Knysna is a lovely area located on Africa's 'Garden Route.' The garden route is one of Africa's main locations for travelers and stretches along South Africa's Coast. Knysna is located between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean. Knysna's name is thought to derive from the Khio word for 'straight down.'



This name reflects Knysna lagoon's steep monoliths, appropriately called 'The Heads.' Knysna has a mild Mediterranean Maritime climate that ensures year-round greenness and impressive flora and fauna. It is a great vacation location for travelers looking for vacations out of the ordinary.

Traveling in Knysna

There are myriad activities to enjoy in Knysna, from exploring its blue lagoon to hiking in its Tsitsikamma National Park area. Travel is easy; you can rent a car, take a taxi, walk around, or rent bikes. Keep in mind, however, that during high tourist seasons, traffic can be bad, so you're better off going with any of the other options.

Knysna has multiple golf courses, shops and cafes, all near the amazingly blue lagoon at the center of Knysna. One of the most fun activities if you're traveling in Knysna is visiting the elephant park. Here you can visit and interact with the elephants by feeding and touching them. It is an amazing experience and one that should be explored if you're traveling through or to Knysna.

Traveling to locations near Knysna

From Knysna, other locations are accessible by minibus, taxi, or rental car; travel is thus fairly easy. It is about five hundred kilometers to Cape Town and around two hundred and fifty kilometers to Port Elizabeth.

To and from Knysna, there is also an old, historical steam train that travels between Knysna and George (the local airport) and is a great way to take in some excellent scenery. Another small village on the sea near Knysna is Brenton-on-the-Sea, and it is here that you will find even more secluded beaches.

Eating in Knysna

There are a number of restaurants that line the lagoon's waterfront. You don't need to travel far to enjoy excellent sea food and other dishes. There is a local brewery in town that also offers tastings and tours.

Travel Lodging in Knysna

There are a number of excellent hotels, guesthouses, and Bed and Breakfasts for travelers to choose from in Knysna, though price and availability tends to be limited in the high tourist seasons. If you have your own transportation, you can also check out nearby Buffalo Bay or Brenton-on-the-Sea.