South Africa
Knysna generally avoids extreme temperatures, offering a comfortable climate for most activities. Temperatures vary throughout the year, impacting outdoor comfort.
Humidity generally registers higher during summer, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Winter brings cooler, wetter conditions, though clear, crisp days occur frequently.
Knysna does not experience monsoons or hurricanes. However, periods of heavy rain, especially during winter, occur. These rains sometimes lead to localized flooding, impacting road conditions.
Wildfires pose a risk during dry, windy periods in summer. Local weather forecasts and any warnings from authorities merit attention.
December - January / Easter Holidays
All attractions and activities operate at full capacity. Weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beaches and water activities.
Crowds are thick, especially around the Waterfront. Accommodation and activity prices reach their highest. Booking well in advance is a must.
March - May, September - November
Pleasant weather conditions make outdoor activities enjoyable. Fewer crowds compared to high season, more readily available accommodation, competitive prices. Excellent for hiking.
Some activities might have reduced schedules. Moderate visitor numbers in popular spots.
June - August
Offers the lowest prices for accommodation and activities. Quietest time, providing a serene experience. Excellent for whale watching (July-Sept). Landscapes lush and green.
Temperatures cooler, higher chance of rain. Some outdoor activities weather-dependent or closed. Warmer clothing needed.
December to March offers the warmest water temperatures, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and Stand-up paddleboarding.
March to May and September to November provide mild temperatures and less rain, making these shoulder seasons ideal for exploring the Knysna Forest and other trails.
June to November prime for Southern Right Whales, peak July to September.
This popular event typically takes place in July.
Clear winter days offer crisp light for stunning landscapes.
Shoulder seasons present a more relaxed visit.
Winter rains bring greenery to the forests.
Regulations can change, so always check the latest information from the South African Department of Home Affairs or your country's foreign travel advisory.
Citizens of many countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business.
Travelers from countries not on the visa-exempt list apply for a South African visitor's visa in advance.
No general entry fee applies for tourists entering South Africa. The process appears straightforward with documents ready.
The official currency of South Africa is the Rand (ZAR), denoted by the symbol "R". One Rand equals 100 cents. Notes come in denominations of R10, R20, R50, R100, and R200. Coins are available in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2, and R5.
Notes come in R10, R20, R50, R100, and R200. Coins are available in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2, and R5.
Current exchange rates vary. Check before your trip for best value.
Visa and MasterCard widely accepted. Inform your bank of travel plans.
Readily available in town center and shopping malls for local currency.
Available at major international airports and some banks in Knysna.
Carry smaller ZAR denominations for informal markets and tips.
Relying on Visa or MasterCard is recommended over Amex or Diners Club.
These estimates provide a general guideline for daily expenses in Knysna. Actual costs vary based on personal choices, the time of year, and current exchange rates.
R700 - R1500 (approx. $38 - $80 USD) per day. Hostel dorm or basic B&B. Street food, self-catering. Minibus taxis, extensive walking. Mostly free attractions.
R1700 - R3400 (approx. $90 - $180 USD) per day. Comfortable guesthouse or mid-tier hotel. Mid-range restaurants. Occasional metered taxi, shared tours, rental car. 1-2 paid activities daily.
R3800+ (approx. $200+ USD) per day. Boutique hotel, resort, private villa. Exclusive fine dining. Private transfers, chauffeur. Premium tours, spa, high-end shopping.
| Category | Item/Type | Estimated Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hostel Dorm / Basic Room | R300 - R700 per night |
| Accommodation | Mid-range B&B / Hotel | R800 - R2000 per night |
| Accommodation | Luxury Hotel / Lodge | R2500 - R10,000+ per night |
| Meals | Street Food / Boerewors Roll | R50 - R100 |
| Meals | Breakfast / Lunch at Cafe | R80 - R180 |
| Meals | Dinner at Mid-range Restaurant | R150 - R350 per main |
| Transportation | Minibus Taxi (local) | R10 - R30 |
| Transportation | Car Rental (Economy) | R300 - R600 per day |
| Transportation | Airport Shuttle (GRJ-Knysna) | R400 - R700 per person |
| Attractions | Featherbed Nature Reserve | R700 - R900 |
| Attractions | Knysna Heads Viewpoint | Free Access |
| Attractions | Lagoon Boat Cruise | R250 - R500 |
Familiarize yourself with health recommendations, emergency procedures, and common safety practices.
High UV index; frequent High SPF sunscreen, Wide-brimmed hat.
Drink plenty of water, especially during warmer months or activity.
Practice good hand hygiene, eat from reputable establishments.
Knysna hosts public (Knysna Provincial Hospital) and private (Life Knysna Private Hospital) medical facilities. Private hospitals offer a higher standard of care, but require insurance or upfront payment.
Well-stocked pharmacies exist in Knysna's town center, including national chains. General practitioners and medical centers operate throughout the town; ask your accommodation for recommendations.
Dial 10111 for Police, 10177 for Ambulance, and 112 from a mobile phone for all emergencies. These numbers connect you to emergency operators who dispatch appropriate services.
Always cooperate fully and state your location clearly.
Tap water in Knysna generally safe to drink, meets international quality. Bottled water widely available.
Food standards in reputable restaurants and hotels appear good. Choose establishments with high customer turnover.
Exercise caution with street food vendors that do not appear clean or busy.
Knysna generally appears safer than larger South African cities. However, like any tourist destination, petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching, car break-ins) can occur, specifically in crowded tourist areas or markets.
While Knysna is not prone to monsoons or hurricanes, it can experience certain natural risks.
Risk during dry, windy summer months (Nov-Apr). Heed local warnings, follow evacuation instructions.
Heavy rainfall, especially in winter, leads to localized flooding. Check road conditions during heavy rain.
At ocean beaches, be aware of rip currents. Swim at designated beaches with lifeguards.
