🏞 Knysna — The Jewel of the Garden Route

2026 Town Guide490km from Cape TownPop. 77,000
Knysna
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The Lagoon
17km² Estuary
One of South Africa's most important estuaries, home to the endangered Knysna seahorse
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Oyster Capital
Since 1949
The annual Knysna Oyster Festival in July draws over 40,000 visitors to town
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Indigenous Forest
80,000 hectares
SA's largest indigenous forest — ancient yellowwood and stinkwood trees up to 800 years old

Did You Know?

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Knysna seahorse (Hippocampus capensis) is the only seahorse species found exclusively in South Africa and is critically endangered.
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The devastating 2017 Knysna fires destroyed over 600 homes but the town rebuilt and is now more resilient than ever.
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The legendary Knysna elephants once roamed these forests — a single confirmed elephant was last recorded in the wild in 2019.
Knysna sits on the shores of a spectacular lagoon, guarded by the iconic sandstone Knysna Heads. This charming town blends pristine natural beauty with excellent dining, vibrant arts, and year-round adventure. Whether you're cracking fresh oysters at the Waterfront or hiking ancient forest trails, Knysna delivers the quintessential Garden Route experience.