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Viewpoint · Knysna, Cabo Ocidental
Knysna Heads
Two sandstone rocks that close Knysna Lagoon, with a lookout at East Head and a narrow, rough passage to the sea.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Knysna Heads
The Heads are the two sandstone promontories that guard the exit of Knysna Lagoon to the ocean. Between them the passage is about 300 metres wide, with strong currents and waves breaking at the entrance; sailors considered the bar one of the most difficult in the world. Even so, Knysna had an active port in the 19th century, from which timber from the forests was shipped.
East Head, on the town side, has a road, houses, a high lookout and a small beach among the rocks. From the lookout you can see the passage, the whole lagoon and Western Head on the opposite side.
Western Head is a private reserve, Featherbed, that is visited only by boat on tours that depart from the town jetty and include a walk through the reserve and lunch.
The lagoon is a marine reserve and is home to the Knysna seahorse, an endangered species that lives in only a few estuaries along the southern coast.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Best time
At late afternoon, with the sun low over the lagoon, and at high tide, when water pushes strongly through the passage.
How to get there
East Head is about 5 km from Knysna centre via George Rex Drive by car. Western Head can only be reached by boat.
Tip
Walk down to the small beach at the foot of East Head and see the tidal pools at low tide. Do not enter the sea at the passage: the currents are strong.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Knysna Heads
How to get to the Knysna Heads?
East Head is about 5 km from the centre via George Rex Drive by car. Western Head only by boat.
Can you swim at the Heads?
On the small sheltered beach at East Head, yes, with caution. At the passage between the rocks, no: the currents are strong.
What is the Featherbed reserve?
The private reserve on Western Head, visited on boat tours from the Knysna jetty.