27/09/2018
Across Africa are only a handful of sheltered, remote pockets of Afromontane forests remaining.
On the Garden Route is one such forest The Knysna Forest, which in some places are so dense it borders on impenetrable, it has a marvelous mix of ancient trees such as Ironwood, Stinkwood, Outeniqua Yellowwood, real yellowwood, Cape Holly, White Pear, Wild Fig, Milkwood as well as tree ferns, creepers and flowers.
This thick, sweeping forest is rich with bird life, such as the elusive Knysna Loerie and a collection of animals that include the endemic Knysna dwarf chameleon and possibly the only one surviving Knysna elephant that is believed to still be roaming the Knysna forests.
Described best by local author Dalene Matthee in her series of books set in the forest, Knysna Forest is beautiful, bestrewn with forest walks and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its perimeters.
In the words of former President Nelson Mandela
“JA Knysna, I sincerely thought that if God came back to earth he would settle there, you know?
Today the indigenous forest areas are gratefully protected by South African Garden Route District Municipality Garden Route Birds Travel Natures Explore Knysna South Africa Nandi Mgwadlamba Teniqua Treetops Knysna Cycle Works Bespoked Cycling Knysna Knysna Cycle Tour Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching and Eco trips Eden Adventures South Africa Travelstart South Africa