South Africa Holiday: Knysna National Lake Area

Knysna nestles on the banks of a beautiful lagoon. It is surrounded by a natural paradise of lush indigenous forests, tranquil lakes and golden beaches, making it a real natural wonderland.

The tidal lagoon and open estuary of the Knysna River provides an excellent place to view waders in the summer months. Grey Plover, Marsh Sandpiper, Greenshank, Curlew Sandpiper and Whimbrel are prominent.

All year, but particularly in winter, the lagoon hosts some non-migratory larger species (egrets, spoonbills, gulls, cormorants, ibises). The threatened African Black Oystercatcher is present all year, but their numbers increase in winter to what is regarded as a globally significant population.

Cape Shoveller, Kittlitz’s Plover, Pied Avocet and Black-winged Stilt are also present in good numbers. African Fish Eagle and Osprey should also be watched out for.

As a result of a relaxed lifestyle, Knysna has over the years, attracted a wide variety of art and crafters, creating an artists' paradise. There are numerous galleries where one can enjoy the local arts and crafts and appreciate the talent and work that is produced here.

South African National Parks offers no accommodation here, but the picturesque town of Knysna provides a wide variety of privately run accommodation  (click on the map opposite to visit SANParks™ website)