There’s more to Knysna than the beach and lagoon. Image: Adobe Stock
The great outdoors: Child-friendly things to do in Knysna
This town can still deliver bucket loads of fun even if the beach and lagoon are off limits.
There’s more to Knysna than the beach and lagoon. Image: Adobe Stock
This scenic Garden Route town so favoured by holidaymakers is nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Outeniqua mountains. Here’s our pick of family-friendly outings that will make you forget your hankering for sand and waves.
Extraordinary Elephant Encounters at Knysna Elephant Park
Meet the park’s herd of 10 elephants and take a walk in nature, all while responsibly socially distancing. The elephant experience lasts 45 minutes and the walks are weather permitting.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and remember that a reasonable level of fitness is required. Listen to elephant tales as told by the tour guides while taking in panoramic views of the mountains and Knysna forest.
Price: R900 per person for the elephant experience; R390 for the nature walk.
Book online at: knysnaelephantpark.activitar.com
Glide over treetops at Knysna Ziplines
This is the perfect activity for adrenaline junkies and offers the added bonus of spectacular views of the landscape and forest. The zipline spans an impressive 2.2km and heights of up to 200 metres.
Bookings are essential and Go Pros can be rented to make the experience even more memorable. Children over the age of eight can take part in the activity over the Kranshoek Gorge.
Price: R600 per person
Book online at: knysnaziplines.co.za
Visit a farm stall at The Farm
This is the ideal place where parents and children can bond over coffee and cake. Kids can roam freely around the farm feeding the bunnies, ride their bikes and playing the garden.
The Farm also hosts markets where you can support local creatives and makers — check the venue’s Facebook page for market-day updates.
Opening hours: 08:30 to 14:00
Visit their Facebook page here.
Support artisans at the Wild Oats Farmers Market
This famous market is in Sedgefield, a 20-minute drive from Knysna, and is open every Saturday morning, come rain or shine. It will also continue operating every Saturday while the renewed lockdown Level 3 restrictions are in place.
This COVID-compliant market is outdoors in the fresh air, but visitors must wear masks and sanitise.
Stock up home-made bread, jams, cheese and more, and marvel at the hand-crafted items made by the various stallholders. The market is dog-friendly too and has plenty of space for kids to run around.
Opening times: Saturdays, 07:30 to 12:00
Take a scenic drive to these viewing points
It’s free and it’s safe, so jump in your car and take a few pictures of these natural wonders. The Knysna Heads is a must-see for those visiting the town.
Another great viewpoint is Spitzkop, the highest accessible peak in the area at 918 metres. The gravel road can be driven by car, and the panoramic view of both Plettenberg Bay and Knysna is unmatched.
