The Knysna Heads are among the most dramatic coastal landmarks in South Africa. Here is everything you need to know about visiting, hiking, and experiencing them.
The Knysna Heads are two massive sandstone cliffs that guard the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon, one of the most spectacular natural features along South Africa's Garden Route. From the vantage point of Naxos, you can see them clearly — a constant, dramatic reminder of the raw power and beauty of this coastline.
Getting There
The Western Head is accessible by road and offers a number of walking trails with extraordinary views over the lagoon and the Indian Ocean. The Eastern Head, by contrast, is privately owned and can only be reached by boat, making it one of the more exclusive viewpoints in the country.
What to Do
Hiking the trails on the Western Head is a must. The views from the top are simply extraordinary — on a clear day, you can see the full sweep of the lagoon, the town of Knysna, and the forest-covered hills beyond. Bring water, wear sunscreen, and allow at least two hours.
For those who prefer the water, a boat trip through the Heads is an unforgettable experience. Several operators run daily trips from the Knysna waterfront, and the sensation of passing through the narrow channel between the cliffs, with the Indian Ocean swelling beyond, is genuinely thrilling.
The Best Time to Visit
The Heads are spectacular at any time of year, but golden hour — the hour before sunset — is when they are at their most magical. The sandstone cliffs glow amber and rose, and the lagoon turns to liquid gold. From your balcony at Naxos, you have a front-row seat to this daily spectacle.
Naxos Knysna
Knysna, South Africa
