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Experiences

What to do in Knysna

The town of Knysna is bursting with charm. It’s a place to slow down and breathe in lungfuls of salty sea air (glass of wine in hand), whilst enjoying the restaurants and cafes that line the lagoon and the pretty boutiques full of arts and crafts. For water-based activities, head to the harbour and take your pick from the numerous companies peddling their wares, including yacht or speedboat trips around the glorious Heads, catamaran cruises, kayak excursions, as well as snorkelling and diving in the lagoon. If you haven’t quite got to grips with your sea legs, the surrounding ferns and forests offer the perfect terrain for on-foot explorations. Knysna Forest, home of giant hardwood trees and easy trails, and the Featherbed Nature Reserve on the Western Head both spring to mind, as well as beach-side Goukamma Reserve for some surf with your hiking. If none of that takes your fancy, hole up in one of the fabulous golf resorts and be treated like a king (or queen) for the day.

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.

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.

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.
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Namibrand, Namibia