A place called Wilderness... in South Africa

Is this a place worth visiting?

Wilderness is a charming coastal village near Knysna, located along the Garden Route in South Africa. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Wilderness offers a relaxing escape with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

Wilderness is located between the towns of George and Knysna along the N2 highway. It sits roughly 18 kilometers (about 11 miles) from George to the east and about 30 kilometers (around 19 miles) from Knysna to the west, making it an easy stop when traveling along the Garden Route.

With beautiful places like RiverView to stay, you simply must spend time and take the time to relax. – See below for more detail on how to book.

Afternoon drive

The drive between Wilderness and Knysna typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s a short and scenic trip between these two beautiful towns along the Garden Route, so you can easily visit Wilderness from Knysna for a quick getaway or a day trip. (or the other way round)

Q&A – All you need to know – A Guide to Wilderness South Africa:

Getting There: Wilderness is easily accessible by car, located just 15 minutes from George.
Pack Smart: Don’t forget sunscreen, hiking shoes, and binoculars for birdwatching.
Something romantic to do – Couple’s Spa Treatments: Treat yourselves to relaxing spa packages at places like Views Boutique Hotel & Spa.
Sunset Strolls on Wilderness Beach: End your day with breathtaking sunsets and uninterrupted ocean views.
Is Wilderness safe for swimming?
Yes, Wilderness Beach is safe for swimming in designated areas, but always check for lifeguards and avoid strong currents.
How far is Wilderness from Cape Town?
Wilderness is about a 5-hour drive (440 km) from Cape Town along the N2 highway.
Can you visit Wilderness without a car?
It’s recommended to have a car to explore Wilderness and nearby attractions, but local tour operators offer transport options for travelers without their own vehicle.
Are there any cultural attractions in Wilderness?
While Wilderness is more known for its natural beauty, its small art galleries and markets provide a glimpse into local culture and creativity.
Birdwatching: Look out for African Fish Eagles, Kingfishers, and Knysna Turacos in the Wilderness wetlands.
Dolphin and Whale Watching: Spot dolphins year-round and southern right whales during the migration season (June to November).
Driftwood Artwork on the Beach: Keep an eye out for creative sculptures crafted by locals and visitors using natural driftwood.
The Old Railway Bridge: A beautiful spot for photos and exploring near the Kaaimans River.
Woodville Big Tree: This ancient Outeniqua Yellowwood tree, over 800 years old, is a short drive from Wilderness and worth the visit for its majesty.
Support Local: Buy handcrafted items and eat at locally-owned restaurants to contribute to the community.
If your visit coincides with local events, you can experience the town’s vibrant community spirit:
- Garden Route Walking Festival (April): A celebration of outdoor exploration with guided hikes and nature walks.
Traveling with Kids or Pets? Wilderness is family-friendly and has several pet-welcoming spots.
Nearby Attractions: Make Wilderness your base for exploring nearby highlights:
- Knysna (30 min away): Famous for its lagoon and Knysna Heads.
- Plettenberg Bay (1 hr away): Perfect for whale watching and beaches.
- George (15 min away): A quaint town with botanical gardens and golf courses.

Best Photography Spots in Wilderness

For Instagram-worthy shots and memorable vacation photos, try these locations:

Map of Africa Viewpoint: Capture panoramic views of the landscape shaped like the African continent.
Kaaimans River Bridge: Snap a picture of the stunning river winding beneath the historic railway bridge.
Wilderness Beach Dunes: The undisturbed dunes make for dramatic, windswept photos.

Top 3 things to do

Here are the top three things to do in Wilderness:

Canoeing on the Touw River: The Touw River runs through Wilderness and is perfect for a peaceful paddle in a canoe. Enjoy the scenic views of the riverbanks and spot some of the birdlife and fish in the water.
Hiking in the Wilderness National Park: The national park boasts several hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the area, including indigenous forests, fynbos, and stunning coastal views. The Half Collared Kingfisher Trail and the Map of Africa Viewpoint are particularly popular.
Beach activities: Wilderness has a long and picturesque beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is also great for long walks or runs, and you can often spot dolphins and whales in the distance.

Honorable mention: Paragliding: Wilderness is known for its excellent conditions, and several operators in the area offer tandem flights and courses for beginners. It’s a great way to experience the stunning views of the coastline from above.

TRAVEL TIP: The beaches in Wilderness are beautiful but often have strong currents. Always be cautious when swimming, especially if you’re not familiar with the conditions. The Victoria Bay beach nearby is calmer and known for surfing.

Where to stay: 6 Ideas…

Wilderness offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to cozy guesthouses. It’s a popular tourist destination, so booking in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer months and holidays), is a good idea.

RiverView

Accommodation at RiverView can be booked in advance online >>

Boardwalk Lodge – Self-Catering

WHY WE RECOMMEND: The views from the Boardwalk self catering apartments are simply fantastic. Look out over Wilderness and the beautiful ocean, and see if you can spot a whale in the ocean while sipping on your sundowner. Ready to book your stay>>>

Views Boutique Hotel & Spa

This could be your view: Link to book

Nearby Brenton on Sea

Brenton-on-Sea is a small coastal town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area and partake in various outdoor activities. Here are some things to do in Brenton-on-Sea:

Beach activities: Brenton-on-Sea has a beautiful, long beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is also ideal for surfing, bodyboarding, and kiteboarding.

Hiking: The town is surrounded by nature reserves and has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding forests.
Birdwatching: Brenton-on-Sea is home to a diverse range of bird species, and birdwatching is a popular activity in the area.
Fishing: The area is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, with many anglers flocking to Brenton-on-Sea to catch fish such as kob, yellowtail, and blacktail.
Water sports: In addition to surfing and kiteboarding, Brenton-on-Sea is also popular for other water sports such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Whale watching: During the winter months, Brenton-on-Sea is a popular destination for whale watching, with southern right whales often spotted in the waters off the coast.
Golfing: The area has several excellent golf courses, including the Simola Golf and Country Estate, which is a short drive away.
Dining: Brenton-on-Sea has several excellent restaurants and cafes that offer delicious food and stunning views of the ocean.