Knysna Ziplines, Kranshoek

2 day itinerary in the greater Knysna area

You’d be hard pressed to fit all the things there are to experience and explore the greater Knysna area in two months – never mind two days. But if you have to, here is our suggestion for a jam packed two days in paradise.

Day one

Be sure to fuel up at breakfast before kicking off the day with a guided scootour through the Knysna forest – a unique, thrilling forest experience on a body-powered scooter. Joining the morning trip means that you have the rest of the day to explore more. Tour shuttles depart from Thesen Harbour Town at 09h00, 12h00 and 15h00. Book in advance.

Top Tip: This is a great family friendly activity!

Another way to explore the Knysna forest is on foot with one of the many hikes in the area. A good option is the Circles in a Forest 9km (moderate) or 3km (easy) circular route. It starts and end at the Krisjan-se-Nek picnic site. If you prefer exploring by bike, find more information here

You can either pack a picnic and have lunch at the picnic site, or drive towards Belvidere brushing up on Knysna’s history and a scrumptious lunch here, or further along to road at Brenton-on-Sea.

The Bell, Belividere

Top Tip: After lunch go for a relaxing walk along the beautiful beach at Brenton-on-Sea.

Return to Knysna town and discover the delightful, quaint shops, then catch the sunset from the popular Knysna Heads viewpoint. To round off a beachy afternoon, book a table for dinner at one of the many restaurants on the edge of the water at Thesen Harbour town. There is a also a great play area for the kids if you are travelling with your family.

Thesen Harbour Town

Top Tip: With 180 deg views of the Knysna lagoon and yummy cocktails, pre-dinner drinks at the Project Bar on Thesen Island is arguably one of the best spots to watch the sun set! It is situated upstairs at Sirocco on Thesen Island.

Day two

Adrenaline junkies won’t find a better start to the morning than flying higher than 200m above nearby Kranshoek at Knysna Ziplines. If you’d prefer something equally awe-inspiring, but a bit more grounded, spend the morning with the elephants of the Knysna Elephant Park, South Africa’s first orphaned African elephant sanctuary.

Grab lunch at any of the great restaurants in Knysna before embarking on your Knysna estuary adventure on one of the many boat excursions.

If the Moonlight Meander takes place during your stay, head out to Sedgefield after your boat ride. Grab a takeaway to enjoy at the Swartvlei beach before this amazing exploration of the intertidal pools by torchlight.

If you’re inspired by any of these ideas of what to do in Knysna, make sure to add them to your personal itinerary planner.