As an EDGE of AFRICA volunteer you are lucky enough to be based in one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa. After (what is for most people) a very long flight you will be met with stunning views as you meander through impressive mountain passes and past beautiful beaches as you make your way to the volunteer house in Knysna.
Knysna itself is nestled on the shores of the Knysna estuary (or Knysna lagoon as it is more commonly known); the most biologically diverse estuary in South Africa and home to the Knysna Seahorse – the most threatened seahorse species in the world. Knysna is also one avenue to the Tsitsikamma Forest which stretches from just west of George to the Tsitsikamma River near Humansdorp. This indigenous forest is a beautiful place to take a walk and is home to numerous fauna and flora. The forest is also home to the world’s most southerly elephants, however sadly with only a handful of elephants left the forest elephants are rapidly becoming part of Knysna’s history rather than Knysna’s nature.
Knysna is a modern, friendly town with something for everyone. It has all the necessary amenities, all within walking distance, such as ATMs, medical support, internet cafes…and of course shopping malls!
The nightlife is varied, so whatever your taste there will be something for you, be it live bands, chilled pubs, cocktail bars or fancy restaurants! There are also a number of festivals held annually in Knysna, such as the Knysna Oyster Festival, the Arts Festival, the Pink Loerie Festival, and the Community Sports Beach Festival.
During your stay in Knysna you will find plenty of things to do both in Knysna and in the surrounding areas….
If you want activities within walking distance then why not take a stroll down to the waterfront and enjoy the Featherbed eco-experience. Here you will enjoy a ferry cruise with a local guide sharing information on the Knysna Lagoon (or more accurately Knysna estuary!) as well as Knysna’s history. Following the cruise you will experience a guided walk around Featherbed Nature Reserve where you can enjoy beautiful views of the lagoon, the mountains and of Knysna town.
If wildlife is your thing, then you will be happy to know that there are several places for you to visit close to Knysna.
Just 40 minutes drive away at The Crags, Plettenberg Bay you will find ‘Animal Alley’. Here you will find many fantastic wildlife attractions, including: Monkeyland, the World’s first free-roaming, multi-species primate sanctuary, home to around 400 apes, monkeys and lemurs; Birds of Eden, the largest free-flight aviary in the world, home to over 3,000 birds of around 200 species; and Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre where you will be offered a truly unique wildcat experience as well as helping to fund Tenikwa’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.
If it’s marine life you’re looking for then why not take the 30 minute drive to Plettenberg Bay beach and take a boat trip round the bay. After an exciting beach launch you will have the chance to see Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins, some shark species, Bryde’s whales, Southern Right whales, Humpback whales (during season) and Cape Fur seals.
Desperate to see the famous Big 5?? Then never fear, only 1 hour and 30 minutes drive away you will find Garden Route Game Lodge which is home to all the Big 5 animals along with many other species. Here you can enjoy a 2 hour Game drive, taking in the sights and soaking up the knowledge of an experienced Field Guide.
If it’s the truly wild feel of a big National Park you want then Addo Elephant NP is the place for you 4 hours from Knysna, here you will find the highest concentration of African elephants in the world (over 400 elephants!) as well as the other Big 5 species and many many more!
Need to satisfy your inner adrenaline junky?? Then why not cross over to the Eastern Cape to the Bloukrans Bridge, just 45 minutes drive from Knysna. Here you can face your fears at the World’s highest bungee jump…216 metres!!!
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