Knysna is fortunate to have an unfair share of natural beauty – and this is the backdrop for some great free experiences in the area!
Take a leisurely walk
Experience a fynbos walk in town on Leisure Island or take a leisurely walk along the estuary on one of the many walkways around town. The views are exquisite, and you can set your own pace! Steenbok Nature Reserve on Leisure Island is home to over 200 flowering plants and more than 100 tree species. It’s an excellent location for nature walks, bird watching, and picnics.
There are many hikes in the area with exquisite views – here are some free ones that we highly recommend are the hike from Brenton-on-Sea to Buffalo Bay, the Fisherman’s Walk in Brenton-on-Sea, the Buffalo Bay Hike and a hike on the Wild side at Buffalo Bay which is part of the Goukamma Nature Reserve. In Sedgefield the walk to Gericke’s Point is awe-inspiring. All of these walks are best done at low tide.
Experience the best views
All the best viewpoints in Knysna are free of charge, including the famous Knysna Heads, the Brenton-on-Sea viewpoint, Cloud 9 viewpoint in Sedgefield and the Spitzkop viewpoint on the Prince Alfred’s pass!
Visit the beach
The greater Knysna area has an impressive 11 beaches to choose from, all free of charge! Spend the day swimming, tanning, walking and discovering the beautiful coastline.
Discover Local Markets
Experience the local culture by visiting community markets. The Wild Oats Community Farmers Market near Sedgefield is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a lively atmosphere.
Explore Thesen Island and the Knysna Waterfront
Thesen Island Harbour Town and the Knysna Waterfront are both vibrant hubs featuring charming architecture, boutique shops, and scenic waterfront views. Have a leisurely walk, do some window shopping, or simply enjoying the maritime ambiance.
Learn more about Knysna’s timber history on the Thesen Island Heritage walk and finish it off by visiting the SANPARKS office at the end of the jetty to view the iconic Knysna seahorse.
Bird watching
The region is a birding hotspot – the diverse range of habitats in the Garden Route is home to approximately 300 species of birds! So pack your binoculars and get “twitching”!
In the ancient Afromontane forests surrounding Knysna numerous species including the Knysna Turaco, Narina Trogon, the Olive Woodpecker, the small yellow Forest Canary. The Knysna estuary are teeming with waders, waterfowl and raptors – look out for the African Fish Eagle, the Malachite Kingfisher and the Black-winged Stilt.
On the beaches in the area you can find the African Black Oyster Catcher, the Cape Sugarbird, the Orange-breasted Sunbird and the Osprey.
In the Rondevlei and Swartvlei area in Sedgefield in the area look out for the Pied Kingfisher, Purple Heron, African Jacana and occasionally, the Lesser Flamingo.
So pack your binoculars and get “twitching”!
Brush up on Knysna’s history
If you’re looking for a quick, fascinating introduction to the history of Knysna through its people and their buildings, the Main Street Historic Walk is a short (less than 1 km) route that you can explore in an hour or two.
Visit the local art galleries
Spend a morning visiting Knysna’s wide variety of art galleries and exhibitions. For art enthusiasts, the Knysna Fine Art Gallery showcases contemporary South African art across various mediums. It’s an excellent opportunity to appreciate the work of some of South Africa’s best artists and perhaps find inspiration!
Visit the mosaic garden in Sedgefield
The mosaic garden is a marine-themed Mosaic Park called “The Octopus Garden under the Sea” next to the Scarab Market. Various mosaic sculptures were designed including a giant octopus, a dolphin and an Orca.
Drive the Seven passes road
Take in the glory of the towering mountains, indigenous forests, rolling hills and rivers all at once – by car. The Seven Passes Road swerves through thick forest, over streams, rivers and gorges, and across rolling farmlands. It is so extraordinary that it has been declared as a national monument, along with its historic bridges.
These activities offer a glimpse into the diverse experiences that the Greater Knysna area provides, all without costing a cent. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Knysna welcomes you with open arms.
Hike on the beach
There are many hikes in the area with exquisite views – here are some free ones that we highly recommend are the hike from Brenton-on-Sea to Buffalo Bay, the Fisherman’s Walk in Brenton-on-Sea, the Buffalo Bay Hike and a hike on the Wild side at Buffalo Bay which is part of the Goukamma Nature Reserve. In Sedgefield the walk to Gericke’s Point is awe-inspiring. All of these walks are best done at low tide.
