Experiences in Garden Route

Go on a Garden Route road trip from Knysna

A journey up the magical Garden Route, starting from Cape Town, couldn't be done at a better time. It’s warm and clear in December, with almost zero chance of rain along this spectacular coastline. Stop off at some of the amazing towns and beaches along the way (Hermanus, Wilderness, Plettenberg Bay to name a few) and by the time you reach Port Elizabeth you will be ready for a few of the local game reserves, offering some spectacular game viewing, including the Big Five.

Delve into the abyss at Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn

A short drive over a mountain pass will take you away from the coast to Oudtshoorn in the Little Karoo, to visit the famous Cango Caves. Set in a limestone ridge, these drip-stone caverns will impress you with their narrow stone passageways and towering rock formations, their vast halls of stalagmites and stalactites.

Visit the dramatic coastline at Storms River Mouth

Experience the Garden Route National Park's restless breakers, rocky coastline and indigenous forest, its magical world of marine life. Meet the Knysna seahorse, Brenton blue butterfly or colourful Knysna turaco. Walk on the beach, go canoeing on rivers and fresh-water lakes or head for the hills on foot or on your mountain bike.

Enjoy a boat safari in Plettenberg Bay

If you dream of seeing dolphins, seals and whales (in the right season), Knysna's liquid landscapes bring your dreams to life. On board the magnificent 50-foot Outeniqua yacht, take in the gentle estuary views before crossing through the Headlands to experience the delights of the Indian Ocean. While you meander down the coast, watch for playful dolphins, soaring seabirds and more, before returning to the picturesque Knysna lagoon.

Zipline through the Tsitsikamma Forest canopy

Located in the magnificent Tsitsikamma indigenous rainforest, many of the platforms are built around giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees that are up to 700 years old! Standing within the crown of these giants and looking down at the lush forest floor thirty metres below is an experience of a lifetime. The scenery and birdlife is spectacular and professional guides ensure your safety while keeping you informed about interesting features of the forest ecology. If you are fortunate enough, you will spot a pair of Knysna Loeries or the brilliant red plumage of the elusive Narina Trogon. Whatever happens, we’re quite sure you’ll be back again!

Take a catamaran cruise on the Knysna lagoon

Hop aboard a smooth-sailing catamaran to explore the stunning Knysna lagoon where you'll delve into the history of this protected haven all while eyeing out incredible birdlife. Enjoy idyllic views of Knysna town, Leisure Isle and splashing seals before cruising into deeper waters. The Knysna Heads, two dramatic sea cliffs between the lagoon and the Indian Ocean, are your gateway to a coastline of quiet bays, rugged caves and plenty of marine life.

Hike through the lush Knysna forests

The indigenous forest around Knysna are an endless source of delight to ramblers and hikers alike. Take a winding path under the forest canopy, boulder hop across small streams, swim in a pool below a waterfall. Stop to admire huge forest ferns and listen for the call of birds like the Knysna turaco.