Knysna, South Africa πΏπ¦
#1439
-34.035734, 23.048485
Nomad Score:
63%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Knysna is a beautiful coastal town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa, known for its stunning lagoons, extensive forests, and the Knysna Heads. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 76,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 20-30 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 18 ZAR; local currencies accepted include South African Rand (ZAR). Major banks include Standard Bank and Absa. |
π° Tap Water | Drinkable, but it's advisable to drink bottled water. |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type M sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Major providers include MTN, Vodacom, and Cell C, with good coverage and data options. |
π³ Banking for Expats | In addition to local banks, services like TransferWise and Revolut are popular among expats. |
π Accommodation | Various options available, including Airbnb, vacation rentals, and local guesthouses. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards accepted widely, especially in major establishments. |
π Short Term Rentals | Available via Airbnb and local real estate services, prices range from R500 to R2,000 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options include The Backpack and Knysna Youth Hostel, prices around R300 per night. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | The Shed, located in the Knysna Waterfront, offers flexible workspaces and high-speed internet. |
β Best Cafe for Work | The Turbine Hotel & Spa offers a work-friendly atmosphere and reliable Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Various meetups organized by local expat groups through platforms like Meetup.com. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Regular gatherings are held at Knysna's community centers to connect expats and locals. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber operates in Knysna, providing reliable and affordable transportation. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Cycle Knysna offers bike rentals for exploring the area. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Brenton-on-Sea, approximately 15 minutes from Knysna. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | SA Airlink provides regional flights to major cities. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Several international flights connect through George Airport, about 70 km from Knysna. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Connected to the N2 highway, facilitating travel to major cities. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no major train station; however, bus services are available through local operators. |
π Public Transport Passes | Local public transportation primarily relies on minibus taxis, with fares around R10-30. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Regular bus services connect Knysna to nearby towns like Plettenberg Bay and Oudtshoorn. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Knysna Provincial Hospital provides emergency and general healthcare services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Space Yoga offers various classes and wellness programs. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Knysna Fitness Centre offers well-equipped facilities for various fitness needs. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats available, including The Laundry Room with competitive pricing. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Uber Eats and Mr D Food are popular for food delivery in Knysna. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the fresh Knysna oysters, a local delicacy. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Leafy Greens serves a variety of fresh vegetarian and vegan dishes. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | The Knysna Pie Shop offers delicious sweet and savory pies. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Knysna's Saturday market offers local produce and artisanal goods. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Local e-commerce sites include Takealot and Loot. |
π Grocery Delivery | Checkers and Pick n Pay offer grocery delivery options. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Knysna Waterfront area features a vibrant nightlife with bars and live music. |
π» Local Brewery | Knysna Brewing Company offers local craft beers and brewery tours. |
π· Wine Bars | The Wine Bar at The Turbine offers an extensive selection of local wines. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Stalls at the Knysna Waterfront offer a variety of street food options. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like Thai Eatery and Sirocco offer international dining experiences. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Knysna Heads and the Knysna Lagoon are essential attractions. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Knysna Fine Art Gallery features local and international art. |
π° Historical Sites | Oldest timber building, Knysna's Millwood House. |
π Religious Sites | St. George's Anglican Church is an important local landmark. |
π Annual Events | Knysna Oyster Festival occurs annually in July. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Thesen Island showcases local shops, eateries, and galleries. |
π Theater Venues | The Playhouse provides a platform for local performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Knysna Saturday Market offers local produce and crafts. |
πΌ Music Scene | Regular live music events are held at various venues, including The Turbine Hotel. |
π¨ Street Art | Various murals can be found around the town, reflecting local culture. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | The Olive Shed offers local cooking classes focusing on South African cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | The Knysna Art Gallery showcases works of local artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The old train station is a well-preserved historic site. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Knysna has a rich heritage related to the timber industry and indigenous cultures. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | The Knysna National Park offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Garden Route National Park is accessible within an hour. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The Knysna Lagoon Cycle Route is popular among cyclists. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint at the Knysna Heads is breathtaking. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching is excellent at the Knysna Lagoon and surrounding areas. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated bonfire areas are available at certain beaches like Buffalo Bay. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Courier services like PostNet and The Courier Guy operate in Knysna. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local tech services like Cellphone Repairs and iFix provide device repair. |
π Table Tennis Spots | The Knysna Sports Club has table tennis facilities available. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language classes available at The Language School Knysna. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The Knysna Library provides study spaces and resources. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The Knysna Community Centre offers various programs and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | No specific gaming lounges, but local cafes often have gaming events. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | The Garden Route Casino is located in nearby Mossel Bay. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. R15,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = R600,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. R12,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = R480,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. R14,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = R840,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. R11,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = R690,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. R13,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = R1,040,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. R10,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = R840,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 28% for corporations. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 20% on dividend distributions. |
π¦ Tax System | South African tax system is residency-based. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 45% for high earners. |
π§Ύ VAT | 15% standard Value Added Tax rate. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are CFC regulations that may affect expatriates. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax based on municipal valuations. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 7% transfer duty applies on property purchases. |