Knysna

The Basics

Come to Knysa for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventure-packed getaway, or a chance to experience South African culture. For the classic Knysna experience, take an oyster cruise through the lagoon and sample fresh oysters while learning about the area’s oyster cultivation and economy. To explore more of the town and coastline, join a guided cycling tour that enables you to see more than you could on foot. Just outside of town, you can explore the forest, visit a township, and admire wildlife at a sanctuary.

Knysna’s idyllic location along the Garden Route makes it a popular stop on multi-day tours of South Africa. You can spend a day in Knysna on a tour that also includes highlights such as Tsitsikamma National Park, Addo Elephant National Park, and the Cango Caves.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Knysna attracts seafood lovers and beach vacationers.

• Stay overnight to give yourself enough time to experience the highlights of Knysna.

• Make advance reservations if you visit during the busy season (December–February).

• Knysna has many wheelchair accessible and Wi-Fi enabled accommodations and dining options.

How to Get There

Located along N2—the major coastal route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth—Knysna is easy to reach on a group tour, hop-on hop-off bus, or independently by car. If you want to avoid the hassle of driving, book a group tour that includes round-trip transportation.

When to Get There

While Knysna can be visited in any season, summer (December–March) is typically busiest. Spring (September–November) is the best time to visit if you are hoping for moderate temperatures, fewer crowds, and colorful displays from fynbos, the vegetation associated with the Cape region. To spot whales, visit between June and December. The annual oyster festival is hosted in June.

Must-Visit Spots Along the Garden Route

If you are traveling to Knysna, be sure to make time to visit the surrounding attractions along the Garden Route. Nearby coastal favorites include Plettenberg Bay and Jeffreys Bay (known for surfing), while just inland of Knysna you can visit Oudtshoorn and explore the ancient Cango Caves. Nature-lovers should not miss Tsitsikamma National Park, Addo Elephant National Park, and the Birds of Eden free-flight aviary.