Knysna and The Garden Route

Edge of Africa volunteers are based in one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa. After (what is for most people) a very long flight, volunteers are met by stunning views, impressive mountain passes, lush green forests and white sandy beaches on the 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. It's 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 an avenue to the Tsitsikamma Forest, which stretches from just west of George to the Tsitsikamma River near Humansdorp. This indigenous forest is ideal for walks and is home to numerous fauna and flora. The forest also houses the worlds most southerly elephants. Sadly, with only a handful of elephants left, the forest elephants are rapidly becoming part of Knysnas history, rather than Knysnas nature.

Knysna is a modern, friendly town with really something for everyone. It has all the necessary amenities, such as ATMs, medical support, internet cafes and shopping mall's - all within walking distance. The nightlife is varied and volunteers can be entertained by live bands, in chilled pubs, cocktail bars or fancy restaurants. Knysna hosts a number of popular festivals annually, such as the Knysna Oyster Festival, the Arts Festival, Pink Loerie Festival and the Community Beach Festival.

The Garden Route area offers a variety of leisure, sport and adrenaline filled activities. Take a stroll down to the waterfront and enjoy the all year round holiday vibe. Or take a ferry across the lagoon to Featherbed Nature Reserve for a guided eco-experience and breathtaking views of the lagoon, the mountains and Knysna town.

The area is also rich in wildlife. Just 40 minutes drive towards Plettenberg Bay lies The Crags, and the many fantastic attractions in Animal Alley include Monkeyland (the worlds 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 Tenikwas Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre).

A boat trip around Plettenberg Bay offers a closer view to the areas marine life. After an exciting beach launch you will have the chance to see Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins, some shark species, Byrds whales, Southern Right whales, Humpback whales (during season) and Cape Fur seals.

The famous BIG 5 is just 1.5 hours drive away, where a 2-hour guided game drive at the Garden Route Game Lodge will treat you to the sights of South Africas majestic animals, as well as some smaller game species. Addo Elephant National Park offers a truly wild feel - just four hours from Knysna. Its home to the highest concentration of African elephants in the world (over 400), as well as the other Big 5 species and many, many more.

For the adrenaline junkies, the Eastern Cape offers the worlds highest bungee jump (216 metres!) at Bloukrans Bridge, conveniently just 45 minutes drive from Knysna. Whether its hiking, mountain biking, beach strolls, horse riding or shopping, sightseeing and strolling through the arts and crafts stalls, the Garden Route area will definitely entertain all tastes and preferences!