The exceptionally beautiful Knysna National Lake Area is home to the endangered Knysna Seahorse and also boasts with a large diversity of marine life. Sandbanks and salt marshes teem with life and in turn provide food to an immeasurable number of organisms. This is the second national lakes region in South Africa, after Wilderness National Park. You will find many sandbanks, salt marshes and reed beds full of marine life and organisms. The lagoon and the Knysna River Estuary are perfect places to observe birds and take beautiful pictures. In Langvlei and Rondevlei are bird hides. In summer you see the Black-bellied Plover, Common Greenshank, Common Sandpiper and in winter herons, cormorants, ibis and gulls that hibernate in the lagoon. In addition there are the Cape Shoveller, Black-winged Stilt, Pied Avocet and the endangered African Black Oystercatcher.

Knysna Lake sign post

In the lake area lives the threatened Knysna Seahorse, the most endangered sea horse in the world. The sea horse exist only in 3 estuaries namely The Knysna, Swartvlei and Keurbooms Estuary. If these estuaries are not carefully handled, there is a risk that South Africa's only seahorse species will disappear forever.

Accommodation There are various types of luxurious accommodation. Here are some of them: Forest Timber Camping Decks: Was recently launched in the heart of Knysna Forest by SANParks. Set in a landscape of beautiful beaches and rocky headlands, shimmering lakes, green pastures and jagged mountains, the Knysna Forest Camping Decks affords the visitor an opportunity to feel at one with nature. The Tree Top Forest Chalet: Situated in Harkeville forest between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. This 4 star chalet is tucked away at the head of a wide valley. The viewing deck offers you comfort of this well appointed self contained fully furnished chalet with DSTV.

Knysna Lake

The Guest House in Diepwalle Forest: Bring your mountain bikes and ride some of the finest tracks in the country, take a leisurely stroll along the forest trail.

Villa Afrikana Guest Suites: It is located in Knysna town, which is considered the heart of the Garden Route. The villa is perched high above the town, on a hill fittingly called Paradise overlooking the world renown Knysna Heads and surrounding lagoon. The attractive style encompasses five suites and a small apartment.

Prospect Cottage: The cottage is a spacious, comfortable, three bed-roomed home suitable for up to six persons. The facility is ideally situated, just a three-minute walk to central Knysna and the lagoon, yet off the main road and located on a quiet cul-de-sac.

Cuningham's Island Guest House: This Guest House is located in an established garden filled with the sound of birds and dominated by a large swimming pool.

Brenton Hill Guest House: This is a B&B Guest House and it’s graded 4 Stars and AA Quality Assured. There are eight luxurious rooms. The facility offers a unique experience in the Brenton area. It’s built on a hill with breathtaking views of the Knysna Lagoon and within minutes from the Brenton-on-Sea Beach.

Knysna Tonquani Lodge: This award-winning lodge has magnificent accommodation comprising Tuscan Family Suites and Log Chalets. It’s built in a garden setting with forest and mountain views.