Knysna (pronounced 'Nysna') is a bustling little holiday town, situated right in the heart of the Garden Route.  Having won the acclaimed award of South Africa's favourite holiday town for 2 consecutive years, it is no wonder that even in the quiet season it is still very busy! 

Set on the shores of a beautiful lagoon, Knysna has a lively Waterfront area, and the excellent selection of accommodation, restaurants, galleries and craft shops, and activities makes it a superb holiday destination and a perfect base from which to explore the many attractions of the Garden Route. 

Knysna Lagoon

The Knysna Lagoon is sheltered from the ocean by a coral reef and the Knysna Heads - 2 large cliff formations which form a natural narrow opening into the ocean.

Several operators offer relaxing catamaran trips and sunset champagne cruises out to the Heads and into the open sea, which is a great way to escape the busy streets for a while.

Oysters are cultivated in the Knysna Lagoon and served in most of the local restaurants. The Knysna Oyster Company, established since 1949, is situated on Thesen Islands and offers daily educational tours, accompanied by fine cuisine.