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A beach in Knysna, Western Cape, South Africa. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills and has white sand and clear blue water.
Knysna, Western Cape, South Africa
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Knysna Vacations

Overview

Take a trip to Knysna on your South Africa vacation.

Located between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is a town in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Perennially green, Knysna is part of the famed Garden Route on a South African vacation.

Originally two hamlets, Melville and Newhaven, in 1882 Knysna town, an amalgamation of the two was established. The area was an important source of timber even before it became a town and continued to attract settlers. George Rex is credited with being the founder of the town and was rumoured to be the illegitimate son of King George III of Britain.

The port of Knysna was very dangerous to navigate, partly because of the Knysna Heads (monolithic sandstone cliffs) that flank the channel. Despite this danger, shipping remained the only economically viable connection with the outside world until a railway was completed in 1928.

Today Knysna lagoon is a haven for water sports including fishing, sailing, kayaking, swimming and diving. It is also home to the cultivated Knysna oyster, famous for its unique taste. The town is nicknamed “the pearl of the Garden Route” as its Mediterranean maritime climate keeps it green all year. This climate is perhaps one of the reasons the town is a popular spot for golfers, boasting several world-class courses on South Africa tours. Visits to Knysna Elephant Park or a hike through the world-renowned forests are recommended for tourists.

A laidback attitude coupled with exciting adventure ideas means Knysna is a destination that offers something for everyone.

At a Glance
LanguagesZulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, English
CurrencySouth African Rand (ZAR)
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