Knysna Tourism And Travel Guide

Knysna is a small town that lights up The Garden Route vicinity with its perfect blend of eye-catching mountains and water lagoons. The breathtaking roadways that pass through these natural phenomena make for an incredible road trip. Tourists can either try and feed the mighty elephants at a nature reserve or embark on a ferry tour of the pristine blue waters of the ocean.

Along with its rich reserve of natural wonders, Knysna can also woo tourists with its vibrant people culture of song and dance. The city also hosts one too many art galleries that showcase intriguing artwork from ancient times. Let us walk through this travel guide to understand why Knysna attracts a truckload of tourism prospects to its shores.

By Air:

Located approximately 65 km away, George Airport is the nearest airport to provide connectivity to Knysna. Prime domestic hubs such as Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Durban, Port Elizabeth, and Johannesburg connect to this city through local airlines. International visitors should take flights to Johannesburg and then hop on to a connecting flight to George Airport.

By Road:

Knysna enjoys decent connectivity to cities that lie within proximity, such as Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. The N2 national highway passes through areas such as Swellendam, Somerset West, George, and Mossel Bay before it finds inroads to Knysna. Tourists can also use private cabs or taxis to reach their destination of choice from the nearest airport.

Knysna offers tourists with a relaxing climate all year round, with temperatures hovering between 15°C and 30°C. This weather maintains the city's status as a tourism hotspot throughout the year. Let us gauge how the different seasons fare about attracting visitors.

Spring (August to Mid-October):

During spring, Knysna is blessed with pleasant weather that ranges between 15°C and 25°C. The relenting sunshine provides a perfect atmosphere to explore some of the breathtaking nature reserves that lie within the vicinity. Tourists can take up a bicycle ride to venture into serene grasslands and exquisite river embankments.

Summer (Mid-October to Mid-February):

The temperature usually hovers between 15°C and 25°C during the summer season in Knysna. The glorious daylight adorns the delightful beaches that reside along the city's unending coastal expanse. Thanks to the perfect set of white sands and pristine lagoon waters, beaches such as Brenton Beach and Buffalo Bay Beach ring in the crowds.

Autumn (Mid-February to April):

Knysna witnesses a mild climate during the autumn season, with temperatures regularly alternating between 15°C and 30°C. The temperate weather allows colorful birds such as the Knysna loerie and the Orange-breasted Sunbird to thrive in the region. Tourists can also be a part of the Pink Lorie Mardi Gras Festival if they happen to visit Knysna during autumn.

Winter (May to September):

Knysna experiences a chilly climate during the winter season, with temperatures usually fluctuating between 10°C and 20°C. Tourists can catch a glimpse of migrating humpback whales and southern right whales during this season. This season is an apt time of the year to take up hiking trails through wilderness or join the celebrations at the Knysna Oyster Festival.

Breathtaking Nature Reserves:

The unusual combination of fertile lagoon waters and coastal fynbos plantations help different aquatic and terrestrial animals thrive within Knysna. Some of the exciting wildlife reserves in the region include Featherbed Nature Reserve, Pledge Nature Reserve, Knysna Elephant Park, and Goukamma Nature Reserve. These dense jungles breed gentle giants such as elephants and also nurture fascinating bird species.

Land of Glorious Beaches:

Knysna boasts of a never-ending coastline that is studded with white sands and crystal clear waters of the ocean. Some of the picturesque beaches that adorn the shoreline of Knysna include Buffalo Bay Beach, Brenton Beach, and Bollard Bay Beach. These beaches offer visiting families with a perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking sceneries offered at sunset.

Take up Adventurous Activities:

The presence of intriguing wilderness and tranquil oceanic waters promote several adrenaline pumping activities in Knysna. Tourists will find that cycling through the nature reserves and river banks or hiking through the serene jungles is a perfect way to explore the city. Those who love venturing into the waters can also take up exciting watersports such as surfing, kayaking, or scuba diving.

Proximity to the ocean means that Knysna is blessed with a beautiful reserve of seafood. The traditional combination of fresh fish, chips, and salad is a must-have while touring this town. The happening Knysna Waterfront is home to several eateries, one such outlet offering delicious hake and chips along with sweet potato. The Col’ Cacchio restaurant along the seashore provides tourists with excellent wine and sumptuous pizza. Some of the prime delicacies that are served in the region include babotie spring rolls, croissants stuffed with almonds and butter, 50% rye-sourdough, and pain au raisin.

A trip to Knysna would remain incomplete without a visit to Renette's Candle Studio. Tourists can take home with them unique handmade candles that have been carved out of oceanic sand and scented with quintessential oils. The Knysna Market showcases a beautiful collection of eatables on every Friday evening. Harkerville Market holds exciting shopping prospects for visitors every Saturday evening. Tourists can shop for fresh mushrooms, homemade bread, delectable locally manufactured cheese, organic vegetables, and delicious pies. The market also provides intriguing handicrafts and ornaments.