaking scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Knysna by plane.
Located approximately 70 km from Knysna, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest international airport, providing access to major South African cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The town is home to a mix of ethnic groups, with a significant population of Afrikaans speakers, alongside English speakers and indigenous communities.
Knysna attracts a diverse range of tourists from both South Africa and abroad, particularly during holiday seasons, contributing to the town's vibrant atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in South Africa, and Knysna has local teams that participate in regional leagues, with matches often attracting enthusiastic crowds.
With its proximity to the coast, surfing is a favored activity, with various surf schools available for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Knysna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Knysna offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance, especially for specific dietary needs.
Several eateries provide gluten-free options, but it’s best to inquire when ordering.