Knysna

Map-South Africa-Western Cape-Knysna1 - Map of Knysna Knysna Heads 03 (3542895437) - The Heads Knysna Heads 06 (3543708336) - The Western Head View of Knysna - Knysna lagoon

Knysna, pearl of the scenic Garden Route, is situated between George and Plettenberg Bay. Perennially green thanks to a Mediterranean Maritime climate with rain falling throughout the year, Knysna is mantled by indigenous forests extending into the Tsitsikamma National Park area. Nestled between the impressive Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian ocean and the culinary capital of oysters and other delectable seafood is a compulsory stopover on every traveller's itinerary. At the heart of Knysna is a lagoon protected from the sea by the monolithic sandstone "Heads" Webcam– best explored on board a catamaran or from along hiking paths in the Featherbed Nature Reserve. A hotspot for art and craft, as well as adventure activities such as tree canopy gliding, kloofing and abseiling, Knysna offers something to everybody.

The peculiarity of the origin of the place-name Knysna is commonly explained with a light-hearted joke of two German tourists travelling to Knysna, and upon reaching the lookout point on the eastern Knysna Head and the one says to the other: 'Nice, na?'. On a more serious note, Knysna is believed to be derived from a Khoi word for place of wood, or fern leaves, but most probable straight down or hard to reach - referring to the steep Knysna Heads.

Annual events

Knysna hosts a variety of events annually, which draw local and international visitors alike. Such events include the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival (late June/early July); the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras (end of April/beginning of May); Gastronomica lifestyle festival, which promotes healthy eating and organic principles(September); and the Rastafarian Earth Festival held at the end of July, celebrating Rastafarian religion, culture and lifestyle.

Knysna Oyster Festival

The Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival, held annually in late June/early July, is the town's biggest event. The duration of the festival is ten days, first held in 1983. Oysters and the festival's namesake, are a large component, and roughly 200 000 are consumed over the 10-day period. Many sporting activities take place too, such as rugby, golf, bowls, squash, cycling and marathons. The Knysna Forest Marathon and Half Marathon, as well as the Rotary Cycle Tour draw many a sporting enthusiast to the town.

Travel to Knysna

By car

Located in the middle of the Garden Route Knysna is easily accessible from Cape Town (about 500 kilometers) and Port Elizabeth (about 270 kilometers).

Travel on a Bus in Knysna

The major bus companies serve Knysna on their run from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth.
Dmj Transport has the lowest fare from Knysna to Cape Town at R210. And from Knysna to Port Elizabeth

Dmj transport has a fare of only R150.

Intercape has a sleepliner bus from Knysna to Johannesburg/Pretoria every day 3PM with a fare from R569.
The Baz Bus stops in Knysna.
There are Minibus taxis from Knysna to George and from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay. The shuttle van station is outside the Shoprite supermarket Nelson street.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Knysna

The nearest airport is in George, while for international flights you have to go through Cape Town.

By Rail

There is no passenger train service to Kynsna. Classic Rail is working to restore service on the steam train line to George. The old train station is adjacent to the waterfront shopping and restaurant complex, a couple of blocks from the centre of town.

There is a railway legacy museum in George, alongside the train station.

Get Around

zoom=11|layer=W}} Walking around is the best option or rent a bicycle for longer distances. Except the shuttle vanes there is no public transport so you have to take a taxi if you want. Traffic can become extremely busy during the tourist high season and long queues in and out of Knysna are common.

What to See

The lagoon: about 18 km² and home to at least 200 species of fish is connected with the Indian Ocean through a turbulent channel between "The Heads", two sandstone cliffs. Tour around on one of several boats or just take a coffee at "the Heads". Take a boat across to the Featherbed Nature Reserve on the Heads (this is an organised tour because it's a private reserve, but it's a good way to spend some time on the lagoon then take a walk in the reserve).
The Knysna Forest: about 80,000 ha are now under conservation. The 'King Edward VII' tree (at Diepwalle forest station) is an estimated 600 years old, 39 m at height, and has a circumference of 6 meters. The most famous animals are the Knysna elephants. Research involving DNA testing of dung is being done to see how many of them may still rumble in the jungle, please report any "dung" sightings! Remember to always take care. There are several hiking trails but you need a vehicle to access the forest. Don't forget the conservation motto "Take only photographs, leave only footprints!".
Pledge Nature Reserve: offers 3½ kilometers of pathways through scrub forest and hillside fynbos with fine views over the lagoon and is 500 m from the town centre. A nice place for a walk in the afternoon.
Millwood Gold Fields: Site of one of the first Gold rushes in South Africa and the Millwood Museum and Materoli Tea Room (be sure to try a piece of Jayne's World Famous Chocolates Cake) offers a unique and fascinating view of the greed, entrepreneurship, energy, and ultimate failure of the first Gold discovered in South Africa during the late 1800s. Tours through the old Gold diggings are available.

Jubilee Creek -33.9125704, 22.9602286 ☎ +27 44 302 5600 - Picnic site in forest.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Knysna

Knysna Houseboats - ☎ +27 44 382-2802 - Hire a fully equipped self-drive Knysna houseboat and spend your holiday gently floating along on Knysna's tidal lagoon. No experience or skipper's licence is required.

Walk along the lagoon, take a coffee at one of the many shops at the waterfront and head straight on for The Heads.
There are many golf courses around, often with stunning settings or views. Pezula Championship Course and Golf Club Simola Golf and Country Estate, and Knysna Golf Club.

Knysna Elephant Park - Halfway between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay on the N2 ☎ +27 44 532-7732 - Offers the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with African elephants. The elephants here are orphans from various SAN Parks and further afield, and they are so used to humans now that it is feasible to feed them and actually touch them! Buy a bucket of fruit at the entrance and the elephants will pick up bits of fruit that you offer to them in your hands, or far more likely and they will take it straight from your bucket when you're not looking! You can also (if you book well in advance) take an evening or morning walk with the elephants. If you have the time, this is an experience not to be missed.

Orbit Day Trips - ☎ +27 44 382-1546 +27 44 382-1549 Opening Hours: Departures Daily from Knysna at 8:30AM +27 72 377-3563 5 Safaris in the Knysna and Plettenberg bay area. Safari 1: Monkey, Bird & Elephant Safari. Safari 2: Game, Whale & Dolphin Safari. Safari 3: Site-seeing Day Tour (ideal for rainy or drizzly weather days). Or a customised tour (minimum 6 people).

GoVertical Mountaineering Adventures - Waterfront Knysna☎ +27 82 731-4696 - Abseiling, rock climbing, kloofing, trekking, hiking and slackpacking adventures in the Garden Route Knysna.

Millwood Mine walk
Forest Walks
Mountain bike in one of the beautiful forests.

Events

Knysna Oyster Festival - Opening Hours: Mid July every year
Gastronomica Festival Knysna - Opening Hours: End September - First week of October every year Food, festival

Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival - Opening Hours: late April

Shopping

Knysna has two shopping malls, and there are shops along the Main St. and at the Waterfront.

Pep Store - Street Georges Street Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 6PM low price Low-cost clothing, shoes & cell phones.

How to find a Supermarket with Halal food in Knysna

Spar - Main Road Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 7PM
Checkers - Rawson Street Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 7PM
Shoprite - Crn Grey & Nelson Streets Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 7PM
Savers Lane 1 Nelson Street over the street from Shoprite Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 7PM low cost supermarket

Pick North Pay - Woodmill Lane Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 7PM
Game (part of Wal-mart USA) - Main street Opening Hours: 8:30AM Monday - 5PM

Banks & ATMs

First National Bank 51 Main Street Opening Hours: ATM 24 hours no fee at the ATM for overseas cards. Has a Mastercard/Visa Card ATM.

Halal Food & Restaurants

Many restaurants line the main street and the waterfront area.

Knysna waterfront (40340555692) - Knysna waterfront

There are so many good restaurants in and around Knysna that you will be spoilt for choice!

The Dry Dock - Waterfront - Great ambiance and delicious food.

Ile de Pain - Thesens Island - Delicious dishes with various kinds of home made bread.

Zachary's Restaurant' - The highly acclaimed Zachary's is a sophisticated world-class gourmet restaurant under the helm of Executive Chef Geoffrey Murray, who delights in serving up local ingredients inspired by global influences.

Persello's Pizzeria - Memorial Plaza By Knysna Public Library ☎ +27 44 382-2665 - Italian pizzeria with wood-fired ovens, home-made Pasta lasagne, cannelloni, crostoli, crisini and other gourmet treats all under a charming atmosphere.

Freshline Fisheries - ☎ +27 44 382 3131 Opening Hours: Open from 11:30 am – kitchen closes at 8pm – restaurant closes at 10pm. Probably the best value for money seafood in Knysna

Tapas and Oysters Knysna - TH 29, Thesen Island, Knysna☎ +27 44 382 7196 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday11am - 10pm Saturday to Sun 11am - 10pm
34 South - Shop 19, Knysna Quays☎ +27 44 382 7331
Mitchell's Brewery - Arend St☎ +27 44 382-4685 - Mitchell's Brewery Offers tours around the brewery and tastings of their Cola

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Knysna

eHalal Group Knysna is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Knysna. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Knysna.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Knysna ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Knysna. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Knysna, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Knysna are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Under R300|R300 to R1000|Over R1000}}

Many Backpackers hostels, guesthouses, hotels and B&Bs compete for the visitor in off-season, but in high season prices rise and places fill early so book ahead. There are also several nice options out of town (like Brenton-on-Sea and Buffalo Bay) for those with their own transport.

Monks Caravan Park and Camping - 1km from the centre of town towards the Port Elizabeth side of town ☎ +27 44 382-2609 camping from R250 for two person. Monks Caravan park is on the edge of the Lagoon.

Island Vibe - 67 Main street☎ +27 44-3821728 dorm bed per person R140 dorm beds. free internet. has a swimming pool.

Knysna Backpackers - 52 Queen street☎ +27 44-3822554 dorm bed per person R175
Jembjo"s Knysna Lodge & Backpackers - 5 Queen Street 2 mins walk to town and waterfront ☎ +27-44-3822658 Check-in: 12 noon / Check-out: 12 noon dorm bed per person R140 single/double rooms and Dorm beds, free breakfast, free Wifi & DSTV. Book 3 nights get 10% off the price.

Knysna Glampackers at 52 on Main, 52 Main Road (One road off N2), ☎ +27 443 824 141 (@), checkin: 2PM; checkout: 10AM. 11 Cosy wooden chalets set within a forest garden each with either bathroom or shower in single, double or family options. Breakfast is not included. From R500 for 2 people, per day.

Under Milkwood Chalets - ☎ +27 44 384-0745 - Has 16 log chalets nestled amongst the Milkwood trees on the shore of the Knysna Lagoon. Rate from R825 pppns,

Amber Guest Lodge - 11 Duthie Street, Rexford ☎ +27 44 384-1478 From R350pps Four-star bed and breakfast or self-catering lodging.

Bamboo Guest House Knysna - 9 Bolton Street, Hunters Home☎ +27 44 384-0937 From: R640.00 Check-in: 14h00 – 17:00 call ahead if you wish to arrive earlier or later than that. / Check-out: 10:00 Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, 14 en suite rooms are individually styled and decorated with a distinct African touch.

Big Tree House self-catering - 56 Milkwood Drive, Upper Old Place☎ +27 44 382-5604 6-person unit R850 Timber frame double storey home.

Forest Valley Cottages - Rheenendal☎ +27 84 606-0813 From R550 per unit Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 10AM Cottages sleep 4 to 8, with valley views.

Inyathi Guest Lodges - @sa.com 52 Main Road, Westhill☎ +27 44 382-7768 From R350pps A most unusual guesthouse: although it is right in the centre of town, once you enter the premises you have the feeling of being in the middle of the African bush. 3-star.

Knysna Houseboats - TH 34 Long street, Thesen Islands☎ +27 44 382-2802 From R550 per person Offers 4- to 5-berth luxury self-drive houseboats on the lagoon.

Knysna Manor House - 19 Fichat Street, Central☎ +27 44 382-5440 R330 - R440 pps Check-in: 14:00 / Check-out: 11:00 3-star guesthouse offering B & B lodging on the Garden Route. The 100-year-old Victorian mansion overlooks the lagoon.

Knysna River Club - Sunday Valley Drive, Costa Sarda☎ +27 44 382-6483 From R900 per unit On the edge of the lagoon and the multi-award-winning Knysna River Club is a private enclave of self-catering log chalets. Surrounded by shady trees and well-tended gardens and the resort offers security, privacy and comfort.

Knysna Terrace - just off the N2 from George ☎ +27 44 382-6460 5-star guest house.

Lagoona Inn - 22a Dikkop St☎ +27 44 382-4656
Lazy Leopard - Rheenendal☎ +27 82 965-5765 From R600 per unit Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 10AM Especially the 2 smaller cottages (just 2 persons) are very nice, both have bathrooms with lots of glass, as if you are outside.

Log-Inn - 3 Star Hotel - @inn.co.za 16 Gray Street, Central☎ +27 44 382-5835 From R625pps "Indigenous" concept.

Sandybanks - Thesen Island -34.04629, 23.05249 On Thesen Island, take the first left turn to the gatehouse ☎ +27 44 382-4904 From R800per unit Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 10AM Sandybanks is a self-catering holiday home built in the style of a contemporary boathouse on the edge of the Knysna Lagoon. Views and bird watching. Swimming pool. Kayaks and bicycles available.

Saffron Self-catering Holiday House - Thesen Islands☎ +27 44 382-0089 - The house has 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, lounge, dining room, kitchen, scullery, single garage and patio directly over the lagoon.

Wayside Inn - Main St☎ +27 44 382-6011 From R355pps A very nice B&B in the centre of the town.

Zauberberg Cottage - 28 Ridge Drive, Paradise☎ +27 44 382-5357 From R300pps Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 10AM In a quiet suburb above town and offers self-catering and B&B in two traditional timber cottages surrounded by a lush indigenous garden and with a view onto the Lagoon.

Under Milkwood Chalets - ☎ +27 44 384-0745 Rate from R825 pppns Has 16 log chalets, nestled amongst the Milkwood trees on the shore of the Knysna Lagoon.

Elephant Hide of Knysna Accommodation - Cherry Lane, Welbedacht -34.03314, 23.01081 From George: ☎ +27 44 382-0427 from 740.00 Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 11AM On top of the Welbedacht Cliff Tops 3 kilometers from Knysna Town and the Lodge overlooks the Knysna Lagoon and the Outeniqua mountains. The theme of the Lodge is one based on natural beauty with stone and wood architecture combining to give that comfortable earth feel. The surroundings attracting numerous bird species. All the suites have double showers with views and are private. The lodge is a family run business that prides itself on personal service.

The GrayWood Hotel - Cnr Gray & Trotter Streets, Central☎ +27 44 382-5850 From R690pps The three-star Graywood Hotel has 49 en-suite timber log rooms with a licensed bar, secure parking and a full breakfast available.

Hide-Away Guest House - 114 Keerom, Paradise☎ +27 44 382-3317 From R560pps 5-star guest house. Two Executive Rooms on the ground floor and three Superior Rooms on the first floor offer views of the lagoon and Heads.

House Hammond - 57 Howard Street, Hunters Home -34.05948, 23.08315 ☎ +27 44 384-1524 R450-R1200 pp Bed & Breakfast 5-star guest house. Each custom built individual unit, with feature en suite bathroom, is equipped with luxury bedding and stylish décor.

The Lofts Boutique Hotel at the Boatshed - Thesen Islands☎ +27 44 302-5710 From R525pps
Parkes Manor Knysna - 1 Azalia Street, Paradise☎ +27 44 382-5100 From R1045 A four-star rated guesthouse.

Pezula Resort Hotel and Spa - Lagoon View Drive, Sparrebosch☎ +27 44 302-3333 From R3025pps
Tonquani Lodge - Welbedacht Lane, Kanonkop - Family rooms from R395pp and double units from R795pp Rated best B&B/Guesthouse with Self-Catering in South Africa three times in a row. 5-star lodging.

Villa Afrikana Guest Suites - 13 Watsonia Drive, Paradise -34.03343, 23.03161 ☎ +27 44 382-4989 R850 to R1050pp Check-in: 3PM / Check-out: 11AM Reputably they are some of the most spacious suites in Knysna and the Garden Route with combined sleeping and seating area averaging 32 square meters of living space.

Milkwood Bay Guest House - ☎ +27 44 384-0092 - A Mediterranean villa situated on the shores of the Knysna Lagoon. Rate from R799 pppns.

Telecommunications in Knysna

The town has rolled out municipal wifi provided by Uninet. Access is restricted to 45 minutes per user per day.

News & References Knysna

Travel Next

Hike in the Kynsna forest or take a tour in the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe steam-train to Knysna. Other options are a day tour to Oudtshoorn or the Noetzie castle a few kilometers north east of town.

Noetzie Castle - East of Knysna some Britons lost their castles on the beach. Worth some hours or more if you like the beach.
Brenton-on-Sea - Less crowded than Knysna this sea-side village offers endless beaches
Continue up the Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay or down towards Wilderness