Knysna tourist information

Knysna is a town in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It lies 34 degrees south of the equator, and is 72 kilometres east from the town of George on the N2 highway.

The town is primarily built on the northern shore of a large warm-water lagoon, fed by the Knysna River. The lagoon opens to the ocean after passing through two natural rock formations. These formations are popularly known as the "Knysna Heads," and have achieved infamy due to the deaths of fishermen while passing through their treacherous and unpredictable waters. Near them are geological formations, known locally as "The Map Stones." To the north of Knysna, Afro-Montane or temperate rainforest covers the hilly terrain for 20km until changing to Fynbos high up in the Outeniqua Mountains.

The town is a popular destination for both tourists and senior citizens entering retirement, especially among the British and former expats due to the year-round warm climate. Recently the town has also become a preferred destination among golfers, as the town boasts many world class golf courses. Knysna too is a favourite haunt of artists, restaurateurs and hippies.

Knysna's other claims to fame are as the end point of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steam railway, and as home to the fabled Knysna forest elephant.

Lonely Planet City and Country Guides^{(external sources)}