#EatStayPlay: 11 Unmissable Activities in Knysna/Garden Route

Nestled along South Africa’s stunning Garden Route, Knysna is a hidden gem that beckons travelers with its unique blend of natural beauty and exciting activities. This charming town, surrounded by indigenous forests and overlooking a picturesque lagoon, offers an unforgettable holiday experience for adventure seekers and families alike. As part of our #EatStayPlay campaign, we’ve compiled a list of 11 must-try activities that showcase the best of Knysna:

1. Featherbed Eco Experience – Embark on an eco-adventure at the Featherbed Nature Reserve. This 4-hour excursion begins with a scenic ferry ride across the Knysna Lagoon. Once on the Western Head, you’ll enjoy a 4×4 vehicle tour, guided nature walk, and optional 2.2 km downhill walk through coastal forest and fynbos. The experience concludes with a delicious buffet lunch at an outdoor restaurant under a canopy of milkwood trees.
2. The Featherbed Reserve is a 75-hectare patch of pristine nature on the Western Head, only accessible by boat. It protects one of the last-remaining stands of rare Knysna sand fynbos, along with over 300 other species of fynbos and trees.

Good to know: The paddle cruiser can be booked for a lagoon cruise with a tapas meal (midday and sunset), and the Featherbed Co. also operates the John Benn, a historic double-decker à la carte floating restaurant.

2. Garden of Eden Forest Walk Step into a world of enchantment at the Garden of Eden. This short, wheelchair-friendly boardwalk meanders through a section of Knysna’s indigenous forest. As you stroll beneath towering yellowwoods and stinkwoods, keep an eye out for colorful forest birds and the elusive Knysna loerie.
3. Picnic at Jubilee Creek For a tranquil day out, pack a picnic and head to Jubilee Creek in the Goudveld Forest. This secluded spot offers a serene setting for relaxation, with the gentle sound of the creek as your backdrop. After your meal, take a refreshing dip in the natural rock pools or try your hand at gold panning – a nod to the area’s gold-mining history.
4. Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour While technically just outside Knysna, this exhilarating experience is worth the short drive. Glide between platforms set high in the treetops of the magnificent Tsitsikamma Forest. As you zip from one ancient tree to another, you’ll gain a unique perspective of the forest ecosystem and possibly spot some of its wildlife inhabitants.
5. Buffalo Bay Beach No visit to Knysna is complete without a trip to the beach. Buffalo Bay, just a short drive from town, offers a pristine stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and long walks. It’s also a popular spot for surfing and fishing. Pack a picnic or enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants while watching the waves roll in.
6. Paraglide from the Map of Africa The Map of Africa viewpoint offers an aerial perspective of the lake district and the Kaaimans River’s Africa-shaped course. It’s also a popular launch site for tandem paragliding. Soar like an eagle over the ocean with 360-degree views of the 18km beach stretch and lakes. Choose between a 10-minute standard flight or a 20-minute adventure flight where you can take the controls.

Good to know: Minimum age is 14 years old. There’s a discount for groups of four or more. Paraglide Africa also launches from the “Cloud 9” site in Sedgefield.

7. Oyster Tour Sample – Knysna’s famous oysters on this 1.5-hour lagoon cruise. Learn about wild and cultivated oysters, and enjoy some bubbly for an additional cost (white wine is complimentary).

Please Note: Knysna Charters offers other tours, including lunch and dinner cruises on a 44-foot catamaran. Kayak rentals are also available.

8. Tandem Skydiving Experience the thrill of jumping from a plane at 10,000 feet. Freefall at 200km/h for 35-40 seconds before the parachute opens, then enjoy the scenery before landing at the airport or on the beach. A 12,000-foot jump option is available for a longer freefall.

Please Note: Weight limit is 100kg; age limit is 12 years or older.

9. Storms River Kayak + Lilo Trip Explore the Storms River Gorge on this 2.5-hour adventure. Paddle under the suspension bridge, kayak upriver between cliffs, then switch to a lilo to float deeper into the gorge. Try cliff jumping on the way back. An extended half-day adventure is also available.

10. Zipline Canopy Tour Glide through the ancient indigenous rainforest 30 meters above ground. Spot rare birds and learn about the forest ecosystem. The tour includes 10 steel-cable ziplines and a suspension bridge, with full safety briefing and guides.
11. Bloukrans Bungee + Sky-Walk Experience the world’s highest natural commercial bungee jump at 216 meters. Reach the launch site via zipline, then take the plunge. The Sky-Walk, a walkway suspended from the bottom of the bridge, offers stunning views for those who prefer not to jump.

Good to know: Minimum age for bungee is 14 years; for Sky-Walk, 6 years. Weight limits: 35kg minimum, 150kg maximum.

Remember to use #EatStayPlay when sharing your Knysna adventures on social media. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or family fun, Knysna has something for everyone. Come and discover why this charming town is a jewel of the Garden Route!