Knysna

South Africa

South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Travel Guide

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.

Shop Book
Knysna Quays, Western Cape, South Africa

Getty Images

Why visit Knysna

Embracing an exquisitely beautiful lagoon and surrounded by ancient forests, Knysna (pronounced ny-znah) is probably the most famous town on the Garden Route. Formerly the centre of the timber industry, supplying yellowwood and stinkwood for railway lines, shipping and house-building, it still has several shops specialising in woodwork and traditional furniture. The lagoon is popular with sailing enthusiasts, and there are plenty of boat trips on offer.

Lonely planet’s trusted travel insurance provider

Dreaming of Knysna? Protect your trip

Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.

LEARN MORE

We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Take your South Africa trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.

bookable trip

South Africa’s Stunning South: Cape Town, Wine Country, and the Garden Route

12 days / 11 nights

highlights

  1. 1 Cruising through the Cape Peninsula to witness the seal pups of Seal Island
  2. 2 Summiting Cape Town’s spectacular Lion’s Head Mountain for panoramic city views
  3. 3 Sipping regional wines from generations-old vineyards in South Africa’s famous wine country
from $3,100

per person

book this trip see trip details

Explore more trips

  • South Africa in 10 Days: Cape Town, Kruger & a Luxury Train Safari
    South Africa

    10 days / 9 nights

    South Africa in 10 Days: Cape Town, Kruger & a Luxury Train Safari

    FROM $6,500

    per person

    See Trip Details
Want our experts to design a custom trip for you?
start planning

Top places to visit in Knysna

Discover the best attractions in Knysna from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Explore all

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

Explore all books

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Knysna