1. How far is Knysna from Cape Town?

Knysna is approximately a 5–6 hour drive from Cape Town along the Garden Route.

2. What activities are available in Knysna?

Visitors can enjoy hiking, beaches, boating, wildlife viewing, and trips to Featherbed Nature Reserve.

3. Are there options for all budgets?

Yes, Knysna offers accommodation and dining ranging from budget-friendly to luxury experiences.

4. Is Knysna suitable for families?

Absolutely, the town offers family-friendly activities, nature experiences, and safe beaches for all ages.

Amakhala Game Reserve – Eastern Cape Safari & Big 5 Adventure

Diverse ecosystems & thrilling wildlife encounters with Amakhala

Just north of Port Elizabeth and on the doorstep of the Addo Elephant Park, visitors will find Amakhala Game Reserve. Patches of forest, robust Nama Karoo, dense thickets of valley, thorn-tree terrain and sweeping grasslands cover the area. Here you will find that the vegetation is almost as compelling as the reserve’s wildlife inhabitants.

Highlights

Amakhala boasts all five ecosystems found in the Eastern Cape resulting in diverse and abundant wildlife and vegetation
Game drives showcase not only the Big 5 but other wildlife such as the bat-eared fox, monkeys, tortoises and even insects
The Bushman’s River flows through the park allowing guests to explore its banks and waters by boat or canoe
The reserve’s lodges offer private plunge pools, double indoor and outdoor showers and game-viewing decks

Included/Exclude

Includes

Guided tours of Knysna and nearby attractions
Access to Featherbed Nature Reserve
Selected water-based activities (kayaking, boating)
Accommodation options as per itinerary
Breakfast or meals included depending on package

Excludes

Flights or transport to/from Knysna
Optional adventure activities not listed in the itinerary
Personal expenses, souvenirs, and additional meals
Travel insurance
Gratuities for guides and staff

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

What to Expect
Begin your journey in vibrant Cape Town, then set off along the scenic Garden Route, pausing at one of the world’s top whale-watching locations. Continue through Knysna and arrive at the charming coastal city of Port Elizabeth. Conclude your adventure with an unforgettable, malaria-free Big 5 safari at Amakhala Game Reserve, enjoying immersive wildlife experiences in a stunning natural setting.

Tour Highlights

2 Nights in Cape Town
2 Nights in Whale Route
3 Nights in Knysna
1 Night in Sunshine Coast
3 Nights in Amakhala Game Reserve

Tour Plan

Expand all

Embark on a 12-day self-drive adventure along South Africa’s iconic Garden Route. Begin in Cape Town, exploring its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic landmarks. Travel along the scenic coast with stops at world-renowned whale-watching spots, the picturesque town of Knysna, and the charming city of Port Elizabeth. Conclude your journey with a malaria-free Big 5 safari at Amakhala Game Reserve, where you’ll witness Africa’s iconic wildlife up close, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

1 :

2 Nights in Cape Town

South Africa's Mother City

Cape Town is a vibrant melting pot of colour, creativity and cuisine. With its flat, larger-than-life mountain harbouring white sandy beaches, bountiful vineyards and a bustling waterfront at its base, it's a destination made for unforgettable experiences.

Highlights

Table Mountain National Park contains over 9,000 species of fynbos
Cosmopolitan, white sandy beaches such as Camps Bay and Clifton attract for sunbathing, sundowners and surfing
Swim with penguins at Boulders Beach or take a boat to Robben Island where former president Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years
The V&A Waterfront is a retail mecca with shops, restaurants and entertainment galore

2 :

2 Nights in Whale Route

Home to the Gentle Giants of the Sea

The gentle giants of the ocean emerge from its depths along the Whale Route. Thunderous claps echo toward the shoreline as southern right whales and humpback whales carry out courtship rituals and bear calves in sheltered bays. Dolphin species, cape fur seals and penguins also populate the area. The Whale Route is dripping with small-town charm as visitors stop by coastal hamlets while the heart of the route, Hermanus, also has numerous attractions.

Highlights

The Cape Whale Route is one of the fastest growing whale routes in the world
The length of the route and number of charming towns dotted along it, promise a unique and relaxing holiday experience
The Cape Whale Route is an ideal way to explore the South African coastline
A great stopover spot on your way to the verdant Garden Route region

3 :

3 Nights in Knysna

Knysna – The Jewel of the Garden Route

Nestled along the Garden Route, Knysna is famed for its lush forests, winding streams, and the dramatic Knysna Heads. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, pristine beaches, water sports, and trips to Featherbed Nature Reserve. The town also offers a variety of accommodation and dining options, from budget-friendly to luxurious, making it a perfect base to explore the region’s natural beauty and vibrant festivals.

Highlights

Lush forests, hiking trails, and beaches
Water-based activities and Featherbed Nature Reserve
Convenient location along the Garden Route
Wide range of accommodation and dining options

4 :

3 Nights in Amakhala Game Reserve

Diverse ecosystems & thrilling wildlife encounters with Amakhala

Highlights

Amakhala boasts all five ecosystems found in the Eastern Cape resulting in diverse and abundant wildlife and vegetation
Game drives showcase not only the Big 5 but other wildlife such as the bat-eared fox, monkeys, tortoises and even insects
The Bushman’s River flows through the park allowing guests to explore its banks and waters by boat or canoe
The reserve’s lodges offer private plunge pools, double indoor and outdoor showers and game-viewing decks