Top Tourist Attractions in Knysna

Best Things To Do in Knysna, South Africa

Are you looking for what to do in Knysna?

You might have a list of things to do in Knysna and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. Places like Knysna Elephant Park and Buffalo Bay will make sure your dream destinations are ticked off. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.

With so many world-famous sites and attractions to visit, deciding on the best things to do in Knysna can be a daunting task. Visiting selective places and carrying the best memories is the best alternative. Don’t rush to see all of the attractions in Knysna on your first trip itself.

Knysna is the type of city that you will love to visit again and again. Every time you revisit Knysna you can keep unfolding the different sides of it. This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Knysna getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.

Make the most of your trip to Knysna with confidence.

Tourist Attractions in Knysna

Here is the list of things to do in Knysna and tourist attractions in city.

  1. Knysna Elephant Park

    4.6 (673 Votes)
    Knysna Elephant Park

    Outdoors, Wildlife Safari, Entertainment, Adventure

    This elephant park is one of the most fascinating activities to do in Knysna. Best suited for family and kids, Knysna Elephant Park has a bunch of interesting activities and safaris that will take you on an exciting encounter with African elephants. Basically an elephant orphanage, this elephant park is a lovely home to these giants and a must-do.

  2. Buffalo Bay

    Buffalo Bay

    Outdoors, Beach, Water Body, Picnic Spot

    A great outdoor for spending a quality time on your vacation! This beach has a clean and peaceful environment perfect for a swim or a sunbath. The water is safe for a swim and serves as a best picnic spot for families and kids.

  3. Brenton-on-sea

    Brenton-on-sea

    Outdoors, Beach, Entertainment, Adventure Sport

    This natural rock formation and the amazing view of sea make a wonderful place for spending evenings in Knysna. The water is not safe for suitable for swimming but offers great deal for entertainment with activities like fishing, paragliding and sunbathing. A perfect walkway for a lovely evening!

  4. Knysna-amatole Montane Forests

    Knysna-amatole Montane Forests

    Outdoors, Forest, Hiking Trail, Adventure

    This marvelous natural resort is the perfect place to be on your vacation on the pearl of the garden route- Knysna. This forest reserve is spread over 80,000 ha and has mesmerizing variety of flora and fauna. The forest is home to African Elephant, African leopard, Bushbuck, Blue duiker and Bush pig. The highlight of this one of the largest forests of South Africa is the 600-year-old King Edwar...Read more

  5. Knysna Heads

    Knysna Heads

    Outdoors, Island, Rides

    A treat to the eyes, Knysna heads is the magnetic amalgamation of two sea cliffs in huge natural sandstone towers that guard the Knysna lagoon from the roaring sea. There are two heads- East and West. The eastern head offers a spectacular view of the Lagoon, Leisure Island and the entire Knysna. The western head is a privately owned resort accessible only by ferry. Ideal for a day trip, there a...Read more

  6. Featherbed Natural Reserve

    4.5 (315 Votes)
    Featherbed Natural Reserve

    Outdoors, Hiking Trail, Boating, Nature

    This is the Western Head of Knysna which acts as a protective shield for the lagoon from the huge ocean and is privately owned, premier experience resort. It can be opted for a day-trip or can also be explored through an overnight stay. With a bunch of activities like cruising the Lagoon, boating, nature trails and Hiking are available. Featherbed Natural Reserve serves as an ideal destination ...Read more

  7. Garden Route National Park

    4.6 (182 Votes)
    Garden Route National Park

    Outdoors, National Park

    Garden Route National Park lies on the verdant garden route of South Africa. It was established in 2009 by merging the Tsitsikamma, Wilderness National Park and the Knysna National Lake Area along with several other state owned areas. Spanning over an area of 1210 square kilometres, it has wide number of bio-diverse attractions inside. Attractions include: Birds of Eden Monkeyland Storms River...Read more

  8. Knysna Lagoon

    Knysna Lagoon

    Cruise

    This Spectacular natural beauty is explored through a cruise ride. The experience leaves the visitors bewildered! 

  9. Garden Of Eden

    Garden Of Eden

    Walking Area, Picnic Spot

    A beautiful walking area in the lush green Knysna forest is dotted with blooming trees. Green foliage, streams and the aroma of the rustic nature make it a perfect place for taking a stroll. Visitors can also pack a picnic and enjoy it on the wooden benches and tables under the shelter of the trees.

  10. Prince Alfred Pass

    Prince Alfred Pass

    Outdoors, Biking Trail, Water Sport, Bird Watching

    A pebbly path way built by Thomas Bain in 19th century runs between Knysna/Plettenbergbay and Avontuur/Uniondale. A scenic route with winding and narrow path adorned with pretty flora is a great activity in Knysna. Activities like Bird watching, fishing, mountain bike riding and golf are available.

  11. Goukamma Natural Reserve

    4.5 (100 Votes)
    Goukamma Natural Reserve

    Outdoors, Hiking Trail, Biking Trail, Walking Area

    Situated on the Garden route between Sedgefield and Knysna, Goukamma Natural Reserve & Marine Protected Area exhibits a diverse range of wildlife, birds, fishes and habitats. Covering an area of 2500 hectares of coastal forest with variety of milk-wood, yellow-wood and Candle-wood trees. Home to Vervet monkey, Bushbuck, bush pig, porcupine, mongoose, honey badger and grysbok, the reserve is...Read more

  12. Maragret's Viewpoint

    Maragret's Viewpoint

    Outdoors, View Point, Observatory

    Named after the famous environmental conversationalist of Knysna- Margaret Addinal, this is a fabulous viewpoint en-route Brenton-on-Sea. It offers excellent view of the Knysna Lagoon, Lake Brenton and Belvidere Estate and is best visited during dawn or dusk!

  13. Circles In The Forest

    Circles In The Forest

    Outdoors, Forest, Walking Area, Adventure

    A forest trail starting from the Goldfield State Forest and ending at the Krisjan-se-Nek is a natural picnic site and walking area covered with lush green grass and bewitching trees. Waterfall, forest pool with tiny fish species add to the allure of the area. Water streams can be accessed by small wooden bridges that give it a fairytale appeal. A must-do activity, the walk is moderate and suita...Read more

  14. Bollard Bay

    Bollard Bay

    Outdoors, Beach, Adventure, Water Sport

    A sand beach to chill, splash in the water and have a relaxing Sun-bath, Bollard Bay is one of the best family beaches in South Africa. Activities like fishing, Canoeing and Sailing can be explored on your visit.

  15. Spitzkop Viewpoint

    Spitzkop Viewpoint

    Outdoors, View Point, Nature

    Highest vehicle-accessed point in Knysna, Spitzkop viewpoint serves as a perfect spot to observe the wholesome beauty of Prince Alfred Pass, George, Natures Valley, the Knysna Heads, Sedgefield, and tons of beautiful Fynbos. It also offers panoramic views of the Outeniqua Mountains.