Things To Do in Knysna

There are several walking and hiking trails in the Garden Route offering the keen outdoors enthusiast easy to more advanced options in hikes but in all an exceptional experience incomparable to any other coastal region of South Africa.

Garden Route Trail

A trail offering the diversity of the Garden Route in one - Fynbos, estuary, riverine, montane and coastal experiences will delight the keen hiker.

Day Hikes and Forest Tours by GO VERTICAL

GO VERTICAL have chosen firm favourites from all of the natural attractions along the Garden Route.

The Garden Route Adventure Guide

The garden route adventure guide is a comprehensive guide to adventure and outdoor activities in the Garden Route area. The Garden Route, situated along the southern coast of South Africa, is a dream playground to anyone who loves the outdoors and with a passion for adventure.

Pledge Nature Reserves

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.

Steenbok Nature Park

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.

Goukamma Nature Reserve

Goukamma Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area are situated along the scenic Garden Route on the Cape south coast. It lies approximately 40km east of George and 20km west of Knysna – the turn off to Buffel’s Bay is between Knysna and Sedgefield.

The nature reserve comprises an area of about 2 500ha, with a coastline of 14km, and the adjacent marine protected area extends seawards for 1,8km. The nature reserve includes a long beach, an extensive dune field with some of the highest vegetated dunes in South Africa, the Goukamma River and estuary, and the unique Groenvlei lake which has no in-flowing river and no link to the sea.

Featherbed Nature Reserve

The Featherbed Nature Reserve, situated on the Western Head in Knysna, is the premier eco-experience on the Garden Route.
Return ferry trip on the Knysna Lagoon to the Western Head.

• 4x4 vehicle & trailer drive up the headland onto the Reserve, stopping at spectacular viewpoints.
• Specialist guide giving information on history, fauna & flora.
• Optional guided 2.2km walk through coastal forest and fynbos into ancient sea caves.
• World renowned buffet lunch at an outdoor restaurant setting under a canopy of Milkwood trees.
• Wonderful family outing, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Daily Departures: 10H00 - lunch included
14H30 - excludes lunch
Dep Point: Featherbed Ferry Terminus, off Waterfront Drive

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.

Knysna offers a plethora of markets to locals and visitors which are extremely well supported by visitors who come from far and wide to support these well organised events. From slow food to crafts, clothing and kiddies fun - there's something for the entire family.

Wild Oats Community Farmers Market

Held every Saturday morning - an authentic producers market with choice local produce.
Summer: 07H30 to 11H30
Winter: 08H30 to 11H30
Tel: 082 376 5020

The Friday Market

Known as a "supper market" the Friday Night Market offers food stalls with exciting cuisine from all corners of the world. Family entertainment will keep from Dads to kids happy and in all a wonderful, relaxed ambience will keep you coming back here over and over again.
Welbedacht Lane
Tel: 082 277 8939

Harkerville Saturday Market

In the direction of Plettenberg Bay, travel about 18km to experience this very "different" Saturday market. In existence for more than 10 years!!
Tel: 044 533 9094

Knysna African Arts and Craft Market

Locally made goods including wire art, sculptures and kitchen items. The popular market supports local community development projects of the Knysna Municipality.
C/O George Rex and Vigilance Drive
Open Daily

Templeman Square Craft Market

Colourful crafters who exhibit jewellery, wooden crafts, fabric items and more - if you're looking for unique gifts, this is your answer.
Main Road
Knysna

Whether simply looking for a snack, delicious succulent oysters, silver service cuisine or just a laid back breakfast after a heavy night out - Knysna offer you all and more. Refer to our list of recommended restaurants and eateries in and around Knysna for more information.

Restaurants In Knysna