We’ve curated a collection of full-day itineraries to help you experience the very best of Leisure Isle and Knysna. C hoose the one that matches the pace and mood you’d like for your day , whether that’s gentle lagoon time, scenic nature walks, coastal viewpoints or relaxed island wandering. Each itinerary begins and ends at Amanzi, with transport arranged where specified.
Begin the morning on one of Amanzi’s complimentary bicycles, pedalling through the peaceful streets of Leisure Isle toward the Knysna Heads (approximately a 15 to 20 minute cycle). Follow the coastal trail to a scenic viewpoint and enjoy sweeping ocean and lagoon views. Continue to East Head Café for a relaxed brunch of fresh, locally inspired dishes. Cycle back to Amanzi and unwind on the deck or with a book.
The SAFIRI shuttle is available for guests who prefer not to cycle.
In the afternoon, take a gentle paddle across the lagoon in one of the Amanzi kayaks. Drift toward the old wreck or further across the lagoon for a longer outing. Return to the lodge as the light softens, enjoy a well-earned drink on the deck and end the day with a calm al fresco dinner.
Start the day with a gentle 4 km walk or cycle around Leisure Isle. Steenbok Nature Reserve offers an easy trail with salt marshes, fynbos and regular sightings of malachite kingfishers and African oystercatchers. Stop for coffee at Coffee Craft, Lindy’s or More before returning to Amanzi for a slow breakfast. Spend the morning relaxing at the pool, on the deck, or, tides allowing, exploring the lagoon by kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
Take the SAFIRI shuttle to the Knysna Waterfront for lunch at 34 South or Drydock. In the afternoon, enjoy a private lagoon cruise with Amanzi’s skipper, James, complete with bubbles, snacks or a tailored picnic. Return in time for sunset and dinner on the deck.
If the weather turns grey, swap the cruise for a warm and welcoming gin tasting at Knysna Gin Distillery.
After breakfast, set out for Featherbed Nature Reserve on the Western Head. This family-friendly, 4-hour eco-experience includes a ferry ride across the lagoon, an open-air 4x4 trip to the top of the reserve and a guided 2.2 km nature walk with insights into local flora, fauna and geology. The excursion concludes with a generous outdoor buffet lunch beneath a canopy of milkwood trees.
Timeslots | 10:00 to 14:00, 11:30 to 15:30 and 12:30 to 16:30Price | R650 (children 12 and under), R1320 (adults)
The reserve has a fascinating link to the discovery of the coelacanth by Prof J. L. B. Smith, a story still shared by guides today.
Return to Amanzi for a slow afternoon on the deck, followed by a relaxed seasonal dinner under the stars.
After breakfast, set off with Amanzi’s skipper, James, for a peaceful morning cruise on the Knysna Lagoon. Enjoy the scenery and, weather permitting, stop for a swim before returning in time for lunch at the lodge.
Spend the afternoon your way: golf at Pezula or Simola, a spa treatment or a casual game of padel. Later, stop at Red Bridge Brewing Co. for small-batch craft beers full of character.
End the day with dinner at Pizza e Vino at the Knysna Heads, where panoramic ocean views and warm Italian cooking make for an unforgettable evening. Return to Amanzi for a quiet nightcap by the fire.
Travel just under an hour to Gericke’s Point in Sedgefield, a dramatic sandstone headland known as Lion Rock. The walk is a gentle 4 km return route along the shoreline, best timed for spring low tide, when the rock pools reveal bright anemones, starfish, nudibranchs, Cape rock crabs and occasionally octopus. The clarity and marine life make it ideal for slow snorkelling and tidal exploration.
Afterwards, stop in Knysna for lunch at Caffe Mario or Salt & Petal, then return to Amanzi for a relaxed afternoon. Lounge by the pool, read in the garden or stroll to Bollard Bay for a quiet evening swim. Finish with dinner at the lodge and the gentle hush of lagoon life.