Cidade Turismo
South Africa

Before you go

Your trip to Knysna.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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Knysna – Cabo Ocidental Destination Garden Route about 490 km from Cidade do Cabo

How to get there

  • Aeroporto de George (GRJ) George · 60 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

From George, the arrival town, it’s about 60 km along the N2, roughly a 50-minute drive, passing Wilderness and Sedgefield. George Airport (GRJ) is about 60 km away. N2 buses also stop in Knysna.

How many days

Two days: one for the Heads, the East Head lookout and a boat trip on the lagoon; another for Knysna Forest and a walk among the yellowwoods. Plettenberg Bay is 30 km away and can be added on.

When to go

Mild climate year-round. The oyster festival takes place in July. Summer is the beach season and busiest time; in winter it rains a bit more.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Yes, for the Heads, the forest and the route. The town centre and lagoon edge are walkable. Driving is on the left.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Knysna
  1. Morning
    Knysna Heads

    Climb to the East Head lookout to see the passage between the rocks, then descend to the small beach among the rocks.

  2. Afternoon
    Boat on the lagoon

    Take a boat trip on the lagoon from the town jetty, with a stop at Western Head if the tour includes it.

  3. Late afternoon
    Leisure Isle

    Drive around Leisure Isle, the residential island in the middle of the lagoon, with views of the Heads.

  4. Evening
    Oysters

    Try Knysna oysters at a waterfront restaurant.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

What are the Knysna Heads?

The two sandstone rocks that close off Knysna Lagoon, with a narrow passage to the sea.

What to do in Knysna?

See the Heads from the East Head lookout, take a boat on the lagoon, taste the oysters and walk in the native forest.

How long from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay?

About 30 km on the N2, roughly a 30-minute drive.

When is the Knysna Oyster Festival?

In July, during the South African winter. Confirm the dates for each year.

Back to Knysna