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The word Knysna comes from a word in the Khoi language, although people are uncertain what it means. There is speculation though that the word refers to the Knysna heads, perhaps the most famous feature of the town. From the stone age era, the Khoisan people inhabited the Garden Route and were displaced in the 17th century after the arrival of Dutch settlers.
The town of Knysna started in 1804 when sir George Rex arrived in the area. He bought the Melkhoudkraai estate on the shores of the Knysna lagoon and moved his whole family out to the estate where they settled. It was believed that he was the illegitimate son of king George the 3rd.
During the gold rush, the Millwood mines were the place to be. Alluvial Gold was found in 1885 in Millwood, about 15 km's outside of Knysna, deep into the indigenous Knysna forest. Later on, all the old mining buildings got moved to Knysna. Fans of the mining society of Knysna kept one of the original cottages and the mine in good order, right up to today, so that visitors can still visit the Millwood Mines. One of the original mining houses was even moved back to the mining site for tourists to see.
Knysna also became a port for naval ships as well as commercial ships brining goods and supplies to this part of the country. The very first trading store was set up by Arnt Leonard Thesen and his family who moved to Knysna to set up this trading store.
Then, a gold nugget was found in 1876 by James Hooper on his farm. This started the history of Knysna with gold.
Knysna's official founding date was 1825. In 1851, Knysna was declared a magistrate, and later on in 1881, it was declared a town. The use of the harbor ceased by the time transportation of goods and supplies was done via railroad. Knysna is still mainly served by steam engines.
Today, Knysna is one of the biggest tourist attractions in South Africa. This town with it's history and historical buildings makes an excellent getaway. It is also one of the fastest growing towns in Southern Africa. The estimated population of Knysna including all people groups living there stands at about 35 000 inhabitants.
The atmosphere in Knysna is a buzz of activity, warmth and friendliness. During the Summer months, the town is a hype of tourist activity and holiday makers. An excited vibe hangs in the air, as well as a feeling of stepping a few years back, especially when going through the main street.
Knysna is surrounded by deep indigenous forests, thick into the distance. The town nests on the shores of the Knysna Lagoon, at the foot of the Outeniqua mountains and rugged coastline of South Africa.
It is home to the Knysna seahorse, the pansy shell, Knysna Loerie, Knysna Elephants, waterfowl and forest birds, dolphins, whales and oysters.
Knysna has a great way of life, and is one of the most popular towns in South Africa. Also one of the most attractive.
Knysna has a geographical climate similar to typically Mediterranean Maritime climate. The summers are hot and the winters mild to chilly. During the summer, the average maximum temperature reaches about 25ºC and rarely goes above 30ºC. The average maximum temperature during the winter months ranges in the area of 16ºC to 17ºC.
The rainfall in Knysna is one of the richest rainfall percentages in South Africa with the wettest time of the year being between October and December.
There are many interesting places to visit in Knysna. Places includes:
The Knysna Quays Waterfront
The Knysna Heads
The Knysna Lagoon
The Forest
The Valley of Ferns
Knysna Fine Art Gallery:
Dale Elliot Gallery:
Nature Reserves to visit includes:
Pledge Park
Goukamma Nature Reserve
Gamkaberg Nature Reserve
Keurbooms Nature Reserve
Outeniqua Biking Trails
Featherbed Nature Reserve
Phantom Forest Eco Reserve
Knysna Elephant Park
Beaches to enjoy includes:
Brenton on Sea
Buffalo Bay:
Coney Glen
Bollard Bay
Oyster Festival
This festival early in July is outdoors and provides adventure for the entire family! Culture fanatics, sportsmen, and people looking for a party, this is the place for you!
Forest Festival
The forest festival during March/April provides the patriotic with a celebration of Knysna's past and future. It's also about saving the Knysna forests! An ideal festival to have some family fun!
Whale Watching
During June to December, whales inhabit the Knysna coastline, giving birth to their calves, and provides the perfect opportunity for people who love marine and sea life to see whales in action.
Flower Season
During the month of September, Knysna comes alive with indigenous fynbos. It is an ideal time to experience the true beauty of Knysna.
Nederburg Knysna Arts Experience
With the breaking of spring in September, Knysna's artists welcomes everyone from right around the world. The town usually comes alive with art exhibitions, music, theatre, dance and readings! A very exciting time to be in Knysna.
Nature hikes,
Abseiling,
Swimming,
Restaurants
Boat Rides
Train Rides on the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe
Cycling tours
Picnics
Wind Surfing
Whale Watching
Dolphin Watching
Diving
Canoeing
Lagoon cruises
Bird Watching
More Activities can be found on our Activities page.
Sedgefield
Wilderness
George.
Belvidere,
Swartvlei,
Groenvlei,
Rondevlei,
Spitskop,
Goudveld,
Millwood gold,
Seven Passes road
Nature's Valley
Kranshoek Coastal Hiking Trail
Woodcutters Hiking Trail
Robberg Nature Reserve
Nature's Valley
Millwood Goldfields
- Mother Holly's Mining Museum
- Pitstreet Cottage
Email: info@knysna.ws
