The Knysna National Lake Area is a tidal lagoon and open estuary which is part of the Garden Route National Park. The Knysna Heads with its huge sentinels stand guard over the lagoon and offer magnificent viewpoints overlooking the estuary and Indian ocean.
The Knysna Forests is world famous for its beauty and mythical giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees, some of which are almost a thousand years old. The Harkerville Forest in the Knysna National Lake Area is the end point for the Outeniqua Hiking trail, one of South Africa’s most popular hiking trails which takes 7 days.
The lake area is home to the Knysna Seahorse and the African Black Oyster Catcher which gathers in greater numbers in the winter months. The Knysna Elephant Park and Radical Raptors are two of the many animal sanctuaries which is well worth a visit.
The town of Knysna located on the shore of the estuary is one of the major tourist attractions in the Garden Route and offers visitors many outdoor activities and experiences. The small but bustling town has various cafes, restaurants, craft centres and galleries. The town also hosts many annual festivals and sporting events such as the Oyster Festival, Pink Loerie Festival and Simola Hillclimb.