"Knysna Estuary Kayaking" Knysna Things to Do Tip by govertical

This was the highlight of our 4 day stay in Knysna, it was a superb way to escape the holiday frenzy in the town of Knysna itself during December. We did Go Vertical's Full Day Knysna Adventure Trail which is a combination of Canoeing and then a Beach walk.

They provide all the life jackets, a waterproof bag for your car keys, camera etc. Our guide Garth gave us a safety briefing before we started and then the group started the paddle the Jetty where we'd parked.

The kids loved the canoeing, the boats are sit on tops, really easy to paddle and you don't feel like you're going to fall out. We paddled towards the heads first it was really beautiful, the kids had a ball on the small waves at Leisure Isle. For us it was great to be out on the water, we saw quite a few birds, fish etc our guide told us all about the lagoon, I must admit, we were having too much fun and I can't remeber the details.He did say that if you're a keen bird watcher the full day canoeing trip (they offer different trips) it the best.

We finished paddling and got off at Brenton (the otherside of the Lagoon) where Garth said we'll take a 'short walk to the top of the hill' so we'll have a view with our lunch. That short walk is quite stiff! Took quite a bit of puffing, but the views worth it and that's how we got to the beach.

We were apparently lucky with the tides so after lunch which was sandwiches (not the run of the mill though, nice bread, salad, decent cheese, amazing iced choccocino - a coco and coffee combo, snack bars) we went down some steep stairs called fishermans walk and onto the 'hidden beaches'. We didn't even know about Brenton beach, let alone these beautiful coves, caves and gorgeous mini beaches. The tide was low so we spent some time looking at the rock pools. This was really really beautiful.

We then headed onto the main section of the beach, stopped for a swim and walked at a really relaxed pace to Buffalo Bay. Amazing experience, we ended the tour with coldrinks and beers and then Garth transported us back to our car in Knysna.

All in all this was a stunning experience, Garth our guide was great, the food was good and well, the scenery is spectacular. I can only recommend this trip.

Be aware, the next day you'll feel that canoe trip in your arms!

We booked about 2 weeks before the trail, we found them on the net, but you can book by phoning them the day before. They cater for vegetarian's which was great for us, the lunch was a treat and you can't believe how hungry you get.
You need to take beach wear and a pair of shoes to walk up the hill in,e.g. trainers
Sunblock, a hat and sun glasses are an absolute must.
You're given a bottle of water, but I'd take extra, it's thirsty work.
There are other canoing options available, full day, half day and I recon the sunset paddle must be great, but I think the option we chose was the best.
Only thing I regret is we didn't take a camera........

Address: Knysna Waterfront
Directions: Waterfront
Phone: +27 (0)82 731 4696
Website: http://www.govertical.co.za