It’s no secret that the dreamy coastal town of Knysna with its picturesque views, ancient magical forests and delicious oysters make it a firm favourite with local and international travellers alike. Snuggled against the banks of a shimmering lagoon in the heart of South Africa’s Garden Route and dubbed ‘natures playground’ you can indulge in the indigenous forests, fynbos, lakes, rivers and mountains and the beautiful coastlines that Knysna has to offer. Besides being a perfect holiday destination, you can engage in thrilling adventures. The area boasts a plethora of amazing things to do!
Whether you are looking for adventures or pure bliss, these are the TOP must-do activities when visiting Knysna!
1. Bungee jump at bloukrans bridge
Take the plunge and experience a bungee jump off the arch of Bloukrans Bridge, the highest commercial natural bungee jump in the World. The jump is a whopping 216 metres (709 ft) drop. Gazed down the mighty Bloukrans River and suddenly the beauty of this picturesque location will hit you. This exclusive and thrilling activity is great to do in groups with friends and family, or just cheering them on while you wait from the safety of the bridge!
Open 365 days a year and situated at Bloukrans Bridge on the N2 Highway at the border between the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape in the Tsitsikamma area of The Garden Route. If you are planning on doing a bungee jump anywhere, this is the place to do it!
If bungee jumping is not for you, there are many other activities to enjoy at Bloukrans Bridge.
2. Whale watching
From May until December you can get up close and personal with the gentle giants of the ocean on a whale-watching tour! Sail through the Knysna Heads and out to the vast and beautiful Indian Ocean in search of Humpback and Southern Right whales. Every year, these majestic creatures leave their icy feeding grounds off Antarctica and grace the coast of Knysna to frolic in the warmer waters. You may even spot a dolphin and penguin or two! Book a whale watching tour with a Knysna close-encounter tour operator for this undeniably memorable experience.
3. Lagoon cruise
There are many ways to see and experience this beautiful part of South Africa. Book a cruise or get direct access to the lagoon via our Premier Resort private waterway with docking and mooring facilities. Spend some time out with your family on the tranquil Knysna Lagoon aboard a leisurely cruise, ferry, inflatable boat, yacht or kayak through the calm waters. Feel the wind in your hair as you sail on the pristine Indian Ocean waters, past Knysna heads, small coastal towns, and through the turquoise waters of Featherhead Bay. Watch the skies change and enjoy all the sights, sounds and abundant marine life as you cruise along the sparkling estuary with a glass of bubbly in hand!
4. A beach day with the family
The clean, beautiful and safe beaches near Knysna are easily one of the most relaxing, exciting, and fun-filled places to spend with your family. You can enjoy the fine beach sand between your toes, sun-kissed shoulders, waves crashing to the shore, and dipping in crystal clear waters. Brenton on Sea, Buffalo Bay, and Bollard Bay are some of the most beautiful blue flag beaches around with spectacular views, breathtaking sunsets and stunning photography opportunities.
Spend the day splashing, swimming, surfing, exploring the rock pools or enjoying a relaxing long walk before grabbing a quick bite to eat and much-needed ice cream or thirst-quenching refreshment. You may even be lucky enough to find some good little fishing spots.
5. Knysna hiking trial
Knysna has some of the best trails whether you’re hiking, biking, trail running, or exploring other outdoor activities. There are 22 trails to choose from, some with historic sites and others with beautiful natural areas, perfect for any outdoor enthusiasts at any skill level.
Some of the popular hiking trails in Knysna:
Garden of Eden:
A short and easy trail suitable for all ages and wheelchair friendly. The walk takes you through a forest with incredible birdlife. 1 km of wooden boardwalks and bridges across streams. There are benches to stop and take in the beauty around you or have a picnic.
Circles in the Forest:
Situated in the Garden Route National Park is a beautiful walk through an indigenous forest. Walk among huge forest ferns and frog-filled streams with small wooden bridges and take a dip in the cool swimming spot and waterfall. End your walk off with a braai or picnic at the Krisjan-se-Nek picnic site.
Drupkelders Hiking Trail:
Go for a short hike or trail run through the forest before spending some time at the Homtini River where you can swim to the small waterfall upstream. Entrance fees do apply and a permit must be obtained from the access gate at the Goudveld Entrance boom.
Jubilee Creek:
Jubilee Creek is a much-loved hike and picnic site in the Knysna forest and is an ideal day outing for the family, young and old. Situated on the banks of Millwood Creek, with a fresh forest stream lazily flowing through the area. You can also take a dip at the end of your hike in the beautiful pool or catch a nap on the grass.
6. A lazy day by the pool
When visiting Knysna with our beautiful weather all year round, one can’t resist a fun day of swimming and lounging by the poolside soaking up the sun. And why not? Premier Resort guests can enjoy our man-made beach area with a rim flow pool overlooking the Knysna Estuary. Spend a whole day relaxing, sharing a champagne moment and taking in the pristine natural beauty of Knysna.
Knysna is a popular getaway destination, especially over the December holidays and special holidays like Easter. If you are looking for serene and comfortable accommodation, Premier Resort The Moorings is a great base from which to explore the Knysna and The Garden Route. If you are visiting during peak season, book with us now to avoid disappointment!
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