Travel is a must if you get the opportunity. It opens up the world to us, which allows us to see our home base from a fresh perspective. I’m sure you know what I mean. Most of us have travelled somewhere foreign and seen the anew afterwards. Africa is perhaps one of the biggest and yet least explored continents. If I can give you one personal gem of Africa to explore and enjoy, then it’s the southernmost coastline, in a place called the Garden Route.
The most popular town on the south coast of Africa is probably Knysna. It was well established a lot earlier than the other little towns, most of which are picturesque holiday towns by the sea. They remain mostly empty throughout the year and then pack out with holiday makers in the summer season. I took a trip through Knysna and found some beautiful art murals which display the creative flare of the local artists and crafters.
I have been here previously about a month ago, and mentioned the place in an earlier post which you can see here @julianhorack/reflections-on-the-artistic-tourist-town-of-knysna-south-coast-of-africa . I was able to get up closer and more personal with the art works this time as the weather was sunnier, and I found some stunning educational and creative pieces. Most of the focus here is on nature and the indigenous wildlife and natural terrain all around the town. Add to that the focus on tourism and you have a perfect place for an eco-holiday or outdoor adventure experience in the sun.
The wildlife and forest are indigenous and make for a truly African experience, while still enjoying the mild Mediterranean climate at 34 degrees south latitude. The environment is lush and green, despite the desert being just over the mountains, further inland. This is a true Goldilocks zone, not too hot and not too cold. If you are interested in forest hikes and exploring the coastline, or finding unique species of flora and fauna, then you will find plenty here to pursue.
Besides that, water sports and even whale watching are favorite pastimes, especially right now as winter is upon us. This is coming up for perfec whale watching season, as they migrate here to these shores for calving and birthing their offspring. They remain near the shoreline for a few months before venturing off southward once more. You can spot them from the cliffs along these shores and so will get to see one of the lesser known big giants of the animal kingdom present here on the African continent.
Whenever I pass this way along the African coastline, I love to check out the Knysna Heads, where the ocean flows into the massive lake around which the town is built. The heads are the opening to the ocean through which sailors have steered their ships for hundreds of years, if not more. The lake allows for vessels to dock and in previous times when this town was rich in lumber form the forest, ships would sail in to rebuild or transport timber far and wide.
When you get the chance, then feel inspired to make a trip to Africa’s best kept secret, namely the Garden Route on the south coast. It is not called the Eden Municipality for nothing. There is plenty of tourist facility whatever your budget. See you on the beach.
(photos my own)