Knysna may be famous for the Knysna Elephant yet this allusive animal is far from being the only animal attraction the Garden Route has to offer. There are a number of very good Game Farms and reserves where most or all of the Big Five can be viewed from close quarters. And, what's more, this malaria-free area of South Africa, with it's pleasant all year round climate makes adventures into Natures Kingdom a memorable and safe experience.
Two exceptionally good game farms within an hours drive of Knysna are Botlierskop Game Farm just off the N2 between George and Mossel Bay and Buffalo Hills Game Reserve only 35km from Knysna. A wide range of animals including buffalo, rhino, lion, leopard, giraffe and many species of antelope are available. If you are looking for elephant, Knysna Elephant park offer a great opportunity to see these great creatures close-up. Walk with them, touch them and even feed a real African elephant.
Monkeyland lies 46km east of Knysna just off the N2. The guided tours are very informative and are loved by all especially children. Raptors for Africa is next to Monkeyland and gives one an opportunity of handling these magnificent birds.
For the avid bird watcher the area offers a huge variety - sea, estuarine and forest birds.
The Garden Route coastline forms part of South Africa's Whale Route, with some of the best whale spotting vantage points in the world. Various companies offer boat trips to view the whales and dolphins

Photographs © Chris Daly