Things To Do
in Knysna
Knysna is a charming town located along the picturesque Garden Route in South Africa. It is renowned for its stunning lagoon, lush forests, and serene beaches. The town is also famous for its oysters and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and bird watching.
Visitors can enjoy the vibrant arts and crafts scene, as well as exploring the quaint waterfront and historic buildings.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast in town before heading to the Knysna Forest. Take a guided walk to see the majestic trees and unique wildlife.
Visit the Knysna Elephant Park to learn about and interact with these gentle giants. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park surrounded by nature.
Dine at a local restaurant where you can savor fresh seafood and local cuisine. Spend the evening at the Knysna Waterfront, watching the sunset over the lagoon.
Kick off your morning with a boat trip on the Knysna Lagoon. Enjoy the scenic views and keep an eye out for birdlife.
Visit Thesen Island, where you can enjoy shops and cafes. Rent a kayak or go stand-up paddleboarding for some adventure.
Have dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants with views of the lagoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy the night air.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including the Knysna Lagoon and surrounding forests.
- Rich biodiversity and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and water sports.
- Mild climate throughout the year, making it an appealing destination for tourists and residents.
- Vibrant cultural scene with art galleries, markets, and local cuisine.
- Proximity to the Garden Route National Park, offering additional recreational opportunities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, which may be a concern for those seeking employment.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak times, affecting the experience of both visitors and residents.
- High cost of living relative to some other areas in South Africa, particularly in terms of housing.
- Vulnerability to extreme weather events and environmental changes, such as droughts and flooding.
- Limited public transport options, making it challenging for those without cars to navigate the area.
Best Activities in Knysna
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beauty of the indigenous forest and enjoy scenic trails.
Experience the stunning natural landscapes and marine life.
Enjoy thrilling trails and breathtaking views.
Observe a diverse range of bird species in their natural habitat.
Engage in exciting outdoor adventures with stunning forest views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Knysna with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Knysna
Visit one of these nice places.
A pair of sandstone cliffs that flank the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surroundings.
A scenic area with a marina, shops, and restaurants, where visitors can capture stunning images of boats, the estuary, and the iconic red bridge.
A beautiful beach area with panoramic views of the ocean, ideal for capturing sunset photos and coastal landscapes.
Food in Knysna
Knysna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Braaivleis, or grilled meat, is a quintessential South African dish. It usually includes a variety of meats such as boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and chicken. Look for local braai stands or visit restaurants like The Anchorage for a delicious braai experience.
Must-Try!
Bobotie is a spiced minced meat dish with an egg-based topping, which reflects Cape Malay influences. To savor authentic bobotie, head to île de païn, a renowned bakery and café known for its traditional South African fare.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Knysna better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Hill Plum Farm Stall is a fantastic spot to explore local food products, including homemade preserves, fresh produce, and baked goods. Visitors can also enjoy a selection of local street food like vetkoek (deep-fried bread) and samoosas (savory pastries).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Knysna, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them using their titles and showing deference in interactions.
Greetings are important in South African culture. It is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during conversations as a sign of respect.
Knysna is home to sacred sites and traditions of indigenous communities. It is important to show respect for these sites and seek permission before visiting them.
Dress code is important and modest clothing is generally preferred. It is respectful to cover up when visiting public places.
Learning a few phrases in the local language, such as isiXhosa, is appreciated as a way of showing respect for the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Knysna with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Knysna
Ensure a smooth experience
In Knysna, South Africa, tipping is commonly practiced in restaurants, bars, hotels, and for various services. It is customary to tip around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants and bars, while hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers often receive tips as well.
Payment in Knysna, South Africa, is predominantly done in the local currency, South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, especially in tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in more remote areas where card facilities may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Knysna.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for outdoor activities, beach-going, and birdwatching. Warm temperatures and occasional rain showers.
Milder temperatures, perfect for hiking and exploring, with fewer tourists.
Cooler weather, ideal for whale watching and enjoying cozy indoor activities.
Wildflowers in bloom, good for nature walks and experiencing the rejuvenation of the landscape.
Knysna at Night
Hiking in Knysna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area featuring diverse flora and fauna, with multiple hiking trails that cater to different skill levels.
A stunning coastal reserve offering various hiking trails with breathtaking ocean views and opportunities to see marine wildlife.
A scenic area between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, offering trails that wind through dense forest and along the coastline.
Features hiking trails that take you through sand dunes, coastal forests, and the stunning Goukamma River.
A challenging hike for experienced trekkers, offering panoramic views and diverse landscapes along the way.
A short and accessible trail perfect for families, leading to beautiful viewpoints in the indigenous forest.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Knysna through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Knysna by plane.
The nearest international airport to Knysna, located approximately 50 kilometers away.
A major international airport located about 450 kilometers from Knysna, serving a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Located approximately 300 kilometers from Knysna, this airport offers both domestic and some regional international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group includes people of European descent, comprising the largest demographic in Knysna.
This group includes individuals of mixed racial ancestry, significant in the region's cultural identity.
This demographic group includes various ethnic groups native to Southern Africa.
A smaller demographic group that includes individuals of Indian and other Asian descent.
The Soul of Knysna
Discover the essence of Knysna through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Knysna is home to several world-class golf courses, attracting both local and international players.
The area has beautiful beaches and great waves, making it popular for surfing enthusiasts.
The Knysna Lagoon and surrounding waterways are ideal for kayaking, offering stunning views and wildlife.
Knysna features various mountain biking trails that cater to different skill levels, attracting cyclists.
With its scenic routes, Knysna is a popular destination for running events and enthusiasts.
The Knysna Lagoon is a great spot for sailing, with facilities for both experienced and novice sailors.
The region offers numerous hiking trails in the surrounding forests and coastal areas, perfect for outdoor lovers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Knysna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional South African cuisine may be meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes in Knysna offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Places like Die Gieter and île de païn are known for their diverse and delicious plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable dishes in various eateries across Knysna. Restaurants like île de païn and 34 South accommodate gluten-free dietary needs with thoughtfully crafted menu items.