Wilderness National Park

Wilderness National park is the western gateway to the Garden R

In the heart of South Africas famous Garden Route, a captivating world of lakes, rivers, estuaries and beaches gently unfolds against a backdrop of lush forest and lofty mountains – all elements that characterise the Wilderness National Park. Nature trails wind through densely wooded forest and along tranquil rivers, affording you the opportunity to encounter the brilliantly coloured Knysna lourie, or one of the five kingfisher species that occur here. During spring, a carpet of flowers, further enhance the verdant beauty of this national park.

Looking for an action packed holiday adventure? Then, Wilderness is your playground. Experience whales & dolphins from Dolphin Point. Hire a canoe or bicycle, go abseiling, kloofing, paragliding or hang-gliding. Go boating, fishing at Island Lake or hike to the waterfall above Ebb & Flow Restcamp. You do not have to be super fit to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. There are activities for young, old, energetic or idle: take a stroll along a forest path or visit the bird hide and discover the wealth of bird life. Lie back in a canoe on a quiet backwater and watch the world float by. Camp under the stars alongside the river or stay in log cabins on stilts.

Wilderness National Park stretches from the Touw River mouth to the Swartvlei estuary and beyond, where it links with the Goukamma Nature Reserve, giving welcome protection to five lakes and the Serpentine, which is the winding strip of water joining Island Lake to the Touw River at the Ebb-and-flow Restcamp.

Attractions in the Wilderness National Park

• Knysna Seahorse
• Pansy Shell
• Pied Kingfisher
• Grey Heron
• Little Egret

The Wilderness National park lies in the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains in a region of incomparable beauty, encompassing lakes, rivers, lagoons, forests, fynbos, white beaches and the sea. Knysna Louries glide through the forests, cormorants soar in the sky, and the Giant Kingfisher skims across the lakes in search of prey. About 230 bird species frequent the lakes where, conservation and recreation enjoy a harmonious relationship at the park. Water sports are a major feature of the region. Rondevlei and Swartvlei are best for fishing and on the Touw River and Serpentine, canoeists can paddle for miles upstream. In addition, between June and November, the beachfront is ideal for whale watching and throughout the year dolphins can be seen playing in the surf. Hikers have a selection of one-day trails and romantic board walks to choose from, traversing the lakes, the beach and the indigenous forest. Accommodation comprises long cabins, family cottages, a small rustic camp and caravans. Camping sites are also available. Facilities include a tourist shop, Laundromat, and the hire of pedal boats and canoes. Easily accessible on good roads, the park is within easy reach of the airport at George.

Accommodation in and around Garden Route