Author: Keagon Borchards

Nestled between forests, mountains, rivers and sea, the Greater Knysna area continues to offer visitors a rich and rewarding year-round experience.

Knysna Municipal Manager, Lulamile Mapholoba, said the area is nestled between mountains, forests, rivers and the ocean. “This makes for magnificent natural vistas and a dreamscape for visitors to the area. With these assets comes the responsibility of ensuring it is maintained and safe for public use. Walkways, forest roads, hiking and cycle tracks are maintained. Regular water quality testing by SANParks and the Garden Route District Municipality is crucial to confirm that rivers, estuaries and recreational areas are safe for public use. These test results are available for public viewing on the Knysna Municipality website – https://www.knysna.gov.za/live-here/environment/lagoon-update/. Cleaning initiatives to address plastic and other pollution, as well as the removal of invasive vegetation are among the measures undertaken to ensure that this area this area remains safe, well-maintained, and ready for visitors to explore and enjoy.”

Mapholoba stated that the support of the private sector remains vital to the town’s well-being. “With public sector budgets increasingly stretched across the globe, municipalities are being called to be innovate, rethink, and reimagine how they deliver essential services. We are fortunate to have a strong relationship with local initiatives launched by residents, such as the Knysna Infrastructure Group, a civic-minded team of professionals working in partnership with the Knysna Municipality to address long-term service needs and help to improve delivery timelines. Another example is “Revive Knysna”, a non-profit organisation helping to revitalise and green public spaces, making the town even more beautiful for residents and visitors alike.”

Judiet Barnes, spokesperson on Tourism for the Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC) said Knysna remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming destination. “While Knysna, like many municipalities in South Africa, is facing legitimate governance concerns, these challenges do not define our town, nor do they detract from its enduring appeal as one of the country’s most beloved travel destinations.”

She reiterated that the local tourism industry is robust, professional, and fully operational. “Accommodation providers, tour operators, restaurants, and experience hosts across Knysna remain committed to delivering excellence, hospitality, and safety. From tranquil lagoon cruises to forest hikes, local art, gourmet food, and family-friendly adventures, Knysna continues to offer the rich, authentic charm it is known for.”
“We acknowledge and support the need for stronger governance and improved municipal service delivery. However, we urge the public and the media to recognise the distinction between administrative issues and the vitality of Knysna’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Now more than ever, your visit to Knysna matters. Tourism supports thousands of livelihoods and small businesses, contributes significantly to local economic stability, and helps preserve the very natural and cultural assets that make Knysna extraordinary.”

Mapholoba concluded by saying that the Municipality, through assistance from both national and provincial government, and with the help of the private sector, is addressing the challenges. “We are in the process of finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding with private entities, which will be presented to Council for consideration. Knysna is a town that doesn’t just talk about caring. We act on it. The natural beauty remains, but the community spirit shines even brighter. Come and enjoy all it has to offer: lakes, rivers, forests, scenic drives, warm hospitality, amazing, friendly people, and diverse adventures. We look forward to welcoming you to the Greater Knysna area!”

The Garden Route was packed to capacity over the peak holiday period in December 2024 / January 2025 holiday season, and Knysna was no exception.

Municipal Manager Mr Lulamile Mapholoba said that visitor numbers in Knysna shown that the destination is as popular as ever. “According to the online booking platform Nightsbridge arrivals have recovered to the pre-COVID numbers with 6300 arrivals in December and 4600 in January, earning Knysna the accolade of the most popular destination in the Garden Route.”

“December and January are our peak tourist season and feedback from the tourism sector and business supports the Nightsbridge stats. Guest houses remain the most popular accommodation option, with self-catering establishments and hotels in second and third place.”

Jan van der Westhuizen, chairperson of the Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC) said that there was a shift in the traditional seasonal pattern. “According to tourism and hospitality stakeholders an influx of visitors was only noticeable from December 20th, peaking around December 23rd. Similarly, the usual peak season period, which often extends until January 5th, saw an earlier slowdown, with visitor numbers tapering off from January 2nd and 3rd.”

“Another notable shift was in the composition of travellers. Knysna usually experiences a decline in international tourists over the peak festive period as domestic visitors take precedence. However, this season presented a more balanced mix of international and local travellers, indicating evolving travel patterns and potential changes in market behaviour.”

Van der Westhuizen said that many establishments reported a significant volume of last-minute bookings. “It seems visitors made more spontaneous travel decisions or were waiting for the best available rates. In terms of spending behaviour, businesses observed a blend of patrons engaging in paid experiences – such as dining out and visiting ticketed attractions – while others opted for more cost-conscious activities, including self-catering and enjoying Knysna’s natural assets such as beaches and hiking trails. The impact of roadworks around Knysna, which affected traffic flow into town and may have influenced the number of day visitors.”

Mapholoba said the Municipality appreciates the continued support from visitors and stakeholders. “Events remain one of the most successful ways to increase visitors to the area, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to Knysna soon. The line-up for the next few months includes the ever-popular Chukka Schools Festival at the end of February, the Garden Route Festival of Books from 6 to 8 March, the Knysna Speed Festival and the Simola Hillclimb in May and the Knysna Oyster Festival in July.”

Knysna, a gem along South Africa’s Garden Route, is gearing up to welcome visitors to an unforgettable holiday season filled with natural beauty, adventure, and unique local experiences. With its breathtaking lagoons, ancient forests, golden beaches, and vibrant community, Knysna offers the perfect escape for families, couples, and solo adventurers.

A Destination for Every Traveler

Cllr Alberto Marbi, Knysna Executive Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Chairperson for the Planning, Economic Development & Tourism Committee, said Knysna’s diverse attractions ensure something for everyone. “Whether you’re looking to unwind in a serene environment, explore hiking trails in the Knysna Forest, or indulge in delicious seafood with a view of the iconic Knysna Heads, this coastal haven has it all. We are also excited that the first beach wheelchair in the area was introduced earlier this year at Myoli Beach in Sedgefield.”

Exciting Activities Await

The popular holiday destination offers various activities to keep the whole family busy. “If it’s an adventure you’re after kayak on the lagoons, rivers and lakes, embark on the thrilling mountain biking trails, or explore scenic viewpoints. Nature lovers can enjoy birdwatching, or a guided forest walk to marvel at towering yellowwoods. Spread the festive cheer by celebrating with local markets, holiday events, and live music performances that capture the Season’s spirit,” said Marbi.

Support Local

He said that Knysna takes pride in its warm hospitality and talented artisans. “Visitors are encouraged to explore the town’s vibrant markets and galleries to find unique gifts and support local businesses. From handcrafted décor to locally produced delicacies, there’s no shortage of treasures to take home.”

Go green

“I want to congratulate Swartvlei Beach in Sedgefield which was recently awarded Green Coast status – a nod to project management partners the Knysna Municipality and the Strandloper Project. The award is a recognition for community-driven coastal conservation areas of high biodiversity and eco-tourism value that appeal to people seeking adventure and nature-based experiences. Thesen Islands & Thesen Home Owners have also retained their Blue Flag Marina Status.”

Events – the cherry on the top!

Marbi said the events calendar is well worth mentioning. “We have a jam-packed and interesting events programme this year, with something for everyone. Trail runs, swimming competitions, fun runs, wine and bubbly tastings, New Year’s Eve parties and live entertainment – visitors are spoilt for choice. The band lineup at various venues includes Kensington Road, Wonderboom, Tigger, Blues, Prime Circle, the Parlotones and Jesse Clegg. Electric Picnic, Francois van Coke, Ross Learmonth, Spoegwolf, Watershed, RAAF, Neon Dreams, the Safair Get Lucky Summer/Somer Lied, amongst others. The full summer programme can be found here: https://www.visitknysna.co.za/whats-on/events/”

A holiday to remember

“With its stunning scenery and diverse offerings, Knysna is the ultimate destination for creating cherished holiday memories. If you have not already, start planning your trip now to ensure you don’t miss out on the magic of this incredible destination.”

For more information, itineraries, and accommodation options, visit www.visitknysna.co.za,  or contact +27 (0)44 382 5510.

Gravel racing has grown and matured in recent years, stand alone events and series have gained popularity, and now the time has come for a truly world-class gravel stage race. The Garden Route Giro promises to be that and more. A six-day stage race through the stunning Southern Cape region, featuring ascents of some of South Africa’s most iconic gravel passes, and Dryland Event Management’s famous hospitality.

The inagural edition will take place in Summer 2026, with entries opening in Summer 2025. “We have been planning and working behind the scenes for two years now, waiting for the right opportunity to launch this event,” Henco Rademeyer of Dryland Event Management said. “We have a lot of experience hosting mountain bike stage races and will be bringing that expertise to gravel, then mixing it with some of the most exciting elements of road racing. The Garden Route Giro will feature special jerseys for not only the race’s general classification leaders, but will also reward the best climbers and sprinters, as well as the top age category contenders.”

In the inagural edition the race will start in the Garden Route capital: George. From there it will traverse the coastal plains to Riversdale, conquer the Langeberg mountains to Calitzdorp and take on the famous Swartberg Pass to Prince Albert. A second successive showdown over the Swartberg sets the race up for a challening Queen Stage from De Rust to Knysna, before a rolling final stage concludes preceedings in George. In total the six-day event will feature a roughly 700 kilometre long route.

“The routes will mix asphalt and gravel, with roughly 25% of the first edition taking place on tarmac,” Rademeyer explained. “The key climbs will all be on gravel though! We are very fortunate in the Garden Route, Hessequa and Klein Karoo to have excellent municipalities which take great pride in maintaining their gravel roads. Anyone who has ridden our Prince George 100 Miler will know, the gravel here is incredible.”

Along with the great gravel riding the event is set to feature hospitality like only rural South Africa can produce. Dryland are famous for their water points, which with the aid of Biogen Sports Nutrition, will certainly be the case at the Garden Route Giro too. Entrants will also have a variety of entry options. “Riders will be able to top up their standard entry – which includes six days of riding, official race apparel, support on course, medical services, lunches after each stage and VIP after-party access – with a variety of optional extras,” Rademeyer stated. “Riders who take up the standard entry option will be able to source their own accommodation and meals in the race towns, but we will also be setting up a race village and providing breakfasts for riders who book a camping upgrade. Luxury upgrades will include bed and breakfast or hotel accommodation packages, a driver/sports massage therapist to support a group of riders throughout the race, and all-inclusive packages which cater for everything from arrival at George Airport to departure.” Auxilary services – like mechanics in the race village and sports massage treatments – can also be booked through the event website upon securing an entry.

“Dryland and our partners are really excited to offer South African and international gravel racers a superb experience,” Rademeyer promised. “It will not only show off a beautiful region of our country but also create a route that’s challenging enough to provide exciting racing for the elites while being achievable with some serious training for the amateurs. Creating the Garden Route Giro has taken us back, in many ways, to the early days of mountain bike stage racing; but with the benefit of 20 years of experience. We’re confident that the first edition will already be a cracker.”

To stay updated with news from the Garden Route Giro visit www.gardenroutegiro.co.za and sign up for the newsletter.s

Tourism Month celebrations started earlier this year as the town won the KFM Best of the Cape Award for “Best Dorpie” for the third year consecutively. Knysna Municipal Local Economic Development Manager, Lungiswa Goya, said this feeds into the national theme of Tourism Month, “Peace and Optimism”.

“Tourism is one of Knysna’s main economic indicators and the livelihood of many of our residents depends on the industry. The award confirms once again Knysna’s popularity as a sought-after tourism destination. We certainly feel the “Optimism” the national theme refers to. The tourism economy showed considerable growth last year and the attendance to annual events like the Simola Hill Climb and Knysna Oyster Festival was close to pre-Covid numbers.”

International Adventure Tourism conference
Goya said they are excited to host the 11th International Adventure Tourism Conference (9 to 11 September) in Knysna. “It is the first of its kind in the area and a collaboration between ATRA (Adventure Tourism Research Association), Tshwane University of Technology, Wesgro, SATSA, We are Events, and Visit Knysna. David Frost, the CEO of Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) is one of the keynote speakers. The programme will also include panel discussions hosted by, amongst others, Jacques Stolz, the Director of the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism.”

“Historically tourism is a seasonal driver of our economy, and we believe adventure tourism can increase visitor numbers throughout the year. Knysna is blessed with incredible natural beauty and the Greater Knysna area boasts forests, lakes and beaches – a perfect backdrop for numerous and varied activities.”

“The Visit Knysna team will also be attending the ‘Focus Knysna Breakfast | Inbound Tour Operators activation’ in Cape Town. They will meet with more than 60 tour operators to promote the area and create lasting contacts.”

“The ‘Top things to do in the greater Knysna area’ leaflet is being updated to include events happening in September. The public is welcome to pick up copies at the office in Main Street, Knysna, or contact the office for the electronic version.

Knysna’s natural beauty certainly continues to shine. Whether it’s an adventure, culinary, family or wellness break you are looking for, the area will not disappoint. We look forward to seeing you in Knysna to celebrate Tourism Month with us!”

Enquiries:
Email: info@visitknysna.co.za
Tel: +27 (0) 44 382 5510